Zagat

Zagat Survey

The Zagat logo

The Zagat Survey is a popular consumer-based guide that provides reviews and ratings for restaurants, hotels, and other leisure activities. Founded in 1979 by Tim Zagat and Nina Zagat, the survey collects and compiles the opinions of thousands of consumers to create comprehensive guides that are widely used by the public.

History

The Zagat Survey began as a hobby for the Zagats, who were both lawyers at the time. They started by collecting the opinions of their friends about restaurants in New York City. The first guide was published in 1982 and quickly gained popularity due to its unique approach of aggregating consumer reviews rather than relying on professional critics.

Methodology

The Zagat Survey uses a distinctive 30-point scale to rate establishments in various categories such as food, decor, service, and cost. Participants in the survey are asked to provide their opinions on these aspects, and the results are averaged to produce the final scores. This method allows for a broad range of opinions to be considered, providing a more democratic and comprehensive view of the establishments being reviewed.

Expansion

Over the years, the Zagat Survey expanded beyond restaurants to include hotels, nightlife, and other leisure activities. It also grew geographically, covering major cities across the United States and internationally. The guides became a trusted resource for both locals and travelers seeking reliable recommendations.

Acquisition by Google

In 2011, Google acquired Zagat, integrating its content into various Google services such as Google Maps and Google+. This acquisition allowed Google to enhance its local search capabilities by providing users with Zagat's trusted ratings and reviews.

Influence and Legacy

The Zagat Survey has had a significant impact on the way consumers choose restaurants and other services. Its model of using consumer feedback has been emulated by numerous other review platforms, such as Yelp and TripAdvisor. Despite changes in ownership and the rise of digital review platforms, Zagat remains a respected name in the industry.

Related Pages

• Tim Zagat
• Nina Zagat
• Google
• Yelp
• TripAdvisor