Everyone’s a Critic... The Changing Landscape of Food Media and How We Consume It

Explore the rapid change and democratization in the food media landscape. TikTok, Substack and other platforms lower the barrier to entry of a previously very small club of food critics, opening the field to a new generation of influencer-critics. Social media and virality can be helpful to the bottom lines of many businesses but can also thrust nascent restaurants into the spotlight causing burnout and a strain on operations.

Moderated by Nycci Nellis, CEO, TheListAreYouOnIt.com; Restaurant and Chef Awards Subcommittee Member, James Beard Foundation

Panelists include:

Seth Bernstein, Food and Travel Content Creator, Eat with Seth

Lyndsay C. Green, Dining & Restaurant Critic, Detroit Free Press; 2023 James Beard Journalism Award Winner; 2025 James Beard Journalism Award Nominee

Jenn Harris, Columnist, Los Angeles Times; James Beard Awards Emeritus Committee; 2025 James Beard Journalism Award Nominee

Jon Yao, Chef and co-owner, Kato; 2025 James Beard Award Nominee for Best Chef: California