Nikki Buchanan

Does anyone have any strong opinions about Nikki Buchanan’s picks in the Phoenix magazine’s 2008 Dining Guide?

I admit to not having read it thoroughly, but my flip-through shows the common pit trap of $$$ = Good!

While Nikki’s prose makes me groan …their wurst is best? what really infuriated me was the piss-poor selection of restaurants for the West Valley. I mean, I get it. It’s a culinary desert here, but to list only 17 restaurants, five of which are chains? And, not very good chains at that. El-Paso BBQ is horrid (in my opinion). I don’t care of it “…passes the sniff test.” My mom’s old Weber passes the sniff test too.

Additionally, the 2 “Best New Restaurants” are very pricey – Skye Restaurant and Sweet O & Chocolate Lounge.

Must give Nikki props for including Mi Cocina, Mi Pais. Havent eaten there but other Chowhounds appear to vouch for it.

Thumbs down, though, for not including Tastings. It fits Nikki’s price range.