The Press Herald has run two front-page articles on the decision by restaurant co-owners Arlin Smith, Andrew Taylor and Mike Wiley to ban local blogger John Golden from Hugo’s, Eventide Oyster Co. and The Honey Paw (“Food blogger told he’s had last meal at 3 restaurants,” May 12; “Ban on food blogger ignites sizzling debate,” May 14).

I love to dine out in Portland. I have been to Eventide and Hugo’s on more than one occasion. I have a very strong reaction to the banning of Golden by these co-owners, especially after reading Golden’s original review of The Honey Paw. My reaction: “Are you kidding me?”

The co-owners disapprove of Golden’s writing, calling it “unprofessional.” Are these co-owners – one of them a chef – so sensitive that they can’t handle an amusing commentary from a restaurant critic who is supposed to be critical? Isn’t that his job?

I will make sure that every social event I attend in Portland will include this issue as a topic of discussion.

The next article in the Press Herald should have the headline “Peace Treaty” and include a picture of Golden, Smith, Taylor and Wiley seated at one of the restaurant tables, each slurping up some of the “nondenominational” noodle plates offered on The Honey Paw menu.

Until then, when I walk by these restaurants on my way to a competitor’s establishment, I will say, “Are you kidding me?”

Pat Bailey

Portland

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