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Restaurant.com debuts verified diner reviews

October 9, 2012

Restaurant.com has added "Verified Diner Reviews" to help consumers find local establishments and share their opinions.

The Restaurant.com Verified Diner Reviews add authenticity as they are posted by verified diners, the site said.

Restaurant.com also has simplified the search process on its website, allowing diners to browse local eateries and deals by star ratings and locations.

"Our stars are awarded by diners, not anonymous Web users, making Restaurant.com the place to go for honest feedback on where to eat," said Christopher Krohn, president and chief marketing officer, Restaurant.com.

To ensure the integrity of the restaurant review, all Restaurant.com Verified Diner Reviews meet the following standards:

• The diner is required to purchase a Restaurant.com certificate, and the restaurant must validate the certificate prior to the diner receiving an invitation to review the restaurant.
• The diner must complete the email review and short survey, including the assignment of a 1 to 5 star rating.
• Restaurant.com reviews are centered on the dining experience. For example, if the review is about the great deal or a bad date rather than the restaurant itself, it may not be posted. If it is about the food, the ambiance, the service, it is posted for everyone to see.

Research released by the NPD Group in June 2012, revealed that online reviews influence dining decisions especially for new or not widely known restaurants.

Read more about customer experience.