A reader recently brought up an important ethical question for Fatman about how we conduct our reviews, and Fatman would like to take this opportunity to clarify what we do and how we do it.

For restaurant reviews, it is our strict policy to visit restaurants anonymously. We do not tell the establishment that we are food bloggers or that a review may appear here. Prior to review, we usually visit at least twice, if possible on a weekend and weekday, to ensure that the service and kitchen are consistent. Photography is usually done on the second visit, with minimal equipment and without flash to avoid disturbing other patrons or staff. In other words, we are just like all the other people eating in the restaurant.

We also do not generally accept free food from restaurants. During our anonymous visits we will accept items given “service” within reason, when in line with common local custom. We do not accept any remuneration from restaurants.

The same rules apply to the products we write about: Fatman purchases them anonymously from local grocery and convenience stores, and usually will try any product at least twice before writing a review.

The are occasions where we deviate from these procedures – sometimes FatManSeoul is invited by the restaurant, or part of an event. When that’s the case, we’ll let you know. Any changes from our standard reviewing practices will be clearly noted in the article, so that our readers can be fully informed. Our goal here at FatManSeoul is to be ethical, fair, and honest with our readers so that you can have the best possible information.