First, a disclaimer: I did not buy Zagat 2009 America’s Top Restaurants myself, but was sent a copy from Zagat for review purposes. (You don’t know me very well if you don’t think I’ll accept freebies.)

Now, the Zagatsurvey itself… Spokane is inexplicably not among the 42 cities covered? Can you believe it? I think it must be a misprint, particularly when culinary lightweights like New York is included.

Oversights not withstanding, I still find the Zagat guide a good travel companion. The picks seem to be on the decent side, as proven by the inclusion of Salumi as one of the top Seattle restaurants. Are they all hits? Probably not, but the guide can definitely assist you off the beaten path, to places that aren’t in the middle of the tourist stream.

As it turns 30, Zagat is still a Spokane Food Blog Recommended Food Guide. Now if you’re looking for a Spokane equivalent… Hey, there’s always those sought after Taste Everything Once ratings.