‘I needed to eat a little more sanely’ : Why this famous New York food critic is moving on

William Brangham:

There are many ways that we define American culture, the music, art, and literature we produce, how our politics plays out, but also the food we eat and where we choose to eat it.

And my next guest has been chronicling that slice of America in New York City in particular for over a decade. But now, after countless restaurants and hundreds of reviews, Pete Wells is moving on from his job as The New York Times restaurant critic.

In a parting column, he wrote — quote — “A funny thing happened when I got to the end of all that eating. I realized I wasn’t hungry, and I’m still not, at least not the way I used to be.”

And Pete Wells joins us now.

Pete Wells, such an honor to have you on the program.

Your reviews and guides to eating have been critical, obviously, for New Yorkers, but for people who come to the city and want to experience its bounty. How has it felt for you since you sort of hung up your pen and pad in the last few months?