2011-12 Inspections Process
Timeless Traditional and Creative Contemporary Categories
For these categories, DiRōNA distinction results from an independent and anonymous restaurant evaluation. An independent inspection firm has been retained by DiRōNA’s Quality Assurance Committee to conduct all restaurant inspections*. Inspectors analyze every aspect of the dining experience. They remain unknown to the DiRōNA board of directors and membership to maintain complete impartiality. The goal of all evaluation criteria and inspection processes is to ensure independence, objectivity, consistency and credibility.
To qualify, a restaurant must be in business under the same theme and ownership for a period of two years for Timeless Traditional and three years for Creative Contemporary before it is eligible for inspection. Once a restaurant earns the DiRōNA Distinction, it must be re-inspected every three years in order to maintain membership.
Cuisine quality is the most important criterion. The menu is examined for accuracy, variety of items, cooking techniques, creativity and originality as well as for health and nutrition-oriented items. The food is evaluated on temperature, appearance and quality of ingredients. Beverages offered by restaurants are evaluated on the basis of variety, availability, value and food affinity.
The service criteria evaluates guest interaction with the service staff, starting from the reservation process, greeting and seating, service throughout the meal and assistance with departure. The staff's knowledge of the menu is tested, and their friendliness, attentiveness, cleanliness and attire are appraised. Finally, the restaurants procedures for handling the check are evaluated by verifying that the check is a consolidated bill that is accurate, legible and professionally presented.
Membership applications are identified through a multitude of resources, including requests for inspections that are submitted directly to DiRōNA headquarters by operators hoping to become DiRōNA members.
Legendary Landmarks Category
Restaurants in this category must be in business under the same theme for at least ten years. Restaurants must be considered an established landmark deeply integrated with the cultural fabric of the region and may be subject to site inspection to verify this community integration.
Prospective members must submit five or more samples of significant media recognition supporting the establishment’s credibility and community legacy (listings, articles and/or reviews are acceptable). Establishments in this category do not undergo an independent inspection but are subject to board review and approval.
2011-12 Inspections Process (Timeless Traditional and Creative Contemporary)
Prospective DiRōNA Members (New Restaurant Inspections)
Existing DiRōNA Members (Re-inspections)
