Friends of Eater Describe Austin’s 2016 Dining Scene in One Word

As is tradition since the end of 2016 is near, Eater asked a trusted group of friends, industry types, and local bloggers for their takes on the past culinary year in Austin. The annual survey spans eight questions, from dining surprises, saddest closures, to disappointing meals. All answers will be revealed as the week rolls on — cut, pasted, (mostly) unedited, and in no particular order. Readers, add your answers in the comments below. Eighth, and the final question, up:

Sum up the 2016 restaurant world in one word.

Brandon Watson, food editor of Austin Chronicle
¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Patricia Sharpe, executive editor and food writer for Texas Monthly
Saturated. (Too many restaurants are chasing an ever-more-fickle public.)

Jolène M. Bouchon, critic for Austin Monthly
Change.

Jane Ko, blogger at A Taste of Koko
Insatiable.

Tom Thornton, freelance food writer and contributor at Eater Austin
Cautious.

Anastacia Uriegas, contributor at Thrillist and Time Out Austin
Cruel.

Veronica Meewes, editor of Zagat Austin
Whirlwind.

Melody Fury, freelance food writer, blogger at Gourmet Fury, and contributor at Eater Austin
Fancy pants.

Elizabeth Leader Smith, associate editor of Eater Austin
Wood-fired.

Nadia Chaudhury, editor of Eater Austin
Safe.