Nikki Buchanan, one of Phoenix’s last food critics, is hanging up her disguise after 42 years

After 42 years, more than 3,000 restaurant reviews and countless profiles, features and more, Phoenix Magazine food critic Nikki Buchanan is hanging up her signature wig disguise and retiring.

And here’s the thing: She’s the last full-time, at least semi-anonymous restaurant critic left in town. Now, she’s relinquishing her institutional knowledge, razor-sharp wit and top-notch palette to a host of food influencers and social media stars. And she will be missed.

Buchanan joined The Show to talk about her career, the art of a good review and the future of this craft.

Full conversation

LAUREN GILGER: Good morning, Nikki. Congratulations on your retirement…

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