What's in our name? Definitely not nasi lemak!

Imitation is the highest form of flattery, they say. But we say nay, in this case

A nasi lemak stall in the newly re-opened Tg Pagar Food Centre has boldly and loudly renamed their stall "MakanSutra". It's colourful lightbox above comes complete with a picture of our 2000 edition. While we thank them for their efforts at our public relations and branding, we think that it is actually a PR disaster and brand confusion.

You see, we had to time and again deny our ownership and links to them (other than giving them a 1 ½ chopsticks rating in our Makansutra 2000 edition). So therein lies this headache : we have to nicely ask them not to use the name (as Makansutra is a registered business name and trademark) or put in place an equally loud disclaimer. These folks honestly provide a service that gives us Singaporeans something to crow about our food culture.

While on service, I read in the local papers with concerns, about the level of retail and F&B service in Singapore. There will no doubt be yet another campaign and awareness movement espousing the virtues of good service and pride in work. I am truly behind this move to push our level of service, especially in the F&B industry, to heights that our result oriented government can be proud of. But I feel that it is not just a matter of handing awards and attending courses and seminars.

There is a pretty good reason why no service ratings are listed in both our Makansutra editions. You see, if we are to do so, many would not make the grade. It would just be a waste of space. Often at most, the service is curt, dour and efficient. Fortunately, I have left eating establishments here feeling better than the mediocre food they had served all because of good service. The kind that will always keep your warm glass of water warm and full and will always hesitate to say no to any out of the way but decent request you make. This service do not just come from good training but also from a genuine interest to keep customers happy. Good food comes from the chef, good service comes from the staff and the eatery they work in is just their platform.

So from now, and for so long as there is a reason to, Makansutra will highlight good service in any form to bestow upon these individuals the recognition they deserve. If you have any interesting experiences with the F&B industry, do share it with us on our Lor Sor chat forum.