Best friends Maeghan Radice and Audrey Jongens, both 26, have gained popularity on TikTok through their account @TheVIPList, amassing nearly 500,000 followers with their daring dining reviews focused primarily on New York restaurants. Their straightforward and, at times, incendiary evaluations have led to their banning from several reservation services.
Their harsh critiques include a chicken dish from Mavericks Montauk, labeled a “hate crime,” and an experience at a Hamptons steakhouse that left them claiming to have “PTSD.” A Michelin-starred Italian restaurant, Rezdora, was described as “so unbelievably underwhelming I was borderline confused.”
The duo is known for their blunt honesty. In a review of Casa Tua, a trendy Upper East Side Italian eatery, they scrutinized a $500 tin of caviar they received, which bore a grocery store label. "If I wanted this, I would have gone to Citarella myself and paid half the price," Radice remarked in the review that has received over 142,000 views.
Despite their notoriety, they also share positive reviews. For instance, they praised the Carlyle’s escargot as some of the best they’ve ever had. Their followers appreciate their candidness, as they strive to remain unfiltered and unapologetic.
Radice stated, “We’re not going to be censored. We’re just really opinionated.” Their frankness, however, has consequences; after they reviewed Casa Tua, the restaurant altered its caviar labels and has not invited them back since.
The pair remain open to provide businesses with a second chance for a review, but thus far, no establishment has accepted the offer. Their approach, while effective in gaining attention, has also drawn criticism, reflecting the fine line they walk between promoting and potentially damaging a restaurant’s reputation.