Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2....

15
AAA Publishing Tourism Information Development 1000 AAA Drive Heathrow, FL 32746-5063 R e s t a u r a n t R e q u i r e m e n t s & Diamond Rating G u i d e l i n e s

Transcript of Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2....

Page 1: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

AAA PublishingTourism InformationDevelopment1000 AAA DriveHeathrow, FL 32746-5063

R e s t a u r a n t

R e q u i r e m e n t s

& D i a m o n d R a t i n g

G u i d e l i n e s

Page 2: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

THA

NK

YO

U!

Ou

r go

al i

n e

stab

lish

ing

thes

e n

ew g

uid

elin

es i

s to

en

sure

th

at e

ach

rest

aura

nt

we

revi

ew m

eets

th

e b

asic

nee

ds

of

ou

r m

emb

ers,

is

con

sist

entl

yco

mp

ared

to

a s

et o

f o

bje

ctiv

e cr

iter

ia, a

nd

in

clu

des

th

e ke

y p

erso

nal

ized

,su

bje

ctiv

e el

emen

ts o

f th

e ex

per

ien

ce. T

he

ou

tco

me

of

the

com

bin

atio

n o

fth

ese

fact

ors

eq

ual

s a

AA

A d

iam

on

d r

atin

g.

The

esse

nti

al A

AA

res

tau

ran

t re

qu

irem

ents

are

co

mm

on

sen

se q

ual

ifica

tio

ns

that

pro

fess

ion

al o

per

ato

rs r

ou

tin

ely

emp

loy

and

th

at a

ny

pat

ron

wo

uld

usu

ally

exp

ect.

Th

e d

iam

on

d r

atin

g gu

idel

ines

are

just

th

at —

gu

idel

ines

. Th

eyar

e n

ot

arb

itra

ry, b

ut

refl

ect

wh

at i

s ty

pic

ally

see

n t

hro

ugh

ou

t th

e re

stau

ran

tin

du

stry

at

the

vari

ou

s le

vels

. To

cap

ture

su

ch c

rite

ria

take

s a

com

bin

ed e

ffo

rto

f m

any

ded

icat

ed i

nd

ivid

ual

s.

AA

A w

ish

es t

o a

ckn

owle

dge

an

d t

han

k th

e fo

llow

ing

rest

aura

nt

ind

ust

ryre

pre

sen

tati

ves

for

thei

r p

arti

cip

atio

n i

n t

he

Res

taur

ant

Req

uire

men

ts &

Dia

mon

dR

atin

g G

uide

lines

revi

sio

ns:

◆C

har

lie

Tro

tter

’s, C

hic

ago

, Ill

. — M

r. M

ark

Sign

ori

o

◆C

hri

stin

i’s R

isto

ran

te I

tali

ano

, Orl

and

o, F

la. —

Ms.

An

gela

Ch

rist

ini,

Mr.

Ch

ris

Ch

rist

ini

◆Fa

irm

on

t H

ote

ls &

Res

ort

s, T

oro

nto

, On

tari

o, C

anad

a —

Mr.

Serg

e Si

mar

d

◆K

ahal

a M

and

arin

Ori

enta

l H

awai

i, H

on

olu

lu, H

awai

i —

Mr.

Wo

lfga

ng

Kru

eger

◆R

enai

ssan

ce O

rlan

do

Res

ort

, Orl

and

o, F

la. —

Mr.

Hir

osh

i N

ogu

chi

◆To

ny’

s, S

t. L

ou

is, M

o. —

Mr.

Vin

cen

t B

om

mar

ito

The

fin

al o

utc

om

e o

f an

y ex

per

ien

ce i

s p

erso

nal

to

all

of

us.

It

is A

AA’

so

pin

ion

th

at t

his

su

bje

ctiv

e ex

per

ien

ce m

ust

be

incl

ud

ed i

n a

ny

rati

ng

syst

emin

ord

er f

or

it t

o b

e m

ean

ingf

ul,

ther

efo

re, o

ur

new

rat

ing

syst

em h

asin

corp

ora

ted

key

su

bje

ctiv

e el

emen

ts a

s ap

pro

pri

ate.

We

loo

k fo

rwar

d t

o y

ou

r co

nti

nu

ed s

ervi

ce f

or

AA

A m

emb

ers

at l

arge

an

dap

pre

ciat

e yo

ur

sup

po

rt o

f, a

nd

par

tici

pat

ion

in

, AA

A p

rogr

ams.

Sin

cere

ly,

Ala

n B

. Bo

rne

Man

agin

g D

irec

tor/

AA

A P

ub

lish

ing

Info

rmat

ion

in t

his

publ

icat

ion

is b

ased

on

curr

ent

stan

dard

s pr

eval

ent

in t

he r

esta

uran

t in

dust

ry a

t th

e tim

e of

pub

licat

ion.

The

req

uire

men

ts a

nd d

iam

ond

ratin

g gu

idel

ines

are

subj

ect

to m

odifi

catio

n at

any

tim

e w

ithou

t no

tice.

Dea

r R

esta

uran

t Pr

ofes

sion

al,

On

beha

lf of

AA

A,

I am

ple

ased

to

intr

oduc

e to

you

our

new

Res

tau

ran

tR

equ

irem

ents

& D

iam

on

d R

atin

g G

uid

elin

esbo

okle

t. B

y re

ques

ting

thi

s bo

okle

t,yo

u ha

ve e

xpre

ssed

an

inte

rest

in

our

diam

ond

rati

ng p

rogr

am a

nd,

mor

e im

port

antly

,in

pro

vidi

ng a

hig

h le

vel o

f ho

spit

alit

y to

AA

A/C

AA

mem

bers

. Yo

ur i

nter

est

and

invo

lvem

ent

is v

ery

muc

h ap

prec

iate

d.

Twen

ty-t

wo

year

s ex

peri

ence

“in

the

tre

nche

s,”

and

som

etim

es “

in t

he w

eeds

” of

the

Food

serv

ice

Indu

stry

has

pro

vide

d m

e w

ith

soun

d in

sigh

t to

the

cha

lleng

es o

f th

e tr

ade.

The

wor

k is

int

ense

, de

man

ding

, an

d so

met

imes

fru

stra

ting

. Th

is c

an b

e es

peci

ally

tru

ew

hen

hard

wor

k go

es u

napp

reci

ated

by

som

e th

at h

ave

grow

n to

rou

tine

ly e

xpec

t th

atw

hich

you

so

lovi

ngly

pro

vide

. In

con

tras

t, w

hen

all o

f yo

ur s

ince

re,

crea

tive

eff

orts

culm

inat

e an

d ar

e re

cogn

ized

by

your

pat

rons

, it

can

be

a fe

elin

g th

at i

s un

mat

ched

.

We

had

a sa

ying

dur

ing

my

tenu

re,

that

any

res

taur

ant

is o

nly

as g

ood

as t

he la

stpl

ate

serv

ed o

r th

e la

st i

nter

acti

on w

ith

a gu

est.

Thi

s st

atem

ent

is e

ven

mor

e re

alis

tic

inth

e lif

e of

a c

riti

c, o

r ra

ting

pro

fess

iona

l, as

the

se li

mit

ed e

lem

ents

and

int

erac

tion

ssh

ape

an o

pini

on.

As

a ch

ef,

I to

o ha

ve f

elt

the

stre

ssfu

l mom

ents

whe

n a

crit

ic c

alls,

and

have

exp

erie

nced

the

unc

erta

inty

and

app

rehe

nsio

n of

the

cri

tic’

s re

view

. In

man

yw

ays,

the

cri

tic’

s ro

le m

imic

s th

e fir

st-t

ime

patr

on y

ou t

ry s

o ha

rd t

o ke

ep.

Oft

en,

ther

eis

not

an

oppo

rtun

ity

to r

eally

stu

dy a

res

taur

ant.

Fre

quen

tly,

atti

tude

s an

d ra

ting

s ar

eba

sed

sole

ly o

n th

e su

bjec

tive

opi

nion

s of

the

ind

ivid

ual w

ho m

ay n

ot c

are

for

the

rest

aura

nt’s

indi

vidu

al c

uisi

ne,

déco

r, or

sty

le o

f se

rvic

e.

AA

A r

ecog

nize

s th

e ex

trem

e im

port

ance

of

each

res

taur

ateu

r to

dev

elop

and

mai

ntai

n a

cert

ain

crea

tive

ele

men

t th

at i

s un

ique

to

each

res

taur

ant.

In

fact

, w

eap

plau

d an

d en

cour

age

it!

Ther

efor

e, w

e ha

ve g

one

to g

reat

leng

ths

to e

nsur

e th

at t

his

revi

sion

of

our

Res

tau

ran

t R

equ

irem

ents

& D

iam

on

d R

atin

g G

uid

elin

esin

no

way

infr

inge

s up

on t

hese

cre

ativ

e fe

atur

es.

We

enco

urag

e ea

ch a

nd e

very

est

ablis

hmen

t to

kno

w y

our

cust

omer

and

pro

vide

to

them

the

foo

d, s

ervi

ce a

nd a

mbi

ance

tha

t th

ey d

esir

e. I

n do

ing

so,

you

will

be

rew

arde

dw

ith

loya

l pat

rons

at

wha

teve

r di

amon

d ra

ting

.

We

wis

h yo

u th

e be

st o

f su

cces

s!

Live

to

eat!

Mic

hael

Pet

rone

, C

EC

Dir

ecto

r/A

AA

Tou

rism

Inf

orm

atio

n D

evel

opm

ent

In

tr

od

uc

ti

on

Cop

yrig

ht A

AA

Mar

ch 1

996.

All

right

s re

serv

ed.

Rev

ised

Dec

embe

r 19

99.

The

se r

equi

rem

ents

and

gui

delin

esar

e ef

fect

ive

Feb

.1,

2000

, an

d ap

ply

to a

ll es

tabl

ishm

ents

ev

alua

ted

afte

r th

at d

ate.

Re

st

au

ra

nt

R

eq

uir

em

en

ts

&

D

iam

on

d

Ra

tin

g

Gu

ide

lin

es

1

Page 3: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

Re

st

au

ra

nt

Re

qu

ir

em

en

ts

&

Di

am

on

d

Ra

ti

ng

Gu

id

el

in

es

Ta

bl

e

of

Co

nt

en

ts

Acknow

ledgem

ents

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

Insi

de F

ront

Cove

r

Intr

oducti

on —

Dear

Rest

aura

nt

Pro

fess

ional

. .

. .

1

Secti

on O

ne —

Ove

rvie

w.

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

4A

AA

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. 4

AA

A P

ublis

hing

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. 5

AA

A T

ouris

m In

form

atio

n D

evel

opm

ent

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

6

Secti

on T

wo —

The D

iam

ond R

ati

ng P

rocess

.

. .

. 7

App

lyin

g fo

r a

AA

A D

iam

ond

Rat

ing

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

7D

iam

ond

Rat

ing

Req

uire

men

ts.

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. 7

The

Eval

uatio

n an

d R

atin

g P

roce

ss.

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. 8

Secti

on T

hre

e —

The D

iam

ond R

ati

ng C

rite

ria

. .

. 9

Wha

t the

Dia

mon

d R

atin

gs M

ean

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. 9

O

bjec

tive

Dia

mon

d R

atin

g G

uide

lines

(Foo

d).

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

10O

bjec

tive

Dia

mon

d R

atin

g G

uide

lines

(Ser

vice

).

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

12O

bjec

tive

Dia

mon

d R

atin

g G

uide

lines

(Déc

or)

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

14S

ubje

ctiv

e D

iam

ond

Rat

ing

Gui

delin

es (F

ood)

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

16S

ubje

ctiv

e D

iam

ond

Rat

ing

Gui

delin

es (S

ervi

ce)

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

17S

ubje

ctiv

e D

iam

ond

Rat

ing

Gui

delin

es (D

écor

).

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

17

Secti

on F

our

— A

ddit

ional

Info

rmati

on

. .

. .

. .

. .

18

The

List

ing

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. 18

Res

taur

ant C

lass

ificat

ions

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

19R

esta

uran

t Sub

-Cla

ssific

atio

ns.

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

19A

cces

sibi

lity

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

20M

embe

r C

ompl

aint

Pro

cedu

res

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

21Th

e A

AA

App

eals

Pro

cess

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

22A

ddre

sses

and

Pho

ne N

umbe

rs .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

23

Page 4: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

Ov

er

vie

w5

Wh

en n

ew m

emb

ers

join

AA

A, t

hey

join

a n

etw

ork

wit

h t

he

coll

ecti

ve r

eso

urc

es t

od

evel

op

new

pro

du

cts,

ser

vice

s, a

nd

tec

hn

olo

gies

, an

d t

he

abil

ity

to i

nfl

uen

ce l

egis

lati

on

affe

ctin

g al

l m

oto

rist

s an

d t

rave

lers

.

A A

AA

lis

tin

g m

akes

go

od

bu

sin

ess

sen

se f

or

you

r re

stau

ran

t, s

ince

26

per

cen

t o

f al

l U

.S.

ho

use

ho

lds

hav

e a

AA

A m

emb

ersh

ip. A

AA

mem

ber

s ar

e an

exc

elle

nt

mar

ket

for

the

ho

spit

alit

y an

d t

ou

rism

in

du

stry

. Mem

ber

res

earc

h s

how

s:

◆75

per

cen

t o

f A

AA

mem

ber

s u

se A

AA

pu

bli

cati

on

s fo

r re

stau

ran

t in

form

atio

n

wh

en t

rave

lin

g

◆A

AA

mem

ber

s sp

end

ap

pro

xim

atel

y $3

5 b

illi

on

an

nu

ally

on

din

ing

wh

entr

avel

ing

◆A

AA

mem

ber

s re

pre

sen

t 28

per

cen

t o

f th

e to

tal

U.S

. tra

vel

volu

me

◆A

n e

stim

ated

$16

4.5

bil

lio

n i

s sp

ent

ann

ual

ly o

n t

rave

l by

AA

A m

emb

ers

AA

A P

ub

lish

ing

AA

A P

UB

LIS

HIN

G I

S O

NE

OF

TH

E W

OR

LD

’S L

AR

GE

ST

TR

AV

EL

INF

OR

MA

TIO

N P

UB

LIS

HE

RS

. Th

e ei

ght

dep

artm

ents

wit

hin

th

e p

ub

lish

ing

gro

up

wo

rk t

oge

ther

to

co

llec

t, p

rod

uce

, an

d d

istr

ibu

te, i

n b

oth

pri

nt

and

ele

ctro

nic

fo

rmat

,a

vari

ety

of

trav

el p

ub

lica

tio

ns

to A

AA

clu

bs

and

th

e re

tail

mar

ketp

lace

.

Mem

ber

-on

ly p

rod

uct

s in

clu

de

23 T

ou

rBo

ok

guid

es, fi

ve f

ore

ign

Tra

velB

oo

k gu

ides

, 14

Des

tin

atio

n G

uid

es, 1

1 C

amp

Bo

ok

guid

es, a

s w

ell

as 7

5 re

gio

nal

, sta

te, a

nd

cit

y sh

eet

map

s.Th

e co

mb

ined

cir

cula

tio

n o

f th

ese

pro

du

cts

exce

eds

100

mil

lio

n c

op

ies

ann

ual

ly.

Ad

dit

ion

ally

, AA

A P

ub

lish

ing

dev

elo

ps

new

pro

du

cts

for

con

sum

er m

arke

ts a

nd

dis

trib

ute

s a

vari

ety

of

trav

el p

ub

lica

tio

ns

incl

ud

ing

atla

ses,

tra

vel

guid

es, T

rave

ling

Wit

h Yo

ur P

et,a

nd

Bed

& B

reak

fast

gu

ides

fo

r th

e U

nit

ed S

tate

s, B

rita

in, a

nd

Fra

nce

.

AA

A P

ub

lish

ing,

in

co

-op

erat

ion

wit

h A

AA

/CA

A c

lub

s, c

reat

es a

nd

ow

ns

mo

st o

f th

ep

rod

uct

co

nte

nt

use

d i

n A

AA

pu

bli

cati

on

s in

clu

din

g th

e d

iam

on

d r

atin

gs, a

ll e

dit

ori

alco

nte

nt,

th

e O

ffic

ial

Ap

po

intm

ent

lice

nsi

ng,

an

d d

isp

lay

adve

rtis

ing.

AA

A P

ub

lish

ing R

est

au

ran

t S

trate

gy

We

will

bec

ome

the

pre-

emin

ent s

ourc

e

of r

esta

uran

t inf

orm

atio

n th

roug

hout

Nor

th A

mer

ica.

We

will

effi

cien

tly c

olle

ct c

onsi

sten

t, re

liabl

e in

form

atio

n

pert

aini

ng to

a v

arie

ty o

f res

taur

ant t

ypes

and

sty

les

that

are

not

able

, uni

que,

and

con

tain

“val

ue a

dded

”el

emen

ts fo

r ou

r m

embe

rs.

Thi

s in

form

atio

n w

ill b

e in

nova

tive,

and

will

mirr

or

curr

ent m

arke

t offe

rings

.We

will

use

this

info

rmat

ion

in a

ll A

AA

pub

licat

ions

, bot

h pa

per

and

elec

tron

ic.

SECTION ONE

AAA

AA

AA

IS

A N

OT

-FO

R-P

RO

FIT

OR

GA

NIZ

AT

ION

OF

SO

ME

90

MO

TO

R C

LU

BS

SE

RV

ING

MO

RE

TH

AN

42

MIL

LIO

N M

EM

BE

RS

IN T

HE

UN

ITE

D S

TA

TE

S A

ND

CA

NA

DA

. W

hen

tra

veli

ng

in C

anad

a, t

he

CA

A l

ogo

is

syn

on

ymo

us

wit

h A

AA

. Alt

ho

ugh

AA

A i

s ch

angi

ng

at a

rap

id p

ace,

on

e th

ing

rem

ain

s th

e sa

me

— t

he

asso

ciat

ion

’s l

ifel

on

g co

mm

itm

ent

to p

rovi

din

g sa

fety

, sec

uri

ty,

and

pea

ce o

f m

ind

to

its

mem

ber

s. A

cco

rdin

g to

AA

A’s

“Bas

ic B

elie

fs,”

“We

exis

t fo

r o

ur

mem

ber

s an

d w

ill

jud

ge e

very

thin

g w

e d

o b

y h

ow w

ell

it s

erve

s th

eir

nee

ds.

◆In

190

2, o

nly

23,

000

mo

tor

veh

icle

s w

ere

regi

ster

ed i

n t

he

Un

ited

Sta

tes.

Ro

ads

wer

e tr

each

ero

us

and

dri

vin

g w

as r

estr

icti

ve. M

eeti

ng

in C

hic

ago

,d

eleg

ates

fro

m n

ine

ind

epen

den

t m

oto

r cl

ub

s, r

epre

sen

tin

g fe

wer

th

an 1

,000

mem

ber

s, u

nit

ed t

o c

om

bat

un

fair

tra

ffic

law

s an

d t

o c

amp

aign

fo

r b

ette

rro

ads

and

mo

re r

elia

ble

veh

icle

s. A

AA

is

now

a f

eder

atio

n w

ith

mo

re t

han

1,10

0 se

rvic

e o

ffic

es t

hro

ugh

ou

t th

e U

nit

ed S

tate

s an

d C

anad

a. T

he

AA

AN

atio

nal

Off

ice

is l

oca

ted

in

Hea

thro

w, F

la.

◆In

190

5, A

AA

pu

bli

shed

its

firs

t ro

ad m

aps

and

, tw

o y

ears

lat

er, e

stab

lish

ed t

he

Bu

reau

of

Tou

rin

g In

form

atio

n, s

up

ply

ing

nat

ion

al i

nfo

rmat

ion

on

ro

ads,

ho

tels

, ser

vice

gar

ages

, an

d v

ehic

le r

egu

lati

on

s

◆In

191

5, A

AA

beg

an t

he

firs

t em

erge

ncy

ro

ad s

ervi

ce p

rogr

am

◆In

193

7, t

he

firs

tfi

eld

rep

rese

nta

tive

s w

ere

hir

ed t

o i

nsp

ect

lod

gin

gs a

nd

rest

aura

nts

◆In

196

3, A

AA

beg

an r

atin

g ac

com

mo

dat

ion

s as

go

od

, ver

y go

od

, exc

elle

nt,

an

do

uts

tan

din

g

◆In

197

7, t

he

dia

mo

nd

rat

ing

syst

em w

as i

ntr

od

uce

d f

or

lod

gin

g ev

alu

atio

ns

du

rin

g A

AA

’s 7

5th

an

niv

ersa

ry

◆In

198

8, w

ith

th

e co

-op

erat

ion

of

Co

rnel

l U

niv

ersi

ty, t

he

dia

mo

nd

rat

ing

syst

em f

or

rest

aura

nts

was

dev

elo

ped

◆In

198

9, t

he

dia

mo

nd

rat

ing

syst

em f

or

rest

aura

nt

eval

uat

ion

s w

as i

ntr

od

uce

d

Loo

kin

g to

th

e fu

ture

, AA

A i

s d

evel

op

ing

cust

om

ized

pro

du

cts

and

ser

vice

s —

en

han

ced

trav

el a

nd

en

tert

ain

men

t o

ffer

ings

, fin

anci

al s

ervi

ces,

im

pro

ved

au

tom

oti

ve s

ervi

ces,

an

dn

ew m

emb

ersh

ip p

rivi

lege

s —

des

ign

ed t

o m

eet

the

ever

-ch

angi

ng

nee

ds

of

ou

r m

emb

ers.

As

on

e o

f th

e w

orl

d’s

lar

gest

tra

vel

org

aniz

atio

ns,

AA

A a

nn

ual

ly:

◆Ev

alu

ates

mo

re t

han

12,

000

rest

aura

nts

, in

ad

dit

ion

to

mo

re t

han

29,

000

acco

mm

od

atio

ns

and

4,6

00 c

amp

gro

un

ds,

fo

r tr

avel

pu

bli

cati

on

s an

del

ectr

on

ic i

nfo

rmat

ion

del

iver

y

◆P

ub

lish

es n

earl

y 30

0 m

illi

on

co

pie

s o

f tr

avel

-rel

ated

mat

eria

ls f

or

the

excl

usi

veu

se o

f o

ur

mem

ber

s, i

ncl

ud

ing

mo

re t

han

38

mil

lio

n T

ou

rBo

ok®

gu

ides

,C

amp

Bo

ok®

gu

ides

, Tra

velB

oo

k® g

uid

es, a

nd

Des

tin

atio

n G

uid

es

◆Se

lls

over

$3

bil

lio

n i

n t

rave

l ag

ency

ser

vice

s

◆Se

lls

mo

re t

han

$2

bil

lio

n i

n A

mer

ican

Exp

ress

® Tr

avel

ers

Ch

equ

es

◆G

ener

ates

mo

re t

han

$3.

4 b

illi

on

in

cre

dit

car

d t

ran

sact

ion

s

4O

ve

rv

iew

Se

ct

io

n

On

e

Ov

er

vi

ew

Page 5: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

AAp

ply

ing f

or

a A

AA

Dia

mon

d R

ati

ng

AA

A C

ON

SID

ER

S A

LL

VA

LID

AP

PL

ICA

TIO

NS

FO

R E

VA

LU

AT

ION

. Ea

ch e

stab

lish

men

t m

ust

in

itia

lly

mee

t A

AA

’s12

min

imu

m r

atin

g re

qu

irem

ents

(se

e b

elow

) fo

rco

nsi

der

atio

n o

f an

eva

luat

ion

fo

r a

dia

mo

nd

rat

ing.

Cu

rren

tly

list

ed e

stab

lish

men

ts n

eed

no

t re

app

ly.

A c

om

ple

ted

ap

pli

cati

on

do

es n

ot

guar

ante

e an

eva

luat

ion

by

on

e o

f o

ur

full

-tim

e, p

rofe

ssio

nal

ly-t

rain

ed t

ou

rism

ed

ito

rs. A

AA

rese

rves

th

e so

le r

igh

t to

det

erm

ine

wh

ich

res

tau

ran

ts w

ill

be

eval

uat

ed, a

ssig

ned

a d

iam

on

d r

atin

g, o

r li

sted

in

pu

bli

cati

on

s.It

is

no

t th

e in

ten

tio

n o

f A

AA

to

lis

t ev

ery

rest

aura

nt

that

mee

ts m

inim

um

rat

ing

req

uir

emen

ts. R

ath

er, o

ur

goal

is

to e

nsu

re t

hat

ou

r m

emb

ers’

tra

vel

nee

ds

are

wel

l-re

pre

sen

ted

. In

gen

eral

, ou

r d

atab

ase

inve

nto

ry r

eflec

ts m

emb

er i

nte

rest

, wit

h p

rin

cip

alco

nsi

der

atio

n g

iven

to

:

◆G

eogr

aph

ic l

oca

tio

n (

maj

or

citi

es, d

esti

nat

ion

are

as)

◆Th

ose

res

tau

ran

ts w

ith

th

e re

pu

tati

on

as

bei

ng

the

very

bes

t, w

het

her

th

ey a

resi

mp

le r

oad

sid

e ea

teri

es o

r ce

leb

rate

d, fi

ne-

din

ing

esta

bli

shm

ents

◆Va

riet

y in

cu

isin

e ty

pe

and

eth

nic

div

ersi

ty

◆A

AA

/CA

A c

lub

an

d m

emb

er r

eco

mm

end

atio

ns

◆O

ther

sig

nifi

can

t b

enefi

ts, s

uch

as,

un

iqu

e d

esig

n, s

tyle

of

op

erat

ion

, or

spec

ial

valu

e fe

atu

res

Dia

mon

d R

ati

ng R

eq

uir

em

en

tsD

IAM

ON

D R

AT

ING

RE

QU

IRE

ME

NT

S R

EF

LE

CT

TH

E B

AS

ICE

XP

EC

TA

TIO

NS

OF

AA

A/C

AA

ME

MB

ER

S A

S E

ST

AB

LIS

HE

DT

HR

OU

GH

SU

RV

EY

S A

ND

CO

NT

INU

OU

S F

EE

DB

AC

K.

Pri

or

to t

he

assi

gnm

ent

of

a d

iam

on

d r

atin

g, a

n e

stab

lish

men

t m

ust

be

able

to

mee

t th

e fo

llow

ing

req

uir

emen

ts:

1.

Pri

mar

y b

usi

nes

s o

per

atio

n i

s fo

od

2.

Esta

bli

shm

ent

is o

pen

an

d p

rep

ared

to

rea

dil

y ac

com

mo

dat

e th

e ge

ner

al p

ub

lic

3.

Esta

bli

shm

ent

is c

lean

an

d w

ell-

mai

nta

ined

4.

Man

agem

ent

wil

l re

adil

y p

rovi

de

pro

per

ty i

nfo

rmat

ion

as

req

ues

ted

by

AA

A

5.

Man

agem

ent

and

sta

ff p

rese

nt

a n

eat

app

eara

nce

6.

Man

agem

ent

and

sta

ff o

per

ate

in a

pro

fess

ion

al a

nd

eth

ical

man

ner

7.

Man

agem

ent

and

sta

ff p

rovi

de

atte

nti

ve, c

on

scie

nti

ou

s se

rvic

e to

gu

ests

8.M

anag

emen

t is

wil

lin

g to

ass

ist

in t

he

reso

luti

on

of

mem

ber

co

mp

lain

ts

9.

Esta

bli

shm

ent

loca

tio

n i

s ea

sily

acc

essi

ble

an

d i

n a

des

irab

le a

rea

10.

Esta

bli

shm

ent

is i

n c

om

pli

ance

wit

h a

ll l

oca

l, st

ate,

an

d f

eder

al c

od

es

11.

All

fo

od

an

d b

ever

age

is w

ho

leso

me,

fre

e fr

om

co

nta

min

atio

n, a

nd

pro

per

lyh

and

led

an

d s

tore

d

12.

All

pu

bli

c re

stro

om

fac

ilit

ies

hav

e p

riva

cy l

ock

s o

n s

tall

s o

r o

ne

on

th

e en

tran

ced

oo

r

Th

e

Dia

mo

nd

R

at

ing

P

ro

ce

ss

7

Se

ct

io

n

Tw

o

Th

e D

iam

on

d R

ati

ng

Pro

ce

ss

6O

ve

rv

iew

AA

A T

ou

rism

In

form

ati

on

Deve

lop

men

tT

HE

AA

A T

OU

RIS

M I

NF

OR

MA

TIO

N D

EV

EL

OP

ME

NT

DE

PA

RT

ME

NT

IS

TH

E D

IVIS

ION

OF

AA

A P

UB

LIS

HIN

GR

ES

PO

NS

IBL

E F

OR

TH

E D

IRE

CT

MA

NA

GE

ME

NT

OF

AA

A’S

DIA

MO

ND

RA

TIN

G P

RO

CE

SS

. Th

e d

epar

tmen

t ex

ists

to

pro

vid

e p

erti

nen

t tr

avel

info

rmat

ion

th

at e

ffec

tive

ly m

eets

AA

A/C

AA

mem

ber

nee

ds

and

exp

ecta

tio

ns.

Ou

r fu

ll-t

ime

and

pro

fess

ion

ally

-tra

ined

rep

rese

nta

tive

s ev

alu

ate

all

dia

mo

nd

rat

ed e

stab

lish

men

tsap

pea

rin

g in

AA

A t

rave

l p

ub

lica

tio

ns.

Th

ey c

oll

ect

dat

a, a

ssig

n r

atin

gs, a

nd

cre

ate

valu

able

inte

llec

tual

pro

per

ty f

or

AA

A p

ub

lica

tio

ns.

Alt

ho

ugh

AA

A P

ub

lish

ing

pro

vid

es a

var

iety

of

trav

el i

nfo

rmat

ion

, on

ly t

he

excl

usi

ve d

iam

on

d r

atin

g m

ean

s th

at t

he

esta

bli

shm

ent

has

pas

sed

a s

trin

gen

t ev

alu

atio

n c

on

du

cted

by

ou

r ex

ten

sive

ly-t

rain

ed p

rofe

ssio

nal

s.

AA

A T

ou

rism

In

form

atio

n D

evel

op

men

t re

cogn

izes

th

e im

po

rtan

ce o

f m

ain

tain

ing

acl

ose

, co

llab

ora

tive

wo

rkin

g re

lati

on

ship

wit

h t

he

ho

spit

alit

y in

du

stry

. Th

eref

ore

, we

hav

ed

evel

op

ed o

ngo

ing

rela

tio

nsh

ips

wit

h m

any

ind

ust

ry a

sso

ciat

ion

s.

AA

A T

ou

rism

In

form

ati

on

Deve

lop

men

t M

issi

on

Sta

tem

en

t

We

will

enh

ance

the

valu

e of

AA

A m

embe

rshi

p

by p

rovi

ding

AA

A/C

AA

clu

bs u

niqu

e tr

avel

info

rmat

ion

of s

uper

ior

qual

ity, t

hat m

eets

the

need

s

of o

ur m

embe

rs ..

.

SECTION TWO

TO A

PP

LY F

OR

AN

EV

ALU

ATIO

N,

RE

FE

R

TO P

AG

E 2

3 O

F T

HIS

BO

OK

LET

FO

R

CO

NTA

CT

S I

N Y

OU

R

AR

EA

TO

AS

SIS

T Y

OU

.

Page 6: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

Th

e

Dia

mo

nd

R

at

ing

C

rit

er

ia

9

Se

ct

io

n

Th

re

e

Th

e D

iam

on

d R

ati

ng

Cri

teri

aT

he E

valu

ati

on

an

d R

ati

ng P

rocess

TH

E E

VA

LU

AT

ION

PR

OC

ES

S I

S M

AD

E U

P O

F T

HR

EE

PA

RT

S:

MIN

IMU

M M

EM

BE

R-R

AT

ING

RE

QU

IRE

ME

NT

S,

OB

JE

CT

IVE

RA

TIN

G G

UID

EL

INE

S,

AN

D S

UB

JE

CT

IVE

EL

EM

EN

TS

OF

TH

EIN

DIV

IDU

AL

EX

PE

RIE

NC

E.

Firs

t, a

ll e

stab

lish

men

ts m

ust

mee

t m

emb

er-r

atin

gre

qu

irem

ents

an

d b

e d

eter

min

ed t

o p

rovi

de

mem

ber

val

ue.

Th

is v

alid

atio

n i

s co

nd

uct

edth

rou

gh a

co

mb

ined

pro

cess

of

app

lica

tio

ns,

ref

erra

ls, a

nd

med

ia r

esea

rch

. If

a re

stau

ran

t is

pre

sum

ed t

o q

ual

ify,

on

e o

f o

ur

tou

rism

ed

ito

rs w

ill

visi

t an

d a

no

nym

ou

sly

din

e to

ob

serv

eth

e b

asic

fo

un

dat

ion

of

the

esta

bli

shm

ent.

Th

e to

uri

sm e

dit

or

wil

l ap

ply

a s

et o

f d

iam

on

dra

tin

g gu

idel

ines

th

at r

epre

sen

t o

bje

ctiv

e cr

iter

ia p

reva

len

t th

rou

gho

ut

the

rest

aura

nt

ind

ust

ry. I

n a

dd

itio

n, t

he

tou

rism

ed

ito

r w

ill

incl

ud

e ke

y su

bje

ctiv

e el

emen

ts e

xper

ien

ced

at

the

tim

e o

f th

e ev

alu

atio

n. T

his

eva

luat

ion

pro

cess

wil

l in

clu

de

the

revi

ew

of

thes

e ke

y d

inin

g es

sen

tial

s p

erta

inin

g to

th

e fo

llow

ing

thre

e ar

eas:

◆FO

OD

◆SE

RV

ICE

◆D

ÉCO

R A

ND

AM

BIA

NC

E

Equ

al w

eigh

t w

ill

be

give

n t

o f

acto

rs e

xper

ien

ced

fo

r fo

od

an

d s

ervi

ce. A

lth

ou

gh d

éco

rel

emen

ts a

re i

mp

ort

ant,

ou

r m

emb

ers

hav

e co

nve

yed

th

at t

hes

e as

pec

ts p

lay

a le

ss s

ign

ifica

nt

role

in

det

erm

inin

g th

eir

favo

rite

res

tau

ran

t ch

oic

es. D

esp

ite

the

less

er e

mp

has

is o

n t

he

ph

ysic

al f

eatu

res,

all

est

abli

shm

ents

mu

st b

e cl

ean

, co

mfo

rtab

le, a

nd

wel

l-m

ain

tain

ed. T

he

tou

rism

ed

ito

r w

ill

eval

uat

e ea

ch r

esta

ura

nt

and

ass

ign

a s

epar

ate

ho

use

keep

ing

and

mai

nte

nan

ce d

esig

nat

ion

as

eith

er e

xcel

lent

, go

od,

or

acce

ptab

le.

If t

he

det

erm

inat

ion

is

mad

e th

at a

n e

stab

lish

men

t sh

ou

ld b

e li

sted

, th

e to

uri

sm e

dit

or

wil

l as

sign

, or

reco

mm

end

, a d

iam

on

d r

atin

g o

r o

ther

ap

pro

pri

ate

des

ign

atio

ns.

Bec

ause

of

the

dyn

amic

nat

ure

of

the

rest

aura

nt

bu

sin

ess,

eac

h r

atin

g as

sign

men

t m

ust

be

bas

ed o

nco

nd

itio

ns

that

exi

st a

t th

e ti

me

of

the

eval

uat

ion

. War

nin

gs o

f ra

tin

g ad

just

men

ts a

rere

stri

cted

fo

r li

mit

ed c

ases

an

d a

re a

pp

lied

at

the

sole

dis

cret

ion

of

AA

A. T

he

ach

ieve

men

t o

fa

AA

A d

iam

on

d r

atin

g m

ean

s th

at a

n e

stab

lish

men

t is

on

e o

f an

exc

lusi

ve g

rou

p t

hat

has

succ

essf

ull

y co

mp

lete

d t

his

th

oro

ugh

eva

luat

ion

pro

cess

. Th

e fr

equ

ency

of

sub

seq

uen

t A

AA

eval

uat

ion

s va

ries

sli

ghtl

y, d

epen

din

g o

n t

he

clas

sifi

cati

on

an

d t

he

assi

gned

rat

ing

of

each

esta

bli

shm

ent.

If t

he

AA

A t

ou

rism

ed

ito

r d

eter

min

es t

hat

yo

ur

esta

bli

shm

ent

mee

ts t

he

max

imu

mcr

iter

ia, a

nd

th

e d

inin

g el

emen

ts r

epre

sen

t a

wo

rld

-cla

ss e

xper

ien

ce, h

e/sh

e w

ill

reco

mm

end

con

sid

erat

ion

fo

r th

e p

rest

igio

us

five

dia

mo

nd

rat

ing.

All

five

dia

mo

nd

rat

ing

reco

mm

end

atio

ns

are

forw

ard

ed t

o A

AA’

s Fi

ve D

iam

on

d C

om

mit

tee

for

tho

rou

gh r

evie

w.

On

ce t

he

com

mit

tee’

s as

sess

men

t is

co

ncl

ud

ed, t

he

esta

bli

shm

ent

wil

l b

e ad

vise

d i

n w

riti

ng

of

the

ou

tco

me.

8T

he

D

iam

on

d

Ra

tin

g

Pr

oc

es

s

SECTION THREE

AAA

A T

OU

RIS

M E

DIT

OR

S A

RE

RE

SP

ON

SIB

LE

FO

R

D

ET

ER

MIN

ING

A R

ES

TA

UR

AN

T’S

DIA

MO

ND

RA

TIN

G

B

AS

ED

ON

ES

TA

BL

ISH

ED

CR

ITE

RIA

. Th

ese

crit

eria

wer

e

es

tab

lish

ed w

ith

in

pu

t fr

om

AA

A t

rain

ed p

rofe

ssio

nal

s, m

emb

ers,

an

d

rest

aura

nt

ind

ust

ry e

xper

ts. T

hey

are

pu

rpo

sely

bro

ad t

o c

aptu

re

wh

at i

s ty

pic

ally

see

n t

hro

ugh

ou

t th

e re

stau

ran

t in

du

stry

at

each

dia

mo

nd

rati

ng

leve

l.

Wh

at

the D

iam

on

d R

ati

ngs

Mean

One

Dia

mon

dTh

ese

esta

bli

shm

ents

ap

pea

l to

a d

iner

see

kin

g go

od

, wh

ole

som

e, n

o-n

on

sen

se e

atin

g at

an

affo

rdab

le p

rice

. Th

ey t

ypic

ally

pro

vid

e si

mp

le, f

amil

iar,

and

un

ado

rned

fo

od

s se

rved

in

a s

ensi

ble

,ca

sual

, or

self

-ser

vice

sty

le. O

ften

qu

ick

serv

ice

and

fam

ily

ori

ente

d.

Exam

ple

s in

clu

de

coff

ee s

ho

ps,

din

ers,

caf

eter

ias,

sh

ort

ord

er, a

nd

mo

des

t fu

ll s

ervi

ce e

ater

ies.

Two

Dia

mon

dTh

ese

esta

bli

shm

ents

pro

vid

e fo

r d

inin

g n

eed

s th

at a

re i

ncr

easi

ngl

y co

mp

lex,

bu

t st

ill

reas

on

ably

pri

ced

. Th

ey t

ypic

ally

exh

ibit

no

tice

able

eff

ort

s in

ris

ing

abov

e th

e o

rdin

ary

in m

any

asp

ects

of

foo

d,

serv

ice,

an

d d

éco

r. Se

rvic

e is

typ

ical

ly f

un

ctio

nal

yet

am

bit

iou

s, p

erio

dic

ally

co

mb

inin

g in

form

al s

tyle

wit

h l

imit

ed s

elf-

serv

ice

elem

ents

. Oft

en w

ell-

suit

ed t

o t

rad

itio

nal

, sp

ecia

l o

ccas

ion

, an

d f

amil

y d

inin

g.

Exam

ple

s in

clu

de

a va

ried

ran

ge o

f sp

ecifi

c co

nce

pt

(th

eme)

an

d m

ult

i-p

urp

ose

est

abli

shm

ents

.

Thre

e D

iam

ond

Thes

e es

tab

lish

men

ts i

mp

art

an i

ncr

easi

ngl

y re

fin

ed a

nd

up

scal

e, a

du

lt-o

rien

ted

exp

erie

nce

. Th

is i

sth

e en

try

leve

l in

to fi

ne

din

ing.

Cre

ativ

e an

d c

om

ple

x m

enu

s o

ffer

a b

len

d o

f tr

adit

ion

al a

nd

tre

nd

yfo

od

s. T

he

serv

ice

leve

l is

typ

ical

ly s

emi-

form

al w

ith

kn

owle

dge

able

an

d p

rofi

cien

t st

aff.

Ro

uti

nel

y,th

ese

rest

aura

nts

ap

pea

l to

th

e d

iner

in

sea

rch

of

an e

xper

ien

ce r

ath

er t

han

just

a m

eal.

Exam

ple

s in

clu

de

hig

h-c

alib

er, c

hic

, bo

uti

qu

e, a

nd

co

nve

nti

on

al r

esta

ura

nts

.

Four

Dia

mon

dTh

ese

esta

bli

shm

ents

im

par

t a

luxu

rio

us

and

so

cial

ly r

efin

ed e

xper

ien

ce. T

his

is

con

sist

ent

fin

ed

inin

g. M

enu

s ty

pic

ally

refl

ect

a h

igh

deg

ree

of

crea

tivi

ty a

nd

co

mp

lexi

ty, f

eatu

rin

g el

abo

rate

pre

sen

tati

on

s o

f m

arke

t-d

rive

n o

r tr

adit

ion

al d

ish

es. A

cu

ltu

red

, pro

fess

ion

al, a

nd

hig

hly

pro

fici

ent

staf

f co

nsi

sten

tly

dem

on

stra

tes

a p

rofo

un

d d

esir

e to

mee

t o

r ex

ceed

gu

est

exp

ecta

tio

ns.

Res

tau

ran

ts

of

this

cal

iber

are

gea

red

to

in

div

idu

als

wit

h a

n a

pp

etit

e fo

r an

eli

te, fi

ne-

din

ing

exp

erie

nce

. Ex

amp

les

incl

ud

e d

inin

g ro

om

s as

soci

ated

wit

h l

uxu

ry l

od

gin

gs, o

r ex

clu

sive

in

dep

end

ent

rest

aura

nts

oft

en f

ou

nd

in

met

rop

oli

tan

are

as.

Five

Dia

mon

dO

ften

ren

own

ed, t

hes

e es

tab

lish

men

ts i

mp

art

a w

orl

d-c

lass

an

d o

pu

len

t, a

du

lt-o

rien

ted

exp

erie

nce

.Th

is i

s “h

aute

cu

isin

e” a

t it

s b

est.

Men

us

are

oft

en c

utt

ing

edge

, wit

h a

n o

bvi

ou

s d

edic

atio

n t

o u

se o

fo

nly

th

e fi

nes

t in

gred

ien

ts a

vail

able

. Eve

n t

he

clas

sic

dis

hes

bec

om

e ex

trao

rdin

ary

un

der

th

e m

aste

rfu

ld

irec

tio

n o

f h

igh

ly a

ccla

imed

ch

efs.

Pre

sen

tati

on

s ar

e sp

ecta

cula

r, re

flec

tin

g im

pec

cab

le a

rtis

try

and

awar

enes

s. A

n e

xper

t, f

orm

aliz

ed s

taff

co

nti

nu

ou

sly

anti

cip

ates

an

d e

xcee

ds

gues

t ex

pec

tati

on

s. S

taff

mem

ber

s’ u

nfa

ilin

g at

ten

tio

n t

o d

etai

l ap

pea

rs e

ffo

rtle

ss, w

ell-

reh

ears

ed, a

nd

un

ob

tru

sive

.U

nd

ou

bte

dly

, th

ese

rest

aura

nts

ap

pea

l to

th

ose

in

sea

rch

of

the

ult

imat

e d

inin

g ex

per

ien

ce.

Exam

ple

s in

clu

de

ren

own

ed d

inin

g ro

om

s as

soci

ated

wit

h l

uxu

ry l

od

gin

gs, o

r ex

clu

sive

ind

epen

den

t re

stau

ran

ts o

ften

fo

un

d i

n m

etro

po

lita

n a

reas

.

Page 7: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

Ob

jec

tiv

e

Dia

mo

nd

R

at

ing

G

uid

eli

ne

s

11

ON

E D

IAM

ON

DT

WO

DIA

MO

ND

10

Th

e

Dia

mo

nd

R

at

ing

C

rit

er

ia

TH

RE

E D

IAM

ON

DFO

UR

DIA

MO

ND

FIV

E D

IAM

ON

D

1.

Pre

senta

tion

Una

dorn

ed a

nd s

trai

ghtfo

rwar

dLi

mite

d us

e of

com

mon

gar

nish

es.

Gar

nis

h—

A d

ecor

ativ

e, e

dibl

eac

com

pani

men

t to

finis

hed

dish

es

from

app

etiz

ers

to d

esse

rts

Obv

ious

use

of c

ompl

imen

tary

gar

nish

esto

enh

ance

ove

rall

appe

al.N

o se

lf-se

rvic

eas

pect

s (b

uffe

ts, s

alad

bar

s, e

tc.)

.

3pl

us p

reci

se a

ttent

ion

to fo

odpl

acem

ent a

nd d

esig

n.C

reat

ive

and

artis

tic u

se o

f gar

nish

es to

refl

ect s

ome

aspe

ct o

f the

rec

ipe

conc

ept.

Sel

ectio

npr

ovid

es v

arie

ty in

text

ure,

col

or,

subs

tanc

e, th

eme,

and

tem

pera

ture

.

4pl

us e

xtre

mel

y im

agin

ativ

e an

dex

clus

ive

in c

once

pt a

nd o

utst

andi

ng in

exec

utio

n.A

ll in

gred

ient

s ar

e un

ique

toea

ch d

ish

and

met

icul

ousl

y in

tegr

ated

with

the

plat

e de

sign

.

2.

Ingre

die

nts

Bas

ic, c

omm

on, p

alat

able

incl

udin

g an

obvi

ous

use

of c

onve

nien

ce fo

ods

Co

nven

ien

ce F

oo

ds

—pr

e-pr

epar

edin

som

e m

anne

r (c

anne

d, fr

ozen

, pr

e-ba

ked,

pre

-por

tione

d, in

divi

dual

lyw

rapp

ed, e

tc.)

Com

mon

, pal

atab

le.L

ess

evid

ence

of

con

veni

ence

food

s.Li

mite

d us

e of

spec

ialty

item

s.

Sp

ecia

lty

Item

s—

hig

h gr

ades

or

unco

mm

on v

arie

ties

of m

eat,

fish,

vege

tabl

es, f

resh

her

bs, s

pice

s, e

tc.

Ofte

n re

flect

ing

regi

onal

mar

ket

avai

labi

lity.

Incr

ease

d us

e of

spe

cial

tyite

ms.

Lim

ited

evid

ence

of t

he u

se o

fco

nven

ienc

e fo

ods.

3pl

us fr

eque

nt u

se o

f spe

cial

ty it

ems.

No

evid

ence

of t

he u

se o

f con

veni

ence

food

s.

4pl

us p

redo

min

ant u

se o

f spe

cial

tyan

d ex

otic

item

s.O

ften

refle

cts

glob

alm

arke

t ava

ilabi

lity.

3.

Pre

para

tion

Lim

ited

degr

ee o

f tec

hnic

al s

kill

isev

iden

t.In

corp

orat

es li

mite

d va

riety

of

coo

king

tech

niqu

es.F

ood

typi

cally

requ

ires

limite

d pr

epar

atio

n an

d is

ofte

npr

epar

ed in

adv

ance

.

Mod

erat

e de

gree

of t

echn

ical

ski

ll is

evid

ent.

Incr

ease

d va

riety

of c

ooki

ngte

chni

ques

;les

s ev

iden

ce o

f grid

dle

fryi

ngor

dee

p fr

ying

.Foo

d ty

pica

lly r

equi

res

limite

d pr

epar

atio

n, a

nd s

ome

food

s m

aybe

pre

pare

d in

adv

ance

or a

la m

inut

e.

Incr

ease

d de

gree

of t

echn

ical

ski

llev

iden

t.V

arie

ty o

f coo

king

tech

niqu

esm

ay in

clud

e ro

astin

g, b

akin

g, s

tew

ing,

stea

min

g, g

rillin

g, p

an-f

ryin

g, o

r w

ood

smok

ing.

Incr

easi

ngly

refi

ned

tech

niqu

essu

ch a

s po

achi

ng, s

auté

ing,

hot

and

col

dsm

okin

g, p

atés

, and

mol

ds.M

ost m

ain

cour

se fo

ods

are

prep

ared

a la

min

ute.

3pl

us a

dvan

ced

degr

ee o

f tec

hnic

alsk

ill is

evi

dent

thro

ugho

ut.C

ompl

exco

okin

g te

chni

ques

ofte

n re

quire

the

effo

rts

of a

ser

ies

of s

kille

d ch

efs

tofa

cilit

ate

the

effic

ient

exe

cutio

n of

a la

min

ute

for

virt

ually

eve

ry in

gred

ient

use

din

the

mai

n co

urse

offe

rings

.Tho

se it

ems

not p

repa

red

in-h

ouse

will

be

purc

hase

dth

roug

h sp

ecia

lty p

urve

yors

.

4pl

us e

xecu

tion

of a

ll m

etho

ds is

flaw

less

and

met

icul

ous.

All

men

u ite

ms

are

prep

ared

from

scr

atch

in-h

ouse

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SECTION THREE

Page 8: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

ONE DIAMOND TWO DIAMOND THREE DIAMOND FOUR DIAMOND FIVE DIAMOND

5. Payment/Departure/Exit

Check presented when meal served. Payat cashier (sometimes prior to eating).Usually cashier thanks guest.

Check presented after meal or uponrequest. Server handles settlement ofcheck and thanks guest.

4. Food andBeverageService

May be self-service. Varied styles andlevels of performance. Limited personalattention.

Limited self-service. Deliberate andsystem-oriented service style appropriateto overall theme. Varied levels ofperformance. Average level of personalattention.

No self-service. Deliberate service style appropriate to overall theme butadaptable to guest needs and moods.Skilled and consistent level ofperformance. Evidence of formalizedservice and desire to be of assistance.Good level of personal attention. Mayprovide team approach to table service.If wine is available, competent serviceand knowledge should be evident.

3 plus formalized, well-rehearsed withan unconditional desire to be of service;high level of personal attention. Providesa team approach to service, anticipatingand responding appropriately to guestneeds through vigilant attention to follow-up. Tableside preparations and otherspecialized services should be executedwith confidence and proficiency. Mayprovide additional surprise featuresand/or confections such as “mignardese”or “petits fours.” If wine is available,service should be confident and adept,and menu-specific knowledge should beevident.

4 plus providing a meticulous degree ofpersonal attention and guest awareness;identifying and anticipating guest needs. Consistently exceeding guestexpectations in a seamless manner which is exceptionally efficient,unobtrusive, and polished. “Amusegeuele” course typically served prior tomeal as well as a selection of confectionssuch as “mignardese” or “petits fours”after dinner. Or, may provide alternatesurprise features. If wine is available,expert service, knowledge, and adviceshould be evident.

2 plus check presented on a plate, in a folder, or on a tray. Greeter alsoacknowledges guest’s departure.

Server anticipates when guest wantscheck or presents it upon request.Clear, legible, and well-itemized checkpresented in a folder. Check presentationconsistent with décor and theme; typicallyaccompanied by some form ofcomplement such as specialty candy.Server quickly and discreetly handlessettlement of check. Server and maÎtre d’acknowledge guest’s departure.

4 plus use of guest’s name in theacknowledgements.

Serv ice

O b j e c t i v e D i a m o n d R a t i n g G u i d e l i n e s 1 31 2 T h e D i a m o n d R a t i n g C r i t e r i a

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Accepted without restrictions. Telephoneinquiries are handled appropriately,offering additional information about theestablishment (hours of operation,smoking status, directions, answers tospecific menu questions, etc.). Telephoneattendant prompts the guest for basicinformation such as time, date, number of guests, and smoking or non-smokingpreference.

3 plus answers telephone promptly,displaying a high degree of telephoneetiquette. Reviews information foraccuracy. Thanks guest for calling.

4 plus addresses guest appropriatelyby name. Will call to reconfirm or willprovide written confirmation.

2. Initial Greeting No greeting or limited greeting atentrance

Acknowledgement of arrival is prompt,polite, and friendly. Advised of expectedwaiting time as appropriate.

2 plus greeting by full-timehost/hostess. Offers a seat in waiting area if seating is delayed.

3 plus refined greeting by maÎtre d’.Personal assistance provided asappropriate.

Refinement — elegance, politeness,polish, good manners, suavity, grace, tact, cultivation, civility, affability, taste,fineness, dignity, savoir faire

4 plus addresses guest appropriatelyby name.

3. Seating Self-seating Assisted seating provided. Menupresented at time of seating.

Assisted seating managed by host orhostess. Menu and wine list (if available)presented at time of seating.Reservations honored within 10 minutes.

3 plus refined personal assistanceprovided. Extra place settings removed ifnecessary. Reservations honored withinfive minutes. Menus provided at theappropriate time.

4 plus no delay in seating. Table presetper reservation. Charges from lounge are transferred to dining room withoutexception. Addresses guest appropriatelyby name.

1. Reservations/Telephone Assistance

Typically not accepted. Telephoneinquiries are handled appropriately with limited information provided.

Sometimes accepted; restrictions mayapply for groups or large parties.Telephone inquiries are handledappropriately, offering additionalinformation about the establishment(hours of operation, smoking status,directions, answers to general menuquestions, etc.).

Page 9: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

ONE DIAMOND TWO DIAMOND THREE DIAMOND FOUR DIAMOND FIVE DIAMOND

1. Entrance/Foyer No distinct separation between entranceand dining areas; no reception stand

Distinct separation between reception anddining areas; may have staffed receptionstand

2 plus continuously staffed receptionstand; may have coat check area

3 plus upscale appointments; securedcoat check area as required

4 plus luxurious appointments

2. Waiting Areaand/or Lounge

Not typically seen May have small waiting area or stool bar Waiting area and/or upscale lounge whichis large enough to accommodate allwaiting guests

Upscale lounge separate from entrancearea

Luxurious lounge separate from entrancearea

3. DesignElements

Basic, functional, operational 1 plus coordinated theme throughout(not plain)

2 plus noticeably distinct and highquality interior design; theme, colors,fabrics, textures, lighting, etc., are well-coordinated throughout the restaurant

3 plus high level of refinement isevident, achieving a sophisticatedatmosphere; upscale equipment andmaterials of the highest caliber; freshflowers and plants often integrated intothe theme

4 plus meticulous attention to all décorelements, achieving an extraordinaryeffect

4. Printed Materials(Menu/Wine List/etc.)

Basic, legible presentation 1 plus noticeable enhancements;menus often coated or covered withplastic

2 plus menus sometimes presented ina folder or may be coated or covered withplastic providing an innovative visualimpact

First-class formal presentation; no plasticcover or coating on menus

4 plus exclusive enhancements to allelements of print, layout, and descriptions

5. Table/Covers/Napery

Uncovered tables, paper place mats,paper napkins

May have uncovered tables, paper placemats and napkins at lunch; mayincorporate cloth napkins and tablecovers such as paper, vinyl, polyesterblends (that appear less absorbent)

Appropriately sized cloth table covers,mats or runners, cloth napkins. Ifuncovered, table surfaces should bequality finished such as granite, marble,fine wood, etc.

3 plus tables are padded or silencersused

4 plus luxury quality linen

6. Dishware Washable (may be mismatched) and/ordisposable

Washable (may be mismatched) —no plastic or disposable

High quality, matched/coordinated andappropriate pieces for menu offerings andcondiments

3 plus finest quality 4 plus utilization of varied and uniquepieces as part of the overall foodpresentation

7. Cutlery Washable (may be mismatched) and/ordisposable

Washable (may be mismatched) —no plastic or disposable

High quality, matched/coordinated andappropriate pieces for menu offerings;heavier grade stainless steel

3 plus highly-polished stainless steelwith upscale design elements

Highly polished, silver plated

8. Glassware Washable (may be mismatched) and/ordisposable

Washable (may be mismatched) —no plastic or disposable

High quality, matched/coordinated andappropriate pieces for beverage offerings

3 plus fine glass (table settings only);spotless

4 plus fine glass throughout

9. Chairs/Stools/Benches

Simple, functional, sturdy 1 plus padded seats 2 plus coordinated fabric coverings andupscale design

3 plus upholstered seats; thickpadding, may have arms (suitable forleisurely dining experiences)

Fully-upholstered seats incorporating finefabric coverings; highest degree ofcomfort and appearance

10. Table SettingEnhancements

Limited; often, not typically seen Average appeal, such as hurricane lamps,artificial flowers, children’s games, menuflyers, etc. Utensils may be rolled up innapkins.

Candles, silk flowers, fresh flowers,decorative napkin folds; utensils andglassware are preset, ready for use,providing an elegant appeal

3 plus show plate providing a first-classappeal

4 plus table is preset as perreservation

Décor & Ambiance

O b j e c t i v e D i a m o n d R a t i n g G u i d e l i n e s 1 51 4 T h e D i a m o n d R a t i n g C r i t e r i a

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Page 10: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

S u b j e c t i v e D i a m o n d R a t i n g G u i d e l i n e s 1 71 6 T h e D i a m o n d R a t i n g C r i t e r i a

Subjective Diamond Rating Guidelines

1. BreadsTHE “OH!”ZONE:The following dining

elements are not

diamond rated, but

are assigned

“+” = very obviously

enhancing, “-” = very

obviously detracting,

or “blank” = no

obvious impact.

If not available, consideration is given as to whether it is appropriate for thecuisine or the meal. If bread is provided, the quality generally increasesthrough the rating levels, from simple processed breads to creative andimaginative offerings made in-house.

2. Condiments Such as relishes, mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, pepper, sugar,artificial sweeteners, butter, cream, etc.

3. Complements Such as “amuse geuele,” “mignardese,” and/or “petits fours.” Typically seen at4 and 5 .

4. Taste When evaluating taste, consideration is given to the following questions: Areall the ingredients noted on the menu included? Do they complement eachother or are they conflicting? Is the dish appropriately seasoned, acidic, bitter,or sour? Do the sauces complement or conflict with the food? Do the flavorsmatch expectations?

5. Temperature Is the temperature of the food appropriate (hot food hot; cold food cold)?

6. Variety The degree to which variety affects a rating is extremely subjective in nature.It depends on such factors as a diner’s expectations, quality of existing itemsand the restaurant concept.

7. Beverages As ratings increase, generally the quality and variety of beverages improves.Custom dictates if water is poured automatically or upon request. Higherratings typically offer both sparkling and still bottled water. If alcoholicbeverages are not provided or are limited, consideration is given to prevailinglaws, restaurant concept, and regional competition. At a rating of threediamond and above, wine lists should offer wines with varying degrees ofcomplexity, price range, availability, and production style.

8. Value Consideration is given to location, décor, service, and food. Is the cost of theexperience justified?

1. Congeniality Cordial in all areas; level is more refined as the rating increases

2. Timeliness All areas and rating levels

3. Attentiveness All areas; the higher the rating, the more attention to detail expected

6. Grooming/Deportment

All areas and rating levels; the higher the rating, the more impeccable theappearance of the staff

4. Knowledge Answer questions about food and beverage offerings in their restaurant? How efficient and polished is the delivery of this information?

7. Valet Parking Expected at 4 and 5

8. Credit Cards Expected at 3 and higher

1. Exterior Architecture, location, landscaping, parking

5. Ability/Willingness toHonor SpecialRequests

Alterations to menu items for reasons of taste, preference, or healthconcerns; arrange for other special needs

Food

T H E S E I M P O R TA N T E L E M E N T S I L L U S T R AT E A M O R E S U B J E C T I V E ,P E R S O N A L A S P E C T O F T H E D I N I N G E X P E R I E N C E . No diamond rating isassigned to these individual criteria; however, depending on whether these factors have a positive,negative, or nil effect on the dining experience, they may cumulatively affect the final rating.

2. Traffic Flow Movement of guests and staff in/out/throughout facility

3. Table Spacing Placement of tables allows for easy entry/egress, access by servers, andsuitable privacy

4. TemperatureandVentilation

Comfortable temperature, well-ventilated

5. Illumination Appropriate to theme and reading of menu

8. Restrooms Appropriate to theme; ease of access; adequate facilities; clean, well-attended, and well-supplied

HOSPITALITYZONE:The following dining

elements are not

diamond rated, but

are assigned

“+” = very obviously

enhancing, “-” =

very obviously

detracting, or

“blank” = no

obvious impact.

COMFORTZONE:The following dining

elements are not

diamond rated, but

are assigned

“+” = very obviously

enhancing, “-” =

very obviously

detracting, or

“blank” = no

obvious impact.

Serv ice

Décor &Ambiance

6. Noise Level/Music/Entertainment

Appropriate to theme; able to maintain conversation as desired or expected

7. Capacity/Occupancy

Consideration will be given to the level of occupancy in relation to a facility’scapacity

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Page 11: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

Restaurant Classifications —A L L D I A M O N D R AT E D R E S TA U R A N T S A R E C L A S S I F I E D

U S I N G F O U R K E Y D E S C R I P T I V E E L E M E N T S .

FIRST , ALL RESTAURANTS ARE CLASSIFIED BY MARKET SEGMENT:◆ Brew Pub — specializes in the brewing of beer; offers a limited menu

and full service.◆ Cafeteria — traditional eatery with line feeding, limited service, often self-

service, varied menu.◆ Casual Dining — full service, typically serves beer, wine, or liquor; typically

universal menu identity such as steaks, seafood, pasta, etc.; menu may belimited.

◆ Dinner Theater — full or limited service; typically serves beer, wine, or liquor;limited menu; entertainment provided in conjunction with the diningexperience.

◆ Family Restaurant — full or limited service; limited or varied menu; typicallydoes not serve beer, wine, or liquor; caters to children; common, traditionalelements are evident in food, service, and decor.

◆ Fine Dining — full service; varied or limited menu; typically serves beer, wine,or liquor; upscale and complex elements are evident in food, service, and décor.

◆ In-Store Feeding — typically common restaurants or snack bars that existwithin retail units.

◆ Quick Serve — fast or self-service of food; menu is typically limited.◆ Sports Bar — full service; limited menu; has sports theme atmosphere.

S E C O N D , A C U I S I N E T Y P E I S A S S I G N E D : ◆ AAA currently recognizes over 90 different cuisine types.

T H I R D , A D E T E R M I N AT I O N I S M A D E P E R TA I N I N G T O O V E R A L LC O N C E P T, A N D A R E S TA U R A N T M AY B E :

◆ Independent: Any restaurant operation consisting of no more than two separateoutlets of same name and concept. This definition includes all types ofconcepts, service levels, and menu offerings.

◆ Chain: Any restaurant operation with three or more separate outlets of samename and concept.

F I N A L LY , T H E R E S P E C T I V E S E R V I C E L E V E L I S N O T E D :◆ Full Service: Any restaurant operation that provides a full range of table services

(no self-service aspects).◆ Limited Service: Any restaurant operation that provides less than a full range of

services. This includes self-service aspects such as buffets, salad bars, cook yourown, and counter services.

Restaurant Sub-Classifications —I F A P P L I C A B L E , R E S TA U R A N T S M AY B E F U R T H E R D E F I N E D

A S :

Classic: Renowned and landmark properties, older than 25 years, known for uniquestyle and ambiance.

Historic: Properties must meet one of the following criteria: ● Listed on the National Register of Historic Places● National Historic Landmark● Located in a National Register Historic District

A d d i t i o n a l I n f o r m a t i o n 1 9

OThe Listing

O N C E A R E S TA U R A N T I S A P P R O V E D , A A A P U B L I S H I N GE S TA B L I S H E S T H E C O N T E N T A N D F O R M AT O F E A C H L I S T I N GI N A L L A A A P U B L I C AT I O N S . The basic listing is provided at no cost to theestablishment. This listing does not contain advertising or promotional phraseologypurchased by the operator.

The listing copy describing the restaurant isbased in part on objective information providedby the establishment. This listing information isupdated annually, and your establishment will becontacted either by mail, in person, or via telephone.

Failure to provide this information in a timely manner will result in the deletion of anestablishment from the AAA database.

Additionally, AAA’s professionally-trained tourism editors enhance our inventory withdescriptive prose for each establishment. This skilled degree of subjectivity captures the feelof an experience and passes along this valuable information to our members.

Each diamond rated restaurant has the opportunity to participate in the AAA OfficialAppointment program, entitling the establishment to use the renowned AAA/CAA emblemand diamond rating in its advertising and promotions. This program also entitles theestablishment to an enhanced listing in AAA publications. Personalized display advertisingin AAA publications is also available (see page 23 and back cover).

S e c t i o n F o u r –

A d d i t i o n a l I n f o r m a t i o n

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THE BASIC LISTING

IS PROVIDED AT NO COST TO

THE ESTABLISHMENT.

1 8 A d d i t i o n a l I n f o r m a t i o n

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Member Complaint ProceduresA A A K E E P S A C L O S E W AT C H O N T H E N U M B E R A N D T Y P E O FC O M M E N T S R E C E I V E D F R O M M E M B E R S R E G A R D I N G L I S T E DE S TA B L I S H M E N T S . When members write to AAA expressing dissatisfaction with aparticular restaurant, this information is tracked through the AAA National Office MemberRelations department. All complaints are carefullyreviewed for validity. The establishment is thennotified of each complaint so that the restaurantmanagement has an opportunity to respond andresolve the matter within a reasonable period oftime.

Of the more than 45,000 listings in AAApublications, the average ratio of membercomplaints received by AAA/CAA clubs and thenational office is less than one per establishment.Even though a complaint may be satisfactorilyresolved, the complaint becomes a permanentpart of the establishment’s record.

As a member-driven organization, AAA ishighly sensitive to the needs of its membership.Therefore, when a restaurant receives six or morecomplaints from AAA/CAA members within six months, or a recurring problem exists, AAAreviews the restaurant’s approval status. A decision will then be made to determine anappropriate remedy, such as a warning, a changed rating assignment, or immediatedisapproval. If any member complaint is determined to be of an extreme nature, anestablishment may be disapproved immediately and without warning. This action is atAAA’s sole discretion.

If a restaurant has been disapproved for excessive member complaints, a written requestfor a reevaluation may be submitted,accompanied by an explanation of the actionstaken to limit future complaints. Note: Suchproperties may not reapply until two years haveelapsed from the date of disapproval.

A d d i t i o n a l I n f o r m a t i o n 2 1

All requests may be addressed to:

AAA Tourism Information Development1000 AAA DriveMS 51Heathrow, FL 32746-5063

AccessibilityA A A R E C O G N I Z E S T H E I M P O R TA N C E O F T H I S I S S U E F O RT R AV E L E R S W I T H D I S A B I L I T I E S . In 1997, AAA developed a two-tieredstandard to meet members’ varying degrees of need in this regard, and to provide someflexibility for properties. These levels of accessibility are defined as follows:

Level One — Fully Accessible includes all criteria to meet the needs of thosethat are significantly disabled and primarily confined to awheelchair.

Level Two — Semi-Accessible includes only some of the criteria to meet theneeds of those that are disabled, but have some mobility and arenot confined to a wheelchair. This would include people using acane or a walker, or a disabled traveler with good mobility butlimited range of arm or hand motion.

Accessibility is not a member-rating requirement and will not affect anestablishment’s diamond rating. However, we strongly encourage you to be aware ofspecial accessibility needs so that all travelers have adequate restaurant choices.

AAA accessibility requirements ensure that guests can park their vehicles, gain access tothe restaurant, and utilize the facilities therein. The criteria are consistent with theAmericans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), but do not encompass the full scope ofthe ADA architectural guidelines. The AAA representative will check for accessibility duringthe evaluation of each restaurant.

2 0 A d d i t i o n a l I n f o r m a t i o n

POLICYAre reservations guaranteed foraccessible tables?

ENTRANCEParking and Exterior Pathways

Designated accessible parking with upright signsAccessible parking spaces near main entrance5-foot wide access aisle to anaccessible route

SidewalksCurb cuts at appropriate street orparking lot walkwaysCurb cuts or level access at passengerdrop-off

Entrances and DoorsOperational with closed fistLevel or ramped main entryBeveled or flush floor thresholds at all doorsMinimum 32-inch clear width

PUBLIC AREASRamps to food and beverage outletsand accessible guest rooms

Level landings at top and bottomRamp slope 1:12 maximumHandrails on both sidesRisers meet trends without nosings on stairsExtensions at top and bottom

Elevators to food and beverage outletsand accessible guest rooms

Tactile sign on all elevator buttons and door jambs, OR help availableDoors provide at least 32-inch clearopeningMinimum 48” x 48” car platformControl buttons 48 to 54 inches from floor

RESTAURANTSMenus in braille OR reader availableAccessible route to food and beverageoutlets

5 percent of seating served byaccessible route of travel

PUBLIC RESTROOMSEntry door along accessible routeEntry door operable with closed fistGrab bars beside toiletHardware operable with closed fistMinimum 32-inch clear openingwidthGrab bar behind toilet5’ x 5’ toilet stall with out-swingingdoor and 32-inch clear opening29-inch clearance below front apron of lavatory Adequate clear turning spaceInsulated plumbing pipes beneathvanityToilet seat 17 to 19 inches from floor

AAA Accessibility CriteriaFully Accessible must include ALL shaded and unshaded items.

Semi-Accessible must include ALL shaded items.

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OF THE MORE THAN 45,000

LISTINGS

IN AAA PUBLICATIONS,

THE AVERAGE RATIO

OF MEMBER COMPLAINTS

RECEIVED BY AAA/CAA CLUBS

AND THE NATIONAL OFFICE

IS LESS THAN

ONE PER ESTABLISHMENT.

Page 13: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

The AAA Appeals ProcessT H E A P P E A L S P R O C E S S W A S E S TA B L I S H E D A S A R E S O U R C EF O R A L L R E S TA U R A N T S , L O D G I N G S , C A M P G R O U N D S , A N DAT T R A C T I O N S E VA L U AT E D B Y T H E A A A T O U R I S MI N F O R M AT I O N D E V E L O P M E N T D E PA R T M E N T. The process was created to:

● Aid in maintaining a fair and respectful relationship with the hospitalityindustry

● Allow establishments to raise issues without fear of forfeiting futureopportunities for a fair evaluation

● Ensure that all issues are addressed in an efficient and timely manner

● Help identify policies, practices, or procedures that may be in need of review

How do I file an appeal?First, contact the AAA Customer Service Center, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m.

to 5:15 p.m. EST: (407) 444-8370. In many cases, analysts will be able to resolve yourconcern immediately.

If resolution is not obtained, your call will be directed to the regional manager for yourevaluation territory.

If an issue remains unresolved after the above steps havebeen taken, an establishment is required to state itsconcerns in writing for review by the AAA AppealsCommittee. All appeals entertained by the committee mustbe in writing from the establishment only. Exercise utmostcare to state specifically your concerns and provide yourcase for the committee’s final review. Each appeal isthoroughly researched and given thoughtful considerationand substantive reply.

The AAA Appeals Committee convenes on a monthly basis and is comprised of sevenvoting members of AAA management from various business lines within the association.After consideration of your appeal, the committee will take one of three actions:

● Support the appeal

● Reject the appeal

● Table the appeal pending further information or reevaluation

Please note: The committee’s decision on your appeal will be considered as AAA’s finaldecision. You will be notified by mail as to the status of your appeal within 45 days of receipt of your written statement.

2 2 A d d i t i o n a l I n f o r m a t i o n

All appeals should besent to the attention of:

AAA Appeals Committee1000 AAA DriveMail Stop 51Heathrow, FL 32746-5063

A d d i t i o n a l I n f o r m a t i o n 2 3

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If you have additional questions, please call AAA at:

Evaluation Applications ................................ (407) 444-8370Evaluation Questions .................................... (407) 444-8370Rating and Listing Information .................... (407) 444-8370Display Advertising........................................ (407) 444-8280Official Appointments .................................. (407) 444-8280

Or write to AAA at:AAA

Tourism Information Development — Mail Stop 511000 AAA Drive

Heathrow, FL 32746-5063

Establishments located in the following areas should contact the AAA club indicated:

ARIZONA

AAA ArizonaP.O. Box 33119Phoenix, AZ 85067-3119

(602) 650-2749 (Evaluations and Ratings)(602) 650-2730 (Official Appointments

and TourBook Advertising)

CALIFORNIA (NORTHERN)

California State Automobile AssociationP.O. Box 429186San Francisco, CA 94142-9186(415) 565-2930 (Evaluations, Ratings,

and Official Appointments)(407) 444-8292 (TourBook Advertising)

CALIFORNIA (SOUTHERN)

Automobile Club of Southern CaliforniaP.O. Box 25001Santa Ana, CA 92799-5001

(714) 885-2008 (Evaluations, Ratings, and Official Appointments)

(714) 885-2410 (TourBook Advertising)

NEVADA

California State Automobile AssociationP.O. Box 429186San Francisco, CA 94142-9186

(415) 565-2930 (Evaluations, Ratings, and Official Appointments)

(407) 444-8292 (TourBook Advertising)

UTAH

California State Automobile AssociationP.O. Box 429186San Francisco, CA 94142-9186

(415) 565-2930 (Evaluations, Ratings, and Official Appointments)

(407) 444-8292 (TourBook Advertising)

A d d r e s s e s a n d P h o n e N u m b e r s –

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“ W e e x i s tf o r o u r m e m b e r s

a n d w i l l j u d g e

e v e r y t h i n g w e d o

b y h o w w e l l i t s e r v e s

t h e i r n e e d s . ”

N o t e s

Page 15: Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines · 1. Primary business operation is food 2. Establishment is open and prepared to readily accommodate the general public 3. Establishment

Business!Be a Part of the Program

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mem

bers sp

end

app

roxim

ately $35 billio

n d

ollars an

nu

ally on

din

ing w

hen

traveling!

Alth

ou

gh yo

u are certain

to realize so

me A

AA

/CA

A b

usin

ess from

you

r com

plim

entary listin

g, you

canin

crease you

r share o

f this p

owerfu

l market by p

articipatin

g in th

e Official A

pp

oin

tmen

t (OA

) pro

gram.

The O

A p

rogram

is a licensin

g agreemen

t that allow

s you

to d

isplay th

e high

ly recogn

izable an

d tru

stedA

AA

/CA

A lo

go an

d yo

ur D

iamo

nd

rating in

marketin

g materials an

d o

n yo

ur p

remises. Th

is exclusive

pro

gram is availab

le to restau

rants fo

r just a $375 an

nu

al fee* — th

at’s on

ly a littlem

ore th

an $1 a d

ay!

In a recen

t stud

y, AA

A/C

AA

ranked

amo

ng th

e top

fou

r bran

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un

try interm

s of overall q

uality —

this is yo

ur o

pp

ortu

nity to

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ower o

f the

AA

A/C

AA

logo

and

ou

r Diam

on

d ratin

g system! A

s an O

fficial Ap

po

intm

ent p

artici-p

ant, yo

ur restau

rant w

ill also receive a R

ED

high

lighted

listing in

ou

r Tou

rBo

ok gu

ide.

Seventy-nine percentof our TourBook users

indicate they are more likely

to select restaurants listedw

ith a red logo!

“”

It’s easier than ever to increase your custom

ers ...all because you’re partnering w

ith the name

travelers know and trust —

AAA/CAA! Mem

bers and non-mem

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onds with a high level of trust and

quality ... so, once you’re Approved, become a AAA/CAA Official Appointm

ent.The partnership that m

eans Business!For m

ore information call (407) 444-8280.

* Year 2000/2001 rate

5290-6/00

Approved