Ed Murrieta's restaurant blog received some nice recognition this week. It was honored with second place in the Best of the West journalism contest for Best Blog Writing. Here are the judge's comments:

Ed's Diner is a refreshing twist on food writing and restaurant reviews. I love how he defines his food universe: from the dead pig to the memorial beer to being so "un-American."

The writer has fun with this blog, making it both engaging and addictive. The blog has a vocal audience, and the writer mixes it up with them by routinely going into the comments to respond to questions and comments. I particularly enjoyed the blog's "theme song" - my interpretation, not his - penned by the writer himself.

The "You Plate Special" is a nice touch. This writer is confident - and community-minded - enough to turn over the reins of the blog to his users.

Congratulations, Ed!