Most people wouldn’t ask an economist where to get dinner. But Tyler Cowen, a professor at George Mason University and author of the economics blog Marginal Revolution, has become an unlikely food critic with the popularity of his expansive Ethnic Dining Guide. Grounded in basic economic principles, Cowen’s somewhat unusual dining philosophy has allowed him to discover arguably some of the best ethnic restaurants in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Last week, Cowen spoke to DCist about his dining habits, the economy, and the future of ethnic cuisine in the District.

What compelled you to start writing your Ethnic Dining Guide?

At first my dining guide was a typewritten reference, for myself only. That was before the web. Then I xeroxed a few copies for friends. As the web came along, the whole thing grew. Now it is quite long, well over one hundred pages single-spaced I believe.

Why focus on ethnic food rather than traditional fine dining? Were you always an adventurous eater?

All food is ethnic food, in my view, fine dining too. I try to cover as much fine dining as I can. But two things limit me. First, I am not wealthy. Second, I don’t think this is a very good area for fine dining. I’d rather save up my money for periodic trips to Europe and other places. Right now Washington doesn’t have a single truly first-rate restaurant in the fine dining sense.

When I was a kid I wouldn’t eat much more than hamburger, fish and chips, and veal parmigiana. I still love those dishes, at least if they are done properly.

You’ve traveled to 65 different countries. When faced with a cuisine you’ve never tried before, what are your strategies for selecting a restaurant and making the most out of an unfamiliar menu?

I think it is over 70 countries by now. I try to go local. I look for proximity to fresh ingredients. I look for downscale food in a competitive environment, in places where the proprietor is close at hand. When it comes to the menu, I ask or I copy other people. I don’t choose what to me sounds like it will taste best. That’s a mistake usually.

Photo courtesy of Tyler Cowen