Does anyone do local reviews?

[peekyboo]

I was thinking of including reviews of some local cafes/restaurants and similar in my blog. The blog is based around my writing, but I also include 'slice of life' posts, often involving food! So, I thought I might extend this and write about local venues.
Has anyone done this? Is it ok to mention places by name when you review them or do you need their permission?

Yup, that's pretty much all I do (at londonwithatoddler.com, have a look!) Would never have occurred to me to ask permission for reviews - tend to think that businesses (esp local ones) should be grateful for the free publicity! I do try not to be too harsh on small businesses though

If you really want to know about legality, it's not the best place to ask. Perhaps, there is a section on mumsnet with law advises. I would probably ask n ukbusiness forum. I'm not long there, but they have ligal section (never opened it :) )

Thanks both, I'll look into it.
Katese, do you get any feedback from the businesses, or let them know you've reviewed them?

Yup, I often tweet them and they usually retweet it to their followers. So win-win!

Hi

you can mention them, if you look at trip adviser or your local city forum it's fine. Be careful not to say anything libellous.

^Unless it's true (and can be proven) - the truth is a complete defence to libel or slander charges.