Our Team

Charlotte Nelson

Design Manager

The Journey Behind Our Research

The idea for the Authenticity Effect was spurred by an afternoon interaction at the Founder's French Bistro job. While playing 1960's French music, a group of four French tourists had found comfort in the music, and became noticeably more satisfied with their experience. This moment had a lingering question: does real cultural experience make people more satisfied with their purchase?

Over time, this question would evolve. The project began to take form outside of just French culture, and spread into seven other ethnic cuisines. After about a year of planning, data collection, analysis, writing and presentation, the project has produced its first Research paper. It will continue to more thoroughly answer how culture plays a role in dining as the following years go on.

Research principles

Evidence First

Conclusions are based on data rather than assumptions.

Respect for Culture

Cultural traditions should be represented accurately and respectfully.

Transparency

Methods, analyses, and limitations are openly reported.

Independence

Research is conducted without commercial influence and has zero cost.

Accessibility

Academic findings should be understandable and useful beyond the research community.

Data ethics

All participation was voluntary and anonymous. No personally identifying information was collected. Data are presented only in aggregate form to protect participant privacy, and participating restaurants remain anonymous unless permission is provided for disclosure.

Disclaimer

The findings presented on this website reflect the results of an independent research study. The conclusions represent statistical associations observed within the study sample and should not be interpreted as establishing causal relationships. Ongoing research may refine or expand these findings.