Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tyler Insider?

Tyler Insider is East Texas’s most sophisticated restaurant intelligence platform. We use advanced data processing to analyze Tyler’s dining scene, providing decision-focused restaurant recommendations based on comprehensive analysis rather than random opinions.

How is Tyler Insider different from Yelp or Google?

  • Local expertise: We focus exclusively on Tyler and East Texas dining
  • Decision engine: We don’t just show ratings – we tell you WHY and WHEN to visit
  • Data processing: Multiple API integrations and AI analysis vs. simple user reviews
  • Quality filtering: Only restaurants meeting our data completeness standards are listed

Is Tyler Insider free to use?

Yes, our restaurant directory and recommendations are completely free for diners.

Restaurant Information

How current is your restaurant information?

  • Ratings and reviews: Updated monthly from source APIs
  • Business hours: Sourced from multiple directories but may change without notice
  • Pricing: Price ranges updated quarterly, but actual prices may vary
  • Always verify directly with restaurants for current hours, prices, and availability

Why isn’t my favorite restaurant listed?

Restaurants must meet our quality standards:

  • Minimum 15 customer reviews
  • Complete business information (address, phone, hours)
  • Active business license and current operation
  • Statistical confidence in rating data

How do you handle restaurant closures?

  • Automated monitoring: We track business license status and operational indicators
  • Community reports: Users can report closures through our contact form
  • Verification process: Closed restaurants are removed within 48 hours of confirmation
  • Temporary closures: We note temporary closures when reported

Can I suggest a restaurant to add?

Yes! Email [email protected] with:

  • Restaurant name and address
  • Phone number and website
  • Brief description of cuisine type
  • Why you think it should be included

We’ll evaluate suggestions based on our quality standards.

Ratings & Reviews

How do you calculate ratings?

Our 5-star ratings combine:

  • Customer rating averages (weighted by review volume)
  • Review recency (newer reviews weighted more heavily)
  • Rating distribution analysis (consistency indicators)
  • Statistical confidence based on total review count

Why do some restaurants have different ratings than on Yelp?

  • Data processing differences: Our algorithm weights factors differently
  • Quality filtering: We exclude reviews that don’t meet reliability standards
  • Temporal analysis: We may weight recent performance more heavily
  • Multiple source integration: We don’t rely solely on any single platform

Do restaurants pay for better ratings?

Absolutely not. Our ratings are based purely on data analysis. We never accept payment for ratings or placement. All restaurants are evaluated using the same algorithmic standards.

How do you verify review authenticity?

  • Pattern analysis: Detect suspicious rating clusters or fake review indicators
  • Cross-platform validation: Compare review patterns across multiple sources
  • Anomaly detection: Flag unusual rating changes for manual review
  • Source reputation: Weight reviews from established platforms more heavily

Using Tyler Insider

What do your price levels mean?

  • $ (Under $15): Budget-friendly, casual dining
  • $$ ($15-30): Moderate pricing, quality casual to mid-range
  • $$$ ($30-50): Higher-end casual, premium ingredients
  • $$$$ ($50+): Fine dining, premium service

Prices are per person estimates and may not include tax, tip, or alcoholic beverages.

How should I use the “Perfect For” categories?

  • Date Night: Restaurants with romantic atmosphere, quality service, appropriate noise levels
  • Family Friendly: Kid-friendly menus, space for families, accommodating staff
  • Quick Bites: Fast service, convenient locations, efficient ordering
  • Business Dining: Professional atmosphere, reliable service, meeting-appropriate environment

Why should I still call restaurants before visiting?

While our data is comprehensive:

  • Hours change: Especially for holidays, weather, or staffing issues
  • Menu availability: Seasonal items or supply chain issues affect availability
  • Reservations: Popular restaurants may require advance booking
  • Special events: Private parties or special menus may affect normal service

Technical Questions

Why is the website loading slowly?

  • High traffic: Peak dining decision times (11am-1pm, 5-7pm) see heavy usage
  • Data processing: Real-time restaurant information requires complex queries
  • Mobile optimization: Some features work better on desktop browsers
  • Cache clearing: Try refreshing your browser or clearing cookies

Can I access Tyler Insider on mobile?

Yes, our website is mobile-responsive. Full functionality is available on smartphones and tablets, though the desktop experience offers enhanced features.

Do you have an app?

Currently, Tyler Insider operates as a web platform. A mobile app is under consideration based on user demand.

Restaurant Owners

How can I get my restaurant listed?

Email [email protected] with your complete business information. We’ll evaluate your restaurant based on our quality standards and add qualifying businesses to our directory.

Can I update my restaurant’s information?

Yes! Contact us with any updates to:

  • Business hours or seasonal closures
  • Menu changes or new offerings
  • Contact information or website changes
  • Special events or promotions

Do you offer premium listing options?

We’re developing enhanced listing features for restaurant owners. Contact [email protected] for information about upcoming premium options.

How do I report incorrect information about my restaurant?

Email [email protected] with:

  • Your restaurant name and current correct information
  • Specific details that need correction
  • Verification of ownership (business license, website control, etc.)

We’ll update verified information within 48 hours.

Contact & Support

How can I contact Tyler Insider?

What are your response times?

Partnership inquiries: Within 48 hours

General inquiries: Within 24 hours

Restaurant updates: Within 48 hours

Technical support: Same business day