Our former restaurant critic changed his eating habits. You can, too.

Pete Wells explains how he recovered from an out-of-control diet.

View in browser|nytimes.com January 10, 2026 After serving as The Times's chief restaurant critic for 12 years, Pete Wells's out-of-control diet drove him to to ask for another job — and to teach himself how to eat again. Two years later, almost all his health conditions have receded to less scary levels, and he's about 55 pounds lighter. Rachel Vanni for The New York Times; Food Stylist: Spencer Richards Here's how he overhauled his eating habits. → MORE COVERAGE The best way to get a restaurant reservation? It's an old one. → Food forecasters see a year of quieter tastes in 2026. → Here's what our food staff members eat in the new year to reset. → Sign up for the Where to Eat: New York City newsletter. Restaurant recommendations, from new places to beloved classics. Get it in your inbox If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here. Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this message because you signed up for updates from The New York Times. To stop receiving From The Times, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018