I don't know if I'm ready for chowhound.com. I do, however, live in a chowhoundish neighbourhood (at least for Greek and Middle Eastern food).
Have you read Calvin Trillin's "New Grub Streets" (published in the New Yorker in Sept 01)?
You know the Nietzsche bit about there was one true Christian and he died on the cross? There's just one real Chowhound, and his name is Jim Leff. Mainly, you'll find yuppies wondering where to take visiting parents. It's like Zagat, but in real time.
If you live in a chowhoundish neighborhood, take advantage! It may not last forever!
Haven't seen the Trillin; will look it up.