Keith Lee’s Tips: $4,000 Rooted Rotisserie After a Visit to Baltimore

A mention from TikTok food critic Keith Lee can do wonders for some restaurants that may get his visit. When Lee posted that he was headed to Baltimore, several businesses clamored for the visit, and Rooted Rotisserie was the most recent to get a co-write from the favored critic.

According to the Burtons, it’s a surprise visit Aug. 24. What some people do not realize is that Lee doesn’t actually go to the restaurant to try the food. He often sends others, unexpectedly, to place the order and convey him the food. He then eats his meals in his automotive with none interruptions or distractions.

As with all of their other establishments, the Burtons didn’t even know their place had been singled out for criticism. Lee had some great things to say about Rooted Rotisserie. He gave a near-perfect rating for the “fantastic” duck confit gumbo, with duck “cooked to perfection” and potatoes that were “crispy and seasoned.”

“The whole thing has flavor from start to finish. I think they’re incredibly well balanced,” he said, giving the plate a 9.6 out of 10. After rating several other menu items, most of which received a lower rating of 8, he also gave the restaurant a perfect 10 out of 10 for customer support.

Amanda Burton, co-owner of Rooted Rotiserrie with Joseph Burton, said Lee returned to the restaurant after the meal. Shocked by his presence, Amanda Burton said he introduced himself to the couple and took pictures with the staff. However, before leaving, he left a $4,000 tip and likewise handled checks for guests who were within the restaurant on the time, leaving an extra $2,000.

His reviews have already worked to the restaurant’s advantage. Amanda Burton said that as of Aug. 26, Rooted Rotisserie was almost completely booked for the remaining of the week.

So “it’s all hands on deck as far as the cast goes,” said Joseph Burton. “Our prep schedule has gone up a lot to make sure we’re fresh, and we’re ordering a lot more food — a lot more.”