Inside the Yelp Elite Experience: Perks, Events & How to Get In

Behind the scenes of the badge, the bites, and the community

Yelp has always been my go-to app to figure out if a restaurant is worth the hype or just another spot boosted by social media. For a long time, I never posted reviews myself—not because I didn’t have opinions (I had plenty)—but because I worried that being honest might hurt a restaurant’s reputation, especially if my experience was just okay or not great.

I used to think being Yelp Elite just meant you'd posted a ton of reviews—nothing more than a shiny badge. But a friend in the program told me about the community behind it, the events, and the people you meet along the way. That convinced me to finally take the leap. I started copying reviews I’d been stashing in my Notes app (and Beli!) and uploading them to Yelp.

Over time, I realized that just like I rely on reviews before checking out a spot, my own reviews could help others in the same way. I already love giving food recs to friends—this just made it more public. Some restaurants actually read and respond to constructive reviews—and I’ve seen places take feedback and make changes. That’s been really cool to witness. And beyond the food, I’ve met amazing people and tried cuisines or spots I never would’ve thought to explore, many of them way closer to home than I realized.

💬 How Did I Become a Yelp Elite—and for How Long?

2025 marks my 3rd year as a Yelp Elite, and honestly, it’s been the best one yet—huge shoutout to our community manager, Kimi!

I got in pretty quickly after I started posting. I already had a backlog of reviews written in my Notes app, so once I started sharing them on Yelp, I think it was only about 1–2 weeks before I got the official Elite invite. (It’s worth noting: I posted more than usual during that time since I had so much already written.)

🍽️ Do Yelp Elites Get Free Food?

Yes and no.

We don’t get offered free food just for being Elite—and we’re definitely not supposed to accept free meals in exchange for a positive review. That goes against Yelp’s guidelines and defeats the purpose of writing honest, unbiased reviews. I also don’t tell restaurants I’m an Elite when I dine in (and honestly, I don’t think they’d care either way).

That said, there are occasional check-in offers on the Yelp app (discounts, freebies, etc.), but those are available to everyone—not just Elites. And in the DMV area, check-in perks aren’t super common.

Now for the “yes”: there are usually 1–4 Elite events every month in my area that I can RSVP for. These are invite-only and typically include complimentary food or drinks, sometimes with an optional tip for the larger events that offer buffets (usually suggested at $5–15). These events are about connecting with local businesses and the Yelp community—not reviewing the restaurant directly. In fact, we’re asked not to leave a public review on the business page—there’s a separate Elite event listing where we can post our photos and feedback.

🎁 What Are the Perks of Being Elite?

Aside from access to Elite-only events, one of the coolest perks is getting to try places I might never have found on my own. It could be a soft opening, a new menu launch, or a tasting experience that gives you a deeper appreciation for the food—and the people behind it. I also want to note, it’s not only food - there has been painting, fitness classes, spa treatments, movies and more offered as Elite experiences!

A few standout events for me include a buffet-style tasting at Joon near Tysons Corner and a tea tasting at Seven Tea House (a spot I already loved).

These events often go beyond the food—we get to mingle with other Elites, hear the backstory of the business, and really connect with the owners or chefs. It’s a reminder that Yelp is about community, not just reviews.

Just note: you have to be proactive. Check the Elite section of the app often, and know that RSVPing doesn’t guarantee a spot. I usually get confirmations a few days before the event, so a little schedule flexibility helps.

🫶 What’s the Community Like?

I’m a bit introverted, so I wasn't sure what to expect at my first few events. But even attending solo, I’ve had a great time. I’d say 90% of the time I’ve been able to strike up a fun, casual conversation with someone, and I always look forward to seeing familiar faces at future events. I’ve even made a couple of friends I keep in touch with outside of Yelp!

🕰️ How Much Time Do I Spend Writing Reviews?

This fully depends on you! I'm not super consistent—but starting this month (June 2025), I’m trying to be more, and this blog is part of that goal.

I try to write my reviews the same day or within 3 days of eating, but there are places I didn’t get around to reviewing until months later. I aim to review almost every place I go. If I know I’m going to be busy and won’t write the review right away, I’ll jot down notes in my phone or even in the photo caption. This is especially helpful for omakase or tasting menus where I’m trying so many dishes in a short amount of time.

✍️ Do I Feel Pressure to Be More Professional Now That I'm Elite?

Not at all! I try my best to touch on the usual trifecta—food, service, ambiance—but I think more than sounding “professional,” it’s better to be authentic. I’m naturally a bit detailed because I actually refer back to my own reviews pretty often. It helps me remember what I liked (or didn’t) so I know whether to reorder or try something new on future visits.

😬 Are There Any Downsides?

I do still hesitate to post negative reviews—but like I mentioned earlier, I personally appreciate when people explain what went wrong so I can make an informed decision. I try to offer helpful feedback instead of just venting.

Some of my friends have accidentally found my reviews on Yelp, but it’s always ended in a nice way—they’ll screenshot it and message me like saying they agreed with my review or ask for even more recs/ details.

🔁 Why Do I Keep Doing It?

It’s become a personal record of my food memories, and I love being able to look back at where I’ve been. The events and community are a bonus. I’ve met some really kind and interesting people with totally different backgrounds—people I never would’ve crossed paths with otherwise.

⭐ Advice for Anyone Who Join

• P

  ost consistently

• Be honest and specific—not just “this was good”

• Add photos, even casual ones—they help! I also love when people include menu shots

• Don’t stress about sounding fancy or professional—write like you’re talking to a friend

💡 Final Thoughts

Being Yelp Elite is way more than just a badge. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to connect with your city, discover local gems, and share your experiences with others. Whether it’s helping a friend find a great dinner spot or learning about a restaurant’s story at an event, it’s been a rewarding (and delicious) ride so far—and I’m excited for what’s next.