Take a bow, Reto Klauser, GM of Makati Shangri-La.

Red has become a brand name for excellence in food and ambience. What is it about Red that makes us feel private and cocooned with our own company of friends even while there’s a busy, busy buzz of strangers all about as all tables are taken? Could be the red (very) high-backed chairs that keep full exposure (and disclosure) at length. Could be the flattering (to the less endowed) well-lighted dimness that lets us people-watch without being watched back.

Whatever, there’s no question that it’s fine dining at its best. That, plus the effortless privacy it provides makes Red the go-to resto for intimate social meetings for the likes of Tessie Sy Coson.

So, it’s disturbing to learn  Red will be renamed after an extensive renovation soon. OK, overhaul the place. But don’t rename a brand name. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, please, Mr. Klauser.