I find this to be an almost impossible task. I have more luck researching area restaurants on my own. If I even bother asking at the hotel any more, I try to be very specific -- "where would you go around here to get a great burger?".

I enjoy food that's unusual, spicy, exotic, etc. Most people you don't know (not just at hotels) will recommend a place that's boring enough for everyone, and average price, such as the local Italian restaurant, which is unlikely to be the best option...and I'm not knocking Italian, just that they aren't often the most unique option when traveling.