The term "foodie" originated in the early 1980s and is attributed to several sources.

New York writer Gael Greene is credited with first using the term in a restaurant review

in New York Magazine in 1980.

During this time, food was often portrayed as gourmet and exclusive in the media.

The term wasn't initially recognized by the everyday citizen and was used in more exclusive

circles​​​​.

Additionally, food journalist Paul Levy has been credited with coining the term "foodie"

in a 1981 article for Harper's Magazine.

Levy has been vocal about his role in popularizing the term​​.

Together, these references indicate the term "foodie" emerged as a way to describe a burgeoning

interest in diverse and quality food, distinct from the elite and exclusive connotations

of gourmet dining.

The term has since evolved to broadly denote someone with an avid interest in food, encompassing

a wide range of culinary experiences and knowledge.