Discerning diner in assessing our methods (7)
I believe the answer is:
gourmet
'discerning diner' is the definition.
(someone who eats fine food)
'in assessing our methods' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'GOURMET' is hidden within 'assessing our methods'.
(Other definitions for gourmet that I've seen before include "Appreciator of food" , "Knowledgeable eater" , "Connoisseur of good food and drink" , "Discriminating eater" , "Epicure" .)