captious — tending to find fault or raise petty objections; given to harsh or unfair criticism

a well-dressed food critic points disapprovingly at a beautifully plated dish while making an exaggerated frowning expression. The critic holds a magnifying glass over perfectly arranged vegetables, searching for microscopic flaws. The chef stands nearby looking frustrated and defeated as the critic continues nitpicking every tiny detail. Other kitchen staff pause their work to watch the uncomfortable scene unfold. Several other perfectly prepared dishes sit ignored on the counter. someone being captious by finding fault and raising petty objections about excellent work