The Coldplay effect is named for the band Coldplay, and is used to describe something that is iconic and respected, but generic and only the favourite thing of a small number of people.
"Spaghetti bolognese is a pretty average meal when you think about it, but so many people enjoy it."

"You could say it's affected by the Coldplay effect."
by gallifrey_stands June 1, 2021
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