Stuck on Dinner Choices? Here’s How to Decide What to Order
My wife and I have always had a date night where we go out for a fancy dinner once a week, just the two of us. When we started this tradition, it was fun and romantic. It was something we both looked forward to. It was a time just for us. But if I am being honest, there was a period when we dreaded that date night. When one or both of us didn’t know what to order, it would turn into an argument, and we’d spend the rest of the night moody. While your experience may not be the same, you may have been faced with that question of ‘what should I order for dinner?’ and found yourself stumped. What should be a fun family dinner or date night can quickly turn into a moody night.
Before you declare never to go out for dinner ever again, read our tips for deciding what to order for dinner. Our expert tips will help you navigate any menu, even when faced with an overwhelming number of options.
What Should I Order for Dinner
1. Trust your gut
A great way to choose a meal when you’re not certain is to go with ingredients you love. Search the menu for meals that include your favorite ingredients. For example, if you love cheese, you may want to look for a meal that features a cheese topping. When the meal has your favorite ingredients in it, there’s a good chance that you’ll enjoy it.
2. Ask for recommendations
Another great way to help you make a decision is to ask the server for their recommendations. Simply ask them ‘help me choose what to eat’. This is especially helpful when navigating a foreign menu or one with a wide variety of options. The server may point out options that may not be obvious. For example, they may advise you to have a half portion or to order a certain meal as the serving is large enough to share. They will also know which meals are the most popular amongst their customers.
3. Stick to the house theme
The saying goes that ‘when in Rome you should do as the Romans do’. It’s true. If you’re at a steakhouse, for example, it would serve you well to order a steak. If you’re at a seafood restaurant, you would do best to order fish or other seafood. There is a good reason why the restaurant focuses on a particular type of cuisine. You may be sorely disappointed if you choose a meal that doesn’t go with the theme of the restaurant.
4. Try something new
When you open that menu and something grabs your attention, you should go with that choice as your meal. If you’re still not certain that it is a good choice, search through the ingredients. Many people get overwhelmed because they don’t want to go with something different or new. However, you may be missing out on what would have been your new favorite. Go ahead and try that meal. This is a great way to expand your palate and discover new things.
5. Order what’s in season
Many restaurants and eateries adjust their menus to reflect the ingredients that are in season. When at an establishment, it’s best to go with the seasonal dish. For example, if it’s summer, a fruit pie may be a great option. You’ll more than likely enjoy a meal that reflects ingredients that are fresh and in season.
6. Use it as an opportunity to establish a connection
Finally, when you can’t decide where to eat or what to eat, don’t give in to the frustration. Instead, look at it as an opportunity to get to learn more about your partner or other people that you’ve planned to have a meal with. Ask about their preferences. What are their favorite meals, ingredients etc. You could discover things about the other person that you didn’t know.
If you’re wondering where to eat and are looking for a place that has something that caters to all palates, you can’t go wrong with the Alpine Diner. Our varied menu is sure to have something you’ll all love.