Dining out is a treat, but not all menu items are created equal. Some dishes are overpriced, poorly prepared, or downright unsafe. Knowing what to avoid can save you money, frustration, and even a potential stomachache.
Here’s a list of 25 foods you should think twice about ordering at a restaurant.
1. Raw Oysters
Raw oysters might scream sophistication, but they can also harbor harmful bacteria like Vibrio. Unless you’re at a high-end seafood restaurant known for freshness, skip this risky appetizer.
2. Daily Specials (That Aren’t Popular)
While specials can showcase the chef’s creativity, they’re sometimes used to clear out older inventory. If the special seems obscure, it might not be the freshest option.
3. Well-Done Steak
Ordering a steak well-done not only diminishes its flavor but also increases your chances of getting a lower-quality cut. Stick to medium or medium-rare to truly enjoy the meat.
4. Salad with Out-of-Season Ingredients
If a salad features strawberries in the middle of winter, you’re likely eating low-quality, out-of-season produce. Stick to items made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
5. Sushi from Non-Specialized Restaurants
Sushi requires expert preparation and the freshest fish. Ordering it from a generic restaurant or buffet can be a gamble.
6. Chicken Alfredo
This creamy pasta dish is often overpriced and not particularly difficult to make at home. Plus, it’s a calorie bomb with little nutritional value.
7. Buffalo Wings
Unless you’re at a spot known for wings, skip these. Many restaurants use frozen wings that lack flavor and texture.
8. Iceberg Lettuce Salads
Iceberg lettuce is cheap and lacks nutrients. Paying restaurant prices for a basic iceberg salad isn’t worth it when you can make it at home for a fraction of the cost.
9. Pancakes
They may be fluffy and delicious, but pancakes are one of the cheapest dishes to make at home. Restaurant versions are often overpriced.
10. Truffle Oil Dishes
Truffle oil sounds luxurious, but most versions use synthetic truffle flavoring, not real truffles. You’re likely paying a premium for a fake.
11. The “House Burger”
Unless the restaurant is known for its burgers, the house burger is often a generic option with frozen patties. Look for places that emphasize fresh, high-quality beef.
12. Lobster Mac and Cheese
While the combination of lobster and creamy cheese sounds enticing, most restaurants use minimal lobster, making this dish an overpriced letdown.
13. Smoothies
At a restaurant, smoothies are often made with pre-mixed ingredients and loaded with sugar. They’re rarely as healthy as you think.
14. Fish on a Monday
Many restaurants receive seafood deliveries early in the week. Ordering fish on a Monday could mean you’re eating leftovers from the weekend.
15. Fancy Toppings on Pizza
Upscale pizzas with fancy toppings (like gold flakes or exotic cheeses) often don’t justify their price. A classic margherita or pepperoni pizza is usually a better choice.
16. Anything Off the Kids’ Menu
Kids' menu items are often bland, processed, and overpriced for what they are. Unless you’re under 12, avoid them.
17. “Secret Menu” Items
Secret menu items might sound cool, but they’re often untested dishes or marketing gimmicks that aren’t worth the hype.
18. Baked Potatoes
Paying $10 for a baked potato topped with sour cream is rarely a good deal. This is one of the simplest side dishes to make at home.
19. Egg Dishes (During Dinner Service)
Eggs are affordable and easy to cook at home. Unless you’re at a specialty breakfast spot, skip the omelets and frittatas.
20. “Market Price” Seafood
Market price might sound like you’re getting the freshest catch, but it’s often a way to hide sky-high prices. Always ask for the cost before ordering.
21. Pre-Made Desserts
Many restaurants outsource their desserts to bakeries or suppliers. If you’re paying a premium, ensure it’s made in-house.
22. Nachos at Chain Restaurants
Chain restaurant nachos are often pre-made and microwaved. Opt for a place that makes them fresh with real toppings.
23. The “Catch-All” Platter
Appetizer platters with fried foods can be tempting, but they’re often made with frozen, low-quality items.
24. Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is a lean cut of beef that’s often overpriced. Ribeye or sirloin can deliver better flavor for a lower price.
25. “Healthy” Menu Options
Dishes labeled as “healthy” or “low-calorie” often skimp on flavor and portion size. You may end up paying more for less satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
Dining out should be an enjoyable experience, but it’s essential to be a savvy diner. By avoiding these 25 foods, you can make smarter choices that save you money and ensure a better dining experience. After all, the best meals are those that deliver value, flavor, and satisfaction.
