Ever walked into a restaurant and felt like something was off? But maybe you didn't know just why? Let us help! Here we will help you identify warning signs that say you might want to reconsider your choice of eating establishment. In just a few minutes, you'll be able to decide if you want to eat there - or not. All thanks to the combined expertise of online foodies!
Mismatched Staff
When trying out a new ethnic restaurant, it often makes sense to look for staff members who share that ethnicity for a more authentic experience. For example, an Asian restaurant with a predominantly white staff may not offer the most genuine Asian cuisine.
Empty Salt & Pepper Shakers
Check the salt and pepper shakers on the table - if they're empty or missing, this could mean one of two things: poor attention to detail, or the chef takes himself far too seriously. I know, I know - some chefs hate it when you want to season your own food. But you know what? I know what I like, and as long as you're not a Michelin-star chef, I'll trust my palate over yours - I'm the one eating it, after all.
No Regulars
If everyone looks like a tourist - get out! A good restaurant might attract tourists, but also locals, and at least a few regulars. If it only attracts tourists it's likely not very good, or at least far too expensive.
Dirty Cutlery & Glasses
If the silverware or glasses are dirty, it's a sure sign that cleanliness might not be a top priority. Run, don't walk, out of there!
Generic Ketchup
First, look at the ketchup on the tables - if it's in a generic bottle, this might be a sign of low quality. And those clear glass bottles? They might seem fancy, but it could also mean they are just refilling them with cheap ketchup.
Cold Plates
Watch out for restaurants that serve hot food on cold plates - this is such an easy thing to get right, any restaurant worth their salt does it.
Spelling Mistakes
Quick, grab a menu! Look for spelling mistakes - it often shows how much the owner cares. Now you'll want to be a bit careful here - if it's an ethnic Mom & Pop place you definitely shouldn't judge it based on a few spelling mistakes. But for a fancy French place? Yeah, the spelling should be 100%.
Dirty Bathrooms
Check the bathrooms - if they're dirty, the kitchen might be too. Cleanliness is key in top-notch restaurants, so it should be evident throughout the whole place.
Lukewarm Water
First, see if they even offer you water when you sit down - if they don't... yeah, that's a sure bad sign! Further, if the water is lukewarm, tastes off, or is served in a dirty glass, those are also red flags. Once again, this is easy to get right, so they really have no excuse!
Huge Menu
If the restaurant offers a huge menu with too many options, they are likely not very good at any of it. Stick to places that focus on a few dishes done well for a better dining experience. Unless you're in Bangkok, then all bets are off!
Stale Bread
Another thing you can check fast, even before ordering: the bread. If it looks stale, you might want to skip the meal altogether...
Source: Reddit.
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