Dining Out

Dining out can almost be as scary as the "D" word.  If you are anything like me, your heart starts pounding, your mind is racing and sweat beads begin to form across your forehead.  What can I order?  How big are the portions?  What do I say when asked, "Can you eat that?" 

The truth is there are many lines of defense for dining out when we are in the midst of changing our habits and the way we eat.

• Have a light snack before you go
• Order water as your first drink and drink it up
• Try not to drink your calories whether it be a glass of wine or regular soda
• order the house salad with dressing on the side
• have your server bring you a take home box with the meal.  Cut it in half and put that half in the box.  You have lunch for tomorrow.
• Ask the server to bring your food naked....that is no butter on the meat--oh yes they do!  It's why their food tastes so good and it looks so mouth watering.
• If you have the time, look up the menu online and choose a healthier meal
• If you know the menu well enough then you can make a decision wisely
• Be the first to order so as not to be influenced by others
• Ask your server how much does the chicken/steak/hamburger weigh they should know the answer to that question.
• Ask for the food to be prepared the way you want it.  It's okay...that's their job...then when you give them that nice tip they won't grumble.  
• Ask for fruits and veggies
• Eat one breadstick and have the server remove the basket or cover it up and shove it out of reach.
• Tip nicely it will give good karma to calories taken in.  

Okay so that last one was totally made up, but having waitressed before, I know how hard that job is. 

Lastly, go for a walk after you are done dining out.  Dining out does not have to be an anxiety inducing time.  It can be an experience to enjoy.  Savor the flavors, enjoy the fact that you do not have to prepare, or clean it up.  And always enjoy the company!

What tips do you have for dining out successfully?