Always have a starter – and be wary of specials: restaurant critics on 14 ways to order the perfect meal

Restaurant critics recommend always ordering a starter and exercising caution with specials to maximize dining satisfaction, based on expert insights published in March 2024.

According to critics, selecting a starter is crucial because the beginning of a meal often features the most creative and valuable dishes. They suggest that starters tend to showcase chefs’ innovation, making them a good indicator of overall quality. Critics also advise diners to look for menu anomalies—unusual ingredients or regional dishes—as signs of passionate cooking. When ordering for a group, they emphasize the importance of coordinating choices to balance meat, fish, vegetables, and cooking styles, which enhances the meal’s harmony.

Critics warn against copying dining partners blindly, advocating for trying different dishes and swapping plates to experience more variety. They also stress the importance of asking restaurant staff questions about unfamiliar menu items rather than relying solely on recommendations or technology. Regarding specials, critics note that while they can feature seasonal or rare ingredients, diners should remain cautious, as not all specials are necessarily better or more authentic than regular menu items.

Why It Matters

These tips are relevant because they can help diners avoid common pitfalls, such as choosing uninspired dishes or falling for misleading recommendations. Applying these strategies can lead to a more satisfying, memorable dining experience, especially for those exploring new cuisines or restaurants. For restaurant owners, understanding these insights can inform menu design and service approaches to meet customer expectations better.

Background

The advice stems from insights shared by prominent restaurant critics, including Jimi Famurewa, Jonathan Nunn, and Chitra Ramaswamy, who have decades of experience evaluating dining experiences in London, New York, and beyond. Their recommendations reflect current trends, such as the rise of shared plates and the importance of menu transparency. The emphasis on starters and careful consideration of specials aligns with ongoing efforts to improve customer satisfaction amid a competitive restaurant industry.

“Always have a starter; it’s where the most creative and value-driven dishes are often found.”

— Jimi Famurewa

What Remains Unclear

It is not yet clear how these tips will influence actual dining choices across different restaurant types or cultural contexts. Some diners may still rely heavily on waiter recommendations or personal preferences, which could vary widely.

What’s Next

Next, restaurants may consider highlighting dishes that align with these expert tips, such as promoting creative starters or transparent specials. Further research could explore how diners adopt these strategies and their impact on satisfaction and restaurant performance.

Key Questions

Why should I always order a starter?

Starters are typically where chefs showcase their creativity and use high-quality ingredients. They often set the tone for the meal and can be more flavorful and inventive.

Are specials worth trying?

Specials can feature seasonal or rare ingredients, but diners should approach them cautiously, as not all are necessarily better or more authentic than regular menu items. Asking staff for details can help.

How can I avoid ordering the same dishes as my dining partner?

Try different dishes and consider swapping plates to experience more variety. This approach enhances the meal and allows everyone to enjoy a wider range of flavors.

What should I do if I don’t understand an item on the menu?

Ask the restaurant staff for clarification. They are usually happy to explain ingredients or preparation methods, which can improve your dining experience.

How should I order for a group?

Coordinate with your group to balance meat, fish, vegetables, and cooking styles. Consider ordering a few shared dishes to ensure variety and harmony in the meal.

Source: Guardian Life