“On the Menu/Dining In”

I t’s week 2 of The Gleaner’s ‘Food Month’ Feature and this week, we’re dining in! There is just something so special about donning your finest attire, driving to and showing up at your favorite restaurant for a night of dining. Last week, we discussed some of the many benefits of take out and what you should look for as you order food to enjoy in your homes. These included quality and appropriate containers, an expansive menu and of course, customer service. Now that that’s settled, let’s talk about dining in and searching for what’s good on the menu!

Choosing to dine…what you should consider: 1. LOCATION OF THE RESTAURANT

Choose a restaurant which is within reach, especially if you are making last minute plans. If it is within walking distance, even better! When you want to have a great time, driving afterwards can pose a real problem. So, get a restaurant that is close by where you can easily walk or where it is easy to get a cab. Another $8000 on a taxi to go to a restaurant adds unnecessary expense.

2. ITS AMBIENCE

Sometimes, the restaurant may be beautiful but the décor is not to your taste. It jars your senses. Go to a place where you enjoy the general atmosphere.

Do they play music? How loudly? Check out the people who go to the restaurant. If you find it pleasant to be around these people as you eat your dinner, then go book a table.

Maybe a specific table away from the kitchen doors and not under the air conditioner. Sometimes, you have to work when you’re in a restaurant. For meetings where you need to discuss serious deals, go to restaurants that have private rooms.

3. VALUE FOR MONEY Price matters when you choose

When you are bringing a big group, look for one that will give you value for your money. This does not mean being cheap but getting a good meal that you feel happy about paying. You are satisfied for what you get.

4. CUSTOMER SERVICE

Want good service in a restaurant? Don’t just expect it. Make it happen. When you find a restaurant you like, befriend the waiters and waitresses. Treat them kindly as you would treat your own friends and you will find that you will get great service all the time.

Sometimes, these waiters are super busy and you demand a hundred things. When you see them carrying many things to your table, be helpful. Give them space to place it.

Take some of the things that are hard for them to place on some sides of your table. These may be little things, but when you help them, they will go out of their way to make sure you are served properly. Over and beyond this, of course, are restaurants with impeccable service no matter who you are.

5. FAMILIAR TERRITORY

Sometimes, tried and tested restaurants are your best bet. For big events, it is always helpful to go to places you have tried and tested. You are better able to focus on the evening when the place is familiar and the staff knows you.You can make recommendations, you know the wine list, and you are familiar with the way things are done. You don’t have many things to worry about. Just enjoy the meal and the experience of good service and a happy environment. Even for just a regular going out, there is comfort in places you know. What’s your go-to criteria when considering where to dine? All November long, we’re celebrating everything food! Check out what some of our advertisers on this page have to say.