Sure! People don’t enjoy eating at bad restaurants. Sometimes, it’s obvious when a restaurant isn’t good – it might be dirty or smell bad. But other times, a restaurant might seem okay when you first go in, but later you realize it was a waste of money and might even make you sick.
Top chefs are sharing signs that show you might have a not-so-great time at a restaurant.
Keep reading to learn what restaurant experts consider the most important warning signs to watch out for.
The Food Arrives Too Quickly
Waiting for food can feel like forever, especially when you’re super hungry. But surprisingly, a longer wait often means the food is being made fresh, which is a good thing.
If your food shows up super fast after ordering, it could mean it was cooked ahead of time and reheated or left sitting out. That might make it taste old and not so great.
The Menu Has Too Many Pages
In a fancy restaurant, a short menu with a few dishes can mean something great: the chefs have put a lot of effort into choosing the best meals. They’ve focused on making those dishes perfect, with top-notch recipes and ingredients.
But if the menu is huge and looks more like a book, it might mean the restaurant isn’t specializing in any particular dish. They’re making lots of different things without perfecting any.
Exactly! Sometimes, it’s better for a restaurant to master a few dishes than to try to do everything and not do any of it exceptionally well.
All-You-Can-Eat Buffets
All-you-can-eat buffets might seem great because you get a lot for your money and plenty of options without feeling like you’re missing out. But usually, when there’s so much food available, its quality isn’t as good.
Think about it: all that food sits out for a while as different people check it out, people you don’t even know. They might do things that spread germs or mess with the food’s freshness, which can be a bit gross.
Absolutely! Sometimes, the idea of a buffet might not seem so appetizing when you think about all those potential germs mingling with the food.
Alternative Spellings
Exactly! Spelling mistakes on a menu might show that the restaurant isn’t careful about details, which isn’t great when they’re preparing your meal. Alternatively, if it’s on purpose, it could mean they’re trying to hide something about what they’re serving.
You got it! Sometimes, quirky spellings like “Krab Cakes” or “Fried Chicken” might mean you’re not getting the real deal. It could be a cheaper imitation or something else entirely!
Random Menu Items
Absolutely! When a restaurant has one or two items that seem out of place compared to the rest of the menu, it might mean they don’t really focus on those dishes. It’s like they’re added randomly, not part of their specialty. For instance, if a place claims to serve foreign cuisine but also has something basic like fries, it might not get the same attention or care as their main offerings.
Exactly! If a restaurant claims to specialize in something unique, it’s better for them to focus on that specialty rather than throwing in unrelated items. It shows more confidence and dedication to what they do best.
Carpeted Floors
Absolutely! Carpets in a restaurant can be a major hygiene concern. With all the food, spills, and crumbs that likely fall from tables, a carpet can soak it all up, making it hard to keep clean. It becomes a haven for all sorts of mess and isn’t easy to clean thoroughly, especially with lots of people walking on it every day.
Carpeted restaurants can be a big nope when it comes to cleanliness! Walking out might be the best choice for a spotless dining experience.
Bargain Cuts
Absolutely! When it comes to food, there’s a difference between getting good value and just getting something cheap. If you’re after a proper meal, spending a little more usually means better quality. A super cheap steak might not be the best choice as it could indicate lower quality meat.
You’ve got it! Sometimes, when prices seem unbelievably low, there’s likely a reason behind it, often indicating lower quality or shortcuts taken in preparing the food.
Not Taking Your Food Back
Absolutely! If something isn’t right with your food or doesn’t meet your expectations, it’s perfectly fine to ask for a replacement or something different. Of course, it’s essential to be reasonable with complaints; you can’t order something inherently cheesy and complain about the cheese. But restaurants should take fair complaints seriously and try to make things right for their customers.
Exactly! A server ignoring your concerns or not offering a solution suggests that customer satisfaction isn’t a top priority for them or the restaurant. Good service involves addressing and resolving customer concerns courteously and effectively.
Mysterious Seafood Origins
Absolutely! Seafood, if mishandled, can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that cause foodborne illnesses. Proper storage, handling, and preparation are crucial. When choosing a restaurant serving seafood, ensuring they have strict protocols and expertise in handling it safely is vital for a worry-free dining experience.
Knowing the origins of the seafood they serve is crucial for a restaurant. If they can’t tell you where it’s from, it might be a sign that they’re not knowledgeable about their ingredients or the quality they offer. It’s a good idea to be cautious and consider other options in such cases.
Bad Attitudes
Absolutely! The staff’s attitude speaks volumes about a restaurant. A friendly and welcoming demeanor often indicates a well-managed place where the team enjoys their work. Conversely, if the atmosphere feels unfriendly or negative, it’s a sign that something might be off, and it’s best to find a more pleasant dining environment.
Definitely! When the staff isn’t happy, it can affect the quality of the food and the overall experience. A restaurant that doesn’t treat its staff well might reflect in the way they prepare and serve the food. Happiness in the kitchen often translates to better-tasting meals.
The Menu is Dirty
Absolutely! The cleanliness of a restaurant’s menu can tell a lot about their overall hygiene standards. If the menu looks dirty with crumbs or stains, it might indicate that they’re not paying enough attention to detail when it comes to cleanliness. These small signs can reflect larger issues with their overall hygiene practices.
That’s a keen observation! A spotless appearance might hide potential hygiene issues. If the menus, which customers handle directly, aren’t clean, it could signal hidden problems that might not be immediately visible. It’s a good indicator to be cautious about the overall hygiene standards of the restaurant.
Shifty Eyes
Absolutely! Servers should be knowledgeable about the menu and how the food is prepared. It’s your right as a customer to know what you’re eating. If they seem hesitant or avoid answering your questions, it could indicate they’re unsure or there might be something they don’t want to disclose. That could be a red flag about the dish or the restaurant’s transparency.
That’s a possibility! When servers seem hesitant or avoid sharing information, it might imply they’re aware of something negative about the food. Their reluctance could hint at an issue they’re not comfortable discussing, which could indeed be a cause for concern about the quality or preparation of the dish.
When it Doesn’t Smell Like Food
That’s an interesting point! While a clean restaurant is essential, it’s also expected to have pleasant aromas from the food being prepared. Lack of any enticing smells could potentially indicate that the kitchen isn’t actively cooking or that the food isn’t as fresh. So, while cleanliness is crucial, the absence of appetizing smells in a restaurant might raise questions about the freshness and vibrancy of the food being served.
That’s a perceptive observation! If a restaurant smells strongly of cleaning products or artificial fragrances, it might suggest an attempt to cover up other unpleasant odors. It could indicate an underlying issue that they’re trying to mask rather than genuinely ensuring cleanliness throughout the establishment.
When it Smells Like Grease
Absolutely! While fried food might naturally have a certain aroma, a strong and lingering grease smell isn’t a good sign. It suggests that the kitchen surfaces and equipment might not be cleaned as often as they should be. A strong grease odor means there’s likely a buildup, which could impact the cleanliness and quality of the food being prepared.
Definitely! Freshly fried food can be delicious, but if the grease has become old, cold, and congealed, it’s not appetizing at all. It’s a sign of poor maintenance and cleanliness in the kitchen, which isn’t a pleasant thought when it comes to enjoying a meal.
When They Suddenly Start Serving Brunch
That’s an interesting observation! When a restaurant suddenly introduces a brunch menu in addition to their regular lunch and dinner services, it might not be as positive as it seems. Brunch service can be challenging for kitchen staff and servers, and some places might offer it mainly for the financial gain rather than a genuine commitment to quality or customer experience. Charging higher prices for simpler items during brunch could reflect this profit-driven approach.
That’s an interesting perspective! The sudden addition of a brunch menu at a restaurant could potentially indicate some underlying issues or financial difficulties. It might be a move made to generate extra income quickly rather than reflecting a well-thought-out expansion of their services.
Trash Talk
That’s an interesting insight! The way a restaurant manages its trash area can indeed reveal a lot about its organization and the dedication of its staff. A neatly arranged trash area with items properly sorted and organized indicates attention to detail and good practices behind the scenes. It suggests a level of care and professionalism that can reflect positively on the overall standards of the establishment.
Absolutely! A disorganized or messy trash area can indeed reflect a lack of attention to detail and care in the overall management of the restaurant. It might indicate a lack of discipline among the staff or a general disregard for cleanliness and organization, which could extend to other areas like the kitchen.
When You Can’t See Any Health Certificates
Absolutely! Visible health certificates and food safety training documents showcase a commitment to maintaining high standards of hygiene and food safety. Certifications like ServSafe indicate that staff members have undergone proper training in food safety protocols. Their absence might suggest a lack of adherence to health standards or insufficient training, which could pose risks to food safety and overall hygiene in the restaurant.
That’s a significant concern! If there are no visible health certificates or any indication of health inspections displayed, it’s a worrying sign. It suggests a lack of transparency regarding the restaurant’s compliance with health and safety regulations. This absence of documentation might indicate potential issues with hygiene standards and adherence to health codes, which could pose risks to diners’ health.
The Cutlery is Dirty
According to restaurant servers, the cutlery cleaning process can be pretty remiss in a lot of places.
Often what happens is, the cutlery is rinsed in a rush and then just thrown in the dishwasher. It is then up to the service waiters to give everything a closer look before determining if it is clean enough to be put back on the tables.
Absolutely! Dirty cutlery being served is a significant indicator of poor hygiene practices within the restaurant. It reflects a lack of attention to detail from the servers and a failure in the overall hygiene process. This oversight can be a serious concern for customers as it directly affects their dining experience and health safety standards.
It’s a Ghost Town
It’s true, sometimes unusual circumstances can explain an empty restaurant. Yet, typically, a consistently empty restaurant during regular hours could indicate underlying issues. It might suggest problems with the food, service, or reputation that are keeping customers away. In most cases, a lack of patrons could indeed be a warning sign worth considering before dining there.
An empty restaurant during peak hours in a central location could indeed signal multiple concerns. Beyond food quality, it might suggest issues with service, pricing, or overall customer satisfaction. It’s often an indication that something about the restaurant isn’t attracting or retaining customers, prompting them to dine elsewhere.
Sickly Server
You’re absolutely right! When a visibly unwell staff member is serving in a restaurant, it’s concerning on multiple levels. Firstly, it’s off-putting for customers and can impact their dining experience negatively. Moreover, it raises questions about the restaurant’s hygiene standards and the staff’s well-being policies. Allowing sick employees to work in a food-handling environment can potentially risk the health of both customers and other staff members, which is a serious concern for overall hygiene and well-being standards at the establishment.
Exactly! Forcing sick employees to work not only reflects poorly on how the restaurant treats its staff but also raises serious concerns about their commitment to following health regulations. It shows a disregard for both employee well-being and hygiene standards, which can have significant repercussions for both the workers and the customers.
The State of the Ceiling
Absolutely! The ceiling might be one of the most overlooked areas when it comes to cleaning, but it’s incredibly important in assessing overall cleanliness. Accumulation of dust, cobwebs, or stains on the ceiling could indicate neglect in regular cleaning practices. A well-maintained and clean ceiling is a good indicator of a restaurant’s attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness in less obvious areas.
That’s a vivid way to put it! Dusty or dirty light fixtures can indeed suggest a lack of cleanliness in less visible areas like the kitchen. It’s crucial for a restaurant to maintain cleanliness throughout, including behind the scenes, to ensure that hygiene standards are upheld, and customers have a pleasant and safe dining experience.
Bothersome Bathrooms
Absolutely! The cleanliness of a restaurant’s bathroom is a direct reflection of its overall hygiene standards. If the restroom is poorly maintained, dirty, or unhygienic, it might indicate a lack of attention to cleanliness and sanitation throughout the establishment. It raises concerns about the restaurant’s commitment to maintaining a hygienic environment, which could extend to food preparation and other areas, potentially affecting the overall dining experience.
Absolutely! The state of the bathroom, being a publicly accessible area, reflects the establishment’s commitment to cleanliness in areas visible to customers. If the public spaces aren’t well-maintained, it does raise concerns about what might be happening behind the scenes where customers can’t see. It’s a strong indicator of the restaurant’s overall hygiene standards and attention to cleanliness throughout the establishment.
No Hand Soap
Absolutely! Empty soap dispensers in a restaurant’s bathroom raise significant concerns about hygiene practices. Soap is a fundamental necessity for handwashing and maintaining cleanliness, especially in a space shared by guests and staff. Its absence suggests a failure in following basic hygiene protocols. It not only compromises the cleanliness of the restroom but also raises questions about the staff’s adherence to essential health and safety practices, including handwashing, which is crucial in food handling environments.
That’s a strong stance, but it does emphasize the critical importance of proper hygiene standards in restaurants. When something as basic as soap isn’t available, it’s a clear indication that the establishment might not be upholding essential hygiene practices, and that’s definitely cause for concern about the overall cleanliness and safety of the place.
No Handwashing
Absolutely! Observing the hygiene habits of restaurant staff, especially their handwashing practices, can provide insights into the establishment’s commitment to cleanliness. Proper handwashing is crucial in food preparation areas, and seeing staff members diligently washing their hands demonstrates a high level of hygiene awareness and adherence to best practices. It’s a good indicator of the restaurant’s overall attention to maintaining a clean and safe environment for both employees and customers.
You’ve got it! Observing lax or inadequate handwashing practices among staff is a significant concern. It indicates a lack of proper hygiene standards and raises serious doubts about the restaurant’s commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment. In such cases, leaving might be the best choice to ensure a safe dining experience elsewhere.
Turning Tables
You’re absolutely right! The cleanliness of the cloth used to wipe tables is crucial. If the cloth appears dirty or worn-out, it can indeed transfer germs and dirt from one table to another instead of effectively cleaning the surface. Using clean, freshly washed cloths for each table ensures proper sanitation and prevents the spread of germs. It’s an essential detail in maintaining a hygienic dining environment.
Absolutely! While recycling is fantastic, reusing dirt and germs from one table to another isn’t the kind of recycling anyone wants to see in a restaurant. Cleanliness is crucial for a safe and pleasant dining experience.
Attention to Detail
You’re absolutely right! The timing of clearing dirty dishes and the overall maintenance of the dining area are significant indicators of a restaurant’s standards. Swiftly clearing dirty dishes after diners finish their meals indicates attentiveness to cleanliness and customer service. Additionally, a well-arranged and tidy dining area with regularly replenished essentials like napkins and sugar packets reflects a restaurant’s commitment to maintaining a pleasant and organized environment for its customers. These details contribute significantly to the overall dining experience.
That’s a valid point! Overlooking small details like promptly clearing tables or maintaining the dining area might indicate a lack of attention to crucial aspects of cleanliness and service. It raises concerns about the overall standards and attention to detail within the restaurant, prompting questions about other aspects of their operation that might be overlooked or neglected. Small details often reflect the broader standards and care an establishment provides to its customers.
Stained Glass
Absolutely! The presence of lipstick marks or smudges on glassware is a huge turn-off and rightly so. It’s a clear indication of poor hygiene standards and a lack of attention to detail in cleaning. Checking not just for lipstick but also smudges and fingerprints on the stem and base of the glass is crucial for ensuring the cleanliness of the glassware. These marks can suggest that the glasses aren’t properly cleaned and sanitized, which raises concerns about the overall hygiene practices of the restaurant.
You’re absolutely right! Unclean glassware raises significant concerns about hygiene and cleanliness. When considering how many hands and lips might have touched a glass before it reaches a customer, it becomes a major turn-off and a serious concern for maintaining a safe and sanitary dining experience. It’s essential for restaurants to ensure proper cleaning and sanitation of glassware to provide a hygienic environment for their guests.
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