Eating out
is expensive and none of us have bottom less pockets to fund making mistakes.
So prior to creating a short list of two or three to contact before making your
decision review the following points, taking into consideration the needs of
your guests and yourself.
If you are eating with someone
for the first time it is unlikely that you will know all of, or any, of their
dietary needs. Are they vegetarian, vegan, fruit eaters, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim,
Rastafarian, Sikh? Do they need food free of dairy products or gluten, low salt
or fat, without nuts and suitable for diabetes sufferers?
Are you looking for somewhere new
that is close by, in the country or the city centre? How do you intend to
travel to and from the venue? Is there public transport, or satisfactory
parking facilities?
If you are so lucky the meal
might be funded out of and expenses claim, but they have limits and it is
likely that your boss will not pay for a top priced meal because you did not
realise that the eating place was three star Michelin. Set a budget.
Check that it is possible to make
a reservation, and if there are any restrictions and limitations depending upon
the number in your party. Do they expect some form of payment in advance, how
is the booking confirmed by both you and them, by email? What are their
cancellation terms both in terms of time and costs?
It is pointless ending up at a
burger outlet if you want a romantic meal, and likewise sitting in a candlelit
booth if you are with the bank manager. Although the latter might be a good
idea if you are desperate for some financing! Does the menu change regularly or
is it constant? Both of these options might be important for differing reasons
such as, you like change or you want to rely on a particular item being
available.
Friends, family or work
associates might offer recommendations based upon experiences, good or bad.
Search the Internet using your key words, however be aware that a Website will
be set up by the organisation, so totally impartiality will not exist. Do not
take too much notice of any "Independent Testimonials", since
probably the last thing that they will be is independent - the good ones could
be set up by the proprietor and the bad ones people looking for a freebie.
Review the food guides published by organisations with professional food
inspectors, and are not reliant on comments from the public. Take note that in
a year may eating places change ownership and style, so the guide might be out
of date before it reaches the book store. Try to visit the premises to see if
they are clean and look good and importantly have some customers.
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