Red flags warning you’re in for a disappointing dining experience

Choosing where to eat can be a big decision. Delicious.com.au has rounded up the top signs that you should probably start looking somewhere else.

Instagram props of any kind

There’s a big difference between Insta-worthy and Insta-made restaurants. The former could simply be a stunning space with interesting or classic features. The latter spells doom for your food. If a restaurant is putting more effort into getting on the grid and what it’s putting on the plate, run.

Better brace yourself if it is a long menu.

The menu is as long as your arm

When a menu is insanely long and covers as many cuisines as possible, you’d better brace yourself. Either the produce won’t be fresh (because how could they possibly turn over that many dishes?) or the food is going to be sub-par. Do one or two things well, don’t do a million things poorly.

If the staff are stressed, mistakes will be made.

Tables are left uncleared

If empty tables are littered with used plates, napkins and glassware, the staff are stressed. If the staff are stressed, mistakes will be made, plates will come out cold, and drink orders are going to take forever.

You might be disappointed if the waiter mis-hears your order.

You can hear the music from the street

If you feel like you’ve walked into a nightclub, the chances of having a great meal aren’t high. There’s nothing wrong with a loud venue, neon lights and all. But don’t be disappointed if the waiter mis-heard your order, or you have to shout to chat to your companions.

If the toilet hasn’t been cleaned in a while, imagine the kitchen.

A gross bathroom

If you’re scared to touch surfaces in the restaurant bathroom, this is a huge red flag. If the room you can see clearly hasn’t been cleaned in a while, imagine the kitchen.

For more food, travel and lifestyle news, go to delicious.com.au

Originally published as Red flags warning you’re in for a disappointing dining experience