There's always that one part of a restaurant menu that catches your eye, but according to Florida-based kitchen expert Dennis Chan, there's one specific item you should steer clear of at all costs.
Chef's Pro Tips
Dennis Chan, a culinary arts degree holder from The Culinary Institute of America and the proud owner of the popular pan-asian restaurant Blue Bamboo in Jacksonville, Florida, is no stranger to the ins and outs of the food industry. In a recent TikTok video, Dennis shared some insider knowledge on what chefs avoid ordering when dining out.
Stay Away from Chef's Special
One of the key pieces of advice Dennis offered is to never order the chef's special, as it is often a way for chefs to get rid of unwanted ingredients. According to Dennis, this particular dish may not be as special as it seems, and chefs are well aware of the motivations behind putting it on the menu.
Other Notable No-Nos
In addition to avoiding the chef's special, Dennis also advised against ordering items such as steak, seafood in landlocked areas, grilled chicken, and anything Alfredo outside of Italy. These recommendations are based on chefs' preferences and knowledge of what makes a quality dish.
Final Thoughts
While Dennis's tips may seem straightforward, they offer valuable insights into the thought process of chefs when dining out. By understanding their perspective, diners can make more informed choices when perusing the menu. So next time you find yourself at a restaurant, take a cue from Dennis Chan and think twice before ordering certain menu items.