When traveling to new places, enjoying exquisite culinary experiences is often a top priority. Big cities obviously offer a variety of options to suit all budgets and food preferences, but when visiting a small town, finding restaurants that offer a palatable experience requires a strategic approach.

Look for the history, but don’t forget the local love

Historic sites, usually in the city center, guarantee a great atmosphere, but don’t be afraid to expand your research if the clientele appears to be strictly tourists. Walk around town, ask questions, read reviews, and see where the locals go. You may often be surprised when a restaurant’s exterior appearance, or even its name, hides an excellent culinary choice.

Be open to suggestions and do some research, especially if your visit will last a few days. There may be some restaurants to try. When considering a restaurant located in a hotel, find out what the locals think about the hotel too! If they support the hotel, it is usually a positive sign of the quality of the food and service there.

The signs of a great dining experience

Do you offer business happy hours, as well as lunches and dinners, or are they only open at certain times? Check the website for indications of a great experience. Obviously, the photographs would give a good idea of ​​the decoration, the surroundings, the lighting and the atmosphere in general. Look out for white tablecloths, stainless steel utensils, bedding, and crystal glasses. That would also lead to suitable attractions. Some websites will specify a dress code; please pay attention to this and if you are concerned ask if it is enforced when booking.

The website may also display the wine list. The wine selection is a good indicator of an excellent dining experience. The wine list should match the types of cuisine on offer, indicate the full name of the winegrower, and offer a wide selection, by bottle and by glass, that will satisfy all types of wine lovers.

Don’t neglect what the menu can tell you

If the menu is available online, matching tastes and expectations will be a bit easier. The various appetizers, entrees, specialties, and sides on offer are certainly important in rating restaurants; those that offer a fusion of various cooking styles set the bar. There are dozens of cooking techniques, from amandine and browning to braising and sautéing. Read the menu carefully and ask questions. When online resources are not available, consult your hotel concierge for recommendations. Ask about table manners, menu options, and wine list.

Do not forget to leave comments

Good restaurants want to know how they can improve, so they are curious to know what their customers like best about them and if their business would be recommended. Find comment cards and fill them in, even if the experience was exactly what you expected, better, or even non-existent.

One of the best things about traveling without a strict budget is the pleasure of the culinary experience. Enjoy each region and city and share the best with others!