As renowned chef Jose Andres wisely puts it, “The most powerful social media is not the internet… is it not Facebook – it is food. This connects all human beings.” Mealtimes while traveling isn’t just about food, meals are an opportunity to bond with your companions and immerse yourself in the local culture. To ensure you enjoy every bite, here are three tips for choosing restaurants on your journey:

• Research before you go. Look up restaurants near your hotel and sightseeing spots. Read the menus, ratings, and reviews. If you have any dietary restrictions, consider calling ahead. Not all restaurants meet special requirements, but it’s worth asking. I don’t eat fish, seafood, or a lot of meat, which makes it difficult for me to find places to eat, even if they are labeled as vegetarian. So, I search for restaurants with interesting appetizers, salads, and veggie or pasta dishes instead.
• Embrace local cuisine. Food varies by region so manage your expectations! Once on a trip to Florida, my husband and I had breakfast at a local diner. I ordered pancakes and asked for real maple syrup (true New Englander). Our server promptly replied “Honey, you’re at a diner. In Florida” in a tone that made it obvious my request was ridiculous.That gave us a good laugh and reminded me to embrace the local cuisine. I used the fake syrup and got a glass of freshly squeezed Florida orange juice. The juice was delicious!  Whether you like the specialty dish or not, it’ll still be a memory you can share with your traveling companions and might become a funny story to tell in the future.
• Embrace the crowds! Busy restaurants are busy for a reason. If you can’t get a reservation right away check for availability on another night. Better yet, consider dining during off-hours for better chances of getting a table. Popular spots tend to be worth the wait.

I’d love to hear from you – what’s the best meal you’ve had while traveling? What’s been the most unusual? How do you choose restaurants while traveling?