When you’re out dining, what you order can sometimes backfire in ways you didn’t expect. Some requests come off as odd or even annoying to the kitchen staff, and you might end up regretting what you asked for once your meal arrives.
Knowing which orders tend to cause awkward moments or frustration can help you avoid the cringe and enjoy your dining experience more. It’s about making smarter choices that respect both your taste and the effort behind the food.
Asking for endless modifications that slow down the kitchen
When you ask for too many changes, it can really throw the kitchen off their usual rhythm. Every extra tweak means the cooks need to rethink the order, which can slow things down for everyone.
If you want your food faster, try to keep modifications simple and minimal. Kitchens appreciate when you stick pretty close to the menu.
Of course, allergies are different, but if you’re just picky or want lots of extras, it can cause delays and frustrate staff. Being reasonable helps everyone have a better experience.
Ordering the free bread basket and filling up before the meal
You might think grabbing a bunch from the free bread basket is harmless. But filling up on bread before your main dish can mess with your appetite.
That warm, soft bread can make you less hungry, leading you to order less or not fully enjoy your meal. It’s easy to overeat calories without realizing it.
Restaurants include the bread cost in menu prices, so it’s not truly “free.” Sticking to one or two pieces keeps you satisfied without ruining your main course.
Requesting ‘kitchen fees’ or unnecessary add-ons
You might not realize it, but some restaurants tack on extra charges called “kitchen fees” or “service add-ons” to your bill. These can appear as a percentage added on top or as separate fees for simple items.
As a diner, it can feel like you’re being nickeled and dimed for basics that should already be included. These fees often catch people off guard because they aren’t clearly stated upfront.
Sometimes, you’ll see odd charges like $3 to $5 for a side of rice or a “container fee” just for takeout. It’s easy to regret ordering when your final bill is much higher than expected.
Trying to get eggs cooked in bizarre ways like ‘sunny side down’
If you ask for “sunny side down” eggs, you might end up confusing your server. It’s not a common cooking style, and some kitchens won’t know what you mean.
Most cooks are familiar with sunny side up, where the yolk faces up and stays runny. Trying to flip it but keep it runny can lead to uneven cooking or frustration.
Sticking to simple requests like sunny side up or over easy usually gets you better results and less confusion. Sometimes, less complicated is just better for your meal.
Complaining about soggy or burnt hash browns without clear reasons
You might notice some diners always complain about soggy or burnt hash browns but don’t realize what actually affects the texture. Often, sogginess comes from excess moisture left in the potatoes before cooking.
Burnt edges tend to happen when the pan is too hot, cooking the outside faster than the inside.
Next time you order hash browns, remember that the cooking method and potato type matter a lot. Russet potatoes and cooking on moderate heat usually give a better crunch. Complaining without knowing this won’t change the dish or help your experience.