Restaurateurs’ guide to a New Year detox

WITH the New Year comes healthier lifestyle choices, but just because you’re on a diet, attempting to detox or trying a new fitness regime, does that really mean you have to stop eating out altogether?

We’ve compiled some tips from the managers of Birmingham-based restaurants Pasta Di Piazza and Cucina Rustica to help you honour your New Year resolutions without having to resist the simple pleasures of eating out.

1. Control your intake

We all know that a chicken caesar salad is best when smothered in a caesar dressing, but unfortunately, we also know that it’s not the best way to keep your salad healthy.

So, when dining out this month, ask your waiter or waitress to bring your salad dressing on the side, that way you can monitor how much you’re adding to your meal.

2. Make sensible substitutions

Pasta Di Piazza manager Roni Ferro said: “There are many alternative options which you can choose from, and it’s just a matter of being good and trying to stick to it.”

When ordering your meal, do your best to make healthy substitutes and step away from your usual choices. Lean meats, such as grilled chicken, pork and veal are better options than cured meats such as salami and chorizo.

Instead of ordering a portion of chips, why not opt for new potatoes, vegetables or a house salad?

3. Check out the menu in advance

Got a dinner date planned, but you’re worried about what to choose when you get there without seeming fussy? Check out the menu beforehand so you can suss out the healthy options that are available to you, therefore saving time when it comes to ordering at the table.

4. Don’t arrive hungry

Many are guilty of making this mistake as people ‘starve’ themselves for the day, whilst preparing for the large meal they plan to eat later on that evening. Not only does it mean that you tend to make a rash decision when you see the menu, but it also means that you tend to eat quickly, risking tummy ache.

Cucina Rustica manager Afif Akhtar said: “If you’re treating yourself to a meal, you want to make sure you make the right menu choices and leave the restaurant feeling comfortably full.“

5. Avoid sugary drinks

If you’ve chosen to partake in Dry January, then you’re more than likely looking for a non-alcoholic replacement, but there are times when these options may actually be worse for you. Try to avoid sugary drinks where possible, sparkling or still water, along with natural juices and even diet cola will be better for you than the full-fat types.

6. Salads needn’t be boring

Afif added: “How many times do you hear people say ‘I can’t go out and order a salad?’ Salads are one of the most nutritious dishes you could choose when dining out.”

Ignore the stigma surrounding the leafy dish and choose a salad consisting of meat, seafood, or unusual flavours.

7. Say ‘no’ to wine

It’s important to note that if you have steered away from Dry January this year, wine is probably not your best option. Spirits, such as vodka or gin are better choices to avoid a large calorie intake, so this January avoid the Sauvignon Blanc and opt for a gin and slimline tonic instead.

8. Assess your choices

Spaghetti Carbonara or Spaghetti Neapolitan? Two extremely tasty pasta dishes, but with one big difference. Understandably, tomato and vegetable-based sauces are a much healthier option than the creamy, buttery carbonara types.

9. Don’t let your eyes be bigger than your belly

Is there anything worse than leaving a restaurant feeling uncomfortably full? You may not want to waste the food, but it’s better to leave some than to regret that last mouthful. Ask your waiter to box up your left overs so you can have it another time.