Low Calorie Foods

How to Order Low Calorie Meals at Restaurants

How to order low calorie meals at restaurants without feeling awkward. Practical strategies for Italian, Mexican, American, and Asian restaurants.

Ordering low calorie meals at restaurants is one of the most practical skills you can develop for long term weight management.

Start with a strategy before you arrive. Most restaurant menus are available online with nutrition information.

Ask for modifications. Request dressings and sauces on the side. Ask for grilled instead of fried. Substitute vegetables for fries or rice.

At Italian restaurants, look for tomato based sauces instead of cream based sauces.

At Mexican restaurants, stick with grilled chicken or shrimp fajitas and use the tortillas sparingly.

At American restaurants, order the burger without cheese, skip the bacon, and trade the fries for a side salad.

At Asian restaurants, look for steamed dishes, stir fried vegetables with protein, and broth based soups.

At steakhouses, a lean cut like sirloin or filet mignon is a good choice.

At breakfast restaurants, order egg whites instead of whole eggs. Ask for whole wheat toast dry instead of buttered.

At salad restaurants, ask for dressing on the side and use half.

The most important skill is portion awareness. Restaurant portions are typically two to three times the size of a standard serving. Eat half and take the rest home.