A Foodie's Guide: How to Navigate Menus in Restaurants Abroad with Confidence

Are you a food lover who loves to explore different cuisines when travelling abroad? If so, you've probably found yourself staring at a menu written in a language you don't understand, feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to order. (I know I have!)

Understanding how menus are structured and knowing what to look out for really can make a world of difference. Below I’ve shared my top tips on deciphering menus, decoding unfamiliar ingredients, and understanding the cultural nuances that influence your experience when eating out in different countries.

Navigating Menus…

When eating out abroad, understanding how to navigate menus is pretty important. Menus not only provide a list of available dishes but also offer insights into a country's culinary traditions and cultural preferences. By decoding menus, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the local cuisine and make choices that align with your preferences. Whether you're a vegetarian like me, have dietary restrictions, or simply want to try new flavours, menu navigation is the key to a happy dining experience.

Understanding cultural differences in menu terminology

Different countries have their unique ways of presenting menus, and understanding the cultural nuances can help you navigate them effortlessly. In Western countries like the United Kingdom or the United States, menus typically follow a specific order, starting with appetisers, followed by main courses, and ending with desserts. However, in countries like Morocco, menus often present dishes in a more communal style, focusing on sharing plates and a variety of flavours.

Additionally, pay attention to the terminology used. For example, in French cuisine, "à la carte" refers to individually priced dishes (which can also be found on high-end menus in the UK), while a "prix fixe" menu offers a fixed-price meal with multiple courses. In Italian menus, "antipasti" refers to appetisers, "primi" to first courses like pasta or risotto, and "secondi" to main courses. (I often just choose one, after all, you need to leave room for dessert!)

Tips for deciphering foreign menus

1. Look for familiar ingredients: Even in an unfamiliar language, some ingredients may be recognisable. Scan the menu for ingredients you know and enjoy, as they can serve as a starting point for your order. If there are any you don’t, google it.

2. Pay attention to dish descriptions: Menu descriptions often provide clues about the flavours, cooking techniques, and ingredients used in a dish. Look for keywords that indicate spiciness, sweetness, or the presence of specific ingredients you prefer or avoid.

3. Use an app like Google Translate, where you can use your phone’s camera to translate the menu on the screen. It’s not always 100% accurate, but you can get a good idea of what you’re ordering this way, just remember to download the language pack of the country you’re travelling to before you go to avoid excess charges.

Join a food tour

One of the best things I’ve done in both Greece and Portugal is to join a food tour. Often these food tours are given in small groups, and allow you to sample a variety of different food that the country is known for. Companies often hire locals to carry out these tours, so as well as getting to try different food (and being able to share your preferences beforehand ), you get to hear stories about the country, the culture and the food whilst you walk around. Both of the food tours I booked were through GetYourGuide.

Asking for suggestions

When faced with an unfamiliar menu, one of the best ways to ensure a memorable experience is to ask for recommendations from the staff at the restaurant. They are usually well-versed in the menu and can guide you towards popular dishes or specialities.

If you’re unsure about what to ask, try approaching them about their personal favourites or signature dishes that the restaurant is known for. Be open to their suggestions and ask for any additional information or recommendations they might have.

It's important to note that there will be instances where the staff have limited English proficiency, especially in non-touristy areas. This happened to me in Verona, which a few years ago would have stressed me out. However, using simple and polite language, along with gestures or pointing at pictures on the menu, really helped bridge the communication gap. If all else fails, again, Google Translate can really help!

Embracing new flavours and trying unfamiliar dishes

Ordering in a restaurant abroad can be challenging, as the names of dishes and ingredients might be unfamiliar. But you can still use some easy techniques to make sure you’ll at least have a good time!

Firstly, take your time to thoroughly read the menu before you enter the restaurant to see if there are dishes you like the look of. Many food places, especially abroad have them at the entrance. Look out for any descriptions or explanations provided for the dishes. Pay attention to keywords that indicate the cooking method, flavour, or ingredients used. If you're unsure about a particular dish, don't hesitate to ask for clarification or use translation apps to get a better understanding.

Next, observe what locals are ordering. Take a glance at neighbouring tables or ask the waitstaff for recommendations based on what other customers are enjoying. This can give you a good idea of popular dishes.

Additionally, consider ordering a variety of dishes to share with your dining companions. This way, you can sample a wider range of flavours and textures without committing to one specific dish. Sharing also allows for a more communal dining experience, which is so much fun, and a really great aspect of many cultures' culinary traditions.

How to navigate dietary restrictions on holiday

Travelling with dietary restrictions can present additional challenges when trying to navigate menus in foreign restaurants. However, with some careful planning and effective communication, you can still enjoy delicious meals while adhering to your dietary needs.

Before heading to a restaurant, it's helpful to research the local cuisine and typical ingredients used. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect and allow you to identify dishes that are more likely to align with your dietary restrictions. Additionally, familiarise yourself with any specific terms or phrases related to your dietary needs in the local language. This will help you communicate your requirements effectively.

When dining out, don't hesitate to inform the staff about your dietary restrictions. Be clear about the ingredients you need to avoid and ask for suggestions or modifications to accommodate your needs. Most restaurants are willing to make adjustments to their dishes to cater to dietary restrictions, provided they have prior notice.

If you're concerned about cross-contamination or hidden ingredients, it's advisable to dine at restaurants that specialise in catering to specific dietary needs, such as vegetarian or gluten-free establishments. These restaurants are more likely to have a clear understanding of dietary restrictions and can provide you with a wider range of options that are safe and delicious.

Discovering new dishes

One of the joys of dining in foreign restaurants is the opportunity to discover new flavours and try dishes that are unique to the local cuisine.

To embrace new flavours and try unfamiliar dishes, start by having an open mind and a spirit of culinary adventure. Be willing to try ingredients or cooking techniques that might be unfamiliar to you. Remember that what might seem unusual or strange to you could be a beloved staple in the local cuisine.

Additionally, seek out local food markets or street stalls, where you can find an array of authentic dishes that are popular among locals. These places often offer a wide variety of options, allowing you to sample different flavours and textures. Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from the vendors or fellow patrons, as they can provide valuable insights into must-try dishes.

Lastly, be mindful of cultural etiquette when dining abroad. Some cuisines have specific customs or traditions that are important to observe. By respecting and embracing these cultural nuances, you'll have a more immersive and enriching dining experience.

Using technology to aid menu navigation

Don’t forget, there are various apps and tools available that can help you decipher menus, translate ingredients, and even provide reviews and recommendations.

One of my most commonly used tools when I’m travelling is translation apps. As I’ve mentioned, I love Google Translate, which allows you to scan menus or take pictures of unfamiliar text, which is then translated into your preferred language. It also provides pronunciation guides, making it easier to communicate with the waitstaff or order dishes correctly.

If you prefer a more hands-on approach, consider learning basic phrases in the local language related to dining and ordering food. This can help you communicate your preferences or ask questions to the staff more effectively. Locals often appreciate the effort and are more willing to assist you in navigating the menu.

Learning basic phrases in the local language

When it comes to navigating menus abroad, learning basic phrases in the local language can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. Even knowing a few keywords can help you communicate your preferences, ask questions, and show respect for the local culture.

Start by learning essential phrases such as "hello," "thank you," and "please." These simple greetings and expressions of gratitude can make a positive impression and set a friendly tone with the people you meet. Additionally, familiarise yourself with basic food-related terms such as "meat," "vegetables," "spicy," or "sweet." This will help you understand menu descriptions and communicate your preferences.

If you have specific dietary restrictions or allergies, it's important to learn how to express them in the local language. This will enable you to communicate your needs effectively to the restaurant. Duolingo and Babel are both great apps I’ve used to help me learn the basics of a language quickly.

Happy eating!