Red Flags to Watch for at Upscale Restaurants from a Chef’s Perspective

Manhattan: A chef recently shared some red flags to watch for when you’re thinking about ordering a tasting menu at a fancy restaurant.

First off, if you can’t find the prices or how long the meal will take, that’s a big red flag. It usually means the place caters to folks who don’t mind spending without knowing the cost.

Also, if the wine pairings are as pricey as the food, it might mean you’re not getting the best value.

Many upscale spots offer these elaborate tasting menus, which are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. Telly Justice, the executive chef at HAGS in Manhattan, was initially skeptical about her first tasting menu at a Michelin-starred restaurant. But she ended up loving it, appreciating the skill and artistry in every dish.

Now, she uses that experience as a benchmark when she dines out and when she creates her own menus.

So, what should you look out for? If the menu is overly complicated or wordy, it might signal insecurity in the food itself. Justice prefers straightforward menus that let the food speak for itself.

Another thing to consider is whether the courses have a clear theme. If they don’t, it could mean the chef is just trying random things without a solid plan.

Time commitment is also key. If the restaurant can’t tell you how long the meal will take, it might be more about the chef’s ego than your dining experience.

And don’t feel pressured to pay for extras like caviar or fancy wine pairings. Your meal should still feel complete without those add-ons.

Lastly, if the restaurant doesn’t feel comfortable or welcoming, that’s a major red flag. Tasting menus can take a while, so you want to be in a space where you can relax.

Justice emphasizes that these details can really tell you a lot about the hospitality you can expect.