Oh the restaurant woes

paulzli

Best way to try and log calories consumed. The restaurant has a menu but no nutritional facts anywhere that I have searched.

I'm planning on trying to eat the healthiest options, ie one of these for appetizers

Caprese -13
Buffalo Mozzarella, Plum Tomatoes & Basil

Asparagi -12
Aspargus, Tomato, Zucchini & Tri—colored Pepper Dice

and one of these as an entree

Salmone -22
Atlantic Salmon Filet, Tuscan Herb Crusted

Scallopine Milanese -22
Pan Fried Veal, Herb Potatoes & Italian Greens

Filetti Manzo -24
Petit Beef Filets, Gorgonzola, Green Peppercorns, Tuscan Crouton.

What does everyone suggest I do? Just add a block of 1600-2000 calories for the meal and call it a day, or try to estimate the portion sizes?

aprilgicker

I would try to break up what I could. If you get in the habit of doing it it will become easier. Also, if it is pan seared it has butter don;t forget to add the hidden ingredients too. You can ask for specifics from the waiter, Like do they use oil or butter, what is the crust. I would do it after if you have your heart set on something. It will be taken as a compliment to ask after and seem less obtuse.

paperpudding

I just pick the closest thing in the data base and guestimate with that.

Not accurate, I know - but sometimes I think it is best you can do.

RodaRose

I would probably stay away from the cheese dishes. Restaurants serve larger portions of cheese than we do when we use our scales at home. Depending on the dressing, the veal with greens might work. Add butter for cooking the veal.
Here is a rough guide for portions:

http://www.minneapolismn.gov/www/groups/public/@health/documents/webcontent/convert_264742.pdf
One deck of cards = roughly equivalent to 3 oz of veal or chicken,

Seriously, do your best guess and have a good time. This is a journey we are on.

Patttience

1. You are over thinking this.
2. A meal should not be 2000 calories. More like 500.

Go for the one with the most vegetables. and yes don't over eat. Put your fork down before you feel full and get the plate taken away. But don't go hungry.

paulzli

Thanks for all the advice everyone. I really appreciate it as I am new to everything.