Need Quick Advice! Is it Rude.....

I don't think it'd be rude... I mean, why would someone get offended over what you eat???

Just don't make a big deal about it (or complain that nothing is "healthy", especially if it's the hotel restaurant you're eating at! lol!)

I don't think it's rude at all. I think you should order what you want.

I don't think anyone should be shamed into eating.

My opinion is to just do whatever you feel comfortable with, but nobody can tell you to eat...or not good luck.

I face this problem all the time with by going out with clients. For the longest time I felt pressured to eat like they do, but now I simply order a salad with a protein or steamed veggies and steamed chicken and not worry about what they think. There will always be a comment like "oh you have to treat yourself" or "you're already skinny you don't need to diet". I simply reply, that "I am treating myself to a long and healthy life."

There shouldn't be a problem with a side salad or something. I probably wouldn't get ONLY a drink, it tends to draw attention, in my case anyway. But you have to do whatever makes you feel happiest. So you can always get the drink and explain why.

Good luck!

I agree with this. I'd get a side item, although for me personally it probably wouldn't be a salad...I would be more likely to get water or tea and something a little bit indulgent like a stuffed mushroom app so I could be like, "Oh wow the mushrooms sound amazing" and then make THAT my lunch.

Do whatever works for you. I do think the act of eating communally is sort of a social "must" but if it will really mess up your plans then just get a drink!

If they are paying for it, order something healthy and only eat a small amount. If you had grilled salmon, vegetable and sauce on the side that would be low cal but a normal sounding lunch order.

I'd go for the salad option, too. I'm pretty sure something like a garden salad with grilled chicken on top, dressing on the side (or light on the dressing) wouldn't even get a second thought from anybody. That's a very normal, common "light fare" lunch option.

To keep it less "picky" looking (if you are concerned), don't special request "exactly" what you don't or do want on it, just nicely eat around it. No shame in that. Oh, and if it's the hosts' restaurant, make sure to compliment them on your lunch! Enjoy!

ETA: Oh, OP, you eat vegetarian. Nix the chicken suggestion. But for anybody lurking, that's my personal suggestion.

I've run into this situation going out with clients. I think you should aim to find something you can eat...lean meat, a salad...order a burger but don't the bun...something like that. You need to eat lunch anyway right? I don't know that it's necessarily rude, but I feel like it does create an awkward situation if you are the only one not eating. I think in situations like that, you have to just do the best you can and don't beat yourself up if you have one meal that's not exactly on plan.

Hey! I have often been in this situation...friends invite me out for dinner and then criticise my choices (or lack therof) of food. I try to tell them that I'm not just "on a diet" but making a completely different lifestyle choice. I do not think it is rude in any way.

It's almost like they're trying to get you back on drugs...don't let peer pressure throw off your game. People who get mad about what you put into your own body are just jealous that they don't have the willpower/determination that you do to make such a change.

It's weird how your friends can start to turn on you in situations like these. Anyway, in my experience, order what you want and don't feel obligated to explain yourself. You eat what makes your body feel good and your body will take care of you.

It's no one's business what you eat. I'm a vegetarian and often the only things on the menu I CAN eat are sides.

Yes! I'm also a vegetarian so its definitely difficult sometimes. However, in that case, it works to my advantage when side items are my only option.
Thank you for you reply!

I also think it's OK to just say you aren't that hungry. I highly doubt anyone will really notice or care as long as you don't bring attention to it.

Not at all. I agree with the person who said they look up the restaurant before hand, if you know what one you will be going to. This is life, so you make the best with the situation you've been given. I'm sure you can find a satisfying side item or even an entree that could fit into your goals.