Making a restaurant "go-to" list

Has anyone else done this? I'm getting close to my goal weight and looking towards maintenance. I have a day planner where I'm going through my most frequently visited restaurants and writing out a list of healthier, low-cal option meals so I don't have to look at an app every time. I will still log everything but it's just nice knowing I can have something in mind when I go out. I'm seeing how small changes can make a big difference. We eat lunch at McAlisters a lot for work and now my "go-to" meal will be a turkey melt and vegetable soup and not a Reuben with broccoli cheese. I like either one equally but there is a 300 calorie difference. Have you found some healthier options at your favorite restaurants that you like just as much?

Replies

  • Lounmoun
    Lounmoun Posts: 8,423 Member
    I have looked at the information for places I go and know a couple of choices at each restaurant that fit my goals pretty well. It doesn't mean I'll always get them.
  • chellekoren
    chellekoren Posts: 273 Member
    Not extensively, but yea I know the cals on my favorite high calorie option for when I have room and the yummy low calorie option when I don't.
  • evivahealth
    evivahealth Posts: 571 Member
    This is a great idea :) Whenever I can, I check restaurant menus online before I go. Saves me being hungry and trying to make a good choice when faced with a million delicious high-cal options. Instead I choose beforehand - usually going with a protein and salad option. Helps with budgeting as well (money that is, not just calories!).
  • Francl27
    Francl27 Posts: 26,371 Member
    I pick the restaurant depending on what I feel like eating, so no, not really, plus my favorite ones change their menu frequently anyway... But when we go to chains with low calorie options, I tend to stick to the same ones (not that there's much choice anyway).