When it comes to dining out, most of us trust what’s on the menu. But if you’ve ever worked in a kitchen, you know there are certain dishes that staff quietly avoid, no matter how appealing they sound. Behind the scenes, it’s not always as appetizing as it looks on the plate.
Sushi That Sounds Fancy but Isn’t
Let’s start with sushi. More specifically, sushi made with escolar, sometimes labeled as “butterfish” or “white tuna” on menus. Its creamy texture makes it a popular choice for diners… but not so much for restaurant workers.
Why? For one, escolar is notoriously hard to digest. It contains a type of wax ester that can lead to rather uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms (we’ll spare you the details). Some former sushi chefs even reported that certain restaurants substitute this oily fish with actual waxy fillers to enhance texture or cut costs. That’s not exactly what you want melting in your mouth.
The Truth About the “Dish of the Day”
That “special of the day” chalked up on the board? It’s often less about chef inspiration and more about clearing out leftovers. Several restaurant employees have admitted that the daily special can be a clever disguise for yesterday’s ingredients. Instead of tossing them out, they’re repurposed into a new dish—usually at a discounted price, because the goal is to move it fast.
Not all daily specials are questionable, of course. But unless it’s a place known for its creative menus or seasonal offerings, it’s worth pausing before you order. One former waiter even joked, “If it wasn’t good enough to sell yesterday, why is it suddenly special today?”
What Staff Usually Recommend Instead
When in doubt, go for the menu staples. These dishes tend to use fresh ingredients because they’re consistently ordered. The kitchen knows they’ll move quickly, so there’s a steady rotation of supplies. Burgers, pasta, grilled proteins—these aren’t just popular with diners, they’re often the safest bets for freshness.
As a bonus, if you ask your server what they usually eat or recommend, you’ll often get an honest answer—especially if you show a little curiosity and kindness. Most staffers love sharing their insider favorites, which are usually the meals made with care and consistent quality.
Other Red Flags to Watch For
- Overly long menus: If a place offers sushi, pizza, burgers, and curry all on one menu, it’s likely that nothing is made from scratch.
- Low prices on high-end items: A $10 lobster roll or truffle risotto might sound like a steal… until you taste it.
- Mystery sauces or “chef blends”: Translation? Possibly premade mixes packed with preservatives or flavor masking agents.
Knowing what goes on in restaurant kitchens doesn’t have to ruin the dining experience—it can actually help you make better choices. When in doubt, stick with what’s fresh, popular, and simple. And next time you’re eyeing that dish of the day, maybe ask yourself: is it special because it’s seasonal… or because it’s on its last leg?
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Theo is a dynamic fitness coach who brings energy, realism, and flavor to healthy living. His content is about strong bodies, positive minds, and meals that fuel both.