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Restaurants, Cafes & Bars, Restaurants
Common dining terms explained
Restaurants and café menus have come a long way over the years from the humble Steak Diane and toasted melts. Today, deciphering some of the language used to describe ingredients and cooking styles can make some menus appear to be in a foreign language (even if they aren't). While restaurant staff will gladly answer any questions, it is good to have a general understanding of some of the terms you are likely to encounter.
Dining – common menu exceptions explained
Australians love to eat out, and eating at restaurants and cafes has become an accepted and enjoyable part of our lives. Restaurants, cafes, pubs and clubs cater for most people's dietary requirements. However some individuals have specific health or dietary requirements which can limit their menu choices and make choosing a meal at a restaurant a painstaking process. Dietary restrictions may not just be a matter of taste or lifestyle preference, but could have very serious health repercussions including life threatening food allergies.
Common restaurant accreditations and ratings
Australia has a thriving food industry with world class chefs and world class restaurants. We are fortunate to also have access to fresh locally grown produce and this ensures that we are fast becoming a force to be reckoned with when it comes to food and food preparation. With the rising popularity of cooking and lifestyle programs on television, the average Australian is becoming more aware of the food industry as well. The outcome of all this is that we look forward to dining out and want the occasion to be enjoyable and without any concerns. Knowing how our restaurants are accredited and rated can help us make the right choice. Here are some common explanations to help you.
How much tip should you leave?
When paying a dining bill, do I need to leave a tip and how much should I leave? This question is often asked in Australia, as the tipping system here is not as clearly defined as in other countries.
Interesting facts about Australian cuisine
Australia is commonly called the lucky country and when it comes to cuisine this is definitely true. We are very fortunate to have a diverse range of fresh produce and varied cooking styles from which to choose. At one time it would have been difficult to pinpoint an Australian cuisine. However, Modern Australian cuisine has now developed a character of its own, being a fusion of different food traditions, flavours and cooking techniques which are used to create interesting and vibrant dishes, with an emphasis on fresh.
Am I entitled to know all the ingredients used in a meal
Part of the fun of eating out at a restaurant or café is being surprised at the taste sensations served to us by a professional chef, whereas others may want or in fact need to know in advance all of the ingredients used in a meal.
Some interesting and different dining experiences to try
Australians love to eat out and with so many different dining experiences available, we could eat our way around the world without leaving our shores. Our multi-cultural society has provided us with a variety of cuisine types and cooking styles, and Australians have been quick to embrace the more spicy and exotic cuisines of our neighbours. Major cities in particular offer a wide range of cultural dining experiences that hold to cuisine heritage and cooking styles, but even country towns can boast Chinese, Thai or Vietnamese restaurants. Trying different cuisines makes for some great dining adventures.
If I’m not happy with my meal or the service, what are my rights?
Most of us really enjoy eating out and look forward to it. Sometimes it takes that bit of extra effort or cash to get us there. So if something were to happen to spoil that occasion for us in any way it’s important to know what our rights are and how the restaurant should respond.
What is BYO and corkage and why do I have to pay?
When looking for a restaurant, you may notice that some advertise that they are "BYO". What do these initials mean?
Fine Dining Tips - How to make it a night to remember
You have a special occasion coming up, perhaps a reunion with old friends, a wedding anniversary or even a proposal! How can you make your fine dining experience one to remember?
