It is no understatement that many people are creatures of habit, constantly seeking the comfort of what is known, tried and tested. That includes various facets of living, from purchasing the same brand of soap and toothpaste, taking the same routes to and from work, and even going to the same restaurant and ordering the same fare in every visit.
And when you think about it, it makes sense. You walk into a restaurant and you want to satisfy your craving and get good value for your money. Many people want to avoid going somewhere unfamiliar and ordering a seemingly interesting entrée, only to be left underwhelmed.
It is fairly easy to get into that trap, especially if you go out to eat only once a week, whatever your reasons may be. You stay loyal to a particular restaurant because you like the ambience, you like the crowd and you like the food.
Not that it's a bad thing. Certainly not. However, there are several compelling reasons to try new restaurants. These include opening yourself up to new cuisines and cultures, staving off boredom and meeting new people, especially if you venture farther from your usual haunts.
If you are trying to learn how to cook, sampling new dishes from new restaurants can help hone both your palate and cooking skills. Trying new restaurants and food can inspire you to try new spices, flavours and even wine pairings.
Although eating can be a subjective experience (what one finds delicious won't necessarily be another’s favourite as well), there are a few steps that you can undertake to prevent turning the act of trying out a new restaurant into one big gamble that can lead to a big disappointment.
Start off with the restaurants that people in your social networks are raving about.
Although the buzz surrounding a new restaurant is no clear indicator that you will have an outstanding dining experience upon visiting it, what other people are saying about the new restaurant will give you some idea of what to expect or even what to order and try.
Alternatively, you can follow blogs and social media accounts devoted to reviewing new eating hotspots. Watch out for reviews, not only from writers but from other readers who can offer a more comprehensive, impartial and honest assessment of an establishment.
If you feel that you are up for a bolder challenge, you and your friends can simply try a random restaurant each week. Of course, you have to be prepared for some hits and misses and take these in stride. You can use your experience to help other foodies within your area by giving your take on the restaurant and its menu.
Sooner or later, you will surprise yourself and add more favourites to your go-to restaurant list.