Five tips to combat holiday frustration in restaurants

During peak season, when beaches are crowded and restaurant terraces are in high demand, it can be a serious mistake to simply sit down at any nearby restaurant. Some restaurateurs, especially during the summer holiday season, prioritize profits over quality and transparency.

Rather than authentic cuisine, you're likely to be served carelessly reheated, mass-produced food—and charged a surprisingly high price for it. If you don't want your vacation ruined by overpriced food and disappointing menus, you should take a closer look when visiting a restaurant. These five tips will help you spot culinary tourist traps:

1. Distrust in the flood of images

You can tell a lot just by glancing at the menu. If all the dishes are illustrated, translated into ten languages, and everything looks a bit like fast food, caution is advised. Such menus are usually aimed at quick tourist service—not quality.

2. Distance to sights

Restaurants situated at famous squares or tourist hotspots often prioritize quantity over quality—catering mainly to one-time visitors from abroad. A few steps into the side streets are almost always worthwhile.

3. Less is more

When a restaurant’s menu ranges from sushi to pasta to tapas, it’s rarely a sign of fresh, high-quality cuisine. The best restaurants focus on one specialty—and do it well.

4. Keep an eye on the guests

You can rarely go wrong at a place where locals love to eat. A look at the guests reveals more than any online rating. If you're unsure, it's best to ask at the hotel or directly on the street—such tips are often worth their weight in gold.

5. Daily recommendations

A reduced menu in the local language and seasonal daily specials are usually a good sign. These dishes generally use fresh ingredients that are available daily. This attracts creative chefs and celebrates authentic culinary craftsmanship—rather than mass-produced, assembly-line meals.