Many restaurants offer options that can accommodate low-carbohydrate diets. Here are some types of restaurants and specific chains that typically support such diets:
1. Steakhouses
- Examples: Outback Steakhouse, Texas Roadhouse
- Low Carb Options: Grilled steaks, grilled chicken, seafood, and non-starchy vegetables.
2. Seafood Restaurants
- Examples: Red Lobster, Bonefish Grill
- Low Carb Options: Grilled or baked fish, shrimp cocktails, and salads without high-carb dressings.
3. Fast-Casual Chains
- Examples: Chipotle, Panera Bread
- Low Carb Options: For Chipotle, you can order a salad bowl with your choice of protein and skip the rice and beans. At Panera, you can choose salads or certain protein-based bowls.
4. Health-Conscious Cafes
- Examples: Sweetgreen, Just Salad
- Low Carb Options: Salads with plenty of leafy greens, meats, cheeses, and nuts; avoid croutons and sugary dressings.
5. Diners
- Examples: Local diners or breakfast spots
- Low Carb Options: Eggs, bacon, sausage, avocado, and side salads instead of toast or home fries.
6. Sandwich Shops
- Examples: Jimmy John's (unwich), Subway
- Low Carb Options: Order sandwiches wrapped in lettuce instead of bread.
7. Pizza Places
- Examples: Blaze Pizza, MOD Pizza
- Low Carb Options: Opt for a pizza with a cauliflower crust if available, or just order toppings without the crust.
8. Middle Eastern and Mediterranean restaurants
- Examples: Zaatar, local shawarma shops
- Low Carb Options: Grilled meats, kebabs, salads, and mezes like hummus (use sparingly due to chickpeas).
9. Asian Restaurants
- Examples: Sushi restaurants, Thai restaurants
- Low Carb Options: Sashimi, stir-fried dishes (without rice), and salads.
Tips for Dining Out on a Low-Carbohydrate Diet:
- Substitute: Ask for substitutions, like replacing sides of starches (like rice or fries) with more vegetables.
- Sauces/Dressings: Be cautious with sauces and dressings, which can be high in sugar and carbs. Request those on the side.
- Customization: Many restaurants allow you to customize your order to fit your dietary needs.
Before you go, it's always a good idea to check the menu online to see what options are available for your specific dietary needs.