Eat The Guide to Dining Out & Good Food Finds
Craving crispy chicken, crispy on the outside and fluffy and flaky on the inside fish and chips, a stacked burger or a steaming plate of noodles?
This guide is your starting point to explore the best of eating out in the UK. Here are your insider picks from local restaurants and smart suggestions on what to order to best value dining experience. We have curated this collection for foodies, students, families and curious travellers or anyone looking to enjoy great food at a price that everyone can agree on.
What’s Here
This is not just another list of places to eat. It’s a practical, user-friendly resource to help you:
Latest News
Our latest articles on where and what to eat.
Regional & Independent Why Local Food Eateries Deserve the Spotlight
Big-name chains may dominate the high streets, but it’s the smaller independents that add flavour and heart to a city’s food scene.
Across the UK, creative chefs and family-run kitchens are making waves with bold menus and personal service.
We are always on the lookout for standout local eats and we are excited to share with you.
The Crab Shack, Teignmouth, Cornwall
The Crab Shack is one of very few seafood restaurants in Teignmouth. Given its location by the sea, we expected to find several places that specialised in seafood but we were disappointed. […]
Popular Restaurant Chains High-Street Restaurant Reviews, What to Order and Why
Real experiences from real visits to popular high-street food chains and major restaurants that deliver dependable flavours and good value, complete with what to order, what to skip, and what surprised us.
Brightside Honiton: A Refreshing Take on Roadside Dining
We’ve driven past Brightside Honiton on the A303 countless times, always curious but never quite making the stop—until now. This time, on a Saturday afternoon, we finally pulled in just as the […]
Cafés & Coffee Shops
For when you want the perfect flat white, brunch with a view, or a cosy spot to read.
Menu & Ordering Tips Get the Best for Your Money
Deciding what to order can be overwhelming, especially with extensive menus, sneaky upsells, and hidden deals. Here’s how to ensure maximum flavour, satisfaction and value every time you eat out.
Smart Ordering Strategies
Skip the upsell traps – Not every combo is worth it. Sometimes individual items save you money.
Look for customisation perks – Like free toppings, unlimited fries or salad then take advantage of them.
Check the app or website – Exclusive digital discounts, loyalty rewards, or secret offers are often only available online or via mobile apps.
Go for specials or set menus – Seasonal or limited-time menus typically offer better value or unique flavours.
Ask about portion sizes – Servers often know best; asking can save you from ordering too much or too little.
Timing Matters
Lunch deals – Often cheaper and equally filling, lunch menus provide excellent value compared to evening pricing.
Early-bird specials – Restaurants sometimes offer discounts during quieter early evening hours.
Off-peak visits – Dine between lunch and dinner for quieter venues, quicker service, and often, more attentive staff.
Late-night limitations – Remember that menus often become limited closer to closing time, so check ahead if you have a specific craving.
Maximise Flavour & Variety
Mix and match sauces – Places like Slim Chickens, Nando’s, and Wingstop encourage you to blend sauces for your ideal taste.
Strategic sides – Upgrade sides creatively, for example swapping regular fries for sweet potato fries or adding flavourful sides like coleslaw or corn.
Shareable platters – Opt for large platters or family-size meals to share with friends or family, allowing for variety and cost-saving.
Combo carefully – Consider carefully whether a combo adds value or just calories—sometimes à la carte is smarter.
Explore hidden or secret menus – Chains like Starbucks or McDonald’s often have ‘secret’ custom items known by insiders.
Loyalty Pays Off
Sign up for rewards programmes – Even occasional visits can quickly earn freebies or discounts.
Birthday perks – Many restaurants offer free items or discounts during your birthday month—so sign up in advance!
Leave reviews or surveys – Restaurants often reward feedback with special offers or discounts for your next visit.
Tech & Ordering Apps
Use mobile ordering – Many restaurants provide app-exclusive deals, loyalty points, or queue-skipping convenience.
Check online reviews and photos – Quickly see real dishes before you order, avoiding disappointment or surprises.
Pre-order takeaway online – Save time and sometimes money, especially with exclusive online deals.
Dietary & Health Hacks
Request customisation – Don’t hesitate to request swaps for healthier ingredients or lighter sauces.
Ask for dressings or sauces on the side – This controls flavour intensity and calorie intake.
Balance indulgent choices – If splurging on a rich main, choose lighter sides or drinks to avoid feeling overly full.
Tell Us Your Favourite Spot
Have a local restaurant you love? We’d love to hear about it. Drop us a tip and help us feature more independent eats in your area. Leave us a message.