How does everyone do when they go out to eat? I haven't been out yet this year and my husband wants to take me out tomorrow night. Just curious if you just order a salad or order what you want and eat what you eat as if you were at home. I measure my food so was just kinda curious.

I plan plan and plan. Narrow down the places you are willing to go. Get on the internet and figure out the calorie counts of those place and what would fit into your calorie allowance. If place doen't have a nutrition listing, they are not getting my business or my money.
I for one refuse to eat salad at a restaurant. Such a cheap and easy thing to make at home when I am out I want something special.
Then once you decide what you want to eat on the internet do not I repeat do not look at the menu once you get there. Everything else will sound soooooo good.

Thats sounds like a good idea to find out where we are going. I know he wanted to surprise me but in this case, I can't let that happen. I have only ate out once at that was a subway. I agree about the salad, I eat them for lunch everyday and would like something different but safe. Thanks for the advice

Well, maybe give him a few options, and then he can still surprise you. just be sure to have a game plan for each place.

I always choose placest where I can have healthy options- last time we went out for mexican I had ceviche and chicken fajitas without the tortillas- very yummy Or I'll do a grilled meat with double veggie portions and ask for no salt or butter

This is a great idea! We eat out 4-5 times a month, and I almost always go online and research my calorie options. Failing that, I just order what I know would be a healthier option. Grilled chicken, veggies etc. I do make sure that the veggies aren't in butter though.

I look up the nutrition info and then try to make the meal even healthier. (if that's an option)
In my experience, salad's really are the safest bet that I would enjoy. Or if it's a better quality place I will get the fish with seasonal veggies.

Any dressings are to be on the side. No nuts, no cream or butter sauces, no breads/croutons/crispy wonton strips/etc. and certainly nothing deep fried. Basically, I go for a portion of grilled meat with lots of veggies. And I'll go through at least 2 glasses of water while I'm there.

Have fun!

Thanks everyone! It looks like Red Lobster so I can at least eat fish. They have a Lighthouse menu that looks pretty promising. I always drink water throughout the day but even more before my meals. Now I can't wait to go!!!

According to what I've read, Red Lobster has some excellent loss-friendly foods. Looks like you picked an excellent place. I hope you and your husband have a terrific time!

Yea be careful with salad at restaurants. What seems safe is actually like 1300 calories! Crazy!

I haven't been there for a long time but if it hasn't changed don't forget to tell them please don't bring those super tasty bisquits before the meal.

I agree with disgruntled one. I have managed to lose quite consistently, and I eat out. Sometimes 3 times per week. I research all my options and there are a few places my DH and I frequent because they are "safe" for calorie counters--Panera, Chipotle, Applebee's, Mimi's Cafe, Subway are our frequent haunts.

Seasons 52 is awesome as well. I just ate there this past weekend. It's nice to be able to go somewhere that you can choose anything on the menu. It's also reasonably priced. This is quoted directly from their website- "The Seasons 52 menu is seasonally-inspired with the fresh appeal of the farmer’s market. It represents a unique blend of art and science, with creative offerings designed to excite and surprise the palate. We feature dining choices that are thoughtfully prepared and in appropriate portion sizes. So our guests feel the freedom to indulge in a complete dining experience, including our custom flatbreads and signature mini-indulgence desserts, while still feeling good about themselves and their dining choices.

We use natural cooking techniques such as wood-fire grilling, brick-oven cooking and caramelizing vegetables to let the natural flavors shine through. And we execute precision with seasoning, and oil with control and care to ensure just the right amount is used to bring out the great flavor profiles. An added benefit to this style is that our menu items are naturally lower in calories. In fact, we make a promise that nothing on our menu is over 475 calories. The result is great tasting, highly satisfying food that just so happens to be good for you!"

**WARNING**WARNING**WARNING!!! Stay AWAY from the CHEESY BISQUITS...they are so light and delishous, they may actually FLOAT off the plate into your MOUTH!

Have fun...I LOVE Red Lobster!

WOAH Season 52 seems AMAZING. Too bad it's not within 300 miles of me... When I move to DC next year, I'm definitely rewarding myself for making goal with a trip down to their coming-in-summer-2011 place in McLean. Thanks!