Ready to embark on a culinary adventure beyond your comfort zone? Here are a few more tantalizing ideas to tickle your taste buds and deepen your connection.
Food For Thought
- Do Some Research: Look up the restaurant’s menu beforehand. Discuss what dishes intrigue you and which ones might be the biggest leap outside your comfort zones.
- Prime Your Palate: Watch a short documentary, travel show segment, or even food-related YouTube videos about the cuisine to get a feel for the culture and flavors.
- The “One Rule” Agreement: Agree that you’ll each order at least one dish the other person chooses.
Taco ‘Bout it
- Share and Compare: Order several things and sample each other’s plates. It makes it less daunting and fun to discuss the flavors.
- The “Flavor Profile” Game: Try to pinpoint what you like and dislike about each dish. Are there specific spices, textures, or cooking methods that stand out?
- Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask your server about the ingredients, preparation, and history of the dishes that pique your curiosity.
Wok This Way
- Walk and Talk: Take a stroll to help digestion and chat about your culinary adventure. What surprised you? Did you discover something new to love?
- The “Next Time” Brainstorm: Make a plan to try another unfamiliar cuisine together soon. Build a little bucket list of restaurants to explore!
- At-Home Experiment: Pick up some ingredients from an international market and try recreating (or simplifying) a dish you enjoyed at home.
Bonus Tip: If you’re feeling truly daring, let your server pick a few dishes for you. Tell them your general likes/dislikes and prepare to be surprised!