Eating out at a restaurant can be a total gamble. Sometimes you have the best meal of your life, and sometimes, well, not so much. So we consulted the pros: Josh Ochoa and Andy Alexandre, chefs at Ruffian Wine Bar & Chef’s Table in New York City, are revealing the dishes they’d never, ever order when dining in a restaurant. Take notes.
Why a Chef Would Never Order Salmon at a Restaurant
Plus 4 other things the professionals steer clear of
![oysters restaurant order](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2016/12/oysters-restaurant-order.png?fit=680%2C860)
Dollar Oysters
If the restaurant is letting them go for this cheap, you aren’t getting a deal—they’re just really, really low-quality oysters. Stick with a seafood spot that specializes in oysters (they’ll probably be at least $2 a piece). And don’t even think about eating them if they have a fishy smell.
![salad restaurant order](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2016/12/salad-restaurant-order.png?fit=680%2C489)
Green Salads
A salad should be just as exciting as every other appetizer on the menu. In other words, a mesclun mix is a total snooze-fest. Order literally any other app and chances are, you’ll be much more satisfied.
![ceviche restaurant order](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2016/12/ceviche-restaurant-order.png?fit=680%2C489)
Ceviche
…Oh, wait, except this app. Ceviche, a Latin American dish made with raw fish “cooked” in lemon juice, requires high-quality fish to be done right. More often than not, this isn’t the case, making for a taste that’s tough and chewy. You’re safer with a cooked fish appetizer instead, like sardines.
![watermelon salad restaurant order](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2016/12/watermelon-salad-restaurant-order.png?fit=680%2C489)
Feta And Watermelon
Whether it’s in a salad or as an appetizer, this flavor combo just doesn’t work, the Ruffian chefs insist: “Every time we’ve ordered this dish, it’s been disappointing.” Let’s save the watermelon for a picnic and the feta for shakshuka, shall we?
![salmon restaurant order](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2016/12/salmon-restaurant-order.png?fit=680%2C489)
Salmon
How many pieces of salmon have you had in your lifetime? 580? Were any of them particularly memorable? Nope, we didn’t think so. Order a flavorful fish stew or a mussels dish instead—broaden your horizons, people.