3 Expensive Dishes at Restaurants That Are Wastes of Money, According to Experts
Written by
Lydia Kibet
Edited by
Angela Corry
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Dining out isn’t cheap, and when you’re paying top dollar, you want a dish that’s worth every penny. But according to chefs and culinary pros, some of the most expensive items on the menu aren’t worth the price tag.
Here are four expensive dishes experts recommend skipping.
Truffle Oil Pasta
Pasta made with truffle oil is one of the most overpriced dishes on many restaurant menus. But the truth is, most of the truffle flavor in these dishes isn’t coming from actual truffles. It’s coming from truffle oil.
“One dish I always tell people to skip is truffle oil pasta. It’s one of those things that sounds fancy and indulgent, but in reality, you’re often getting doused in synthetic truffle flavor,” said Dennis Littley, owner of Ask Chef Dennis. “Most restaurants don’t use real truffle; they use truffle oil.”
Real truffles are rare and expensive, so restaurants often opt for truffle oil to cut costs while still charging a premium. For $30 or more, you’d be better off ordering a pasta dish with fresh ingredients, like seafood or a rich, handmade sauce.
“Pasta would honestly taste better with a little garlic, parmesan, and olive oil,” he said.
Gold Leaf Steak
You’ve probably seen or tried steak that looks like it’s covered with gold. “Yes, it looks impressive when it comes to the table all shiny,” Littley said. “But here’s the thing, gold leaf doesn’t taste like anything. It doesn’t add flavor, it doesn’t add texture, and it doesn’t make the steak taste better.”
You’re essentially paying for the gold decoration, which isn’t worth it.
“If you’re shelling out for a great steak, focus on the quality of the meat itself. Look for dry-aged, well-marbled beef cooked simply and well. That’s where the real value is.”
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Lobster mac and cheese sounds like the ultimate dish, especially if you already like mac and cheese. However, the dish rarely lives up to the price tag.
“If you love lobster, order it as the star, grilled with lemon butter or in a proper lobster roll,” said Littley. “Mac and cheese is amazing on its own when it’s done right. No need to try and dress it up with seafood when it’s not needed.”
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