The other day my friend was telling me about her upcoming trip to Asia. She explained how she was concerned about what she’d eat or how she’d even know where to eat. I totally understood her concern. Dining in a foreign country can be one of the most stressful and frightening experiences, and at the same time the most exciting and satisfying. I’ve realized that foreign eating situations don’t really intimidate me all that much. But rather, they excite me! I think it’s because I’ve lived overseas and have done my fair share of travel. Here are some of my tips for finding the best restaurants when traveling to a new location:

1.) Use your resources.

Trip Advisor is a great website to use for restaurant reviews. Also try checking out food forums, such as ChowHound. Blogs are also a great resource to refer to.

2.) Look for stickers on the windows and doors.

Be on the lookout for any Zagat stickers or any restaurant inspection grades. What I love about New York City is that all the restaurants are letter graded. You wouldn’t dare set foot in a “C” restaurant when “A” one is right next door.

3.) Ask the locals.

Don’t be afraid to stop someone on the street and ask them where all the good food is at. Also, ask the concierge at your hotel to recommend where you can find the best local cuisine.

4.) A simple menu is a good thing.

If the menu only features a few dishes, don’t take that as a bad sign. The restaurant probably prides itself in it’s few specialties and it’s customers know and appreciate what they offer. Go ahead and give it a try!

5.) Use social media.

Before choosing a restaurant, check out their Facebook or Twitter pages. See if they have a large following and read through the comments.

6.) Avoid restaurants in the town square, plaza, or those right next to the main tourist attractions.

These restaurants are often the most expensive and are set up for a quick turn over of guests. Instead, go to the off the beaten path restaurants. You’ll be pleasantly surprised!

7.) Avoid restaurants that have food on display.

Whether it’s sitting outside in the hot sun or if it’s preserved in glass cases, this is a major no no.

8.) Use your senses.

Does the restaurant smell good? Are there people sitting down? Do the guests look like they are enjoying themselves? Are they eating? Does the food look good? Are you thinking to yourself, ‘Oooh what is she eating?’ If you are, then find a seat already!

9.) Looks aren’t everything.

Don’t be too quick to judge a restaurant by it’s outside appearance. Some of the best restaurants I’ve been to are hole-in-the-wall restaurants.

I hope these tips help you find some amazing food. Do you have any suggestions for finding great restaurants in a new areas?