1. Check recent reviews, not just the overall rating
Look at the latest customer comments on Google, iGTA, or Instagram. Restaurants change over time, new chefs, new management, or new quality standards.
2. Look at real photos of the food
Avoid relying on professional photos. Instead, check customer-uploaded pictures to judge portion size, plating, cleanliness, and authenticity.
3. Consider what the restaurant is famous for
Choose a place that is known for a specific type of dish:
* Italian spots known for pasta
* Iranian restaurants great with kebab
* Steakhouses known for aged cuts
If they try to “do everything,” they often end up doing nothing well.
4. Check the menu before you go
See if the dishes match what you’re craving and if the prices are reasonable for you. A clear, simple menu often means better quality and fresh ingredients.
5. Pay attention to hygiene and atmosphere
A clean space, organized tables, tidy staff, and visible food safety practices can tell you a lot about the kitchen quality you don’t see.
6. Choose the right time
Restaurants taste very different depending on timing:
* Crowded times = slower service, less consistent food
* Very empty = food may not be as fresh
Best times: after lunch rush (2–4 PM)** or early dinner (5–6 PM).
7. Ask locals or people with similar taste
Your friends or local food pages often know hidden gems that don’t appear on the first page of Google. Personal recommendations are often the most reliable.
