Eating Out

I admit it, we do eat out quite a bit. When I first started eating Keto, I was afraid of eating out. “What will I get to eat!?”

Well – guess what! Eating out really isn't that complicated. True ~ you are never 100% sure that what you are getting is 100% Keto. For example, you have no idea what Oil they used. You also have no idea what other forbidden foods may have been added. (Unless you ask of course ~ which, I don't) But, you can probably be 100% certain that your attempt at finding a “Keto Friendly” meal off their menu ~ is no doubt a better choice than what you would have ordered if you were not trying to eat Keto.

The other day, Ed and I both had appointments in Mattoon, so of course, that put us away from home during the lunch hour. We are both back on Keto now. I mean, I have been, but he has not! He fell off last June and hadn't bounced back until just recently. Eating out gets even easier once again. (I no longer have to watch him eat fries!)

We decided to try out the new McQuarter's Pub, at the mall. We both got the Grilled Chicken, Bacon and Avocado Sandwich (without the bun) and a side of steamed broccoli (instead of fries). It was very good! This is actually not a new meal for me ~ I have ordered it several times at Windsor's Pub ~ which has the same owner and they share some menu items. They both have a “Dinner after 4 pm” menu that actually has several items which I feel are Keto Friendly. Before 4 pm you are limited to salads and sandwiches. I've learned to order my sandwiches without the bun instead of just removing it myself. Otherwise, you could lose half your cheese to the bread.

Grilled Chicken, Bacon & Avocado & Steamed Broccoli 

We also went out for Mexican recently. It is harder to eat Mexican and keep it legal, but it can be done. First thing we like to do is request no chips! Just don't even have the temptation at the table. Let them bring you the salsa – but ask them to keep the chips. Now if there are others eating with you and not everyone is Keto, that's not going to happen. In which case, decide how many you are going to allow yourself to eat (If any) and go ahead and get your limit (3 or 5 maybe 10 chips at most) Stick to that limit. You can actually have the salsa and the white cheese dip, so load up those few chips with as much Cheese and Salsa as you can. Try to convince your brain you are eating more than you are.

Most everything you order off the menu is going to come with rice and/or beans. Both of which are not allowed. The other day I ordered the Pollo Loco ~ which is grilled Chicken strips smothered in the white queso cheese sauce, a guacamole salad and rice. I asked if they could substitute the rice with Pico De Gallo and they were happy to do so, I will definitely be doing that again! It added so much to the guacamole salad.

Pollo Loco with Guacamole Salad and Pico De Gallo

Hint. Until you feel comfortable looking at the menu and deciding for yourself what is Keto Friendly, when you know you are going to eat out – just do a google search for the restaurant you are planning to hit. “Keto Friendly at _____” I have done that and found lists for several major chains. (Including Olive Garden)