Navigating social events and dining out can feel daunting on the Carnivore Diet, especially when most menus are filled with carb-heavy dishes and plant-based options. However, with a little preparation and a few strategies, you can enjoy eating out while staying true to your meat-based lifestyle.
In this article, we’ll share practical tips to help you dine out with confidence, make smart menu choices, and even handle social situations where your diet might be questioned.
1. Research the Restaurant Ahead of Time
One of the easiest ways to ensure you stay on track is to plan ahead.
Steps to Prepare:
- Check the Menu Online:
Look for restaurants with meat-heavy options like steakhouses, BBQ joints, or burger places. - Call Ahead:
Ask about customizations, such as removing sides or sauces. - Look for Buffet or À la Carte Options:
These allow you to build your plate with Carnivore-friendly choices.
Pro Tip: If you’re going to a group event, suggest a restaurant with options that suit your diet.
2. Go for Meat-Based Dishes
When browsing the menu, focus on dishes that feature high-quality animal proteins as the main component.
Best Options for Carnivores:
- Steak: Ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon—ask for it grilled or pan-seared with butter.
- Burgers: Order bunless and top with bacon, cheese, or a fried egg.
- BBQ Meats: Ribs, brisket, pulled pork—skip the sugary BBQ sauce.
- Seafood: Grilled salmon, shrimp, scallops, or lobster, served plain or with butter.
- Breakfast All Day: Many restaurants offer eggs, bacon, and sausage even at dinner.
Pro Tip: Always request sauces or seasonings on the side to avoid hidden sugars or plant oils.
3. Customize Your Order
Don’t be afraid to make special requests. Most restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary preferences.
How to Customize:
- Swap Sides: Replace fries or salad with extra meat, eggs, or cheese.
- Ask for Cooking Adjustments: Request your food to be cooked in butter or plain, without seed oils.
- Double Up: If the portions look small, ask for a double serving of the protein.
Pro Tip: Phrases like “I’m avoiding carbs” or “I prefer it plain” make your requests clear and simple.
4. Handle Social Situations Gracefully
Dining out with friends or family who don’t follow the Carnivore Diet can feel tricky, but a positive mindset and preparation can help.
Tips for Social Settings:
- Explain Briefly (if Needed): Keep it simple: “I feel great eating this way, and it works for me.”
- Avoid Preaching: Focus on enjoying your meal rather than defending your diet.
- Bring Your Own Options (if Allowed): For gatherings or potlucks, bring a Carnivore-friendly dish to share.
Pro Tip: Shift the focus to the social aspect of the meal, rather than the food itself.
5. What to Avoid When Dining Out
Some foods and cooking methods may seem Carnivore-friendly but can contain hidden carbs, sugars, or seed oils.
Foods to Watch Out For:
- Marinated Meats: Many marinades include sugar or soy-based sauces.
- Gravy or Sauces: These often contain flour, cornstarch, or sugar.
- Breaded or Fried Foods: Skip anything with a coating, as it likely contains flour or breadcrumbs.
- Plant-Based Oils: Avoid anything cooked in vegetable or seed oils—request butter or animal fat instead.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, ask your server about ingredients or how the food is prepared.
6. Best Types of Restaurants for Carnivores
Certain types of restaurants are more accommodating to a meat-based diet than others.
Top Choices:
- Steakhouses: Offer a wide range of meat options and allow for customizations.
- BBQ Restaurants: Focus on smoked meats, but skip the sauces.
- Seafood Restaurants: Provide fresh fish and shellfish with simple preparation.
- Diners: Many diners have all-day breakfast options with eggs, sausage, and bacon.
Pro Tip: Avoid restaurants heavily focused on pasta, bread, or plant-based dishes, as options may be limited.
7. Sample Carnivore-Friendly Orders
Here are examples of how to order at various types of restaurants:
Steakhouse:
- Ribeye steak with a side of sautéed mushrooms cooked in butter.
Burger Joint:
- Double cheeseburger, no bun, with bacon and a fried egg on top.
BBQ Restaurant:
- Smoked brisket and pork ribs, no sauce, with a side of extra meat.
Seafood Place:
- Grilled salmon with drawn butter and a side of shrimp.
Breakfast Diner:
- Scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and sausage links.
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for extra portions or sides of butter, eggs, or cheese.
8. Dining Out on Special Occasions
For special occasions like birthdays or holidays, staying Carnivore is still possible:
- Call Ahead: Discuss dietary preferences with the restaurant in advance.
- Eat Beforehand: If options are limited, have a small Carnivore meal at home first.
- Focus on Protein: Prioritize the main protein dish and skip sides or extras.
Pro Tip: Treat yourself to a premium cut of meat or seafood to celebrate in style.
Closing Thoughts
Dining out on the Carnivore Diet doesn’t have to be stressful or restrictive. With a little planning, clear communication, and the right choices, you can enjoy delicious meals while staying true to your dietary goals.
By focusing on protein-rich dishes, customizing your order, and staying flexible, you’ll find that dining out as a Carnivore can be just as enjoyable—and even simpler—than you thought. Embrace the simplicity of meat, and savor every bite.
