When it comes to dining out, few people know the do’s and don’ts better than Gordon Ramsay. The world-renowned chef and restaurateur has spent decades behind the scenes of top kitchens, spotting exactly what separates a great restaurant from a questionable one. And according to him, there are a few menu items that should set off alarm bells the moment you see them.
So, what are the dishes Gordon Ramsay considers “red flags”? Here’s a breakdown of the top items he says you should never order — and the insider reasons why.
1. The Soup of the Day (If It’s Not Busy)
Ramsay warns diners to be skeptical when ordering the “soup of the day,” especially in quiet restaurants. “Ask what it is before you order,” he says. “If the waiter hesitates or says it’s the same as yesterday, that’s not a good sign.” The concern? Leftover soup can be reheated and re-served for days, losing both freshness and flavor.
2. Specials That Sound Too Complicated
While daily specials can be a treat, Ramsay advises diners to pay attention to overly complex ones. “If the menu’s special has too many components or sounds fussy, it’s often the chef trying to get rid of ingredients before they go off,” he explains. A red flag, indeed.
3. Anything with Too Many Ingredients
If a dish lists more than 10 ingredients, Ramsay suggests giving it a pass. “Great food is about simplicity,” he’s said. “When there are too many flavors fighting on one plate, it usually means the kitchen doesn’t know what it’s doing.”
4. Overly Fancy Cocktails
Ramsay also urges caution when it comes to cocktails with “a dozen garnishes and fancy names.” His advice? Stick to the classics. “If it takes longer to make your drink than your appetizer, you’re in the wrong place,” he quipped during a Q&A.
5. Anything That’s Described as the ‘Famous House Dish’
A “house special” might sound tempting, but Ramsay says to take it with a grain of salt — especially if it’s not a restaurant known for that item. “If a place that’s not a steakhouse calls something their ‘famous steak,’ be suspicious,” he joked.
6. The Bread Basket
Yes, even the humble bread basket isn’t safe. Ramsay revealed that in many restaurants, uneaten bread gets recycled from table to table. “Unless it’s warm and freshly baked, avoid it,” he warns.
7. Well-Done Steak
Finally, Ramsay insists you should never order your steak well done. “It ruins the quality of the meat,” he’s said bluntly. “If you don’t trust how it’s cooked medium or medium-rare, you shouldn’t be eating there in the first place.”
While Gordon Ramsay’s critiques may sound harsh, they come from decades of experience running world-class restaurants. His bottom line? Always look for freshness, simplicity, and transparency — because in great dining, as in great cooking, honesty is the real secret ingredient.
