Eating out

    Yesterday, we went to Olive Garden for lunch.  We had a gift card left over from Christmas and its a "sit down" restaurant where everyone can find something they like.  While looking over the menu, I thought to myself how it used to be so difficult to find healthy options when eating out.  Its not so difficult anymore.  I have gotten into the habit of looking at menus on line before we head out to eat.  That way, I know in advance what I will order.  Why not?  After all, we check out movies on line before we head to the theater.  Yesterday, I chose the grilled Salmon and Broccoli.  I love that they mixed red peppers in with the steamed broccoli.  Along with the salad, it was delicious and nutritious.  I avoided the bread sticks.  Maybe someday, they'll have whole wheat garlic sticks.  Anyway, OG has several healthier options on the menu.  
http://www.olivegarden.com/menus/

    Although I still believe eating at home is the best option (because you have more control), you might find yourself eating out on occasion be it for work, vacation, or just because you don't feel like cooking.  When faced with the choices on a restaurant menu, take your time.  I think you will find that you can continue to eat healthy.  If you know in advance where you are going, you can check out the restaurant's link on line.  Take a look at their menu.  Most are out there floating around in cyberspace (even hotel restaurants).  Plan ahead so you aren't pressured when it comes to you to decide what you want.  Without the pressure, you won't be inclined to head for that "not so healthy" favorite dish.  And don't be embarrassed if you can't finish your meal.  If I get a large portion, I take home half.  That's what refrigerators and microwave ovens are for, right?  As you can see below, many restaurants even have nutritional guides on line.  My point is that you can still stay on track while eating out.

Here are a few popular restaurant menus to check out (some with nutritional guides):
http://www.tgifridays.com/menus/menus.aspx
http://www.applebees.com/Menu_Under550.aspx
http://www.sakurasteakhouse.com/menu_03.html
http://www.ontheborder.com/menu-home.aspx  (avoid Margaritas.  Though tasty, high in empty carbs)
http://www.macaronigrill.com/Nutritional/Nutritional.aspx
http://www.chilis.com/en/menu/pages/home.aspx
http://www.bobevans.com/menu/nutrition.aspx
http://rubytuesday.com/menu?gclid=COi2vOXT0KYCFYnd4AodK3UPGw
http://www.outback.com/menu/
One of my personal favorites is Thai food.  I have a weakness for the spicy stuff.
http://dineview.com/search/show_menu.fwx?cat=R&zip=&ord=&id=052105&zone=35003&ti=thai%20orchid,woodbridge&tab=menu  (It receives wonderful reviews.  Though tempting, avoid the fried and heavy creamed selections).
Of course, if you are going to a restaurant I haven't listed, you can still eat healthy.  Here are some healthy hints when eating out:
http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/guide/healthy-choices-when-eating-out
If your favorite restaurants don't have on line menus, you can still work towards planning ahead.  Try this. Grab one of their paper take out menus next time you are there.  It feels great to be prepared, doesn't it?