Life Coach
The world of dining and drinking is an obstacle course wrapped in a labyrinth wrapped in a logic puzzle — it’s full of pitfalls, gray areas, and bewildering questions that really shouldn’t even be questions (How do I find the bathroom?) and yet, somehow, are. Fortunately, your friends at Eater are here to help: Life Coach is a series of simple guides to the arcane rituals of modern dining. Have a question or a quandary you’d like us to tackle? Drop Life Coach a line.
The 5 Questions to Ask to Get a Better Restaurant Meal
Or, how to dine out like an absolute pro
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8 Rules for Eating Out on a Holiday (If You Refuse to Cook)
Arrive on time, tip big, and be prepared for the unexpected
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Seven Things to Consider Before You Break Up With Someone in a Restaurant
Bring cash because you’re going to need to make a quick exit, you monster
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How to Gift (or Get) a Great Food Experience
Cooking classes, food tours, and wine-tasting experiences are popular experiential gifts — for good reason
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What to Wear to a Restaurant for Any Occasion
Take the stress out of figuring out how to dress, so you can focus on important things — like what to order
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The Right Way to Bring a Baby to a Bar
A trip to the bar with a young kid can be a disaster, but there are steps you can take to ensure that everyone has a good time
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How to Drink (Somewhat Responsibly) on an Airplane
Drink water before anything else and take all the snacks
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How to Get the Most Credit Card Rewards When Dining Out
You spend money at restaurants anyway: Get some of it back
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How to Write an Online Restaurant Review Without Being a Jerk
Do your part to make the internet a slightly better place by writing Google, Yelp, or TripAdvisor reviews that are actually helpful
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How to Order Caviar Without Going Totally Broke
Remember: expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better
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The Definitive Guide to Tipping at Any Restaurant in America
Start by making your default 20 percent everywhere — yes, even there
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How to Be a Good Thanksgiving Guest
Arrive on time but not early, bring a thoughtful gift, and make yourself useful in the kitchen
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How to Day Drink Without Falling Asleep at the Table
Stick to low-proof beverages, don’t forget to eat and hydrate, and most importantly, know when to quit
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How to Split the Check Without Annoying Your Friends (or Your Server)
Remember: Venmo is your friend — and if all else fails, consider separate checks
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The Right Way to Navigate All-You-Can-Eat Buffets
Go hungry, don’t load up on carbs, and other helpful tips
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The Right Way to Complain at a Restaurant
How to properly complain about bad wine, an overcooked steak, or a misplaced reservation
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Skip the Super Bowl, Go Out for Dinner Instead
Strategic Dining Days are a real thing. Take advantage of them.
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A (Nearly) Foolproof Guide to Ordering at Trendy Restaurants
How to navigate the fancy menu minefield
