Eating Out -Smaller Portions

[jill]

Hi, just wondering if anyone can suggest places to eat that have smaller portion sizes? I will have my elderly mother with me who does not eat a great deal and therefore going for a meal can be problematic. At home we can usually get past this by asking if she can just have a starter and sweet which is perfect for her but not sure if this would be ok to ask for here. We got by last year by eating at the more "snack" type of places or sharing chinese/pizza but it would be nice to visit the other more upmarket places as well. Nico's were also great as they let her have the kids menu! Many thanks from sunny Edinburgh (doesn't happen often!)

 

[kate1]

It is absolutely fine at most places, I would think, to ask for a starter and a sweet - have done this myself on occasions. Some places actually offer some of their starters in 'starter' or 'main course' sizes (O'Lume does I know, and I think I have seen it elsewhere). Some dishes, like paella or fish soup, are made for two to share so you can eat as much or as little as you want. I can't think that with the economic climate like it is any restaurant is going to turn away your business whatever you choose to order.

 

[Belladonna]

Totally agree Kate. Many times I know that the main course will be far too much - after a few nights of eating 3 courses - so will just order the starter to be given at the same time as other main courses. Its quite acceptable.

 

[pips]

while out with the children many places serve starters and desserts as the kids like to be a bit more adventurous, rather than the usual nuggets and chips.I know as a nurse the appetite decreases but older people still like to enjoy local foods, and why not.

 

[Sparky]

The vast majority of restaurants are happy to do half portions, also you can just have a starter if that's what you want. As has been said before on this site any business is better than no business. Don't be afraid to ask .

 

[jill]

Thanks to all - a great source of information as usual - much appreciated.

 

[Cocoa07]

Why not try some of the tapas restaurants too - perfect for people with small (or large) appetites.

 

[ray]

It is absolutely fine at most places, I would think, to ask for a starter and a sweet - have done this myself on occasions. Some places actually offer some of their starters in 'starter' or 'main course' sizes (O'Lume does I know, and I think I have seen it elsewhere). Some dishes, like paella or fish soup, are made for two to share so you can eat as much or as little as you want. I can't think that with the economic climate like it is any restaurant is going to turn away your business whatever you choose to order.

This is spot on mallorcans are big food shares and starters as mains are common place

 

[med777]

I frequently take both my parents ( 80 y/o's... just young things )to PP and none of us are large eaters and often have a very mixed up selection of courses. Sometimes having perhaps 2 meals, with an extra plate and its all divvied up between the 3 of us.. and have never had any problem in any of the eateries. I have found the restaurants more approachable and accommodatingly in many cases than those in the UK. Also , especially if in the evening, the MdD is slightly smaller portions ( the price usually will reflect)
Go for it Jill, I'm sure u will have no problem at all !

Miriam ( sunny but chilly Ayrshire ! )