Shocking Restaurant Secrets—Exposed!

Secret: Buffets are breeding grounds for bacteria.

Part of the danger of buffets is that the food sits out at inconsistent temperatures. The food on the bottom is burnt, while the food on the top is too cold. Additionally, you don't always get real ingredients at buffets. A recent test from West Virginia University concluded that scrambled eggs from two restaurant buffets were not made from real eggs. Instead, the samples were made from liquid egg substitutes containing less protein and more water.
Solution: If you want to eat at a buffet, go when it first opens to ensure the highest quality of freshness. For for lunch, aim for noon, and for dinner, go at 5 P.M.

Secret: The daily special is often a bad choice.

Restaurateurs know that many diners will order a special, and consequently raise the price. Sadly, the daily special may not actually be special; they are usually made of the food the chef needs to get rid of quickly. This includes aging meat and fish, old veggies and leftover sauces—all of which could cause a nasty case of food poisoning.
Solution: If the day's special appeals to you, don't be shy about asking the waiter questions about the ingredients.

Next: What could be masquerading as your breaded veal