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Food

The One Food You Should Never Order At A Seafood Restaurant, According To A Chef

October 3, 2018 by Jessica Harrington
shefinds | Food
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A nice dinner out to a fancy seafood restaurant can sound like a really good idea — and it is — 99% of the time. However, there’s always that 1% chance that you’ll order the wrong thing and end up feeling deathly ill. And let us just say, you don’t know sick until you’ve been sick from seafood.

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Fresh clams served on a rustic wooden table.

Oftentimes, seafood is considered a luxury food. It’s a go-to dish for upscale parties, tropical vacations, and celebratory dinners. As long as you’re dining at a reputable restaurant, your risk of getting sick is very, very slim. To make sure you stay healthy, there is one dish that chefs say all frequent seafood eaters should avoid at all costs.

Grilled salmon fillet garnished with herbs and lemon.

According to “Top Chef” finalists Silvia Barban and James Briscione, you shouldn’t let a restaurant’s seafood special woo you over--there’s nothing special about it!

"Specials are tricky in restaurants," chef Silvia Barban said to MSN. "It could be the most fresh and delicious special, but in some restaurants, specials are the way to clean up the fridge."

Colorful paella with seafood and vegetables in a skillet.

Another safe-seafood eating tip from the experts: ask about the origin of the fish. The menu should state where the fish was caught. If it doesn’t explicitly list where the seafood is sourced from, don’t be afraid to ask.

Juicy shrimp skewers ready for grilling or serving.

"I’m someone that always asks where the seafood comes from if the menu doesn't say so explicitly," said chef James Briscione to MSN. "I’m not interested in anything that has been imported, especially shrimp, tilapia, and catfish. These are often raised in less than ideal conditions."

Author:

Fashion & Beauty Editorial Assistant

Jessica is a former editorial assistant of SheFinds. She covered fashion, beauty and more. Jessica’s work has also appeared in The Zoe Report, AhaLife, JoyfullyMe, and Her Campus Media.

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Sipping spearmint tea in a cozy setting.
Variety of bread types showcased on a table.
Freshly baked goods from Costco bakery display.
Woman holding her head, expressing stress.
Woman experiencing joint pain while sitting.
Aromatic coffee with sugar being added.
Variety of fast food from Dunkin', Chick-fil-A, Starbucks.
Woman adding sugar to a steaming cup of coffee.
Tasty bagels with blueberries and butter on a wooden board.
Comparison of cooking spray and olive oil for healthy cooking.
Brazilian dish featuring rice, beans, and chicken from above.
Close-up of watch as someone eats breakfast.
Display of deli meats, sandwiches, hot dogs, and sausages.
Cooked salmon served with rice, avocado, and greens.
Interior view of a Costco store showcasing various products.
Woman taking magnesium supplement for health benefits.
Selection of s'mores brownies and baked ricotta from Aldi.
Grilled chicken breast with fries, salad, and dipping sauces.
Frozen pizza options available in grocery store aisle.
Delicious fried fish and fries on a plate