What is the essence of a good meal out?

[227bhp]

You can cite hot plates, good service, value for money etc, all of which contribute greatly, but for me it has to be something which I couldn't make as well at home.

This applies to not only some of the best high end restaurants, but also top quality pizzas, fish & chips, Big Macs, Double Whoppers etc.
I would never set out to have a 'Sunday roast', because I know I could do better myself at home. A proper seafood linguine or a Big Mac? Not a chance......

[V8mate]

The people you're eating out with.

[dazco]

Funny you single out a roast dinner, I really enjoy eating these out because when I cook them I never fancy them.

Incidentally some Tesco stores now have a carvery as their food outlet, you really must try one of these if you see one because they are outstanding value for money.

[21TonyK]

Company first and above all. Best meal I ever had gave me food poisoning but it was just about the best night ever because of the friends I was with.

But as to the nuts and bolts of the meal. Service goes a long way to make a meal good, then the food and wine itself and finally value for money. Cost is irrelevant, a £4 burger on a track day or a £400 3* meal can be equal value for money.

I enjoy formal dining for the pleasure of the food and wine but being able to relax and have a laugh with friends wins 9/10 times.

[Don]

227bhp said:

You can cite hot plates, good service, value for money etc, all of which contribute greatly, but for me it has to be something which I couldn't make as well at home.

Great criterion, that.

My one is: If I had made that meal, would I be proud? If the answer is "yes" it was good. If the answer is "Oh, boy, yes. I wish I was that good..." then it was fabulous.

[calibrax]

I agree, I want to have something which would be difficult for me to make at home. For this reason I tend not to go to Italian restaurants, as most of the food is relatively simple to make at home.

[daytona365]

Chocolate milkshake at Pizza Hut.

[Miguel Alvarez]

Company and service. Plus I'm another one who loves a roast when someone else cooks it. I can make a good roast but it's just not the same.

[hondafanatic]

Miguel Alvarez said:

Plus I'm another one who loves a roast when someone else cooks it. I can make a good roast but it's just not the same.

I'm the same...by the time i'm done I just don't want it. Friends love my cooking but sometimes I'm just 'meh' about it when I've spent a few hours cooking.

Essence of a good meal out for my is company, straight forward service i.e. any problems are dealt with and don't become the main topic of conversation and food that is at least equal to but hopefully better than I can do at home.

[Japveesix]

Price, has to be as cheap as possible. McDonalds have nailed it, or maybe a KFC Bargain Bucket.