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How to order a smaller plate

Many restaurant plates are bigger than one sitting. Here are ways to order less, or to plan on eating part now and part later.

Look for smaller sizes

• Kids' sizes and snack sizes show up on some menus. If you're not sure whether adults can order them, ask.
• Half-size or "lunch" portions, single tacos, cups instead of bowls of soup, and appetizer portions are other small options.
• When a menu lists nutrition, the numbers are for the size listed. A smaller size has its own numbers.

Make a meal from sides

A protein side plus a vegetable side can be a full small plate. Steamed, grilled or broiled vegetables are often lower-calorie choices than fried sides.

Order this, box half

If a plate is large, ask for a to-go box when the food arrives and set half aside before you start. You eat the first half now and keep the rest for later. Half the plate is roughly half the listed numbers, but it isn't a separate menu item, so treat it as an estimate.

Keep the other half safe

USDA's food safety guidance says to refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours, or within 1 hour when it's above 90°F (for example, in a hot car). Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, and should be reheated to 165°F.

Drinks and extras

Drinks, sauces, and dressings can add up. Asking for sauces or dressings on the side lets you choose how much to use.

Talk to your prescriber about what is right for you.

Sources

• FDA, "Calories on the Menu: Information for Consumers". www.fda.gov
• USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, "Leftovers and Food Safety" (last updated Jul 31, 2020). www.fsis.usda.gov