When it comes to ethnic food, there's nothing quite like the real deal. Unfortunately, not all ethnic restaurants are created equal and it can be hard to tell the difference between a legit spot and a tourist trap (without stereotyping other cultures obviously). Whether you're a foodie looking to expand your palate or just someone looking for a delicious meal, here are a few tips to help you spot a legit ethnic restaurant.

Armenian dish on wooden table
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
  1. Location, location, location: One of the best indicators of an authentic ethnic restaurant is its location. If a restaurant is located in an area known for a high concentration of a particular ethnic group, it's more likely to be authentic. For example, if you're looking for a legit Chinese restaurant, you'll have better luck in a neighborhood with a large Chinese population. Similarly, if you're looking for a legit African restaurant, you'll want to check out the areas with a high Afro population. The ambiance rather can also hint at whether or not the restaurant is trying to be authentic.
  2. Check the menu: A good ethnic restaurant should have a menu that reflects the traditional dishes of the culture. Be wary of restaurants that have a menu that seems to be catering to a more mainstream audience, as they may not be as authentic. For example, if you're looking for a legit Thai restaurant, the menu should feature traditional dishes such as tom yum soup, green curry, and pad thai. If the menu is filled with Americanized dishes such as sweet and sour chicken or fried rice, it's probably not a legit spot.
  3. Look for family-run businesses: Many ethnic restaurants are family-run, and they often put a lot of care and love into their food. These restaurants often have a more intimate and homey feel, and the food is likely to be more authentic. You can often tell if a restaurant is family-run by the atmosphere and the friendliness of the staff. If you want Jollof that isn't drier than the Sahara, make sure the aunties cooking are older than 50. (only jokes but not)
  4. Observe the clientele: If you see a lot of people from the culture eating at the restaurant, it's a good sign that the food is authentic. This is particularly true for restaurants that are located in ethnic neighborhoods. If you see a lot of people from the culture eating at the restaurant, it's a good sign that the food is authentic.
  5. Don't be afraid to ask: If you're unsure about a restaurant's authenticity, don't be afraid to ask the staff or the diners about their experiences. They may be able to provide valuable insight. For example, you could ask the server if the dishes on the menu are traditional or if they have any recommendations for traditional dishes.
  6. Check the authenticity of the ingredients: A good ethnic restaurant will use authentic ingredients, rather than substituting them with cheaper or more widely available ingredients. For example, a good Indian restaurant should use ghee, a clarified butter, in their cooking, rather than using regular butter or oil.
  7. Check for authenticity in the cooking methods: An authentic ethnic restaurant will use traditional cooking methods, such as clay ovens for tandoori dishes or a charcoal grill for satay. Obviously, you can’t just walk into their kitchens but if you ask politely or take a sneak peek if it’s one of those open kitchen-style restaurants.
  8. Check for authenticity in the presentation: A good ethnic restaurant will present its food in a way that is true to the culture. For example, a good Chinese restaurant will serve dishes in traditional Chinese bowls and plates, rather than in Western-style plates.

The are just personal suggestions, but I do see myself as an expert when it comes to food, so by following these tips, you'll be able to spot a legit ethnic restaurant and have a truly authentic dining experience. Of course, keep in mind that authenticity is a matter of perspective and it's not always black and white. However, by following these tips, you'll be able to find a restaurant that offers a truly authentic taste of the culture you're interested in, no matter what city you live in. So next time you're craving some ethnic food, keep these tips in mind

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