There's nothing like going out for a good meal. However, when you go to a new eating establishment, you want to ensure it's worth your time and money. After all, according to On the Line, American consumers spend 12.6% of their income on food, so you don't want to waste that money. When searching for the right place to eat, here are some qualities you should look for.

1. Good Food

It's a no-brainer that a fantastic dining establishment should have good food. Some places may initially gain a reputation because of a big-name chef or a celebrity whose name is on it. However, a famous name or hip location can only go so far. A fantastic eatery should always focus on quality food and ingredients that make customers want to return for more, even if they have a house full of food.

2. Adaptability

The dining industry is very fickle, and there's also a lot of competition. So, good restaurants need to have what it takes to adapt to the growing needs of the public, as well as the economy. For example, when the COVID crisis hit, the restaurants that adjusted to a delivery or pickup service survived and managed to stay afloat during a difficult time.

3. Cleanliness

No one wants to eat at a filthy eatery. Good sanitation is the first step in food prep, as dirty conditions can easily infect customers. The cleanliness of a restaurant also affects its rating. A restaurant with a “C” or “D” rating is less likely to have as many patrons as one that has an A rating and good food.

4. Customer Service

Have you ever been to a spot you were excited about eating at, only to be greeted by rude and indifferent service? When such behavior consistently happens, it will affect customer reviews and a restaurant's reputation. Enough bad reviews can easily squash the success of an otherwise good dining facility. A friendly and enthusiastic staff, however, can make a good dining experience great.

These are some qualities to look for in a local restaurant. From food to sanitation to professional service, a fantastic restaurant understands what it takes to stay in business. If you're looking for a good place to eat, stop by American Bar & Grill Lanc today.