Dining out can be an adventure, especially when you’re scanning a menu filled with choices that all sound tempting. But let’s face it: not every dish on the menu is created equal. Some are carefully crafted, signature items that showcase the chef’s talent, while others might be there to cater to popular demand. The question is, how do you know which dishes are the chef’s true pride and joy?

Spotting the chef’s specialties can elevate your dining experience, helping you enjoy the flavors that represent the heart and soul of the kitchen. Here are five telltale signs to look for the next time you’re faced with a menu.

1. Look for the “House Special” Section

It might sound obvious, but sometimes menus make it easy for you. Many restaurants have a section explicitly labeled “House Specialties,” “Chef’s Recommendations,” or something similar. These dishes are often the chef’s signature creations, designed to stand out from the rest of the menu. They typically include ingredients or techniques the chef is passionate about showcasing.

What to Look For:

• Menu headings like “Chef’s Picks,” “Signature Dishes,” or “Our Favorites.”
• Items marked with a star or symbol indicating they’re a house specialty.
• Dishes with elaborate or creative descriptions compared to others.

For instance, if you’re at an Italian restaurant, a “House-Made Truffle Ravioli with Sage Butter” is likely a signature dish, especially if it’s given prominent placement on the menu.

2. Notice Seasonal Ingredients

Chefs love working with fresh, in-season ingredients, and their best dishes often reflect this. Menus that change with the seasons are usually designed to highlight what’s freshest and most flavorful at that time of year. If a dish prominently features ingredients like summer tomatoes, autumn squash, or spring asparagus, it’s often a good bet that the chef put extra thought into its creation.

Why Seasonal Matters:

• Fresh, local ingredients inspire creativity in the kitchen.
• Seasonal dishes often require more effort and care in preparation.
• They reflect the chef’s ability to adapt and innovate with the changing produce.

For example, a summer menu might feature “Heirloom Tomato Salad with Burrata and Basil Oil,” while a winter menu could highlight “Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Spiced Pepitas.”

3. Check for Unique Ingredients or Techniques

Sometimes, the chef’s specialties are the ones that stand out as different or daring. These dishes might include unusual ingredients or showcase techniques that require significant skill. Look for items that sound more labor-intensive, like handmade pasta, slow-braised meats, or sauces that take hours to prepare.

Examples of What to Spot:

• Rare or premium ingredients like saffron, truffles, or wagyu beef.
• Uncommon preparations, such as sous-vide cooking or dishes smoked tableside.
• Fusion dishes that combine cuisines in unexpected ways.

A dish like “Miso-Glazed Black Cod with Yuzu Beurre Blanc” is more likely to be a chef’s specialty than a simple grilled salmon, because it demonstrates a blend of creativity and culinary expertise.

4. Pay Attention to the Pricing

Specialty dishes often come with a higher price tag. This doesn’t mean you should automatically gravitate toward the most expensive items on the menu, but it’s worth noting that signature dishes often reflect the effort, ingredients, and skill required to create them. If a dish costs noticeably more than others in the same category, it’s probably something the chef takes pride in.

Things to Consider:

• Compare prices within similar sections of the menu. For example, why is one steak $15 more than another?
• Look for detailed explanations. If a dish justifies its price by describing its process or sourcing, it’s likely a chef’s favorite.
• Be cautious with “luxury” items that might just be overpriced (e.g., gold leaf), unless the preparation is unique.

For instance, a “Dry-Aged Ribeye with Herb Butter and Charred Shallots” priced significantly higher than a basic sirloin might be the kitchen’s crown jewel.

5. Ask Your Server

When in doubt, ask the person who knows the menu best: your server. Servers are trained to understand what the kitchen excels at, and they’ll often steer you toward the chef’s specialties. Don’t be afraid to ask for their personal favorites or which dishes are most popular with guests.

Questions to Ask:

• “What’s the chef most proud of?”
• “If you could order one thing on the menu, what would it be?”
• “What’s the most unique dish here?”

Servers are usually happy to share insider tips, and they’ll often mention dishes that aren’t even listed on the menu, like specials or off-menu items the chef is excited about.

Final Thoughts

Finding the chef’s specialties on a menu can turn a good meal into an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s a dish highlighted in its own section, one featuring seasonal ingredients, or something your server enthusiastically recommends, these items are often the ones that reflect the chef’s personality and passion.

So, the next time you dine out, keep these tips in mind, and don’t be afraid to try something bold or unfamiliar. After all, a great chef’s masterpiece isn’t just food — it’s a story on a plate, waiting for you to savor every bite.