Although they may serve your favorites, sometimes eating at the same place gets old. You get sick of the same food over and over again, and want to try something new. Instead of heading to the trusty, yet mediocre restaurant chain, why not use social media to find a new “favorite” place to dine.
1) Open Table: Open Table has an app available in the iTunes store for iPhones and iPads and is also available on Droid. Open Table not only allows you to make reservations, but you can view all of the restaurants within a certain distance of your location. There are reviews, recommendations, complete menus as well as a price range and description of the restaurant. This is a great way to search, explore, and make a reservation all in one place
2) Facebook: Facebook now allows you to vote for your favorite restaurants that you have “Liked.” Once you pick either or, it then will recommend restaurants that your friends have liked, or restaurants that are similar to your other favorites. Also, you are able to browse many restaurants menus right on their Facebook pages.
3) Groupon/Living Social: Everyone knows that you can get great deals from websites such as Groupon and Living Social, but it is also a great way to discover a new favorite. Trying different types of food, like Middle Eastern or a new Chinese place could not only open your eyes (and stomach) to a new restaurant, but also a new type of cuisine.
4) Urban Spoon: Urban Spoon is similar to Open Table, except you can see lists of restaurants based on popularity. Finding a new hot spot has never been easier. Just type in your city and sort by popularity. You can then filter your results by price and type of food. Not into a busy spot, then try a not so popular restaurant that still holds raving reviews.
5) Loopt: Loopt.com, which is still relatively unknown in South Florida, is a website where you can see different types of reviews of local restaurants. People can vote for restaurants around them in categories such as best margarita, lots of fun, and which entrée will make you do a happy dance. It also alerts you of any deals or special promotions in your area.
Now that you know where to look, go out and enjoy a night out! Drinks, dinner and dessert at your new favorite place!
