Let's Eat: Don't deny yourself a good meal out

'Many independent restaurants will be happy to talk about their menu and its dishes and you might pick up some cooking tips' What a treat it is to go out for a meal! The joy of special food and the absolute pleasure of someone else doing the dishes is so wonderful. As summer winds up many of us are celebrating the last days of summer. Despite the challenging financial times, there are some ways to enjoy a meal out.\ How do you know where the food deals are? Of course, there's an app for that. Some folks will use Too Good To Go to find out who has some cheaper food available at local groceries or bakeries. And there is even a website that shows all the local weekly deals at local restaurants. If you can't remember which night is cheaper at your favourite restaurant you might check out Cheap Eats Guelph to plan a tasty and less expensive night out. Other folks are making the most of the seasonal deals on apps at some of the chain restaurants. And of course, there are those flyers that turn up in mailboxes promising a deal on burgers and pizza. Some folks worry that dining in a restaurant or getting take out is not good for your health. And, if you were dining out every day it might be hard to get all the nutrients you need. Most dietitians would suggest that you don't need to worry yourself about dining out. Food is, after all, more than nutrition. Enjoy some delicious food. Really enjoy it and let the food offer you joy and satisfaction. Those are important parts of food and eating too. Another thing restaurant food can offer is a chance to learn. A recent visitor to Guelph tried out an Afghan restaurant and found out he loved Afghani cuisine! It can be a great way to try out foods before you make them at home. Many independent restaurants will be happy to talk about their menu and its dishes and you might pick up some cooking tips. The Cornerstone, a wonderful restaurant in downtown Guelph, has a great way to make sure everyone can eat a delicious restaurant meal. It's their Pay-it-forward program: 'Our pay-it-forward program here at The Cornerstone gets tons of use every day, and has become a valuable resource for many community members. It's a no questions asked service, people can grab as much as they need, for any reason, and enjoy their food or drinks for takeout, or dine in house. Any contributions make a huge difference.' We all need a day off from cooking our own food. If you can help someone else in Guelph have that day consider contributing to the Pay-it-Forward program in person or online!