How to Avoid the ‘Where Should We Eat?’ Argument While Traveling

You’re starving. Your friends are hungry. But instead of eating, you’re stuck in the dreaded “Where should we eat?” argument—scrolling through reviews, debating cuisines, and getting hangrier by the second. Sound familiar? Finding a place to eat while traveling should be exciting, not stressful. To avoid decision fatigue (and keep everyone happy), use these simple tricks to pick a spot quickly and painlessly.

1. Set a Rule: First Decent Place Wins

Instead of endlessly searching for the “perfect” restaurant, agree as a group that the first decent place you see is where you eat. Here’s how to make it work:

• Walk for 10 minutes max—if nothing jumps out, stop at the next reasonable option.
• Skip places with pushy hosts—they usually signal tourist traps.
• Look inside: If it’s busy with locals, it’s probably good.

This method prevents overthinking and lets you enjoy the meal instead of wasting time choosing it.

2. Rotate Decision-Making

Too many opinions? Take turns picking the restaurant each day. Simple rules:

• One person picks, no debates.
• No vetoes unless there’s a dietary restriction.
• If it’s bad, laugh it off—next meal, someone else chooses.

Everyone gets a chance to pick, and you avoid endless back-and-forth discussions.

3. Use the “3 Options” Trick

Instead of asking, “Where should we eat?” give three choices:

• One casual option (cheap and quick).
• One sit-down option (slightly nicer).
• One wildcard (something adventurous or unique).

The group votes, and boom—decision made in seconds.

4. Decide Before You Get Hungry

The worst time to choose a restaurant? When you’re already starving. Plan ahead by:

• Looking up options earlier in the day, so you’re not scrambling last-minute.
• Picking a place near your next activity, so you don’t wander aimlessly.
• Having a backup plan, in case the first choice is closed or full.

Planning ahead keeps everyone fed and happy—no hangry fights necessary.

5. Let an App Decide for You

If no one can agree, let an app pick. Try:

• Spin the Wheel apps: Enter restaurant options and let fate decide.
• Google Maps “I’m Feeling Lucky”: Click a random restaurant and go with it.
• Local food blogs: Pick the first highly rated place you see.

Turning the decision into a game makes it more fun (and eliminates arguments).

6. Trust the Locals

Locals always know where to eat. Instead of endless online searching:

• Ask your hotel staff, taxi driver, or bartender where they eat—not where they send tourists.
• Look for restaurants packed with locals, not just other travelers.
• Visit markets and street food stalls—they’re cheap, quick, and full of authentic flavors.

Local recommendations save time and lead to better, more authentic meals.

7. Have a “No-Pressure” Meal Plan

For longer trips, create a loose meal plan:

• 1 fancy meal (splurge-worthy experience).
• 1 casual meal (cheap and fast).
• 1 “whatever looks good” meal (spontaneous choice).

This mix keeps meals exciting without turning every decision into a drawn-out debate.

8. Accept That Not Every Meal Has to Be “The Best”

Traveling makes us put too much pressure on meals. Relax—every meal doesn’t have to be life-changing. Some will be amazing, some will be average, and that’s okay. As long as you’re fed and enjoying the trip, you’re doing it right.

The Verdict: Eat Without the Drama

The “Where should we eat?” argument is avoidable. Whether you take turns picking, set a time limit, or trust a local’s recommendation, the key is to stop overthinking and just eat. Travel is about the experience—don’t waste it debating dinner. Pick a spot, enjoy the meal, and move on to the next adventure.