Some restaurants have their menus on line you more time to plan your meal if not maybe a phone call ?
CAROL
Absolutely agree. I've eaten out a few times since my diagnosis and each time I looked up the menu online ahead of going, and prepared what I was going to order. The last time, I called the place we were all meeting and asked what they could offer instead of chips, breads etc and they were more than happy to take my lead - as long as you're relatively prepared ahead of placing your order, most places will be happy to figure out a way to make you enjoy your meal.
Though I've only eaten out a few times, each meal has been a success and I've found that restaurants will be happy to substitute chips, pasta or a bread side with salad, veggies, cheese or some extra meat (though you may have to pay for the latter two). One place was able to cook some chicken without the batter - they rubbed it in something lovely instead (so, just spices). They'll also find low-carb desserts (if that's the mood on the evening) - if they have ice-cream sundaes on the menu, they'll easily be able to fix you up some berries and cream.
There are "hidden" carbs to look out for, though - whipped cream from a can has sugar in it, onions are often fried in sugar, and sauces and gravies are often thickened with flour (and might have monstrous amounts of sugar).
It's a new skill - and a fun one. I hope you have a fab time!
P.S. I just noticed you're new to the forum,
@dav1950 ! Welcome! Do ask anything else that comes to mind - someone will answer!