If you have traveled before, you will identify with the everlasting struggle of finding good restaurants. You will have noticed that merely searching for a restaurant nearby is often never enough. Firstly, there is no one fixed method of finding a good restaurant. More often than not, the best places are somewhat hidden, tucked away in narrow alleys and obscure streets.

Here are a handful of useful tips that are sure to direct you towards the best restaurant nearby.

1. Avoid touristy establishments

Generally, restaurants located in tourist locations are not good enough. While some may appear beautifully furnished, and some may even offer decent meals, the majority are likely to disappoint. Usually, they are expensive and offer a fusion of done-to-death European cuisine, along with one or two hastily prepared local dishes.

2. Look for a full house

After successfully evading the tourist traps, look for a restaurant that is full of people, particularly locals. If a place is full-on an obscure day at an obscure time like Tuesday at lunchtime, chances are that it is the quality of the preparations here that are driving people into the establishment.

3. Ask the locals for suggestions

If the previous point sounds a little tricky to execute, then one is sure to work the magic. Locals are likely to know the quality of nearly every eatery in the neighborhood. Right from a hole-in-the-wall kind of place to a fine-dining restaurant. There is nothing that the locals cannot tell you about.

If you are lucky to have come across a truly kind and generous local, they will not stop at merely recommending the place. They may also guide you on exactly what to order, for example, a legendary dish that may otherwise be unheard of by visitors and the rest of the world.

Now for obtaining those precious local recommendations, there are a few ways to go about it. If you have a friend or family member in the area, reach out to them and see if they can guide you through the city’s restaurant scene.

However, if you are in a new city, with no relatives around, then do not be shy about striking up conversations with local strangers. Make an effort to meet new people or ask the locals working at small shops.

4. Seek help on social media

Social media is like a bank of inspiration, ideas, and suggestions. Given that you do not know the area too well, use social media platforms to crowdsource information, and get advice from both friends and strangers online. Post about asking for restaurant recommendations in the city that you are visiting, and you will be pleasantly surprised with the variety and number of suggestions.

Social review sites are another alternative. They help you find out about popular restaurants in the area. Additionally, they offer the advantage of reading multiple reviews, getting directions to the place, and oftentimes viewing the menu and pictures of the food beforehand. The downside of these sites, however, is that they are notorious for leading you to the most popular, trendy places rather than the more unconventional spots, which serve truly authentic food. As an alternative to review sites, you can also consider browsing online forums, where the dining guides are compiled by local culinary professionals. A city-specific guidebook, preferably written or edited by a local resident, is also a great alternative.

Do not forget to show some gratitude when you do manage to find a great local restaurant or a unique dining experience while traveling. Remember, most authentic places are often mom-and-pop run, which are sure to appreciate if you spread the word and direct friends and family their way in the future. Also, if you loved the food, do not forget to compliment the staff on a job well done!