How to Hear Better at Restaurants

You walk into a restaurant hoping for a wonderful meal, only to be overwhelmed by the incredible amount of noise. So many factors come into play: the kitchen, the other guests, the music. How are you supposed to enjoy a nice meal when you know you won’t be able to hear the conversation at your own table?

Don’t let this predicament stress you out. It’s true–restaurants can be a hub for noise. Young people don’t mind it much, and depending on what city you’re in, a loud restaurant could simply be the norm. Hearing loss can make it hard to dine out and enjoy the people you’re with.

We can help. Let’s look at a few ways to make your dining experience enjoyable:
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1. Do your research and choose a restaurant that meets your needs.

Did you know that you can use the internet to research the noise levels at certain restaurants? The information isn’t always guaranteed, but if you visit the website Yelp and search for the restaurant you’re hoping to visit, they provide the noise level. This will give you an idea of what to expect.

This is an especially helpful tool if you’re visiting a city you’ve never been to and don’t know what to expect.

Researching beforehand can eliminate your frustration, and even disappointment, in your dining out experience. Tweet This

2. Once you’ve picked your restaurant, let the host/hostess know what kind of table you’d like to sit at.

When you’re going out to eat, you want to enjoy the experience. But, hearing loss can make that more difficult. We encourage you to speak up and ask for the great experience you’re hoping for. A table that allows easy-to-hear conversation is beneficial to everyone.

Ask for a booth. The higher bench seats will block out some of the environmental noise, making it easier to filter out the conversation right in front of you. When you sit down, choose to sit with your back to the noise. This allows your hearing aids to catch the conversation right in front of you, keeping the extra noises out of range.

Don’t be afraid to ask!

3. Be honest with the people you’re dining with.

Hearing loss shouldn’t make you feel embarrassed. About 48 million Americans have some form of it, so you’re not alone!

Being honest with those dining with you will make it easier to enjoy your meal and the people you’re with. Tweet This

Let them know where you’d like to sit so you can be part of the conversation. Give them an idea of the type of restaurant you’d prefer to go to that isn’t too loud, and speak up if you know the place you’re going will make you feel like the odd one out.

Eating out doesn’t have to intimidate you. Follow these tips, and you’ll find yourself enjoying experiences with your friends and loved ones like never before.

If you’re in Lancaster County, we know some great restaurants that you’re sure to love. Here are some of our recommendations from around the office:
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Aussie and the Fox has Australian and American cuisines in a fun, yet sophisticated atmosphere.
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For a down-to-earth atmosphere and great breakfast, Ida’s Cafe is a favorite. It’s always peaceful and quiet, and you can eat breakfast all day long!
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The Belvedere Inn is perfect for a quiet dinner with friends and family. They offer a fresh spin on classic dishes, and they even off private rooms for dining.
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Ciro’s Italian Bistro is also a favorite. They offer a variety of Italian food in a warm, quiet setting.
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Ginza is a nice, quiet BYOB sushi restaurant in the Greenfield Shopping Center.
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Copper Cup on Columbia Avenue also makes great cappuccinos, and it’s a peaceful start to any day!

Here’s a recap:

• If you can, do your research before going out and choose a place that won’t be too loud. Use the internet for your benefit on this one!
• Once you’re at the restaurant, choose a booth over a table, and make sure you’re positioned away from the noise so you can hear the conversation better.
• Be honest with the people you’re with. Chances are, they want you to be part of the conversation just as much as you do.

Use these tips, and you’ll enjoy eating out like never before! Cheers!