It’s no secret that life is too short for a bad meal. Hence, it’s wise to separate mediocre restaurants from potentially great ones. To do so, keep your eyes peeled for these red flags shared by redditors and BuzzFeed Community members. From cold butter to incoherent menus, dirty bathrooms to plastic menus covered in food residue, these signs indicate potential issues with food quality, service, or hygiene. Look for a restaurant with a good mix of clientele, fresh oysters, a coherent menu, and a happy staff. If a place changes its name or cuisine frequently, it might be a sign of underlying problems. Remember, the quality of your dining experience often depends on the little details, so don’t hesitate to bail out if you notice any of these red flags.