Tips To Improve Your Dining Experience
It’s no secret that restaurants are loud! The noise level of most restaurants makes for a less-than-enjoyable experience, especially for people with hearing loss. A study conducted in 2023 revealed that 63% of restaurants had an average noise level of 75 dB, which is about 15 dB louder than the normal conversation level. All of this is to say that you are not alone if you have trouble understanding your family and friends when dining out. Consider implementing the following tips to improve your dining experience.
1. Do your research. Information regarding San Antonio restaurant noise levels is not readily available. However, there are some things you might notice in pictures found on Google or Yelp that can provide you with helpful insight. Carpet is one of the most effective tools for reducing reverberation. As such, a carpeted restaurant will be significantly quieter than one with tile flooring. Multiple plants and widely spaced tables are also a good sign that noise levels will be more controlled. Studies indicate that Chinese, Indian, and Japanese restaurants are the most likely to be quiet.
2. Choose the right table. Opt for a booth or table in a corner by a wall to minimize background noise. The kitchen is the loudest part of the restaurant, so try to sit as far away from it as possible. When available, choose to sit at a round table. Round tables allow you to see everyone’s face easily, which can improve your conversation experience.
3. Advocate for yourself. Don’t be embarrassed to tell the restaurant staff about your hearing needs. Your experience is important to them; they know the restaurant better than you do. Assuming there is a quieter restaurant area, they will gladly sit you there.
4. Communicate assertively. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace, ensuring your words are easy to understand. Avoid chewing gum while speaking to make lip reading easier. In a larger group, make a point to get the individual’s attention before you begin speaking to ensure they are fully engaged. The easiest way to do this is to say their name, wait for acknowledgment, and then move forward with your conversation.
5. Wear your hearing aids! Hearing aids have the technology to reduce background noise. If you continue to experience consistent difficulty when wearing your hearing aids, tell your audiologist. They can likely adjust the amplification settings to manage background noise better.
One of the most detrimental side effects of untreated hearing loss is social isolation. I hope these tips help you and your loved ones stay connected. If you find yourself worried about your next social gathering, call an audiologist you trust. We have tools to help!
My personal recommendation is El Dorado Mexican Restaurant at 14602 Huebner. The birria tacos and margaritas are delicious, the ambiance is refined, and the sound level is ideal.
