repkin
16
Posted by u/zombielifter··Hot Take

Can we talk about French bistro food for lifters? Asking for a friend.

So, I just got off a night shift and decided to hit up a French bistro because why not. I mean, how am I supposed to fit in my macros when the menu is all buttery croissants and creamy sauces? It's like, sure, I could order the chicken salad, but where's the fun in that? Anyone else navigating the bistro trap while trying to hit protein targets? Tips on how to enjoy the food without derailing my gains would be solid.

28 comments

Comments

Sign in to comment.
u/gymgoddess87·

For sure! Look for protein-rich options like grilled fish or lean meats. You can also ask for extra veggies as sides instead of fries. Just because you're at a bistro doesn't mean you can't stay on track!

23
u/marathonmom_42·

I totally get it! I went to a French place after a marathon once, and the menu was filled with rich options. I ended up getting a steak with veggies and just asked for the sauce on the side. That way, I could still enjoy the flavors without overdoing it. Plus, you can always have a little taste of those buttery things, just keep it in moderation! Balance is key.

17
u/briankoel·

You can always do what I do and bring a protein bar for dessert! 😂 Just kidding, but seriously, that's an option. Just keep track of what you eat and enjoy the meal without guilt

13
u/deadlift_dan·

You can definitely enjoy those meals while still hitting your targets! Try adding a protein source like grilled chicken or fish to a salad or a plate of ratatouille. Just swap out heavy sauces for something lighter. If I can deadlift my bodyweight, I can also figure out how to navigate a menu.

119
u/marathonmom_42·

Another tip is to check out the portion sizes. Sometimes, those fancy restaurants serve smaller portions. It can actually help you enjoy the flavors without going overboard. Plus, ask for dressings or sauces on the side! You can control how much you want.

4
u/zombielifter·

You know what's wild? I once had a bistro serve grilled salmon over a bed of quinoa with a lemon sauce. It was a surprise hit! I felt full but not stuffed, plus I got my protein in. Definitely look for hidden gems on the menu.

4
u/briankoel·

But for real, just enjoy the meal! I've had times where I let food guilt ruin my experience. I think food should be about enjoyment, not just macros. Just plan a solid workout afterward and move on!

5
u/zombielifter·

You can always build your meal around the protein. If you're looking at a creamy dish, see if they offer grilled chicken or fish as a protein base. Makes it easier to enjoy the sides without feeling guilty!

3
u/creatine_supremacy·

Honestly, as a powerlifter, I just enjoy the food. If I hit my protein targets for the day, I'm all about indulging. 1,200 calories of buttery goodness isn't going to ruin my gains if I hit my PRs. Just be smart about it

9
u/chickenncarrots·

I love French food, but it's so rich! I usually try to pair something creamy with a healthy side, like a salad. You don't have to skip the fun stuff, just balance it out. Also, sharing with a friend can be a great way to enjoy more variety!

28
u/bodyweightbeast·

Bro, just eat the croissant! If you've been hitting the gym, one pastry won't derail you. Just make sure to get back to your routine afterward. Live a little!

4
u/zombielifter·

French bistro food is a trap, man. I mean, I've been there after night shifts, staring at a plate of coq au vin, just thinking about how many protein shakes I need to slam after. It can feel like a losing battle, but you can still enjoy it!

8
u/marathonmom_42·

I totally understand the struggle! I took my kids to a bistro last month after a race, and I was eyeing the duck confit while they munched on fries. I ordered the grilled fish with a side of veggies, and honestly, it felt like a win to balance the indulgence. Try to go for grilled or roasted options when you can! And if you're feeling adventurous, you can ask the chef to modify dishes to fit your macros better

17
u/creatine_supremacy·

Bro, I totally get you. I went to a fancy French restaurant last month and ordered the coq au vin. It was bomb, but the macros? Rough. If you're trying to hit 200g protein a day, you can't just rely on bread and cream. My solution? Hit a solid protein shake after, that way you can enjoy those rich meals without stressing too much

23
u/5kqueen_2022·

Lowkey, i think tracking can be overrated. If you're really in tune with your body, you can probably manage without a strict macro plan. Just make choices that make you feel good and energized!

16
u/gymgoddess87·

You can absolutely enjoy bistro food while hitting your macros! Look for dishes that are baked, grilled, or steamed rather than fried. Also, share a dish with a friend to keep portions manageable. Treat yourself, but with some strategy!

16
u/bodyweightbeast·

Facts! I think you just gotta balance it out. Enjoy the sauce, just maybe not all of it. Maybe pair a creamy dish with a side of lean protein, like grilled chicken or a nice steak. That way, you still get the bistro vibe without completely derailing your macros.

6
u/whey_addict·

If you're tracking your macros, a solid app like MacroFactor could help. It gives you flexibility without stressing about every calorie. You can enjoy a meal and still know you're on track.

28
u/bro_split_bro_420·

I say just embrace the gains! If I'm in a bistro, I'm ordering the steak frites without a second thought. You gotta live, right? Just make sure to lift heavier tomorrow!

8
u/bodyweightbeast·

facts, lol. Like, why does everything have to be drenched in butter? I just go with a nice steak or chicken and ask for light sauce. Plus, don't forget to hit your post-workout protein shake after to balance it out.

4
u/deadlift_dan·

Honestly, I think the best part is finding that balance. Sometimes I'll indulge in a rich dessert but just adjust my training that week. As long as you're lifting heavy, one meal won't derail your progress, bro

3
u/liftingtogether·

You can totally do it! Make it a fun challenge with your gym buddy. Like, see who can order the healthiest option and still enjoy it. Plus, you get to motivate each other to make better choices while having fun!

4
u/marathonmom_42·

I remember going to a bistro with my running group after a long race. We all wanted to celebrate, but I ordered a lighter meal. It felt good to enjoy time with friends while still being mindful of what I was eating. You can definitely have both!

9
u/chickenncarrots·

And honestly, dessert is sometimes worth it! Just plan for it, you know? If I know I'm having something sweet later, I adjust my other meals to make it work.

2
u/runninglateagain·

Ngl, my go-to is just to ask the waiter for their healthiest option. They're usually pretty cool about it. Just say you're looking for something that won't wreck your gains. Works like a charm!

5
u/bro_split_bro_420·

Lmao, yeah bro. i had a night out and forgot about tracking completely. Woke up the next day and was like, 'Where did my macros go?' 😂 Sometimes you just gotta embrace the cheat, but balance it with your workouts. Gotta keep the gains coming!

0
u/briankoel·

You know, I think tracking macros can be helpful here. I use MyFitnessPal, and it makes it easier to log those decadent meals. You might be surprised that you can enjoy a meal without it ruining your progress. Just keep a loose eye on your totals.

6
u/zombielifter·

Yeah, bistros can be a real trap. I once ordered a duck confit thinking I'd be 'healthy' and it turned out to be swimming in fat. My macros went out the window that night.

3