If it were up to me, my entire restaurant order would be composed of appetizers . And it often is, because you only live once.

From dumplings and edamame to raw oysters and Brussels sprouts with bacon, theres something just so, well, appetizing about those little dishes you order before your main meal arrives. And dont even get me started on a really good meat and cheese board, especially if it comes with olives and cornichons.

But with so many great appetizer options available, which ones are actually worth it, and which ones should you skip so you can save a little cash for dessert? To find out, we talked with chefs below, they share the appetizers they never order at restaurants, and why.

Cheese And Cracker Platters

I know I just sang my praises for meat and cheese boards, but according to chef Nik Fields , you should probably steer clear of the ones that are on the simpler side.

I would refrain from ordering common simple cheese and cracker platters, as these are dishes are easy for me to prepare on my own, Fields told HuffPost. Its more interesting to make your own board and choose the things you like instead of going with whats already there.

Plus, she said, the cheese may not be fresh or the kind you like. Instead, I often prefer to explore more elaborate, chef-crafted offerings on a restaurants menu to experience unique flavors and techniques.

Fried Mozzarella Sticks