Back then, small bites like French canapes and Italian crostini would start a meal.

If you’re a fan of starters, you’re not alone.

Chef Diana Manalang, owner ofLittle Chef Little Cafein NYC, swears by this starter.

p.f. chang’s lettuce wraps

Photo: P.F. Chang’s / Facebook

Elston raves about the squares of breaded cheese topped with sweet, savory tomato sauce.

“You simply can’t go wrong with a cheesy crowd pleaser.

“Manalang agrees, saying, “The Bloomin Onion from Outback is a classic.

red lobsters cheddar bay biscuits

Christine B./Yelp

It’s like a pull apart onion ring.”

Chang’sversion is a healthy, flavorful choice.

“My favorite appetizer would be the lettuce wraps from P.F.

Maggiano’s Mozzarella Mariana appetizer

Candice G./Yelp

says RJ Howard, the chef and owner of Indiana’sMaggie Lu’s Market.

“The spinach dip fromHillstoneis also a favorite with its cheesy deliciousness,” she says.

“When going to a chain restaurant you always go back for something that you love!”

olive garden breadsticks

Courtesy of Olive Garden

The minute you’re seated they give you the warmest, softest buttery rolls with cinnamon butter.

They are to die foryou can’t have just one.”

I’m a carb-oholic so bread is always on my mind.”

outback-steakhouse-bloomin-onion

Outback Steakhouse / Facebook

Acosta also suggests trying another app: the Roadhouse’s take on a fried-onion starter.

“I also love theirCactus Blossom!”

“It’s a whole fried onion with their Cajun dipping sauce.

pf changs chicken lettuce wraps

PF Changs

It’s way too much food but you keep eating it knowing you should stop.”

Fish N' Tails Oyster Bar

s6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Fresh raw bar bites and fish in Texas?

It’s true, and this small chain of eight restaurants is thriving in the Lone Star State.

Spinach & Artichoke dip at Hillstone

Hillstone Restaurant/Facebook

Some chefs couldn’t pick just one.

Visit one of theYard House’s 80-plus locations in the U.S. and try either of these chef-recommended seafood starters.

and even that delivery is consistent!

panda express spring rolls

Panda Express

Texas Roadhouse cactus blossom appetizer

Meaghan Cameron/Eat This, Not That!

Shrimp cocktail at Fish N' Tails

Fish N’Tails/Facebook

Spicy Tuna Stack at Yard House

Yard House/Facebook