Updated
Random restaurant picker: choose from your shortlist
Enter two to eight restaurants you have found, rule out any that fail your budget, timing or dietary requirements, then draw one at random. Every eligible place has the same chance. This free picker works in your browser without an account or location access.
Android is coming. Get Android updates.
Use the random restaurant picker to settle dinner in a few taps.
A short list makes the next choice easier.
Make tonight's shortlist
Add restaurants you have already found. Check menus, hours and travel yourself, then rule out any place that fails a hard requirement. The picker does not search nearby places or verify ingredients.
0 in the draw · 0 ruled out · up to 8 total. Your choices stay on this page and are not saved.
Before you draw
Set the hard limits first. Check each place's current menu, price, opening hours and travel time. Rule out a place if it misses one. If anyone has a food allergy, contact the restaurant directly about ingredients and preparation; this picker cannot assess safety. FARE has guidance for calling restaurants.
Draw from the viable places. Random choice is useful only after every remaining option works. Each kept place has an equal chance, and you can draw again if plans change.
Let the table weigh in. Copy the shortlist into a chat or use the group restaurant worksheet for a vote. On iPhone and iPad, Palytt Rooms also let friends vote on restaurant options.
Good to know
How does this restaurant picker work?
Enter two to eight restaurant names, rule out places that fail your requirements, then draw. Each remaining place has an equal chance. The picker does not find restaurants for you.
Can I use it to find restaurants near me?
No. Add places you have already found. Check their current menu, hours, prices and location before adding them.
Can this picker check food allergies?
No. Contact the restaurant directly about ingredients and preparation. Rule out any place that cannot meet a required dietary need.
Can friends vote instead of drawing at random?
Yes. Copy the shortlist into your group chat or use the group restaurant worksheet. Palytt Rooms on iPhone and iPad also let friends vote on restaurant options.
Is Palytt available on Android?
Palytt is available on iPhone and iPad. Android is coming; get Android updates on the app page.
Related reading
- How to pick a restaurant with a group of friends Collect constraints first, vote on a short list, and name one decider. How to get a group from "where should we eat?" to a decision in minutes.
- How to pick a first-date restaurant you'll both like Pick a first-date restaurant with clear prices, room to talk and orders you both enjoy. Compare menus, food needs, travel and reservation options.
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- How we designed Palytt
Decide together in Palytt.
Get Palytt on the App StoreRooms are available on iPhone and iPad
Android is coming. Get Android updates.