In 2008, a class-action lawsuit was brought against Applebee's because the chain was claiming some items on its Weight Watchers menu contained far fewer calories than they actually did. In fact, the foods had twice the amount of calories and eight times the amount of fat. It makes you wonder: Could other restaurants be messing with us when they list "lower calorie" or "lighter fare" options?

A study by Cornell University found that we end up ordering and eating more at restaurants that we consider healthy. In fact, we consume about 130 percent more calories at these "health food" joints than at restaurants where we consider the food to be bad for us, Palinski says. "This may be because we feel that if we're ordering a healthy entree, we have room to splurge a bit." So even when you're picking a lean, healthy entree, don't overdo it with sides, appetizers, and desserts. And keep an eye out for seemingly healthy dishes, like veggie burgers and sweet potato fries. Depending on how they're cooked, they could be just as fattening as a Big Mac and fries.

Ever notice how, when you go to a fancy restaurant, you'll see something like this on the menu: "Filet Mignon, 54"? Not $54, or $54.00, or even 54 dollars? It's not because the menu maker forgot about currency. Another study by Cornell University found that diners spend less when the word "dollars" or a dollar symbol are used on a menu, says Palinski. By dropping the symbol, restaurants are hoping you'll focus on the food, not the price tag.

Now, take an even closer look at the menu. See that picture of the big, juicy steak? It looks delicious -- and it's also probably the most expensive item the restaurant serves. So why'd they choose that particular entree to photograph? Because you're more likely to order a certain dish when you see a picture of it. Very often, the images on restaurant menus are there because these items cost more than anything else.

And where is that steak picture located? In a prime spot of course. Restaurant menus typically feature the most expensive (and rarely the most good-for-you) entrees in the most eye-catching spots: usually on the right-hand side. This placement encourages you to notice them, upping the chances that you'll order these dishes and drop more cash.

It may seem like a good idea to order a combo meal -- hey, pay an extra dollar or two to add a huge drink, chips, and a cookie to go with your sandwich, why not? But Palinski says you'll only end up eating more and not saving much at all. Loading the menu with "meal deals" is a common strategy for fast food places, and for good reason. Most patrons won't take the time to add up the price of each individual item and see which option is cheaper; they assume the deal is in fact a deal. But in reality, you might end up spending more for a combo, and you'll almost certainly consume more calories by adding on a soda and side.

You know how you practically have to shout at some restaurants in order to have a conversation with your date? It's not because the restaurant owners just happen to love Muzak. Studies show the louder the tunes, the more quickly you'll eat -- and the sooner you'll leave. That means a faster turnover and a higher profit for the restaurant. But while you may not even notice how quickly you're throwing back that burger, your belly will suffer. It takes 20 minutes for the "I'm full" signal to get from your stomach to your brain, so those loud tunes mean you're more likely to end up overstuffed.