Honestly, this isn't a news flash. Most restaurants in the US serve rediculously large portions and calorie content is not the top priority when serving a meal. I have eaten at plenty of restaurants where the serving sizes are enough for 2 people. The hard part for most people is not to overeat. I eat out at least once a week and I usually save those days as my "free" days.
I almost always take home a doggie bag and desserts are shared between me and my dinner partner(s). I doubt restaurants are going to change their large serving sizes anytime soon. If you are finding it difficult to portion control when you eat out, there are some ways around it. When your meal comes (especially if it's a sandwich), immediately cut your sandwich in half. You can take the other half home. This works for salads as well since they are usually enough for two people.
You can also order one dish and split it with someone at the table. I have done this and most restaurants don't give you a hard time with it. I usually don't order an appetizer. As tempting as some are, to me, they are just extra calories and fat as most appetizers aren't heart healthy. Depending on how "free" I'm letting myself be for the meal, I'll give and take accordingly. I also don't order soft-drinks. Water is fine and helps to fill you up faster.
Last but not least, carry along a calore guide. The Calorie King's 2006 Calorie, Fat & Carbohydrate Counter is a great guide to carry when you are eating out. You can still have a fine dining experience with your friends and loved ones as long as you practice portion control and choose healthy alternatives. Chef's are about presentation and taste. They want customers coming back so if you aren't used to the large portions, get used to them quick. Just remember, you don't have to eat everything in one sitting.
