Uncomfortable ordering kid's meal

My son-in-law is a professional chef who has taught me a lot about how to order in restuarants since my WLS. I don't mention my surgery. I am very specific about my order which seems to please the cooks/chefs. I haven't had any problems being creative with my orders. I think my level of confidence helps when I place an order. And I love leftovers although when traveling I don't take leftovers. Good luck.

When I first read this post, I assumed you were talking about fast food kids meals.  I have ordered those and felt completely comfortable!  When I realized you were asking about regular restaurants or diners, then I could really relate.  I think about it sometimes, and I have never felt comfortable enough to do it!  I feel more comfortable ordering just an appetizer, or sharing a meal with someone (gotta love going out to dinner with WLS buddies), or just bringing a lot of leftovers home. 

My go-to phrase is, "I'm on a funky diet and can't eat much." No need for specifics beyond that, most restaurants are used to special dietary needs like allergies and whatnot, and something about the wording seems to put servers at ease.

Have you tried asking for half portions, or seeing if you can order from the lunch menu? I've done both and it's easier than ordering from the senior menu when I'm 31 :)

Senior meals are okay, but kids meals are usually crap.  Like you, I am not at all enthusiastic about explaining my medical history to a stranger.  Instead, I con someone at the table into sharing a meal or I will ask for a half-portion, for the reason that I love good food, but have a tiny appetite and dislike leftovers.  There are some dishes that they canno do this to, however many will try to accommodate my request if they are able.  I don't have to go into my medical history or flash a card to let everyone know that I'm a "former fat girl".

At buffets, I ask if I can buy by the pound instead of the buffet and it comes out cheaper than a child's price.