A birthday dinner was the setting that sparked the debate of a lifetime when @cestlavie shared a video on TikTok last month. At a Chili’s, he was celebrating his birthday when his boyfriend audaciously ordered a gargantuan platter of chicken fajitas. As the sizzling platter of fiery chicken, every room musician beans, and soft tortillas was served, friends turned their heads and applauded his audacious choice. The birthday guy, on the other hand, could only contemplate why he did not have the foresight to claim the fajitas as his own.

It's an important reminder that ordering the fajitas isn’t just a casual dining choice. It's akin to inviting a spotlight directly onto you. As you sit and watch envious glances thrown your way, you may find yourself explaining to them about the bracing flavors of chicken fajitas, all the while basking in your clever dining choice.

I should know, for I consider myself a chicken fajita enthusiast. There is a certain thrill I find in having the whole restaurant recognize my exceptional culinary wisdom.

And fajitas aren't the only showstopper on the menu. Whether you're one for the limelight like I am, or the type to steer clear from the spotlight, let me guide you through the most attention-grabbing dishes to order at a restaurant.

Imagine the reaction when servers roll a cart out of the kitchen, bringing you a wheel of cheese, or just waiting to prepare guacamole right next to your table. This tableside preparation will leave onlookers agog, wondering if perhaps a celebrity is about to make an appearance. Alas, it's just you being served your $38 cacio e pepe.

And throughout the time it takes to prepare this magnificent dish, either tableside or by the chef, you'll bask in constant attention. The preparation could range from mixin a Caesar salad in a bowl bigger than your dog's house, or patiently crafting a lush jus out of duck organs.

Another category of attention-grabbing choices involves dishes that are set on fire. Because who doesn't love a bit of peril? The sight of a Baked Alaska or Bananas Foster being flambeed is exciting, and the smell left by Steak Diane might take over the whole dining room.

But fire is not the only way to make a statement. The smoky cocktails have made their way into the spotlight recently. The act of lifting the smoke-filled covers sends a wave of smoke around that imitates profound drama while carrying the aroma of a campfire.

If you participate in a restaurant eating challenge, that would make you the star of the night. Man V. Food has proven just how mesmerizing this act can be. Watching someone tackle a mammoth dish within a timer will have patrons glued to the event. But before you commit, remember to plan your strategy to avoid becoming a laughing stock.

An animated rendition of the 'Happy Birthday' song can reveal one’s extraversion. Either you bask in the singing and the applaud as you blow off the candle or crumble under the extra attention. To up the ante, go for a dessert with a big, sparkly candle that is also a potential fire hazard - talk about thrilling!

In light of this, perhaps @cestlavie could consider reclaiming his spotlight in his next outing by going with a flamboyant dessert choice - maybe it's time for a little payback.