I always do the following -

1. Look at the website/Yelp pics & reviews before hand

2. If #1 is not done, I will literally google the dishes to see what they look like and get more info before ordering. I find that visuals work way better than descriptions for me!

3. Last resort is asking the waiter/waitress what they recommend or just picking blindly

We were out at a Korean restaurant yesterday and there was this couple obviously trying to cuisine for the first, or second time. They had so much trouble with the menu and also communicating with the lady. I really wanted to jump in and explain it to them!