Assalamualaykum,
dear scholar
I have learned that it is always good to recite darood before making dua. Does this applies to al kind of dua, that is even the specific ones like dua before and after eating, dua before and after entering the masjid...?
Jazaakallah khayr.

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

It appears that the desirability of exalting the mention of the Prophet before Du`aa` (supplication) is specific to the general supplications. As regards the Athkaar (the mention of Allaah) related to specific circumstances, then they should be said without any additions because had exalting the mention of the Prophet been permissible in such circumstances, it would have been reported to us and the Prophet and his companions would not have neglected it. Indeed, the best guidance is the guidance of the Prophet .

Therefore, the permissible mention of Allaah that is said before eating and after it, and in other circumstances is to say what is reported without adding the exaltation of the Prophet because this is not reported.

It should be mentioned that exalting the mention of the Prophet is reported when saying the supplication of entering the mosque and coming out of it; the Prophet said: “If anyone amongst you enters the mosque, he should exalt the mention of the Prophet and then he should say: “O Allaah, open the gates of Your Mercy for me.”, and if he comes out of the mosque he should say: “O Allaah, I ask You from Your Favour.” [Abu Daawood] Another narration reads: “…he should send Salaam upon the Prophet and exalt his mention and then he should say …”

For more benefit, please refer to Fataawa 83421 and 82584.

Allaah Knows best.