Dining out with food allergies requires careful planning and communication. Here are some tips to help you dine out safely and confidently:

Before You Go:

• Research Restaurants: Look for restaurants that are known to be allergy-friendly or that offer a variety of options that can be easily modified. Check online reviews or allergy-specific restaurant guides.
• Call Ahead: Contact the restaurant in advance to inform them about your allergies. Ask about their food preparation methods, cross-contamination risks, and whether they can accommodate your needs. If they seem unsure or dismissive, consider choosing a different restaurant.
• Plan Your Meal: Look at the restaurant's menu online (if available) and identify dishes that are likely to be safe or easily adaptable.
• Check The Menu On Mealeez: Check our Restaurants area to see if there is a location nearby. You can then check the menu to see if any dishes will be suitable for you based on your allergy profile.

At the Restaurant:

• Communicate Clearly: When you arrive at the restaurant, inform your server about your allergies. Be specific about which allergens you need to avoid and the severity of your reactions. Don't be afraid to ask questions about ingredients or preparation methods.
• Share Your Allergy List With Mealeez: Many restaurants now use a tablet or mobile device to take your order. You can ask your server if they have the ability to scan QR codes to share your allergy information with them. They can then take this information into the kitchen to compare against the ingredients the premises use for preparing your meal.
• Use an Allergy Card (Optional): If you have a complex set of allergies or are dining in a foreign country, consider using an allergy card that lists your allergies in the local language.
• Double-Check: Before you order, double-check with your server or the kitchen staff to ensure that your meal will be prepared safely and without any cross-contamination risks.
• Be Specific: Don't just say "I have a food allergy." Be clear about which specific allergens you need to avoid (e.g., "I'm allergic to peanuts and tree nuts").
• Avoid Cross-Contamination Traps: Be mindful of common cross-contamination risks, such as shared fryers, buffets, and salad bars.
• Trust Your Gut: If you're not confident that the restaurant can safely accommodate your allergies, it's okay to choose a different restaurant or order a simpler dish.

After Your Meal:

• Provide Feedback: If you had a positive experience, let the restaurant know! This encourages them to continue their allergy-friendly practices. If you had a negative experience, politely share your concerns so they can improve.