Oklahoma Celiac Gluten Free Blog

Tips for GF Dining -- by Diana Nieto     405-364-7504  kneetoemom@aol.com

Many who eat gluten-free are truly concerned about dining out safely for their special dietary needs. Dining out rarely brings me concern because I always talk with the restaurant manager or kitchen manager by phone or in person before I eat at a restaurant. I ask questions when I am there, too. There are numerous restaurants which are doing a great job offering GF menu items. The responsibility lies with us, however, to be sure the restaurant staff understands our needs. Always call ahead when possible and speak with the manager or kitchen manager. If these persons are not at all familiar with the word gluten, do not eat there if you are not comfortable.

Last week, while traveling in SE Texas, we stopped in at an Italian eatery. I asked the kitchen manager if any of the entrees could be made gluten-free. The look on the face of the man clearly signaled to me he had no idea what I was talking about. He asked someone else on staff, and that person looked at me and shook his head as though not understanding the question. That told me all I needed to know. I enjoyed a meal later at another restaurant.

Most often, you can tell if the manager is not at all educated on what eating GF requires, and I believe the more we ask and try to inform, the more places will offer menu items we can enjoy. Instead of being afraid to call and talk with restaurant owners or managers, just do it! You may be surprised that some do, in fact, know about our needs, and that others who don’t might be willing to learn! My husband and I eat out frequently. When I think of all the places where we eat, the list is lengthy. Some places are for special occasions; thereby, the cost is higher than we normally spend on a meal. Any chef at a “fine dining” establishment is usually aware of what gluten-free dining entails. I have not been to one “fine dining” experience where the chef was not very aware of what gluten is and how to prepare dishes to be gluten-free and safe.

Those with internet access may wish to check out these sites:

www.Glutenfreeregistry.com www.Urbanspoon.com (search gluten-free dining)

There are other sites, too, if you perform a search for GF dining in OK. Triumph Dining offers a restaurant guide. (They also sell a very helpful grocery shopping guide, and the 3rd edition is now available.)