Desserts at Restaurants

Next time you eat out at a restaurant consider dessert.  I know what you’re thinking, “Are you crazy? Everything either has nuts or is cross-contaminated with nuts.”  For years we though the same thing, until we asked about it.  Most restaurants now are used to customers asking allergy specific questions.  Many of these have a book that lists every menu item and what common allergens the food contains or may contain.

Our kids are so used to not being able to eat some foods because they contain or may contain peanuts or tree nuts so when we find something that they can have a restaurant, it is an extra special treat for them.  If the restaurant doesn’t, we shrug and say, “Oh well, we tried.  We’ll just eat dessert at home.”  Next time you go out to eat, ask the server or manager.  You might find out you have more options than you realize.  Some restaurants we’ve been to that have allergen books are: Chili’s, Red Robin and Panera Bread.  Do you know of any other restaurants that have an allergen book or list?  Share it with us in the comments!

Duncan Hines and Food Allergies

In our Birthday Parties and Allergies posting, a reader left a comment stating that they make a quick cake using Duncan Hines, Coke and a microwave.  I thought it was a great alternative to a traditional cake.  Still want to try it though.  Nevertheless, I posted this on twitter and the feedback was quick and enlightening.

Several of our twitter followers stated that they do not consider Duncan Hines safe.  Calls from these followers to Duncan Hines regarding cross contamination were met with resistance and a general unhelpful attitude.  One even has a blog post about it.

I relayed this story to my wife and she said to me, “Why do you think we only buy Betty Crocker?”  Obviously, she has had the same experience.  That being said, I think the idea of cake mix (Betty Crocker please), coke and a microwave is worth a try.

Waffle House and Dining Out

Kids love waffle house. Heck, I love Waffle House.  The first time we went there with our allergic child we assumed that the waffles would be safe for her.  We asked the waitress about the batter ingredients and felt pretty good about things until we noticed the pecan waffle on the menu.  Now we had to think about cross contamination issues. Unfortunately, Waffle House does not have a waffle iron dedicated solely for pecan waffles or for plain waffles. As a result, we did not feel safe ordering her a waffle.  That is the way it goes sometimes but the issue of cross contamination is something we should all consider when eating out.  At Waffle House the main concern is the waffle irons. At another restaurant, it could be the flat top grill or the counter top where they make sandwiches.  If you have any concerns always ask your server or the restaurant manager, most restaurants are more than happy to answers your questions and many times they can suggest a solution that makes everyone happy.  What are some things that you worry or concern you when you eat out?