Guest Approach to Eating Outside the Home

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Eating outside the home with celiac / coeliac and gluten sensitivities requires cooperation between guests and restaurants. The chart below outlines this process in two components—planning and table-side communication.

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Guest Approach to Eating Outside the Home

Planning Effort

1.Educate yourself about eating outside the home with special diets

a. Read applicable materials

b. Talk with other individuals dealing with special diets

c. Attend educational sessions

2. Assess your dining comfort level for the meal

a. Identify your safety factors

b. Based upon your previous needs and experience, evaluate what cuisines are low risk and high risk

c. Assess specific cuisines

3. Identify your eating options and preferences

a. Determine what type of establishment and atmosphere you prefer

b. Assess what type of cuisine you prefer

c. Determine if it is most important to go somewhere new, familiar or recommended

d. Select your restaurant

4. Determine the level of pre-planning effort desired

a. Conduct research as necessary on ingredients, preparation and menu items

b. Determine the best time for your reservation or meal

c. Determine the level of communication and interaction necessary with the restaurant

d. Bring reference materials required to order meal

Tableside Communication

1. Discuss your special dietary needs with the restaurant

a. Determine your approach to explaining your dietary needs

b. Initiate your first contact with restaurant

c. Discuss requirements with the restaurant staff and potentially request a manager or the chef, if needed

2. Evaluate what to order

a. Discuss the menu with the restaurant professionals

b. Place your order

3. Receive order and appreciate your meal

a. Confirm your order upon delivery

b. Enjoy your meal

c. Relax and appreciate the dining experience

4. Provide feedback on your dining experience

a. Provide constructive feedback to restaurant professionals on your dining experience

b. Recommend the dining establishment to your friends and family

c. Notify applicable restaurant awareness programs of your experience

Excerpted from the award-winning book series—Let's Eat Out!