My top tips for eating out as an awkward eater
When you call the restaurant and they can accomodate your specific dietary needs…
Just because you’re an awkward eater, it doesn’t mean you have to stop eating out altogether! Here’s my top tips to ensure you can enjoy a great meal with friends and family and not miss out!
Call the restaurant ahead or at the time of your booking to ask if they can accomodate your dietary requirements. They will be able to recommend dishes that you could have or how they could adapt the menu to suit.
It is common for there to be an additional charge for this however.
Check out the menu online before going so you can avoid a rushed panic decision and choose an option that fits your dietary needs. Quite often the restaurant will have a key to determine if this dish is GF DF VG VEGAN etc
Ask questions: Don't be afraid to ask about ingredients or how dishes are prepared to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Be polite: Remember that the restaurant staff is doing their best to accommodate you, so be patient and grateful for their efforts.
For instance, if you order a steak instead of chips, ask for a side salad or veggies. If you’re gluten free-don’t fear, you won’t have to miss out on a great burger! If the restaurant doesn’t offer a GF bun-ask for a naked burger which is served with salad instead. I like to double up on the meat with an extra beef pattie!
Have a plan B: always have a backup plan in case the restaurant can't accommodate your needs.
Thank the staff: When the meal is over, thank the staff for their help and let them know you appreciate their efforts to accommodate your dietary requirements.
Or you’re going to a dinner party and don’t want to be that annoying person who “can’t eat this and can’t eat that”
Just ask your host what they are planning on serving that evening -if its something you can’t eat, let them know and offer some alternatives that you could enjoy too, or even suggest to bring something over.
Give them plenty of notice to plan for this-they may need some further education on what your restrictions are-especially if they haven’t cooked for you before.
These are some of my favourite hot spots in QLD which have great healthy options.
If you have a cafe and would like to be featured, please email hello@the-awkward-eater.com
Brisbane:
Sol natural foods Darra
Gold Coast:
The 3 blue ducks - Byron Bay