The best restaurants can accommodate all gluten-free needs, but they are often the most expensive. Gluten-free restaurant tips, therefore, help with everyday dining needs. There are lots of ideas on how to best be accommodated when eating out. Today’s tip is a simple one that continues to make a big impact on my dining experiences.
When I started living gluten-free, I was often embarrassed to draw attention to my needs–not wanting to bother the waitstaff or the other diners at the table with my questions. It was hard to eat out, often dining on salads for fear of impacting anyone’s evening. I learned over time (and from much frustration) to be vocal, learn how to make it as easy as possible for the restaurant staff, friends at my table, and me. And, best of all, I finally realized packing crackers in my purse would be a life-altering dining decision.
Crackers.
It seems silly, but so many restaurants have wonderful gluten-free dips and spreads as appetizers, but nothing to accommodate gluten-free diners to actually eat these appetizers. So too with cheese plates. I finally started carrying crackers in my purse after watching friends devour a plate of mixed spreads at Founding Farmers restaurant. Three delicious, house-made dips, including a pimento cheese spread was my breaking point. The next visit to Founding Farmers, and now many other restaurants, includes crackers in my purse as backup.
Additionally, I always carry a box of crackers to friends’ homes when invited for dinner or a party. Inevitably, there is another gluten-free guest thanking me for bringing a box along so that she can enjoy all the delicious food available as well.
For more gluten-free restaurant tips, read our article on how best to dine out gluten-free.
Gluten-Free Restaurant Tips
Tell us: what are your best tips for dining out?
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
I usually ask the server if they can bring out some cucumber slices for me–that works in a pinch for dips. Also some restaurants are not so friendly about bringing in other food…but glad you’ve had a good experience!
Thanks for visiting and taking the time to comment Rella! I have not had any issues toting in my own crackers-yet! Hopefully that will continue. Cava restaurant in the DC Metro area always brings out cucumbers for their starters, which is great. Thanks for leaving this tip!
I LOVE that idea! So brilliant and simple. I am a big fan of dips,spreads, etc and have been missing out, so will definitely be incorporating a travel pack of crackers from now on!
I am so happy this was a helpful tip! Now you don’t have to miss out on all the delicious starters.