B1English

Allergies & Dietary Needs

Use these phrases to clearly explain your dietary needs and check for allergens when eating out.

Key Phrases

Voice
Suggesting a restaurant

Let's go somewhere that has good vegan options.

casual

Use with friends when deciding where to eat.

Stating a dietary preference

I'm vegetarian, so I don't eat meat or fish.

neutral
Stating a severe allergy · 2 ways to say it

I'm really allergic to peanuts.

neutral

I have a severe nut allergy. Could you let the kitchen know?

polite
Checking for allergens · 2 ways to say it

Does this have any dairy in it?

neutral

Could you check with the kitchen if this contains dairy?

polite
Requesting modifications

Can I get the burger without the cheese?

neutral
Requesting an ingredient omission · 2 ways to say it

Can you leave off the cilantro?

neutral

US English.

Could you prepare that without coriander, please?

polite

UK English.

Confirming order safety

Just checking, this is the vegan one, right?

neutral

Use when the food arrives at your table.

Asking about food preparation

Is the veggie burger cooked on the same grill as the meat?

neutral
Asking for safe recommendations · 2 ways to say it

What do you have that is gluten-free?

neutral

Could you recommend something that is safe for a shellfish allergy?

polite
Asking for an allergen menu

Do you have a separate allergy menu?

neutral
Ordering food to go · 2 ways to say it

I'll have the gluten-free pizza to go.

neutral

US English.

I'd like the gluten-free pizza to take away, please.

polite

UK English.

Practice Dialogue

Customer
Hi. So, do you have a separate allergy menu?
Server
We don't, actually. But I can help you with the options. What are you allergic to?
Customer
Well, I'm really allergic to peanuts.
Server
Right. Most of our dishes are safe, but you should avoid the Thai noodle salad.
Customer
Okay, sure. Can I get the chicken sandwich, then?
Server
Yeah, absolutely.
Customer
Just checking, does the sauce have any peanut oil in it?
Server
Let me check. No, it's just a bit of mayo and some herbs.
Customer
Perfect. I'll have that to go, please.
Server
You got it. It will be ready in a few minutes.

More Eating & Drinking Out (B1)

← All English survival phrases