Allergies & Dietary Needs

I can't tolerate nuts.

A very common and direct way to express intolerance or a mild allergy.

I am allergic to milk.

The standard way to inform staff about an allergy.

I have quite a severe nut allergy.

Good for emphasizing the severity so the kitchen takes extra care.

Is there cream in this sauce?

A direct question to check for specific allergens.

Could you check with the chef what this soup actually contains?

A natural, polite request for the waiter to verify with the kitchen.

I'll take the burger, but without cheese.

A natural way to order while omitting an ingredient.

Can I get the salad without dressing?

Standard polite request to modify a dish.

Is it possible to get this dish completely without shellfish?

Useful when asking to remove a core ingredient.

Do you have anything gluten-free?

Casual phrasing when quickly checking menu options.

Do you have gluten-free bread as a side?

Specific and clear.

Can the food have traces of nuts?

Crucial question for people with severe allergies.

Is it prepared in a separate area in the kitchen?

Uses the passive voice to politely ask about kitchen procedures.

Would you like some extra vegetables instead of bread?

A typical and natural suggestion from restaurant staff.

I don't eat meat or fish.

A straightforward way to explain a vegetarian diet.

We have someone in our party who eats strictly vegan.

Good for informing staff when arriving with a group.

We'll let the kitchen know, so we'll sort it out.

Standard phrase used by staff to reassure a guest.