Eating In A Diner

[teacher1578]

Hi. New to celiac disease. What in the world can you eat in a diner? This cross-contamination is scary. I don't eat out too often, but I know I am already frustrated at limited options, especially with a spouse that likes to go out to eat.

[quantumsugar]

Quite frankly, I stopped eating out, because I got sick every single time I tried. Nowadays, I usually have tea with me wherever I go, and if we go out somewhere, I ask for a cup of hot water (I've done this even without the tea). I also bring fruit or some kind of portable food, so I won't be tempted to eat something that "is probably safe". If you explain your situation, most places don't have an issue with you not eating/eating fruit you brought from home. It helps a lot if you tip extra for the food you're not eating. It really is all about your friends, the atmosphere, and the company, and not about the food (well, at least after a while of being gluten-free).

[tarnalberry]

You would be better off going to a chain that had a gluten-free menu (like PF Changs or Outback, or a number of other places), or a nicer restaurant that's all about customer focus. (If you're spending $20/plate, you get a little more "pester the chef" room. :-) )

[mookie03]

Hi. New to celiac disease. What in the world can you eat in a diner? This cross-contamination is scary. I don't eat out too often, but I know I am already frustrated at limited options, especially with a spouse that likes to go out to eat.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

ive eaten in a few diners but the risk for cross-contamination is high so i try not to. i usually just get a snack, like a milkshake or hot chocolate or something, but u can always order a salad w/ oil & vinegar or a fruit salad. i have ordered eggs but i wouldnt necessarily recommend it for cross-contamination purposes...

[pixiegirl]

I travel a lot, at least 3 times a month (for a few days at a time) so I'm constantly having to deal with the restaurant issue. However a diner would probably be my last choice of places to eat, in my experience virtually everything is contaminated. I tend to think breakfast is hard, I know people here have eaten at denny's but I've not had great luck with breakfast. I do poached eggs now and then and fruit salad. But thats about it.

I have pretty good luck at chain places that have gluten-free menu's and I do really well at upscale restaurants with a chef.

susan

[skbird]

I remember reading here that someone on this forum had pretty good luck with Denny's. You may want to search for that in here.

Stephanie

[jkmunchkin]

I've only eaten in a diner a few times since being diagnosed. I've gotten a cheese omelette & tea each time (which is normally what I got anyway). But like everyone said, everytime I was really worried about cross contamination. I've been fine but it is probably the place I feel the least safe eating.