Red Lobster

[debbie-doodles]

We are going out of town next week and for my husband's birthday had planned on going to a Red Lobster in Bloomington, Indiana. I wrote to Red Lobster asking about gluten-free items and they wrote back saying that they can't guarantee any of their items are gluten-free. Has anyone eaten there before and had a good experience? Or should I not let my daughter with celiac disease eat anything from there? I thought unbreaded fish or crab would be okay?

[rmmadden]

I have eaten at Red Lobster and didn't have any problems. I told my server the reason why I was asking so many questions and had her double-check a few items before ordering (Stay away from the soup as they use a roux when making the Clam Chowder). I ended up eating a salad (no crutons) with Olive Oil, Baked Shrimp Scampi, Baked Scallops and a Baked Potato.

There is always a risk of cross-contamination when eating out but I had an enjoyable lunch at Red Lobter and felt fine afterwards.

Best of luck!

Cleveland Bob

[kabowman]

I went to Red Lobster in Bloomington Indiana on New Year's Eve 2004 (not my idea) without calling ahead and got this GREAT waiter--and I cannot remember his name.

I explained that I had many food "problems" and if he could feed me, that would be great, if not, then I would just order a salad. He went back, worked with the chef (while I worked with the bartender to get an adult beverage), and came back with a suggestion of what to order.

It was great - I can't remember what the chef made besides plain fish, plain veggies, no butter, no breading, in its own skillet, etc. but even on a busy night, they were more than willing to work with me and make sure I didn't have any problems. As it happened, my waiters mother also had food issues so was aware that there are people like me out there!!! I had no reactions like I sometimes have when I eat out during a busy time.

I used my personal resturaunt (sp?) card with all my food intolerances and that worked great, as always.

[debbie-doodles]

Thanks guys! I think I will go ahead and try it and try working with the chefs to see what they can make for my little girl!