We believe that going to a restaurant can be a phenomenal gastronomic experience even if you follow a gluten-free, vegan or lactose-free diet. However, many people find it challenging to find dishes that meet their needs.
On the other hand, with the right awareness and some preparation, an impeccable taste experience can be assured. Our special ‘restaurant guide’ can help you do just that. Below we have put together some useful tips to enable you to enjoy a sumptuous culinary experience even with a special diet.
Which foods are sure-fire hits if you follow a special diet?
One of the first questions to consider is what types of food might fit in with the diet you are following. Fortunately, like us, more and more restaurants are taking care to accommodate you regardless of your diet.
So what are the sure-fire hits? Here’s our subjective view:
- For gluten-free dieters
Grilled meat and fish can always be a safe choice. Especially as they are often accompanied by gluten-free side dishes such as rice, vegetables or salads. However, it’s worth avoiding breaded or sauce-covered dishes, as natural, grilled options may be better.
- For vegans
Vegetable-based dishes, such as grilled vegetables or rich salads, are the main winners. Also, pasta with plant-based sauces (such as tomato or pesto) are often ‘vegan-friendly’.
- For lactose-free dieters
It makes sense to consider dishes made with dairy-free ingredients, such as grilled meats, fish or vegan options. And with fresh fruit or fruit salads, it’s easy to find a suitable alternative to sweets.
Browsing the menu beforehand is definitely worth it
Nowadays, most restaurants make their menus available online. This is a great way to check what’s on offer before you visit. Also check whether there are dedicated labels for special dietary requirements, such as gluten-free, vegan or lactose-free options.
Even if you can’t find this information, it’s OK. You can contact the restaurant by phone or email to make sure what options are available to you.
Questions are allowed, indeed!
Don’t hesitate to ask the waiters or staff if you’re not sure about something. Restaurant staff are usually helpful and will be happy to advise you on which dishes suit your diet and what changes you can ask for.
For example, if you follow a gluten-free diet, you can ask if they use a separate cutting board or utensils to avoid cross-contamination. Alternatively, if you’re vegan, ask about the ingredients in the pasta or bread to make sure they don’t contain animal origin products.
Special diet and maximum culinary experience, can the two go together?
Many people assume that it’s difficult to eat really good food in restaurants on a special diet. We don’t think this is necessarily true. Eating out can easily give you a full culinary experience if you choose your meals wisely.
As in many areas, quality is more important than quantity. A good restaurant should focus on high-quality ingredients and creative yet simple dishes. All this ensures that even on a special diet, you can still enjoy an exciting, delicious experience.
With a particular diet, we think flexibility and openness are key. Sometimes, it pays to be open to foods that are not specifically designed for your diet, but with a few tweaks, they can be. For example, as a vegan, you could ask for vegan cheese on your pizza or gluten-free biscuits for dessert.
When choosing a drink, what to consider?
The choice of beverages also requires special attention in addition to a special diet. Luckily, many drinks are considered gluten, vegan or lactose-free, but it’s worth paying attention to detail here too.
- With a gluten-free diet
Wines, sparkling wines and non-carbonated soft drinks are generally gluten-free. However, you should avoid wheat beers and other cereal-based drinks. If you want a cocktail, ask if the ingredients are gluten-free.
- Vegan diet
Most wines and sparkling wines are vegan, but some brands may use animal-derived ingredients in the purification process. For this reason, it’s worth asking in advance if you are sure they offer vegan wines. Vegan beers and refreshing cocktails can also be good choices.
- With a lactose-free diet
If you follow a lactose-free diet, wines, sparkling wines and non-carbonated drinks are a safe choice. For cocktails, you can ask for plant-based milks such as coconut milk or almond milk for a lactose-free experience.
Conclusion
Eating out is an enjoyable experience, and for those following a special diet, it doesn’t have to be a compromise. With the right preparations and conscious choices, any visit to a restaurant can be exciting, tasty and enjoyable.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, get informed and enjoy culinary delights – even on a special diet!
