Places to Eat with Allergies

Picking a place to go out to eat is one of the biggest debates my husband and I had before we had kids. Most nights we would end up going to two separate places just because it made everyone happy.  Now that our son has a peanut allergy the debate has taken on a whole new meaning.  We always have to make sure it is safe for Gavin and then there is always that lingering fear if it is a new place.  We usually end up going to McDonald's just because we are POSITIVE it is safe.  Most restaurants have pretty good information on their websites.  You usually click on the menu and find where it says nutrition information or allergen information.  After we confirm online that it is safe, we go to the restaurant and speak with a manager.  It seems like most managers are aware of the severity of allergies and are able to speak with confidence about what is safe.  I never trust a waitress or hostess simply because they most likely have not been trained on food allergies.  Here is a list of our favorite places to go.  Remember every place is different and products can change.  Always speak to a manager or chef and make them aware that they are dealing with an allergy.  As always remember to bring your Epi-pens and Benadryl into the restaurant with you!

McDonald's
Burger King
Chili's
KFC
Subway

I am sure there are more, but having trouble thinking of them right now.  If you have safe favorites please comment!

~Stacey

Edit: I want to include a few places that are definitely NOT safe: (please comment about this list too!)

Texas Corral (peanuts everywhere)
Texas Roadhouse (peanuts everywhere)
Five Guys Burgers and Fries (use peanut oil and have peanuts in restaurant)
Chick-Fil-A (use peanut oil)