Until about 6 years ago, I was able to eat whatever I wanted without suffering from any dietary or stomach issues. I have always loved going out for meals, especially trying new restaurants and foods and although I initially found finding something that I could eat to be a little stressful or disappointing, I can now happily go out for dinner and know how to navigate the menu and have a lovely meal. It's also great that so many restaurants are becoming aware of dietary requirements and dietary choices.
Here are a few tips and suggestions that you might find useful if eating out;
1) Have a look at the menu in advance.
You don't need to decide exactly what you are having, but having a look before you go gives you chance to decide on a few options that you might order, or want to ask if the restaurant can tweak anything.
2) Call ahead if you have any queries.
Call ahead if you have any particular concerns or want to ask if they have particular items, ie gluten free bread. If not, you can also ask if they mind if you bring anything with you, most places are very accommodating.
3) Don't be afraid to ask for dishes to be tweaked.
Obviously don't ask them to completely redo a dish, but often I find it's easy to ask for a dish without the sauce, or without the butter, or if a component of a dish can be swapped with something else on the menu. I often do this, but always try to make sure that it's easy & possible for them.
4) Look for simple items if you are unsure.
Unless you are vegetarian, there are usually simple meat or fish options that you can have with simple sides.
5) Order a mixture
If there aren't any main course that you can have, don't be afraid to order a couple of starters and/or sides as you meal.
6) Try not to arrive ravenous
Although this might not always be possible, unless I know that I will be able to find something, I tend to make sure that I have a little snack before I go rather than find that I can't have the bread and the only options are a small plain salad and some sorbet (if you are lucky!) I also usually do similar if going to something like a drinks party where lots of the canapes might be off limits!
7) Don't be embarrassed!
I often used to feel a bit embarrassed or worried about being difficult when eating out, but I've realised that most restaurants are really accommodating and understand that you are not just being picky! You can even have a quiet word with the manager/waiter/waitress on arrival and explain your requirements if you would rather not have to discuss openly at the table.
I hope this helps!
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