Restaurant Phrases Every Allergy Traveller Should Know

Why the Right Words Matter

When you have a food allergy, what you say in a restaurant can make all the difference. A vague request might be misunderstood. A clear, specific phrase gets the attention your allergy deserves.

This guide gives you the key phrases you need, grouped by situation. These are written in English, but the structure works in any language. Use our Translation Engine to convert them into the language of your destination.

Universal Phrases That Work Anywhere

These phrases are designed to be simple, direct, and easy to translate. They avoid idioms and slang, which often do not carry across languages.

Arriving and Informing Staff

Use these as soon as you sit down — before you look at the menu.

• "I have a serious food allergy. I need your help to eat here with care."
• "I am allergic to [allergen]. Even a small amount could make me very ill."
• "I have a card that explains my allergies. Could you please show it to the chef?"
• "Can I speak to the chef or a manager about my food allergy?"

The goal is to establish the seriousness of your allergy early. You want staff to understand this is medical, not a preference.

Asking About Ingredients

Once you have informed staff, use these phrases when choosing what to eat.

• "Does this dish contain [allergen]?"
• "What ingredients are in this sauce?"
• "Is [allergen] used in the preparation of this dish?"
• "Are there any hidden ingredients I should know about, such as [allergen] in the oil or seasoning?"
• "Could you check the ingredient list for me, please?"

Be specific. Asking "does this have nuts?" is better than "is this allergy-friendly?" Staff can answer a specific question. A general question is harder to verify.

Confirming Preparation Methods

Ingredients are only half the picture. How food is prepared matters just as much.

• "Is this cooked in a separate pan, or does it share with other dishes?"
• "Do you use the same oil to fry different foods?"
• "Is the grill shared with foods that contain [allergen]?"
• "Can this be prepared separately to avoid contact with [allergen]?"

Cross-contamination is one of the biggest risks when eating out. These questions help you assess whether the kitchen can accommodate your needs.

Asking About Cross-Contamination

For severe allergies, cross-contamination is critical. Use clear, direct language.

• "I need to avoid any contact with [allergen], including traces."
• "Could the chef use clean utensils and a clean surface when preparing my food?"
• "Is there a risk of cross-contamination with [allergen] in your kitchen?"
• "I understand you cannot guarantee anything, but I need to know the level of risk."

That last phrase is particularly useful. It shows you are reasonable and not expecting perfection — but that you need honest information.

Expressing Urgency and Seriousness

If you feel your request is not being taken seriously, escalate politely but firmly.

• "This is a medical condition, not a food preference."
• "Eating [allergen] could cause a severe allergic reaction. I may need hospital treatment."
• "I carry emergency medication because my allergy is life-threatening."
• "I would rather not order than take a risk. Can you help me find something that works?"

These phrases make the stakes clear without being aggressive. You are asking for help, not making demands.

📊How to Structure Your Request

The order in which you say things matters. Follow this structure for the best results:

1. 1
   Be polite. Start with a greeting and a smile. You are asking for extra effort.
2. 2
   Be specific. Name your exact allergens. Do not say "I have allergies" — say "I am allergic to milk and eggs."
3. 3
   Be firm. Do not downplay the severity. If your allergy is serious, say so clearly.
4. 4
   Be grateful. Thank staff for their help. They are more likely to go the extra mile if they feel appreciated.

A good example: "Hello, I hope you can help me. I have a serious allergy to peanuts and tree nuts. Even traces could make me very ill. Could I show this card to the chef? Thank you so much for checking."

Phrases to Avoid

Some phrases can accidentally undermine your message. Avoid these:

The difference between a preference and an allergy is life and death. Your language should reflect that. Avoid vague words like "don't like," "prefer," or "trying to avoid." These suggest a choice, not a medical need.

Phrase Cards vs Speaking

Both methods have strengths. Use them together for the best outcome.

Speaking works well when:

• You have some knowledge of the local language
• The restaurant is quiet and staff have time to listen
• You want to build rapport and show respect

Phrase cards work well when:

• There is a significant language barrier
• The restaurant is busy and staff are rushed
• You need the message to reach the kitchen exactly as written
• You want to avoid any miscommunication through a chain of people

Our Allergy Card Generator creates cards in over 50 languages. You can print them or save them to your phone. We recommend doing both — paper does not run out of battery.