The Netherlands could really do better when it comes to allergies by now
Sorry, but it’s time for an old-fashioned rant. Because there’s something that’s been bothering me for a while, and I’m guessing I’m not the only one. It’s about allergies – and especially how restaurants (don’t) deal with them. Yes, I know, we’re not all Michelin-starred chefs, but seriously: when you see how naturally it’s handled in other countries, the Netherlands suddenly falls painfully short.
I only started noticing that casual attitude toward allergies when I experienced the huge difference compared with other countries. In New York, London and Dubai, to name just a few places, they really understand how to handle it.
‘Are there any allergies that I need to consider?’
Because here, at every single restaurant, the first question after the menu has been handed out is: ‘Are there any allergies that I need to consider?‘ I’m allergic to fish, crustaceans and shellfish, and I always feel like such a nuisance when I have to bring it up in a restaurant. Because you’re asked straight away when you’re handed the menu, that feeling of being a pain in the neck doesn’t come into it at all. I don’t feel like a difficult customer with my annoying allergy and I don’t have to keep double-checking whether that butter, sauce or dressing really contains no fish.
I feel like such a nuisance
Because not only has nobody ever asked me about it at the table in the Netherlands, more importantly: I’ve often told them and they still haven’t taken it into account. Anchovies in the dressing or butter after all, fish sauce in the curry after all… These days I always double-check, but then I feel even more like a nuisance. And I’m sure that people with, for example, coeliac disease often run into this too; their dietary requirements still aren’t properly taken into account, and they feel awkward about saying something.
Handling allergies better
So, dear hospitality heroes of the Netherlands: do you want your guests to sit down at the table feeling relaxed, without having to fear an unexpected allergy bomb in their food, and simply feel welcome? Ask that one simple question as soon as you hand over the menu: “Are there any allergies that I need to consider?” It costs nothing and delivers everything. And believe me: even the biggest nuisance will no longer feel like one.
Poll: how do you experience this?
I’m very curious: do you recognise this too, or do you actually find it’s not too bad? Let us know in the poll below!
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