Eating gluten-free can be challenging, especially when dining out at restaurants. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, cross-contamination is a major concern. Thankfully, Red Robin has many gluten-free options and takes steps to avoid cross-contamination.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. It acts as a glue that helps food maintain its shape. For most people, gluten does not cause any issues. However, for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine.
This damage leads to an inability to absorb certain nutrients. Symptoms of gluten ingestion can include diarrhea, bloating, fatigue, neurological issues and more. The only treatment is a strict lifelong gluten-free diet.
Why Eat Gluten-Free at Red Robin?
There are several reasons you may need to eat gluten-free at Red Robin:
- You have celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
- Someone in your family needs to eat gluten-free, so you want gluten-free options when dining out together.
- You are eating a gluten-free diet as a lifestyle choice.
Regardless of the reason, Red Robin aims to accommodate gluten-free diners. Here is how they do it:
Gluten-Free Menu
Red Robin has a dedicated gluten-free menu featuring over half a dozen entrees and appetizers. Menu items include burgers, tacos, salads, chicken and steak.
The kitchen prepares gluten-free items on dedicated prep surfaces after thoroughly cleaning equipment. This helps avoid cross-contamination from gluten-containing foods.
Gluten-Free Buns
Any burger or sandwich can be served on a gluten-free bun at no extra charge. Red Robin uses individually wrapped gluten-free buns to prevent cross-contamination.
Knowledgeable Staff
Red Robin staff undergo training on safely handling gluten-free orders. Servers know to use new gloves and utensils and avoid contaminated areas when handling your food.
Dedicated Fryers
French fries are cooked in dedicated fryers separate from gluten-containing foods like onion rings. This prevents cross-contamination.
Tips for Ordering Gluten-Free at Red Robin
Follow these tips when ordering gluten-free at Red Robin:
Study the Menu
Thoroughly review the gluten-free menu ahead of time and decide what you want. This prevents you from feeling rushed or overwhelmed when ordering.
Ask About Preparation
Inquire about how menu items are prepared. Ask which, if any, sauces or seasonings contain gluten.
Specify “Gluten-Free”
Clearly tell your server you need your meal prepared gluten-free. Repeat that instruction when food arrives to verify your order was communicated properly.
Avoid Breaded Items
Do not order breaded menu items like chicken strips or mozzarella sticks. The breading likely contains gluten.
Request Clean Utensils
Ask that your food be served with utensils taken directly from a sealed packet, not ones that have been sitting out.
Pass on High-Risk Sides
Avoid sides made in shared fryers like onion rings and breaded vegetables. Opt for fresh fruit or a side salad instead.
Gluten-Free Menu Options at Red Robin
Here is an overview of gluten-free dishes you can order at Red Robin:
Appetizers
- Hummus and fresh vegetables
- Guacamole and chips
- Caesar or house salad
Burgers
- Cheeseburger with gluten-free bun
- Whiskey River BBQ burger with gluten-free bun
- Guacamole Bacon burger with gluten-free bun
Entrees
- Grilled chicken breast
- Grilled salmon
- Steak
Sides
- French fries
- Fresh fruit
- Gluten-free coleslaw
- Side salad
Being Cautious of Cross-Contamination
While Red Robin makes an effort to avoid cross-contamination, the risk still exists in a kitchen that also handles gluten. Here are some ways to be extra cautious:
Wipe Down Table Area
Use a sanitizing wipe on your table, chair and surrounding area before sitting down. Crumbs from previous guests could contaminate your meal.
Use Fresh Utensils
Request utensils straight from a sealed package. Avoid using ones placed on your table beforehand.
Check Food Before Eating
Visually inspect your meal when served. Send any item back that you suspect may have been cross-contaminated.
Monitor Refills
Make sure any beverage refills come from fresh pitchers, not ones that may have been contaminated by gluten-filled drinks.
Bring Back-Up Snacks
Pack a few gluten-free snacks in case you cannot eat anything on the menu due to cross-contamination concerns.
Being Prepared When Eating Out
These tips will help you safely navigate any dining experience when you need to be gluten-free:
- Research the menu online first and call ahead with questions.
- Explain your dietary needs clearly to restaurant staff.
- Ask detailed questions about food preparation and ingredients.
- Bring gluten-free condiments and dressings.
- Pack gluten-free snacks or backup meal.
- Carefully inspect your meal when served.
- Send back any suspect items.
- Tip generously for accommodating your special request.
Enjoying Your Red Robin Experience
While eating gluten-free requires some extra planning and care, you can still have an enjoyable experience at Red Robin. Follow the tips provided to order safe, delicious gluten-free meals.
Be sure to thoroughly review the menu, verify your order is prepared properly and take some reasonable precautions. With an attentive staff and gluten-free menu options, Red Robin can be a go-to spot for you and your gluten-free family and friends.
Just be sure to enjoy your burger and fries guilt-free, knowing Red Robin took every step to avoid cross-contamination of your gluten-free meal.
