Q: Dear Scott,
I am a picky-eater. I have food allergies that has limited my options. And because of my allergy, I don’t try a lot of new foods because I don’t want to have a reaction and go to the hospital.
I never, ever want people to go out of their way to make sure there is something I can eat or like to eat at an event or restaurant. I’ve skipped meals because of my pickiness/allergies and it is not a big deal to me. I’ve lived my whole life like this.
However, I was asked by some co-workers to go out to lunch to celebrate a birthday, and the restaurant they picked has NOTHING that I can/would eat (I always check menus out online ahead of time). I would be fine going to lunch and just munching on bread. But I know that it will be a big deal to my co-workers.
Is there a way I can suggest another restaurant? Back out of the lunch? Put my foot down and say “I’m just having bread, thank you very much”?
Feign illness? Bring in my own food (OK, I know that is bad suggestion)?
Help!!
Thanks!!
– Meat and potatoes gal
SCOTT: I know what you mean. Lots of people have food allergies and even more are fussy about food in general.
I’m vegetarian and have a friend coming in town next week. We’re planning a dinner and she sees us going to a seafood restaurant where there’s nothing for me to eat. My only request, on the other hand, is that we don’t eat at a seafood restaurant.
After countless e-mails back and forth, I’ve been forced to put my professional life on hold so I can solve this crisis. Our most recent exchange involved a sarcastic remark from my friend suggesting we order a pizza and eat it in her car.
Bitter, table for one please!
What I haven’t learned but you still can, is that if you don’t make an issue out of it there won’t be one. Tell your co-workers you’ve been to that restaurant and you don’t care for it and make another suggestion.
Your other option is to eat before you go (but for God’s sake, don’t bring your own food!), and simply state that you had a late lunch. Then order a drink and munch on the bread. That’ll work.
We sometimes forget that it’s more about the company than the cuisine but it’s still nice to have both.
* * *
Dear Readers:
It’s that time again. I need more questions!
I write the column 5x per week and that’s a lot. But I can’t do it without you.
I answer every e-mail, and welcome questions seeking love or general advice. Just use a fake name if you want. Either way, your real name or e-mail address will never be published.
Want to know when it’s time for a career change how to deal with your parents or kids when they’re acting up? How about what to wear to the holiday get-togethers? I’m your guy, and I may not always tell you what you want to hear, but I’ll always give you the great advice you need.
Click the link below. You won’t be disappointed.
Thanks!
– Scott