Prepare the allergen name before the meal
Carry the allergen name or a chef card in the language used at the destination. [source] Fill every blank with the food allergy you need to communicate. Use the matching allergen name in each language, and read both sections before saving or printing the card.
Keep the completed card where you can reach it before ordering. A phone copy may be convenient during the day; a printed copy gives you another way to present the same text. Add it to the practical packing list with the documents and physical items you prepare before departure.
Fill-in restaurant card
Complete the blank with your actual food allergy before using the card. Keep the English and Spanish sections together.
English
I have a food allergy to: __________.
Does this dish contain __________?
Please ask the kitchen what ingredients are used and how this dish is prepared.
If you are not sure, please tell me.
Español
Tengo alergia alimentaria a: __________.
¿Este plato contiene __________?
Por favor, pregunte en la cocina qué ingredientes se usan y cómo se prepara este plato.
Si no está seguro, por favor dígame.
Show the request before ordering
Tell restaurant staff the specific food allergy before ordering. [source] Show the filled-in allergen name while you speak so the request stays connected to the exact dish you are considering.
Ask restaurant staff whether they can accommodate your food allergy. [source] Give them time to read the full card and ask the kitchen. If another person takes over the order or you choose a different dish, show the card again. When dining with a group, keep the card with the person whose order it describes.
Keep other trip information together
Use the pupusa ordering guide for a separate look at dough, filling and accompaniment words. Use the food safety guide for separate questions about meal preparation, fruit and drinks. The drinking water guide covers bottled water and ice planning. Keep the allergy card with both pages when organizing meals for the trip.
Save the medical care guide, hospital directory and emergency contacts with your accommodation details so those references are available during the trip.
Common questions
When should I tell restaurant staff about a food allergy?
Tell restaurant staff the specific food allergy before ordering. [source] Ask whether they can accommodate it. [source] Give the allergen name and show the completed card while the dish is being discussed. Repeat the request when a different person takes the order or when you choose another dish.
What should I put on the bilingual allergy card?
Carry the allergen name or a chef card in the language used at the destination. [source] Write your actual food allergy in each blank before the meal. Keep the English and Spanish sections together so restaurant staff can see the same four requests in both languages.
What should I say if restaurant staff are unsure?
Use the card’s final request: “If you are not sure, please tell me.” Ask whether the restaurant can accommodate your food allergy. [source] Keep the question tied to the exact dish you are considering, and show the filled-in allergen name again before making your choice.
Sources
- Tell restaurant staff the specific food allergy before ordering.
- Ask restaurant staff whether they can accommodate your food allergy.
- Carry the allergen name or a chef card in the language used at the destination.
Travel information only; for medical or legal decisions, consult a qualified professional.