Telling a waiter about a food allergy in English
How to tell a waiter about a food allergy, and make sure it's taken seriously.
Full script
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
Say your allergy clearly.
Don't say I'm allergy (allergy is a noun); I have a peanut allergy is also right
Ask about nuts in a dish.
nuts = kinds of nuts; peanuts are legumes, so ask about both if needed
Even a tiny amount is a problem.
For a strong warning: It's a serious allergy.
Staff will tell the chef.
You can reply: I really appreciate it.
Quick answers
Say it before ordering: what to say in English
Say “I'm allergic to peanuts.” — say your allergy clearly. Don't say I'm allergy (allergy is a noun); I have a peanut allergy is also right.
Ask, pointing at the menu: what to say in English
Say “Does this dish have any nuts?” — ask about nuts in a dish. nuts = kinds of nuts; peanuts are legumes, so ask about both if needed.
Make them take it seriously: what to say in English
Say “Even a little bit is a problem.” — even a tiny amount is a problem. For a strong warning: It's a serious allergy.
Reassuring: what to say in English
Say “I'll let the chef know.” — staff will tell the chef. You can reply: I really appreciate it.