Review of Roots Steakhouse

I informed the waiter that I required gluten free options/modifications to the menu due to celiac. I had the wedge salad and requested it prepared gluten free (without crispy onions) and the Roots Steakhouse Cheddar Burger. For the burger, I requested a Gluten-Free bun if available and if one wasn't available, I requested the burger without a bun. The waiter stated that he would have to find out about the availability of the gluten-free bun. Additionally, I asked the waiter if the frites were prepared in a separate fryer from other breaded items (such as the Crispy Chicken Sandwich). The waiter informed me that the frites were prepared in a separate fryer and would be safe for me. The salad was fine and was prepared as requested, however when the entrees arrived I was disappointed to see that my burger was on a non-gluten free bun. I informed the waiter that I needed a burger without a bun and reiterated my gluten issue. After bringing my entree back to the kitchen, the waiter returned a few minutes later with the same burger without the bun. The crumbs from the bun were all over the burger. Seeing me frustrated, a friend notified the waiter and requested the new burger be prepared. The waiter apologized and let me work on my frites as I waited for a new burger to be prepared. After a few minutes, the waiter returned with a fresh burger and apologized again. The rest of our meal was uneventful. Approximately 15 minutes after I returned home, I was immediately experiencing stomach cramps, feeling ill, and other symptoms that typically occur after an individual with celiac ingests gluten. After 4 hours of feeling miserable, I contacted Roots in Morristown and spoke with the staff. The staff member mentioned that they have a gluten free menu. More alarmingly, the staff member informed me that the frites are not prepared in a separate fryer and are prepared with other items to include the Crispy Chicken Sandwich in complete contradiction to what I was advised at the restaurant. I understand that in most restaurant kitchens, the possibility of cross-contamination still exists. However, being misled about the safety of the food was unacceptable. Four hours later, I still feel absolutely sick and I'm so disappointed with the way this was handled.

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Not at all

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Separate gluten-free menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Some

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Average