Review of Sunshine Grille

I am hoping to save someone the same misery.

We were here on vacation and decided to eat at the Sunshine Grille. They have quite a few “gluten free” options on the menu. They offer gluten free pancakes, so I asked the server if they could do the bananas foster as gluten free since I read on the app that they can make flavored gluten free pancakes. She said yes, so I proceeded with ordering the gluten free pancakes with bananas foster topping.

A few bites into my pancakes, I look around the table and notice that everyone else’s pancakes look pretty much identical. Since my pancakes were covered in a sweet sauce, I nor anyone else could tell if they were gluten free or not upon tasting them. When the server brought our ticket, I asked her if my pancakes were gluten free because I noticed there was no up charge. She had a horrified look on her face and said “no, I’m sorry I didn’t hear anything about gluten free”. So, I had been given gluten pancakes after asking for gluten free, after specifically inquiring whether or not the bananas foster could be made gluten free.

Her and her manager returned to my table and her manager asked if I had mentioned needing gluten free. I explained that yes, I asked if the bananas foster could be made gluten free, and when the server said yes, I proceeded with ordering them. The server admitted she did hear me ask if they could be made gluten free, and she did say yes, but she didn’t realize I was asking to order them gluten free. I’m really not sure how or why she would think I’d just ask if they could be made that way…. Doesn’t matter at this point. I threw up before leaving the restaurant, now have a headache and feel so nauseous.

They did comp my meal, which I appreciate. But I do not think that I will return. It’s sad because there were good reviews. One of the cooks walked out during our dine in experience, and they were short staffed. I still left a tip, explained what Celiac is and what gluten does to me in hopes they will understand the severity. I got plenty of apologies but unfortunately, that will not stop the damage or symptoms that I am bound to have.

Just be cautious if you eat here. I would triple check if you order pancakes that they ARE gluten free before even touching them.

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

— Not at all

Safety Feature Ratings

• Staff is knowledgeable and can answer questions

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main 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