Robke's

My family loves Robkes and have been coming for 20+ years. I was excited to hear they have gf pasta after my celiac diagnosis. I’ve ordered it twice- the first time it came out with regular pasta pieces in the mix (the only gf pasta they have is penne so it was obvious when I saw spaghetti). Ok, I should have been clearer about the need to boil in fresh water.

However, I went back for the second time and asked the waitress if a clean pot and fresh water could be accommodated given the last experience, she said it would be no problem. As I’m eating I’m talking with family, not paying attention, and after eating a good amount of my penne I realized there was again, regular pasta in the mix, which meant my pasta was boiled in the same pot used for the regular. When it was brought up to the waitress she said it was a Saturday night and the kitchen wouldn’t boil my pasta in a new pot. I understand the idea here, but why give me confirmation that my allergy can be accommodated, and after explaining the severity, still knowingly serve me a heavily contaminated dish? I spent the night up with flare symptoms, naturally.

My parents tried to explain this issue to the owner as they know him from coming for so long, but he didn’t seem to understand nor care. If the party you’re with wants to dine here and you are at all sensitive I would recommend a salad or just eating before.

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

— Not at all

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— No gluten-free information on the menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Not Much/None

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

— Good