I recently dined at Wusong restaurant and wanted to share my experience, especially in the context of food allergies. My partner has celiac disease, and we encountered an unfortunate incident that I believe needs attention for improvement.
Upon arriving at the restaurant, we proactively asked the server about possible cross-contamination in one of the noodle dishes. The server assured us that it was safe and gluten-free. However, upon receiving the order, my partner noticed the noodles resembled egg noodles. To clarify, we inquired again about its gluten-free status, and the server once more confirmed it was safe. Regrettably, after several bites, the server returned to inform us that it was indeed the wrong order and contained gluten.
Mistakes happen, and we understand that. The server was apologetic and took it off our bill. What concerned us more was the lack of accountability from the management. Our friend reached out to the manager to provide constructive feedback, suggesting ways to enhance allergy protocols. Regrettably, the manager responded defensively, pointing fingers at us for not explicitly stating that my partner had celiac disease.
To improve the overall experience for diners with food allergies, I recommend the following:
1) Staff Training: Implement a training program for staff to ask customers if their dietary restrictions are preferences or allergies. This simple distinction can prevent misunderstandings.
2) Enhanced Allergy Protocols: Establish a system with multiple checks in place to ensure accurate preparation of allergy-free dishes. This could include a specific protocol for handling allergy-related inquiries and orders.
3) Double-Checking Process: If a customer requests confirmation on the allergen content of a dish, the staff should actively go to the kitchen and double-check with the chef. This extra step can avoid potential errors and reassure customers.
I hope this feedback is taken constructively and serves as an opportunity for improvement. Our intention is not to be critical but to contribute to the enhancement of your establishment. We believe that implementing these changes will not only prevent similar incidents but also showcase your commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable dining experience for all patrons.
— Not at all
— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu
— Not Much/None
— Below Average