Applebee’s does not offer a gluten free menu. They do not even have a gluten free allergy list or offer suggestions on their website for gluten free customers. Yet, eat there I did. Thanks to the helpful staff it was possible to navigate through the menu and arrive at a choice of what to order.
The Applebee’s on Sterling and 40 Highway in Kansas City proved to be more than accommodating when asked if they could provide for gluten free needs. This is despite the fact that Applebee’s, as a company, does not.
The waitress was bright and friendly when approaching the table. Even after being questioned about a gluten free menu, her smile did not falter. She informed me that there was no listing made available and that the staff had been requested not to make menu suggestions to people needing gluten free items. This seems to be a measure put in place, not to go against the gluten free community, but to protect the staff itself. She was happy to refer us to a manager.
Upon arriving at the table, the manager was sympathetic, but repeated what the waitress had already explained. He also had been instructed not to offer suggestions. He did say that there was a corporate customer assistance number that I would need to call for information and was happy to get it for me.
It took long enough for the manager to return to the table that I was afraid he had forgotten. It turns out that he was delayed because he was calling corporate himself to see if there was anything he could do to help me out. The gesture was appreciated, but ultimately fruitless. He informed me that there was no gluten listing in existence, only a wheat listing. I would need to call and get the information myself.
Of course I did. Since I had a menu right in front of me, it was easy to ask about specific items that had caught my eye. With the help of customer service I was able to discover that the Chicken Caesar Salad (without croutons), Garlic Herb Chicken, Fiesta Lime Chicken and chips with salsa and Queso were all pretty safe options.
My customer service representitive was careful to caution me that though they observe as much care as possible, there is no guarantee of safety from cross contamination. As this is true of every restaurant, I was undaunted and settled on the Garlic Herb Chicken. It was fantastic.
Though you will not find them on Gluten Free Registry, Applebee’s service came through with flying colors. They proved to be very accommodating and kind when it comes to individual customers and their needs. If every Applebee’s proves to be as well staffed as this one, then they should hold no fear for the gluten free community.
Comments
Chili's has a gluten free selection too! I subscribed to your column, thanks for visiting! Hope you'll come back soon. I'll have to try your honey idea in my coffee... never considered it, but I'm tempted to get Mick to brew me up a pot just so I can try it! -The Fat Boxer
I find this story disturbing and their behavior only serves their self-interest. It's hard enough having this condition without corporate legal preventing the staff from discussing the matter. I understand they went out of their way to get you to the customer service but all this wouldn't be necessary of they only had some advanced planning.
I call Applebee's "Sneaky-bees". Found that the chicken on salads probably has some gluten in the spices or seasoning. Garlic Herb Chicken may be safer, if you were okay. I had a salad and had a horrrrrrrible time of things. I won't eat there.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!