What should you do if a guest asks for a substitution due to dairy restriction?

• A. Confirm dairy-free status, verify ingredients, and offer substitution.
• B. Refuse substitution.
• C. Offer a different dish without checking dairy.
• D. Tell them to adjust at home.

Answer: (A)

When a guest asks for a substitution due to a dairy restriction, the goal is to handle the request with care by confirming what they can't have and proposing a safe, satisfying option. Start by clarifying their dairy-free status—do they avoid all dairy or specific ingredients like cheese, milk, butter, or cream? Then review the dish in question and check every component for dairy: the base, sauces, dressings, toppings, and any baked elements. If a dairy-free version is possible, offer it and confirm that the kitchen will use dairy-free ingredients and prevent cross-contact. Provide the substitution clearly, aiming to preserve the dish’s flavor and texture as much as possible while removing dairy. If the current dish can’t be made dairy-free, propose another menu item that fits their needs and still delivers a satisfying experience. Finally, confirm the guest’s comfort with the substitution and note it in the order so the kitchen follows through, taking care with any shared utensils or fryers to avoid cross-contact.