Crohn’s and Eating Out: How to Navigate Restaurants with Confidence
Practical tips for enjoying food outside the home while following the Tasty & Healthy approach
Eating out while following the Tasty & Healthy diet requires a bit more thought and planning—but it’s absolutely possible and can be a pleasant treat from time to time. With the right preparation, you can enjoy meals out without compromising your well-being.
🍴 Before You Go: Set Yourself Up for Success
- Research the Menu in Advance
Most restaurants today publish their menus online. Take a few minutes to scan the options and identify gut-friendly dishes—look for grilled, steamed, baked, or roasted items, and steer clear of fried or heavily sauced foods.
- Call Ahead if Needed
Don’t hesitate to call and ask how dishes are prepared. Ask whether substitutions are allowed, and whether the restaurant can accommodate dietary restrictions like gluten-free, dairy-free, or additive-free options.
- Eat a Small, Safe Snack Beforehand
If you’re unsure whether you’ll find something suitable, have a light, gut-friendly snack before heading out. This way, you won’t feel pressured to eat something that doesn’t agree with you just because you’re hungry.
🍽️ At the Restaurant: Order with Confidence
- Stick to Simple Dishes
Choose meals made with whole, recognizable ingredients and minimal sauces. Grilled chicken or fish with steamed vegetables and rice is usually a safe and satisfying option.
- Customize When Needed
Don’t be afraid to ask for adjustments. For example:
“Can I get that without the sauce or seasoning?”
“Could I substitute the salad for steamed vegetables?”
“Is the soup made with cream or flour?”
- Be Wary of Buzzwords
Words like crispy, creamy, or smothered often indicate high-fat, dairy-based, or heavily processed ingredients. Favor terms like grilled, roasted, steamed, or baked.
- Watch Out for Hidden Additives
Even foods that sound healthy—like soy milk or gluten-free bread—may contain emulsifiers, gums, or preservatives. If in doubt, ask what brand they use or stick with simple whole foods.
✅ Tips for Specific Types of Cuisine
Asian (e.g., Thai, Japanese): Ask for dishes without soy sauce (which often contains gluten) or MSG. Stick to plain rice, steamed vegetables, and grilled proteins.
Mediterranean: Great choices include grilled fish, olive oil-based dressings, cooked vegetables, and hummus (if tolerated).
Italian: Look for grilled chicken or fish served with plain rice or potatoes. Avoid creamy pastas or rich tomato sauces if they cause discomfort.
American diners: Choose grilled proteins with a plain baked potato or rice. Skip fries, burgers with sauce, and any fried items.
