“It is NOT a lifestyle choice.”

“Dear PoPville,

I unfortunately have food intolerances that require me to be on a restrictive, low FODMAP diet, in order to manage a long term digestive problem. It is NOT a lifestyle choice. Most restaurants are excellent at helping me to find something suitable. Chaplin’s Restaurant did a great job a few nights ago.

Last night I asked our server at Scott’s on F St NW (formerly Co Co Sala) if they had anything without onion or garlic, and I was told that everything had those things, but maybe the nuts and olives starter would be okay.

Since that would hardly be enough for a meal, and because I didn’t want to make a fuss and demand that the entire party leave over this, I quietly slipped out to Pret A Manger nearby, who easily accommodated my needs by giving me lemon slices for my salad dressing.

I went back in to Scott’s while my dining companions were having dessert, and we realised we were sitting next to the owner, who was very apologetic when we told him what had happened, but it was too late. I hope that the owner gives his staff the training to meet dietary requirements for future guests. It was horrible to be made to feel like a second class citizen because of an issue I cannot control.

My diet is not well known in general, but there are a lot of us low-fodmappers out there, not to mention people with other types of restrictions, who would like to know where to eat, and where to avoid.”