If a guest's dish contains an unavoidable allergen, what is the best course of action?

• A. Inform the guest, and offer a safe alternative or remade dish if possible; ensure kitchen is aware
• B. Do nothing
• C. Remove dish and refund
• D. Hide allergen and proceed

Answer: (A)

When a dish contains an unavoidable allergen, the priority is clear, proactive communication and taking steps to protect the guest. Informing the guest about the allergen right away allows them to decide what to do next, whether that’s choosing a safe alternative or having the dish remade if possible. At the same time, telling the kitchen ensures they understand the risk and can take precautions to prevent cross-contact, safeguarding not just the current guest but future ones as well. This approach shows care, builds trust, and aligns with safety and service standards.

Other options fail because they ignore or hide the risk, which can lead to a dangerous reaction and erode guest trust. Simply doing nothing, removing the dish and refunding without addressing the allergen, or concealing the allergen and proceeding all put the guest at risk and violate ethical and safety expectations.