How to politely request dietary restrictions in Spanish restaurants

When you need to request dietary restrictions in Spanish restaurants, politeness and clarity are key. Spaniards appreciate courteous phrasing, especially when making special requests.

Useful Phrases

• Tengo alergia a… — “I have an allergy to…”
  Example: Tengo alergia a los frutos secos. — “I’m allergic to nuts.”

• Soy vegetariano/a. — “I am vegetarian.”

• Soy vegano/a. — “I am vegan.”

• No como carne/pescado/lácteos/gluten. — “I don’t eat meat/fish/dairy/gluten.”

• ¿Podría preparar el plato sin…? — “Could you prepare the dish without…?”

• ¿Podría decirme si este plato lleva…? — “Could you tell me if this dish contains…?”

• ¿Podría recomendarme algo sin…? — “Could you recommend something without…?”

Polite Starters

Using these opening phrases softens your request:

• Perdón, tengo una pregunta sobre la comida. — “Excuse me, I have a question about the food.”
• Disculpe, tengo algunas restricciones alimentarias. — “Excuse me, I have some dietary restrictions.”
• ¿Sería posible hacer una pequeña modificación al plato? — “Would it be possible to make a small change to the dish?”

Example Request

Disculpe, soy intolerante a la lactosa. ¿Podría preparar este plato sin queso ni leche?
”Excuse me, I’m lactose intolerant. Could you prepare this dish without cheese or milk?”

Would you like me to include specific phrases for food allergies (e.g., gluten, nuts, shellfish) or religious dietary restrictions?