Allergies make ordering more than a matter of taste. Ingredients can hide in sauces, breadings, dressings and shared cooking equipment, and menus can change. This guide covers the common allergens to watch for, how to communicate clearly with staff, and why confirming details at your local restaurant matters more than any general guide.
Start with the Boston Pizza menu with prices in Canada to review categories, and use the Boston Pizza menu overview to shortlist simpler dishes before you arrive.
Common allergens to watch for
In Canada, priority allergens commonly discussed include milk, egg, wheat and other gluten sources, soy, peanut, tree nuts, sesame, fish, shellfish, mustard and sulphites. At a pizza and casual dining restaurant, milk is present in most cheeses and creamy sauces, wheat in crusts and breaded items, egg in some doughs, batters and dressings, and soy or sesame in certain sauces and toppings. A dish that looks safe can still contain an allergen in a marinade, glaze or seasoning blend.
How to ask staff clearly
- State the allergen first, in plain words, for example: I have a peanut allergy, or I cannot have milk.
- Ask whether the dish, sauce, dressing and toppings contain that allergen.
- Ask about shared fryers, grills, ovens, pans and utensils.
- Ask whether the kitchen can use clean equipment and fresh gloves for your order.
- Ask the server to repeat the allergy back to you, so the message is clear before preparation begins.
If the server is unsure, ask them to check with the kitchen or a manager. A careful pause is better than a guess, especially for a severe allergy.
Why you must confirm at the local restaurant
Recipes, suppliers, preparation methods and allergen information can vary by location and over time. A guide on a website cannot replace the current information held by the restaurant preparing your food. If you have a severe allergy, confirm the dish on the day, check it when it arrives, and do not eat it if anything looks different from what was agreed.
Practical tips for safer ordering
- Choose dishes with fewer components when possible, so there are fewer hidden ingredients to check.
- Avoid shared starters if cross-contact is a concern, unless the restaurant can prepare a separate portion safely.
- Carry any medication you normally use, and tell your dining companions about your allergy.
- For group meals, plan ahead using our reservations guide and locations guide.
- Also see our gluten-free guide and vegan and vegetarian guide for related questions.
FAQ
Can a restaurant guarantee an allergen-free meal? Many restaurants can take precautions, but in a shared kitchen they may not be able to guarantee zero cross-contact. Ask what precautions are possible and decide based on your risk.
Should I mention a mild intolerance as well? Yes. Even if the reaction is not severe, telling staff helps them suggest a suitable dish and avoid an ingredient you need to skip.
What if a dish is changed after I order? If your dish arrives with a different topping, sauce or appearance, do not assume it is safe. Ask staff to confirm it before eating.
Is online allergen information enough? No. Use it as a starting point, then confirm the current ingredients and preparation at the restaurant you are visiting.
This guide is general information only and is not medical advice. If you have a severe allergy, speak with your health care provider about safe dining practices.