I’m so excited to share my first guest post! Shelly Asplin MA, RD, LMNT, is THE ‘gluten-free’ dietitian in the midwestern region. Having a knowledgeable dietitian is key, especially for those that are newly diagnosed with celiac disease. Shelly worked with me at the former Celiac Support Association (now reformed as the National Celiac Association) and is currently a Hy-Vee dietitian in Omaha on 180th and Pacific. Thanks Shelly for sharing your experience with us! Here’s her experience on a Royal Carribbean cruise in January of 2018.
This was our first experience on a cruise. Royal Caribbean surprised me several times! They offered an entire buffet area dedicated to gluten-free.
We only dined in the buffet area a couple of times. I preferred full service dining with a menu that designated gluten-free items. Each night the wait staff would provide me a menu with gf items identified and I would preorder for the next evening. They offered gluten-free breads with each meal. Some of the gluten-free desserts I enjoyed were baked Alaska, crème brulee and my favorite, flourless chocolate cake.
I did try the gluten-free pizza, it wasn’t the tastiest, but it was nice to have the option. From lobster to filet mignon the meals were lovely. I would highly recommend developing a rapport with your regular wait staff. I felt it helped ensure the safety of your gluten-free offerings.
This was a Western Caribbean cruise. The ports offered naturally gluten-free offerings in Cozumel and Costa Maya. I enjoyed shrimp nachos, ceviche, lobster and margarita’s.
