How I Navigate Coffee Shops + Quick Bites Safely
If you live with food allergies, you know that grabbing a coffee or a quick bite isn’t as simple as strolling into the first cute café you see. For me — with dairy, peanut, tree nut, and sesame allergies — coffee shops can feel like both a treat and a potential minefield. Over the years, I’ve learned a few simple habits that let me enjoy the cozy vibes and delicious drinks without the stress. Here’s how I make it work.
1. I Do My Research Before I Go
I never just pop into a coffee shop without scoping it out first. A quick check of their menu online gives me an idea of:
What milk alternatives they offer
Whether they bake in-house (hello, cross-contamination risk)
If pastries or sandwiches are clearly labeled with allergens
If I can’t find enough info online, I’ll call ahead. It might feel awkward at first, but a two-minute conversation can save a lot of stress later.
2. I Have My “Go-To” Safe Orders
Once I find a coffee shop that feels allergy-friendly, I figure out my safe orders and stick to them. For me, that usually means:
Mint tea
Matcha latte from places that don’t use shared steam wands for dairy milk — or where they can steam oat milk in a clean pitcher
Fresh fruit (no pre-made or packaged snacks without clear labels)
Consistency makes it easier for baristas to remember my allergies too.
3. I’m Upfront but Friendly With Staff
When I order, I say something like:
“I have severe dairy, peanut, tree nut, and sesame allergies — can you please make sure my drink is made with clean equipment?”
Keeping it calm and kind usually gets me better results than rattling off a list of “can’t haves.” People respond well when you make them feel like part of your safety team.
4. I Watch for Red Flags
Even if I’ve been somewhere before, I still pay attention every time. A few things that make me rethink my order:
Almond milk or other nut milks splashing around
Pastries with nuts or sesame seeds in the same case as other baked goods
Staff looking unsure or dismissive when I explain my allergies
If my gut says no, I’ll switch to a bottled drink or skip food altogether.
5. I Carry My “Just in Case” Kit
I never go anywhere without:
My epinephrine auto-injectors
Antihistamines
A small snack from home (in case nothing safe is available)
Yes, it takes more planning, but coffee shops are still one of my favorite little indulgences. By doing my homework, building safe orders, and speaking up kindly, I can enjoy the smell of fresh coffee, the cozy vibes, and the simple joy of treating myself — without letting my allergies steal the moment.
Your turn: What’s your go-to safe coffee order? DM me on Instagram @jessicajessnyc — I love hearing new ideas from fellow allergy friends!
XXOO,
JJ
