Better health

By Flymama72

July 8, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

I have food allergies that can be severe such as Mr. Hawkins. I feel so sorry for the family and friends, everyone around him more than likely already knew he had allergies. This mistake is all too common, there should have been a section on the menu listing the ingredients of the dish. I think the servers should be trained on food allergies and know what the ingredients are in certain dishes. I have been served fish instead of chicken at a restaurant, fortunately I keep Benadryl with me at all times…sometimes it is too late. I have learned to ask questions and read about different types of food. I love Thai food and know that the Thai culture use peanut oil and peanut sauce in some of their dishes. I even ask about cooking utensils, my allergies are so severe that if someone was to cook fish in a dish and then cook chicken in the same dish after it has been cleaned out. I will still have a reaction. When I feel my lips tingling and my throat starting to swell I know what is happening. There are also epi-pens that we have to carry to prevent going into these anaphylactic shock, at least until you get to the hospital. Allergies are very serious and sometimes people tend to take them lightly!

By Dixie

July 8, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

I’m really sorry for Mr. Hawkins family. If I had life threatening allergies, I probably wouldn’t eat out, I would be too aafraid of putting my life into someone else’s hands.

By ispeakthedrewth

July 8, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

We may never know what actually happened as the family and the restaurant play the blame game. At this point, other than a potential lawsuit, that issue may be moot. My question is this: WHY, WHY, WHY doesn’t someone who is that allergic to shell fish carry an EpiPen?? Accidents happen and ultimately everyone is responsible for their own health. You can argue till the cows come home that the man should never have been served crab meat. Sadly, he was. I would never trust my life to some 18-year old high school drop-out working for tips.

By Jack

July 8, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Rationally, the only way anyone with allergies can protect themselves is to prepare their own meals. To trust anyone else is to play the lottery. As the previous writer stated, I wouldn’t bet my life an 18 year old getting it right.

By GMoney

July 8, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Wow! ispeakthedrewth , your response is pure ignorance.

By sofia

July 8, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

well, you just need to carry your epi-pen people. Just ask the baby sniff and scootie.

By Mr. Mess

July 8, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

seriously, it would just be easier to stay at home and have mess. you get into trouble when you start giving mess signals out in public.

By ispeakthedrewth

July 8, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Dear GMoney -

I’d rather be ignorant than dead. Ask Rodney Hawkins that.

GMoney, try taking some personal responsibility. You might find it empowering.

By Jodi

July 8, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

I don’t have allergies…but what is the epi-pen?

By MKB

July 8, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

My husband has the same problem. The very first thing that I do is check the order and let the waitress/waiter know the problem and the manager always come over to the table to make sure that everything is okay. We were in Florida about two years ago, if I had not check his order when our food came to table he would have had the same thing happen to him. You must check and double check to make sure that your order is correct.

By Tim

July 8, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

I have eaten at this particular resturant on 3 occassions and I can tell you the cooks there dont have a clue. 2 of the 3 times I ordered a hamburger and requested it cooked medium. Both times the outside looked great but it was raw on the inside. The manager and waitress both played dumb when I complained. The replacement burger was cooked so done it was like chewing rubber. I am suprised they are still in business. Most of the cars there must be the employees.

By Chicken Little

July 8, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

Could someone explain why this happened? I’m not without sympathy for the Hawkins family. I am confused however. My physician informed me of many people who eat foods that should be avoided for fear of anaphylaxis. Of all the dishes on the menu at Ruby Tuesdays Mr. Hawkins chose food that he was aware could be life threatening. According to the article, Mr. Hawkins’ sister mentioned his food allergies go back to childhood. I wonder if Mr. Hawkins may have thought eating Chicken Oscar (where crabmeat is very easy to see) would do him no harm? Now that he is gone, he cannot answer that question for me.

By ispeakthedrewth

July 8, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Dear Jodi - The following comes from Wikipedia. Just google EpiPen to find out more.

EpiPen is manufactured by DEY L.P. EpiPens are commonly carried by persons with severe allergies and a risk of anaphylactic shock because they can be self-administered and are very fast-acting. In the UK and US, EpiPens are regulated medical devices and require a prescription. In Canada, EpiPens may be purchased without a prescription, but they are kept behind pharmacy counters.

By Tina

July 8, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

I face the same situations with allergies. Only two things cause anaphylactic shock for me - bananas and latex. I do not put my life into anyone else’s when it comes to food items. For example, I will not order smoothies or shakes for fear of blenders not being washed in between orders. I will ask before eating anything at a church fellowship or any type of serving line where food is homemade. My prayers go out to his family.

By kimfnp

July 8, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

This is a sad situation indeed, and previous posters were correct in saying we may never know the truth.

however, there is no excuse for anyone with any type of serious allergy not carrying an epipen.

secondly, with many food allergies the allergen does not even have to be present in the food itself…if the dishes, processing equipment or cookware have come into contact with the offending food previously, that is enough in some cases to provoke a severe reaction if a person is very sensitive.

By el

July 8, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

My son has severe allergies to peanuts and tree nuts. I’m not sure if Mr. Hawkins mentioned his allergy to the waitress or not, but when my family goes out to eat and my son is with us - we always make sure the wait staff knows about the allergy and we confirm that his food contains no nuts or nut oil. If they are unsure - we don’t order for him and go get him something else. We also carry an epipen just in case. Thankfully his allergy doesn’t seem to be as severe as some children and adults. We have also brought food for him when we go out - to ensure that he doesn’t get any food that might cause a reaction. Not sure an adult could do this - but it has really helped us to avoid a dangerous situation for our son. My condolences go out to Mr. Hawkins family.

By Teddy Lumpskins

July 8, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

I’m a unitesticle and even I carry an Epipen

By Cynthia

July 8, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

My family was sitting a section across from this couple. We saw him get upset with the waitress by saying “I am allergic to seafood, I didn’t order this” As he was saying this he kept panting and we saw the waitress go back to that touch screen menu thing and she came back and said, “I’m sorry you have the wrong order’. It was clear to me that they admitted it. By this time the guy got up from the table and started to pant even harder like he was suffocating. He kept asking if anyone has any benedryl. He kept asking and asking. People started looking in their pockets, some people ran out to their car. By this time they called the ambulance and the wife kept telling the guy to hold on the ambulance is coming. Then all of a sudden he fell to the floor. This was a big guy. He wasn’t fat but he had to be at least 6’8. Then that’s when the paramedics came about 3-5 minutes later. I think he died right there on the floor before the ambulance came. What is really sad is that Ruby Tuesdays keep saying that the guy deliberately ordered it. But the guy and his wife kept saying “we didn’t order this”. As God is my witness, I saw and heard the waitress come back to them saying that they brought him the wrong order. Shame on Ruby Tuesdays for lying! Most of all our condolences to his wife and family. This seems like such a mess.

By jeri

July 8, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

My family was sitting a section across from this couple. We saw him get upset with the waitress by saying “I am allergic to seafood, I didn’t order this” As he was saying this he kept panting and we saw the waitress go back to that touch screen menu thing and she came back and said, “I’m sorry you have the wrong order’. It was clear to me that they admitted it. By this time the guy got up from the table and started to pant even harder like he was suffocating. He kept asking if anyone has any benedryl. He kept asking and asking. People started looking in their pockets, some people ran out to their car. By this time they called the ambulance and the wife kept telling the guy to hold on the ambulance is coming. Then all of a sudden he fell to the floor. This was a big guy. He wasn’t fat but he had to be at least 6’8. Then that’s when the paramedics came about 3-5 minutes later. I think he died right there on the floor before the ambulance came. What is really sad is that Ruby Tuesdays keep saying that the guy deliberately ordered it. But the guy and his wife kept saying “we didn’t order this”. As God is my witness, I saw and heard the waitress come back to them saying that they brought him the wrong order. Shame on Ruby Tuesdays for lying! Most of all our condolences to his wife and family. This seems like such a mess.

By Bill

July 8, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Cynthia and Jeri. Please stand up for this man and his family and expose the repeated lies and cover ups that are so widespread in corporate america. Shame on Ruby Tuesdays.

By SMOOCHES

July 8, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

I totally agree with Flymomma72…The restaurant should have certainly indicated ingredients on menus of their dishes…ESPECIALLY ANY DISHES THAT CONTAIN ANY SEAFOOD CONTENT! Many people have severe allergic reactions to seafood, nuts, etc. This is a tragic case and restaurant is certainly cupable! FDA NEEDS TO INVESTIGATE THIS!

By juana

July 8, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

It’s sad that the man and his wife didnt have the epipen because it would’ve saved his life. O.k. yeah there was some responsibility on his part but he should not be responsible for his death. I’ve never had that chicken Oscar at Ruby Tuesdays but my friend says that it is the only chicken dish with seafood in it. She said you can’t really tell the difference between what he ordered and the chicken oscar because they look very similar. There is suppose to be some kind’ve thick yellowish sauce on both of them and that they both have vegetables in it too. She said it’s hard to tell which is which by just looking at it.

By LS

July 8, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

I have severe food allergies. I tend to stick to franchise restaurants where I know what to expect. I stay away from cuisines that are very risky based on what I’m allergic to. I ask questions regarding menu items if I am unsure and ask to speak to a manager if the server is unable to answer my questions. I visually inspect my food before eating. If there is any doubt at all, I do not eat it. And when all else fails, I carry an EpiPen and Benadryl with me at all times.

By Travanta

July 8, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Aren’t restaurants suppose to have some type of first aid kits especially for those who have an allergic reaction to food?

By free

July 8, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

wow cynthia, sounds like you are a witness. however, these chain restaurants are similar to a mcdonalds drive through, you never know WHAT you’re gonna get. if i had life threatening allergies, these are NOT places i would eat.

my question is, is the restaurant liable for giving him the wrong food? that’s not unusual. wouldn’t the family have to prove that it was done with some intent to harm the person?

By jeepers

July 8, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

The guy obviously didnt know what crabmeat looks like because the entree is prepared with crabmeat on top w/ asparagus. There is no way he could not have know that he was about to eat crabmeat. I nominate him for a darwin award.

By musicatl

July 8, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

They did the research and found that he made the mistake and ordered the mean… not that the restaurant gave him the wrong meal… in other words, he climbed over two fences and didn’t read the signs…

By musicatl

July 8, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

They did the research and found that he made the mistake and ordered the meal… not that the restaurant gave him the wrong meal… in other words, he climbed over two fences and didn’t read the signs…

By Jennifer

July 8, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

To most of you have written on this post, PLEASE READ: RUBY TUESDAYS BROUGHT OUT THE WRONG DISH. HE DID NOT ORDER THE DISH WITH SEAFOOD. THEY GAVE HIM THE WRONG ORDER.

My sincere condolences to the family.

By free

July 8, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

a pic of the chicken fresca is on their site [chicken button]. it clearly has tomatoes and a light yellow sauce.

flickr has a pic of what someone says is the ruby tuesday chicken oscar. if the link below doesn’t show, search on CHICKEN OSCAR AT RUBY TUESDAY. this was uploaded in June so I suppose it’s legit.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/chapstickaddict/2598692969/

By Jennifer

July 8, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Jeepers, you insinsitvie SOB!!!! They brought out the wrong freaking dish and now they are trying to cover their arse.

By Kristin

July 8, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Did anyone else notice that the two “witnesses” Jeri and Cynthia wrote the same exact thing?

And as a former server (I actully did work at a Ruby Tuesdays at one point in life) I have often wondered why management is not trained in basic first aid.

And I find it HIGHLY unlikly that the server repeated the order back to him several times.

By musicatl

July 8, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Free, try again

“Our investigation of this incident, which includes interviews with the server and manager on duty and the collection of their written notes of what occurred, clearly indicates that the guest ordered Chicken Oscar, a dish that contains crab meat,” Rick Johnson, a company spokesman, said in a written statement sent to the AJC on Tuesday.

By free

July 8, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

what do you EXPECT them to say musicatl? i mean, sometimes you order a sweet tea and got a nonsweet tea. sometimes you say no onions and get onions. or dressing on the side and it comes on top. it’s not unusual to have a disconnect between the customer and the server. you mean to tell me a man who could DIE from crabmeat said give me the only chicken on the menu with seafood? HOWEVER, i would expected him to have questioned those white lumps at the top.

By jeepers

July 8, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

Its irrelvant that the “wrong dish” was supposedly brought out. If you are too stupid to see crabmeat sitting on top of the chicken and you are allergic to crabmeat then I guess its a good thing that you are not populating the gene pool. People need to be responsible for themselves. Its not like the crab meat was hidden, he got it in the first bite. Yep, definately a nominate for a darwin award.

By jeepers

July 8, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

Its irrelvant that the “wrong dish” was supposedly brought out. If you are too stupid to see crabmeat sitting on top of the chicken and you are allergic to crabmeat then I guess its a good thing that you are not populating the gene pool. People need to be responsible for themselves. Its not like the crab meat was hidden, he got it in the first bite. Yep, definately a nominate for a darwin award.

By Bob Lee

July 8, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

BIG DEAL!! This dummy has known since CHILDHOOD that shellfish = DEATH!! Even if they DID bring the wrong dish it is HE who ultimately decided to put it in his mouth. You’re telling me he doesn’t know what crab looks or SMELLS like? “Aspiring rap star”…That says it all! Darwin wins another one.

By kaygee62

July 8, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

Maybe Jeri and Cynthia are from the same family and didn’t feel like writing two different accounts??? …. Just playing devil’s advocate here.

At any rate, it sounds as if the Restaurant is playing the CYA game. Though it is too late for Mr. Hawkins, some lessons can be gleaned from this situation:

And one more thing: The server may have written the order down WRONG. It could happen; it has happened before with me when I’ve eaten out, as servers are human after all. The restaurant gains NOTHING in trying to play the CYA game. They should own up to their responsibilities and look at what they can do to prevent this from HAPPENING again!

By BiteMe

July 8, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

When I worked at the Village Tavern years ago, I always surprised my customers by asking them if they had pepper allergies when certain dishes were ordered. More than a couple times their response was YES, and I was able to avoid having any illnesses due to the fact that the restaurant TAUGHT us what foods might be potentially dangerous to certain people with allergies. If all restaurants followed suit, things like this would not happen.

I am sorry for his family and friends :(

By okdome

July 8, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry for the family most resturants gives a description of what the entree has in it and show an illsutration I can not believe the gentleman placed an order that contain something that he was allergic too let’s keep it real could the order be mixed up? hmmmm

By Bob Lee

July 8, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

The “nanny” mentality of most of these posts is indicative of the “wussification” of America and why we’re headed down the tubes! I mean, my GOD, people can be allergic to ANYTHING; what the hell is the restaurant supposed to DO! If you are the “allergee” then it is YOUR responsibility to keep YOURSELF alive! “Feel for his family?” Hell, they’re probably better off WITHOUT him as is most CERTAINLY the gene pool!

By Marcus

July 8, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Who knew they used real crabmeat @ Ruby Tuesdays?

By Dan

July 9, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this

Sure we should have compassion for this terrible mistake, but the position of many of the posters is frightening, training waitstaff? holding a rest accountable? How about looking at what you are putting in your mouth?? Its not like it was raviloi and you cant see whats in it? and if you are hyper allergic you need to warn the rest, even then the individual has primary responsibility to monitor what they ingest. Or maybe we should require all rest employees to be emt certified and carry epi-pens to protect the ignorant masses…. nah I say let Darwin work his magic

By wargammer2005

July 9, 2008 8:13 AM | Link to this

it is your body and YOUR responsibility.

By tears

July 9, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

I read these post all the time and what strikes me is how insensitive our society has become. Yeah, everyone is entitled to their own opinon,- Freedom of Speech. Regardless of whose fault it was, Mr. Hawkins not carrying an EpiPen or the waitress getting the order wrong, a life has been lost. Mr. Hawkins was someones father, brother, uncle, friend and husband. Can you imagine sitting at dinner with your mate or love one and having to witness your mate or love one in distress. A distress that ultimately leads to death. Wake up people, it’s not always about you, start thinking of other people , maybe this world would be a better place……

By Curious

July 9, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

So he has been allergic to shellfish all his life and HE decided to eat the dish? Even if the brought the wrong dish, HE should not have touched it and sent it back. And why didn’t he have an Epipen?

My daughter is severely allergic to seafood (not only shellfish) and geesh, when she was in kindergarten and they served tuna, she would never eat it. She knew not to. She cannot sit near a table where there is shellfish…she knows not to. Her Epipen is like AMEX…she never leaves home without it.

And this was a grown man?

By The Rev. Markel Hutchins

July 9, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this

This is pure racism! Ruby Tuesday would have never let this happen to a white man or an Asian. It is time for us to all come together and protest. Time to rise above this kind of treatment. It is time for the Ruby Tuesday Corporation to offer the family a 7-figure settlement. Time to get the Cochran Firm involved!

By mimosa_mirabella

July 9, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this

My husband has always been allergic to shellfish and ever since I had to take him to the hospital many years ago when he ingested crab which was in a creamy dip some years ago, we both always make a point of informing the waiter neither of us can eat any dish containing shrimp, crab, crawfish or lobster.

Even so, just last week at Little Bangkok on Cheshire Bridge DH, some way or another one such substance or broth made it into my DH’s chicken and eggplant dish. Neither of us could taste whatever one, but something made him break out and have breathing problems. (BTW, fish sauce is made from anchovies: my guess is the wok must’ve not been cleaned btween dishes.)

I blame Ruby Tuesday’s for Mr. Hawkins death. In a creamy spicy sauce, he may not have been able to detect crab, which is something he did not/could not eat. I have a feeling the order was gotten wrong by the server.

By Serious

July 9, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this

Let’s get serious people, he knew he had an allergy. Do you honestly think he did not check what was in the menu before he ordered it? For the rest of you, im sure staying home all the time is so much fun, but sometimes its nice to go out and eat. You guys are saying that the server did not make a mistake, hahahahahaahha My orders are always wrong, servers are listening half the time, are you people freaking serious?????

By Truth Be Told

July 9, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

This whole “story” smells kinda fishy. Has the FBI or local investigators looked into the wife’s role in this whole fiasco? Husband & wife - out for a casual dinner - and the one with a “known” allergy to seafood ends up dead !?!?

Also, fake eye witness accounts such as Cynthia (aka jeri) should be turned over to the proper authorities as well. The Internet is producing an new society of human scum …

By Nia

July 9, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

I agree with your post Tears. Regardless of whose “fault” it was, Rodney is no longer here. I have eaten at that particular Ruby Tuesdays twice and both times the servers have gotten my order wrong. The first time, I ordered a salmon dish which I had her repeat back to me but instead received the tilapia dish. Because of this, I believe there may have been a mix up in the order and the restaurant should at least consider the possibility. I sincerely hope those of you who witnessed the incident will come forward on the family’s behalf. Yes, I believe he should have carried an epi-pen, however he didn’t and now his family has to suffer the consequences of that decision. I will continue to keep them in my prayers.

By Clay

July 9, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

I can’t even remember how many times the waitress/waiter has written my order down wrong at a restaurant. But I’d guess at least 50 times in the last 10 years. Anyone with serious food allergies is taking a chance with their life at any restaurant. No doubt that the waitress wrote the order own wrong at Ruby Tuesday’s and that’s why this guy is now dead.

I once had to go to the ER with serious food poisoning from eating in a very expensive restaurant. It was just as painful as the time my appendix ruptured.

By TW

July 9, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

People can say what they will, whether he ordered unknowly or the restaurant got the order mixed up, they (Ruby Tuesday) will have to accept some legal responsilibility.

By TW

July 9, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

People can say what they will, whether he ordered unknowly or the restaurant got the order mixed up, they (Ruby Tuesday) will have to accept some legal responsilibility.

By HP

July 9, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

I think you guys are overreacting to trolls (Jeepers and some of the others) but coming down too hard on people like ISpeakTheTruth. I have a family member with life threatening food allergies. He carries an EpiPen wherever he goes. I feel so sorry for this man and his family and I think Ruby Tuesdays screwed up and are trying to cover their behinds. It doesn’t matter what Cynthia or Jeri wrote because the truth will come out. But for those with food allergies, (and everything else in life kids) it is very important that you take responsibility and PROTECT YOURSELF. ISpeak is not being insensitive! Carry your EpiPen, ask questions, tell people you have food allergies and double check orders when you are out. People are stupid and don’t care, I mean, you can’t go to a McDonalds and get a correct order from the Value Meal Menu, you expect some idiot to protect your health and life? Please.

By dustin

July 9, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

I certainly hope the post from “the reverend markel hutchins” is supposed to be a joke. If not, I think we have possibly found the dumbest person in America.

By Ooops!

July 9, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

I can only imagine how much colder and lonlier this world will be tonight without another aspiring rapper / welder. This world is still in shock over such horrible, horrible loses like Tupak and his homies. And, you’d have to know that with a name like Krook; he’d have had to have been all heart like his family is portraying him. The good news is; that by the time the race pimps and attorney’s get through with Ruby Tuesday’s, thay will have as much money as if he REALLY had made the big time gangsta scene. What a shame; a rapper who can’t eat shell fish - or take responsibility for his own health.

Being a “crabber” who isn’t allergic to shell fish; did it ever dawn on anyone that you can SMELL crab meat that is sitting in front of you?

And to the “witness’: Thanks for being such great witness’! If the family was screaming that they hadn’t ordered the food to begin with; but ate it anyway; you just reduced his damage award by a HUGE sum! You’re AWESOME!

By wombatbreath

July 9, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

HP’s advice is right on the money. An additional consideration is cross contamination. Don’t eat fried foods because they could have been cooked in the same oil as shellfish. I avoid chain restaurants if possible. Be vigilant and ask, ask, and ask again. You or your loveone’s life depends on it.

By acncrdcitzn

July 9, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

was this an attempt to scam ruby tuesday gone wrong? perhaps he thought he would survive, collect damages and it turned out horribly wrong.

By JennyL

July 9, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

While we don’t have life-threatening food allergies, my husband is extremely sensitive to MSG added to foods. This triggers terrible migraines for him and thousands of other people. Yet this additive has found its way into restaurants and foods that you wouldn’t think of. Best advice is to ask in restaurants and read labels in the grocery store. When it comes to your health, you have to look out for youself.

By RenaP

July 9, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

I have eaten at Ruby Tuesday’s many times - and have no doubt that a waitress could have very easily made the mistake. They make mistakes there all the time. Once we even had our dinners given to us at no charge due to server errors.

The restaurant references their investigation and saying the waitress’ order pad had the correct item. What exactly does that tell us? She wrote the wrong thing down? I respect waiting staff at restaurants (when they are good) but lets face it - they are not the valedictorians at graduation. Some of them are down right bubble heads. So I think the server could have absolutely been the one that made the mistake. I don’t think, however, that criminal charges should be brought against her. but the restaurant should be accountable in some way. instead of sending out a press release about their silly investigation and trying to wash their hands of it.

By givemeabreak

July 9, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

I agree with acncrdcitzn, this does smell a little like an attempted scam. Anyone with severe allergies (such as myself) carries an epipen. I also know that benadryl will not help me if I am exposed to my allergen - only an epipen and prompt medical attention will save me. I have been told about the warning signs of exposure and can identify them.
If he asked for benadryl then he didnt think he was as allergic as he truly was… someone forgot to tell him that the reaction intensifies after each exposure.
I smell a scam. Sorry for the family the guy died, but in the end we have to watch out for ourselves. Lay off the restaurant!

By John W

July 9, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

EPI-PEN EPI-PEN EPI-PEN Others have said it. It needs repeating.

I have a severe allergic reaction to beef. I never order it obviously and I haven’t had an anaphylaxis reaction in three years BUT I never go anywhere without the EPI-PEN. It works. It saves lives. Sure it’s a bother to carry it but life is worth the aggravation.

By John W

July 9, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

EPI-PEN EPI-PEN EPI-PEN Others have said it. It needs repeating.

I have a severe allergic reaction to beef. I never order it obviously and I haven’t had an anaphylaxis reaction in three years BUT I never go anywhere without the EPI-PEN. It works. It saves lives. Sure it’s a bother to carry it but life is worth the aggravation. I get a new one every year.

By Mr. R

July 9, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

SEE, I TOLD YOU THAT LARA LOGAN IS A H*#, SHE’LL SLEEP WITH ANYONE TO ADVANCE HER CAREER AND GAIN NATIONAL ATTENTION.

By Truth Be Told

July 9, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

In our “lawsuit happy” society, it’s best to either have no comment and/or complete denial of ANY situation.

Ruby Tuesday should NOT accept responsibility, because doing so would open them to lawsuits even if they were to be completely cleared of any wrong doing.

There is a reason that no charges are being filed. The investigation is ongoing and either the wife is involved and/or it is a scam gone wrong…

By strict liability

July 9, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

Ruby Tuesday as a whole has a bad problem with employee training, which produces bad service, and here, a man’s death. The restaurant should acknowledge its mistake, and settle with the family. The longer it denies culpability, the more customers it is likely to lose. I say this as the mother of a son with food allergy. Yes, I carry an Epi-pen, but the pen is not an end-all, and in fact, it can produce fatal reactions itself. I know because my mom almost died when she was treated with epinephrine (Epi-pen) after having a severe allergic response to detergent.Epi can cause your heart to race abnormally fast. So Ruby Tuesday, SETTLE NOW.

By Ashamed

July 9, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

What is wrong with you people. A man is DEAD. What has this man ever done to any of you? Karma is a you-know-what.

By AQ

July 9, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

First not everybody who works in a restaurant is a drop out. I have seen Real estate agents waiting tables with this current market ! When you order food and have an allergy make sure you triple check that it is right! The server only brings you the food. There is someone in kitchen called an expo that matches all the food in the window with each ticket. I am sorry for that family and the waitress . It was a horrible mistake that the girl will have to live with now. It does happen and people get so caught up in other things at the table they tend to ignore the waitress and anything she says. I think the fault is with both parties. He is responsible for his own health , she made a mistake.

By 2kidzmom

July 9, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Cynthia, Thank you for speaking up. I’m sure the family or their lawyer would appreciate you giving a statement as to what you witnessed. Because clearly the blame is being shifted back and forth. The loss of live or a loved one is so sad, as this could have happened to anyone of our families.

By Truth Be Told

July 9, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

givemeabreak & acncrdcitzn - great comments. I am leaning towards scam as well - based on your posts. You would think a spouse, wife in this case, would not let this type of thing continue as far as it did.

By Laurie

July 9, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

I know lots of people with food allergies and while I have compassion and sympathy for them I am constantly annoyed with how they expect others to take responsibility for their problems. At my kids school we are always asked to bring special snacks for children with allergies. Well, I don’t want to be responsible for accidentally injuring an allergic child with my well-meaning snack so I refuse. My position is if you have a severe food allergy provide your own snack. You know best what you can and can’t eat. On the same note, you cannot expect a restaurant to take responsibility for your life on that level. Restaurants make mistakes and the servers often don’t know every single ingredient in the meals served. If you have allergies of this kind then don’t eat out! Why would you risk your life to eat at Ruby Tuesday? I am so sorry for this man and his family but when you have severe allergies and you put food preparation in others hands you are taking a chance. If I had that condition you would never catch me eating at a restaurant. Sometimes we have to make adjustments ourselves and not expect everyone else to do it for us.

By Truth Be Told

July 9, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

givemeabreak & acncrdcitzn - great comments. I am leaning towards scam as well - based on your posts. You would think a spouse, wife in this case, would not let this type of thing continue as far as it did.

By Crystal

July 9, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

I have had an allergy to carrots since birth. I swell internally. Doctors have told me that each reaction will get a little worse. It is amazing how many foods have carrots in them. I rarely eat much at family gatherings, potlucks, and other outings. It is safer for me to prepare meals at home.

By Kristin

July 9, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

This is sad and I can tell you that just because the server’s book says he ordered that does not neccesarily mean he did. I am server, we sometimes write down the wrong things. Wrong orders come out. I think Ruby Tuesdays and the man are to blame. I doubt the man ordered it, I think Ruby Tuesdays is lying. Also, to ISPEAKTHEDREWTH, why do you think all servers are 18 year old highschool droop outs. I am an honors student at the University of Georgia about to graduate and that offends me. There are a lot of people like you with the same attitude who think we are all lower than them and treat us like crap and tip us bad. Well i got news for you, not all of us are. I don’t do drugs and I am trying to pay for school costs. Thanks.

By Kristin

July 9, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

This is sad and I can tell you that just because the server’s book says he ordered that does not neccesarily mean he did. I am server, we sometimes write down the wrong things. Wrong orders come out. I think Ruby Tuesdays and the man are to blame. I doubt the man ordered it, I think Ruby Tuesdays is lying. Also, to ISPEAKTHEDREWTH, why do you think all servers are 18 year old highschool drop outs. I am an honors student at the University of Georgia about to graduate and that offends me. There are a lot of people like you with the same attitude who think we are all lower than them and treat us like crap and tip us bad. Well i got news for you, not all of us are. I don’t do drugs and I am trying to pay for school costs. Thanks.

By Ilene

July 9, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Perhaps the two people with the same story just copied each other so as not to have to write the entire account over again. Duh. …and I’ve got my own story to tell from yesterday

By Lisa

July 9, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

My daughter has severe allergies to peanunts, tree nuts (cashews, walnuts, pine nuts, etc.) and shellfish). She doesn’t go anywhere without an epi pen, benadryl and an albuterol rescue inhaler.

We always announce her allergies at restaurants and grill them on how they handle her allergens. If we don’t get a sense that the restaurant is taking her needs seriously, we don’t stay. Some may say we overreact, but after several ER runs when we weren’t so demanding, we’ve decided to err on the side of caution. We’ve carried epi-pens with us for the last 6 years but have only needed to use them in the last 2 years. Allergies get worse over time so demand an epi-pen if you have a food allergy even if you don’t need it now. I could save your life later.

By m.dee

July 9, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

I work in a restaurant,an people come in everyday with food allergies. It amazes me that they always order dishes with things that they are allergic to,but wants the cook to sub another ingredent in place of what they are allergic to. what they dont understand is that you will always have traces of that in the dish.Plus the waitresses 7 out 10 times does not tell the cook about the allergies,and the customers always come in when the restaurant is at its busiest time and orders dishes that have the things they are allergic to and want it specially made .As a cook in one of Atlantas finest restaurants, customers comming in with allergic reactions to certain types of food,PLEASE COME TO RESTAURANTS WHEN THEY ARE NOT BUSY.THIS WAY THEY HAVE THE TIME TO FIX YOUR MEAL WITH CARE.AND MISTAKES WILL NOT HAPPEN LIKE WHAT HAPPENED TO MR.HAWKINS.

By cmanns

July 9, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

I don’t eat alot of seafood and I would not have known by the picture that it was crabmeat.

By RCH

July 9, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

Even IF the server ordered the wrong dish,how could this gentleman miss the sight,smell,and taste(after the first bite) of the seafood.Its very hard to understand.

By Ilene

July 9, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

I went to get lunch and got some soup. The soup had rice, clumps of rice, and some carrots. I started eating the soup and ate a clump of rice. It did not taste like rice, so I started stirring and saw a red “tail” and figured it was shrimp! I am allergic to shrimp. I had no idea there was shrimp in that soup. I did not see a placard card that said shrimp rice soup and I’ve never seen shrimp soup at this place EVER! I went downstairs and talked to an owner who apologized and asked if he needed to call someone to help me. I did not need help. I carry an epi-pen on me just in case for severe allergic reaction. I also carry Benedryl with me. I also walk around with allergy cards for food to help food establishments keep allergens away from my meals. (They are the size of a business card). I consider myself extremely careful and something like this should not ever happen. I went downstairs to take some photos of the soup and the area where the soup is to show that there was no markings for the soup. Then I saw some light blue writing on the plastic saying shrimp and soup. It was BARELY VISIBLE. How is a person supposed to notice it?

The best place in the world for people with food allergies is Disney World. They go out of their way to make you feel normal and chefs come out and talk to you and they take special care to be certain there is no cross-contamination of cooking utensils and pots/pans. Another nice place is actually Legal Seafood (I think Atlanta has one now downtown). They also are very nice to people with food allergies.

By Local resident

July 9, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

First of all my deepest sypmathy to this man’s family. It was a very tragic loss for them. But the responsibility still falls on the customer. This man is 35 years old. He is not a child who is not aware of his allergies. If his allergies are so severe, he needs to always be prepared to handle them. I have been in restaurants many of times, when another customer will order something — eat part of it — then tell the waitress it is not what they ordered, so they can get something else for free. They then decide to take the second dish home. It is just a way of scaming the restaurant to get free food. I live is this area, you have to remember the hired help comes from Lovejoy — a part of the disfunctional Clayton Cty school district. Enough said. Again, my sympathy to this mans family.

By Enrique

July 9, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

Allergies are a bummer. I’ve had more than my share of them. I was, at one time, highly allergic to bee stings. Getting one put me into an anaphylactic shock, and thanks to a young lad bicycling very fast to bring me some Benadryl, I recovered. After that, I carried an Anakit (epinephrine shot kit) with me most everywhere for years, just in case. However, the immune system will forget an allergy if there is absolutely zero exposure to that allergen for a period of at least six months. Since I was not stung by a bee for nearly a decade after that, my system became insensitive to the bees again, and when I was again stung, I just lay down quietly, relaxed, did not panic, and waited for a period of time with no anaphylaxis. I feel fortunate to be out of the danger zone, but I sympathize with those who are not.

Allergies are real. One does not choose to have them. Few people would choose to knowingly expose themselves to their allergen when the reaction is severe. I’m sure this man did not know what he’d been given.

By Dan

July 9, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

whether or not the server misheard, misordered or the wrong plate was delivered is 100% irrelevant. We all make mistakes and it is just as likely the customer misordered. Unless there was intent to deceive, there is zero liability, all to often we as a society expect others to take responsibility for our welfare. Years ago I waited tables. and there was a shrimp and scallop dish on the menu. A table of 6, 3 customers ordered the dish but one asked if he could have just scallops. That is all he said. So the order went in and the chef cooked 3 orders together and simply put scallops on one plate and a mix on the other 2. Turns out the man was allergic to shrimp and had a reaction because they were cooked together. Luckily he made it to the hospital and survived, but that was entirely his fault. All he needed to do was specifically say his needed to be cooked separate. If you are the individual with a condition outside the norm YOU have to adapt to the world not the other way around. Sure society should help when they can but they should not be compelled to

By Mosell

July 9, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

All the people that are saying “I would just stay at home” REALLY. You would shut yourself off from life. I DON’T THINK SO. My Spouse has an allergy to the Lily family. What is that??? It is Onions, Shallots, Chives, Leeks, and Garlic. What do most ALL items you buy at the grocery have in them, Onion or Garlic Powder. Next time Hunts or Del Monte come out with a “Now new and improved” product look at the label I’ll bet you the only thing that is new and improved is the last ingredient on the label. It will be either Garlic or Onion powder. Hunts came out a couple of years ago with their ketchup as Now more tomato flavor. What did they change. It now has onion powder. That made it more tomato flavor???

Chick-Fil-A just “Came out with an Updated Menu.” Guess what my spouse can no longer eat at Chick-Fil-A. The Chicken Salad now has Garlic powder in it.

When I read this story I browsed over to Ruby Tuesday’s website and looked at the menu. I told my spouse I bet he ordered the Chicken Fresco. Looking at the descriptions, If this guy did have a shellfish allergy there is no way on this green earth he would have ordered CHicken Oscar. The first line of the item descritpion is and I quote their Menu “Chicken Oscar - Tender jumbo lump crab meat with asparagus tips and lemon-butter sauce atop a fresh grilled chicken breast. Served with fresh, steamed broccoli and mashed potatoes.” and knowing how wait staff listen sometimes. Some of you that are wait staff will hate me for this, however beleive me after sending a meal back 5 or 6 times because somewhere along the line from wait staff, to kitchen staff, to the person who makes the dish look perfect back to my table, and after we make sure you understand it isn’t my spouse doesn’t like onions or garlic it is the fact that she CAN’T EAT ONIONS or GARLIC the meal will come out with onions or garlic. We always get the comment well it only has a little garlic. I aks them does it matter if a little bee stings you or a big bee stings you. if you are allergic to bees either one will get you.

I have gone so far as to print labels for the wait staff to put on their order check. It says in bold type.
FOOD ALLERGY - PLEASE NO ONION, GARLIC, SHALLOTS, CHIVES, or LEEKS in my food. If this is a problem please let me know I will not order.

By MARK

July 9, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

Im allergic to fire ants, when I see them, I leave the area. My question is did the man not see or smell what he was eating? Im really sad this happened, but the earlier comments where correct, stay out of the area of what you are allergic to. If I see fire ants, Im killing them or leaving the area.

By Truth Be Told

July 9, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

Wow Ilene - you are just waiting for something to happen so you can file a lawsuit! I went downstairs to take some photos of the soup. Do you also have your personal injury lawyer on speed dial?

By Tragic mistake

July 9, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

How many times have you sat down at a “restaurant” an ordered your meal’ the waiter repeats it to you, smiles, and it stills comes out of the kitchen WRONG? All the time, if you’re telling the truth. Come on Ruby Tuesday. You pay insurance for a reason; because accidents happen! I honestly cannot believe that someone thinks this man would purposely eat something, that could kill him. My goodness. I’m sure he would have picked a nicer place to die in, had that been the case. RIDICULOUS!!!! And as for the IDIOTS posting about a scam; I am ALLERGIC TO INGNORANCE AND YOU’RE MAKING MY AZZ ITCH!

I will keep the family in my prayers.

By Equitut

July 9, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

I used to carry an EpiPen (EpiPen is a registered trademark for the most commonly used autoinjector of epinephrine (a.k.a. adrenaline), used in medicine to treat anaphylactic shock.) My food allergies are transient, so carrying any kind of antihistimine (benedryll, claritin, etc.) would have helped if someone had some with them. You usually know pretty quickly if you are having a bad reaction.

By Kim

July 9, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Why does Markel Hutchins make EVERYTHING about race?? I am a Black Woman and I seriously doubt that this had anything to do with race. It was a mistake. The wrong dish was brought out and it was realized too late. Unfortunately, the family did not have an epi-pen with them. This could have happened to anyone with severe food allergies.

By Dan

July 9, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Tragic Mistake You are the ignorant one, if you think a rest has insurance to pay someone for eating something they are allergic to. You are right people make mistakes, so this person and his wife need to take extra care. The crab on chicken oscar is unmistakable. Tragic yes, but ultimately is own fault

By Susan

July 9, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Up until yesterday, everytime I went to Ruby Tuesdays, the wait staff had no order pads to write it down. Who has forgotten that point?! I have frequented several different Ruby Tuesdays and none have come to my table and jotted down my order. That is just what the waitress did AFTER the incident to cover her butt!

By Enrique

July 9, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

To those wondering how the man did not know the taste of crabmeat, perhaps you could answer this question for me:

You’ve never eaten crabmeat in three decades, since you were a child…are you going to remember and “just know” what it tastes like?

Folks, not only would the flavor have been unrecognizable to him, but the texture, and perhaps the appearance as well. Being allergic to something means you AVOID it. It does not mean you get to know it very well. At least, if you are deathly allergic, this is the case.

Tolerance of others, and compassion, these are the virtues that make us “human.” To those claiming Darwin has won in this case, I say the opposite! Any species bent on its own destruction would never be “the fittest.” Thankfully, God will yet intervene, before we all self-destruct. Maranatha!

By No Dawgs Here

July 9, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

I’m allergic to all berries. Deathly allergic to Strawberries. Plainly put, I tell people at the table if they have berries, I’ll have to leave until they are done eating. Event he smell can and has made me sick. I have to tell people, waiters and cooks that I’m allergic. I have never had a case where they put berries in anyway. But, to add to this. Even if they did. I would be able to tell right off the bat. I mean doesn’t crab have a distinct taste? You’d think he would not eat it, if he tasted it? Anyways, I would then ask why and refuse the plate. Just me.

By Dianne Gregg

July 9, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

Allergies of any type are very serious! In 2003, after going into anaphylactic shock and spending four days in the intensive care unit, the doctors diagnosed food poisoning. WRONG!! I discovered on my own I had a Soy allergy! Try eating out or even buying foods on the grocery store shelves! It’s very frustrating to me. These days I rarely eat out, and if I do, I only order a salad, without croutons (they are made with soybean oil)and bring my own salad dressing. I always carry benedryl with me. I once attended an event that had a luncheon buffet..I spoke with the chef, explained my allergy. He looked at the menu and said I could have the grilled chicken because they only use lemon juice for flavoring. I asked if they spray the grill will cooking spray. He said they did and I told him that has soybean oil. So, needless to say I didn’t eat and left. I researched soy and found that soy is not the health food it’s cracked up to be. It’s not preventing health problems…it’s creating them such as thyroid disease, osteoporosis, intestinal problems, and can enhance the growth of tumors in cancer survivors, and more. And I believe it’s contributing to the obesity in this country because for eight years I complained to doctors about contstantly being nauseous, bloated and gaining weight. Since I removed soy from my diet, I’ve lost all the weight and feel great! I do miss eating out though! To learn more visit: http://www.hiddensoy.com

By bolandx4@msn.com

July 9, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

FYI

By Dan

July 9, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Actually Enrique, since he knew he was allergic it is quite clear that he did in fact have experience with crab meat. Quite frankly, reality is the exact opposite of your position. If you are deathly allergic to something, you better make it your business to know how to recognize it, it certainly isn’t anyone elses responsibilty. If he wasn’t aware of these things then he wouldn’t have lasted this long.
How this simple logic escapes people is quite remarkable. This has nothing to do with humanity, compassion or tolerance, just simple facts and logic

By kmesw@msn.com

July 9, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

FYI

By Enrique

July 9, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Dan,

You might be interested to know that we tested my children for allergies, doing an extensive food test that tested about 90 different foods. We knew they had some allergies, and the test results have helped us a lot to know what foods to avoid for them. The interesting part is this: We have been completely vegetarian with them, and due to our religious beliefs, would not even consider eating shellfish. But the blood test showed our two small boys were both allergic to the shellfish!

Now, if we were out eating, and ordered a vegetarian meal, do you think they will recognize that there is meat in the food, much less what kind—shellfish, which they have NEVER eaten before? Naturally, my boys are still small, and it is up to parents to care for children at this age. However, I myself was raised vegetarian, and would not recognize crab if its shell were peeled off and it were mixed in with my dish.

Is that logic simple enough?

Blessings.

By Ilene

July 9, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

No, I am not a lawsuit waiting to happen — just an intelligent person documenting a very bad communication style by a food establishment. Try a little prevention here now so troubles dont’ come up later.

By Truth Be Told

July 9, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Tragic mistake - that is such a fitting moniker for you!

I have extreme empathy for those of you cannot see this drama for what it is - A SCAM …

Can’t wait for to post on the next blog to say I TOLD YOU SO!

By givemeabreak

July 9, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

It doesnt matter if you’ve never had crab or any meat. When you bite into something expecting chicken and it doesnt taste like chicken you STOP EATING IT! Especially if you have an allergy! It is incumbent upon a person to take care of themselves and be careful about what is put in their mouth!

My guess is that he thought he’d have some hives but the payout would be worth a lot more than initial discomfort. And if it wasnt a scam and he really is that dumb… then I’m with the above poster who suggested a darwin award.

By Truth Be Told

July 9, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

just an intelligent person documenting a very bad communication style by a food establishment. Intelligent - NO, Scammer - YES

By Enrique

July 9, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

So, why doesn’t someone get the bright idea to stock restaurants with an emergency-use EpiPen or two for just such cases as this? We talk about putting so many other safety devices in, why not this one? They’re not expensive.

Better yet, get Congress to pass a law requiring all restaurants, airplanes, schools, etc. to stock these. The big pharma would get even bigger. Of course, the restrictions on prescription for these things would need to be relaxed a bit.

Would someone like to tell me why a life-saving item like this cannot be purchased without a doctor’s prescription? Ere long we’ll have to have licenses just to live.

By givemeabreak

July 9, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

They’re not stocked because you need a prescription for one. If it is used improperly (like on someone not in shock) it will kill them.

By Truth Be Told

July 9, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

get Congress to pass a law requiring all restaurants, airplanes, schools, etc. to stock these.

More dumb laws passed for the morons of society that are just waiting to file a lawsuit if you screw up …

By Dan

July 9, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Enrique Logic still eludes you First of all we are speaking of a 35 yr old not a child so that point is moot Second if you don’t recognize whats on your plate don’t put it in your mouth, especially if you have allergies. Third you choose not to eat crab, it is not dangerous to you, therefore inadvertantly eating it would be at most unpleasant for you, were it dangerous you would be remiss not to familiarize yourself with it. An antelope that doesn’t recognize a lion won’t last long

I am not saying it isn’t a tradgedy, my point is simply the restaurant, server etc do not bear the responsibility for an adult not paying attention to what they eat (even if they did legally bear the responsibility why would anyone put their life in the hands of an medically untrained stranger). This isn’t crab mixed into a soup or stew it is piled on top of the chicken if you don’t know what it is don’t eat it, again he was 35 not 5 years old

Now having epi-pens availble is not a bad idea, though I don’t know if overuse of epi-pens diminishes there effectiveness, which would be a reason for restrictions

Lastly passing a law to that end is a horrible idea. (most laws are, especially these type of social laws) I would sooner put my life in the hands of a waitress than a congressman ;o) Cheers

By Linda

July 9, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

This is a tragic situation and I will answer the blog question and not speculate on the circumstances of this story. I have an allergy and carry 2 things with me at all times. 1) a laminated card with my allergy information and doctor’s phone number and 2) a 2-pack of EpiPens. I give the card to the server and that gets the attention of the manager and the kitchen.

PLEASE, if you have a serious allergy, follow the advice I got from my Dr. - “if you can’t read the ingredients, don’t eat it - you must be neurotic about ingredients, carry the EpiPen and use it on the way to the hospital”. Zyrtec, Benadryl and even Primatene Mist are not substitutes for an EpiPen if you have been diagnosed with food allergies. I avoid buffets and covered dish events and call ahead whenever possible to talk to a manager.

By Dan

July 9, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Linda is clearly all about personal responsibility. Unfortunately it is a rare characteristic in this society Bravo

By JWill

July 9, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

I am very sorry for the Hawkins family, as I can directly relate to the experience. I, too have shellfish (or any seafood for that matter) allergies and am very, very careful of what I order. I had a similar experience at this restaurant chain (Duluth) before with a hamburger. Apparently, this burger was prepared very close to (or on the same surface) with seafood. I developed hives on my face and throat and quickly made it to some antihistamines. Some servers, preparers, cooks, are well-aware of what’s required to accommodate allergies as such, and do a terrific job to ensure that this doesn’t happen. I am almost certain that Mr. Hawkins did not order the oscar, and there may have been a miscommunication with the server. However, there are some dishes out there that are well-disguised and are not fully identifiable until after you’ve tasted. I make it a point to tell EVERY server (and EVERY cook if possible) of my allergies. I sometime tell them how to separate and prepare for this. This is unfortunate and did not have to happen. I still contend that the restuarant is liable in this case and should right the ship to make sure no one else falls victim.

By Carolyn O'Neil

July 9, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

I have severe allergies to shellfish, too. And when I dine out I always make sure to avoid anything that says “seafood sauce” but, you never know when shellfish might be used in a fish fume or broth for flavor. I can eat fish…and crustaceans such as shrimp, crab and lobster. I cannot eat molusks such as clams and oysters and mussels. Food allergies can be very specific. It is the responsiblity of the restaurant management and staff to know what is in a dish and to accurately convey that to guests on the menu or in verbal information. But, I don’t think it’s the restaurant’s responsibility to educate me on avoiding my specific allergy. As they say, one man’s pleasure is another man’s poison. I know to carry Benadryl with me….just in case I feel a reaction coming on. And with the Chicken Oscar in question….I could enjoy the crab but, guess what ???? I am allergic to asparagus now too…and would have to avoid the dish because of that. Asparagus causes a respiratory reaction like asthma in me….and it feels like it could escalate to something worse..so NO asparagus for me either.

By Xardox

July 10, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

There is blame all around, mostly to the victim himself. As a physician who has several patients with anaphylactoid (“life threatening reaction to a substance”), I ALWAYS counsel such people to MAKE SURE of what they put into their mouths. When a plate is set in front of them, they MUST ALWAYS ask they got what they ordered and to BE SURE the plate hasn’t even touched crab, peanuts, tofu, whatever. He is very culpable himself. If the restaurant loused up the order, they are indeed on the hook for a huge settlement. bill m

By Kris

July 11, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Let me start by saying that THE FIRST FOUR WORDS ON THE DESCRIPTION FOR THE CHICKEN OSCAR SAYS, “TENDER LUMP CRAB MEAT..” So everyone who keeps saying that Ruby Tuesdays does not post ingredients.. GO GET A MENU.. They have to post if it contains shellfish, and nuts. Another example is that it says that the BLONDIE Contains Nuts…. Secondly, You do not have to be a 18 year old DROPOUT to waitress in a restaurant. If you believe that you are ignorant. Most waitress are working for tips to PAY FOR COLLEGE! Thirdly, IT IS OBVIOUS that there is CRAB on this dish.. there is not mistake about it. If he had any doubt that this was not his dish he shouldn’t have eaten it. FOR THE PERSON WHO SAID THAT THE WAITRESSES SHOULD BE TRAINED ON FOOD ALLERGY… WAITRESSES CANNOT READ YOUR MIND.

By asf

December 9, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

…