How should you handle a dairy-free request for a secret menu drink?

• A. Do not accommodate
• B. Use a dairy-free milk option (almond, oat, soy, coconut, etc.), confirm no dairy cross-contact, and communicate any allergy concerns
• C. Use regular milk
• D. Add extra sugar

Answer: (B)

When a customer requests a dairy-free secret-menu drink, the goal is to honor their dietary needs while keeping them safe. The best approach is to offer a dairy-free milk option (such as almond, oat, soy, or coconut), verify there is no dairy cross-contact in the equipment and preparation, and communicate any allergy concerns. This directly satisfies the request by removing dairy and shows proactive attention to safety—checking that milk alternatives aren’t introduced as hidden dairy ingredients and making sure tools and surfaces aren’t contaminated.

Using regular milk would defeat the dairy-free goal, and adding extra sugar doesn’t address the customer’s dietary restriction at all. It overlooks safety concerns like cross-contact and hidden dairy ingredients, and it doesn’t respect the request. Briefly noting any potential allergy considerations helps the customer make an informed choice and protects both the guest and the staff.