O'Briens

This review is based solely on O’Briens Café’s published allergen information. It reflects what O’Briens reports about the presence or possible cross-contact of the 14 major allergens. Please check O’Briens’ official allergen guide directly, as ingredients and preparation practices may change. O’Briens Café provides a comprehensive allergen guide covering breads, handcrafted and signature sandwiches, salads, soups, bagels, hot food-to-go items, beverages, smoothies, bakery items, and condiments. The guide presents allergen information in a matrix format, identifying allergens present in individual ingredients and menu items. It also makes clear that bread choice, spreads (such as butter), and added ingredients can alter the allergen profile of a finished product. O’Briens states that its restaurants are mixed food environments. Customers with allergies or intolerances are advised to inform staff, who will use “best practice” when preparing food. However, O’Briens explicitly warns that cross-contamination is possible and that it cannot guarantee the complete absence of allergens. This applies across the menu, including made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and beverages. From the allergen guide, gluten (particularly wheat) and milk are widespread due to the extensive use of breads, wraps, bagels, cheese, butter, and dairy-based sauces. Eggs appear frequently in sandwiches, dressings, baked goods, and breakfast-style items. Soya, mustard, celery, and sulphites are present in a range of sauces, dressings, soups, and processed ingredients. Sesame seeds are present in certain breads and bagels. O’Briens also clearly lists nuts and peanuts where they are intentional ingredients (e.g. Nutella, peanut butter, nut-containing baked goods, pestos, and toppings). Fish is present in tuna and salmon products, while crustaceans and molluscs are not prominent but are included in the allergen matrix where applicable. Lupin appears in selected bakery items and mixes. The chain emphasises that ingredient formulations and preparation methods may change without prior notice. Customers with severe food allergies are advised to exercise caution, consult the allergen guide each time they visit, and communicate directly with staff before ordering. The chain’s allergen guide notes that cross-contamination may occur in a mixed food environment. Menu variability note: allergen information may differ by region or location, so customers should verify details for their specific restaurant. Information reviewed as of: November 2018 (with an accompanying allergen statement provided on the O’Briens website)