Celiac.com 01/09/2026 – A recent lawsuit filed against Olive Garden has sparked national attention and renewed concerns around how restaurants handle gluten-free requests. The case centers on a Kentucky man with celiac disease who says he suffered serious injuries after being served a full-gluten meal despite clearly requesting gluten-free food. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by people who rely on strict dietary safety to protect their health.
A Night Out Turns into a Medical Crisis
According to the lawsuit, Lexington resident Robert Anthony Bayton visited an Olive Garden location in August 2024. As soon as he arrived, Bayton informed his server that he had celiac disease and could not consume gluten in any amount. He specifically asked whether the restaurant could prepare gluten-free fettuccine Alfredo—a dish that appears as a customizable option on the menu.
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The server reportedly told him it was no problem, assuring him that Olive Garden could accommodate the request. Trusting this response, Bayton ordered the gluten-free version and began his meal…