What should a server do if a guest has a food allergy?

When a guest has a food allergy, the most important step a server should take is to inform the kitchen and ensure that the food prepared does not contain the allergen. This action is critical for the safety and well-being of the guest. Allergies can cause severe reactions, and the kitchen staff needs to be aware so that they can take the necessary precautions to avoid cross-contamination for that specific dish.

Ensuring that food is allergen-free involves checking ingredients and possibly using separate equipment to prepare the meal. By communicating with the kitchen, the server plays a vital role in safeguarding the guest's health, which is a top priority in any dining establishment.

While suggesting alternative menu items or asking the guest for more detail about their allergies can be helpful, they are secondary to the essential step of notifying the kitchen. Ignoring an allergy because a guest insists on ordering a dish containing the allergen is highly irresponsible and poses a serious risk to their health. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the critical responsibility of the server in managing food allergies effectively and safely.