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Low FODMAP at The Waterside Inn - Fine Dining Guide

Navigate low FODMAP dining at The Waterside Inn in Bray. Tips for the Roux family's legendary three-Michelin-star French restaurant.

Last verified: January 1, 2025

Safe Items to Order

ItemNotesModifications
Grilled or Roasted ProteinsFish, poultry, beef, lambAsk for no garlic, onion, or high-FODMAP seasonings
Simply Prepared VegetablesSeasonal vegetablesRequest carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, green beans
Plain StarchesRice, potatoes, polentaRequest without cream or butter if lactose-sensitive
Herb-Infused OilsOlive oil with herbs (no garlic)Garlic-infused oil is safe if garlic solids are removed

Items to Avoid

  • Garlic-based sauces and preparations
  • Onion, shallot, or leek preparations
  • Cream-based sauces (unless lactose-free)
  • Beurre blanc and classical French sauces
  • Dishes with beans, lentils, or chickpeas
  • Fruit-based reductions with apple, pear, or mango
  • Bread service (unless gluten-free available)

Example Orders

Tasting Menu Approach

  • Contact restaurant 48+ hours in advance
  • Request modified tasting menu
  • Discuss classical French adaptations

Tip: The Roux family tradition includes impeccable hospitality

A La Carte Approach

  • Choose simply prepared proteins
  • Request vegetables without alliums
  • Ask about sauce ingredients before ordering

Tip: Classical techniques can often be adapted

About The Waterside Inn

The Waterside Inn in Bray is a legendary three-Michelin-star restaurant established by the Roux brothers in 1972. Now led by Alain Roux, the restaurant continues to offer classical French cuisine in a stunning riverside setting.

Quick Summary

Best approach: Contact the restaurant 48-72 hours in advance. The Waterside Inn’s decades of hospitality experience means they’re well-equipped to handle dietary requirements.

Key consideration: Classical French cuisine relies heavily on butter, cream, and shallots - all require discussion with the kitchen.

How to Communicate Your Needs

Before Your Visit

  1. Call the restaurant directly - Speak with the reservations team
  2. Send detailed requirements - Document your FODMAP triggers
  3. Discuss classical French techniques - Many can be adapted

The Roux Tradition

The Waterside Inn represents:

  • Over 50 years of three-star excellence
  • Classical French technique at its finest
  • Impeccable hospitality traditions

For FODMAP diners:

  • The team is experienced with dietary adaptations
  • Classical training means strong fundamental skills
  • Guest comfort is paramount

Fine Dining Strategy

Classical French cuisine at The Waterside Inn features:

  • Rich, butter-based preparations
  • Shallot-enhanced sauces
  • Cream-based elements

Adaptation approaches:

  • Request herb-based alternatives to classical sauces
  • Ask for simply grilled proteins
  • Discuss dairy alternatives if lactose-sensitive

The Setting

Dining at The Waterside Inn includes:

  • Riverside terrace dining (in season)
  • Elegant, traditional dining room
  • Overnight stay options available

The peaceful Bray setting allows for a relaxed pace, which can facilitate dietary discussions with staff.

The restaurant offers:

  • Set lunch menus
  • Tasting menus
  • À la carte selections

All can be adapted for low FODMAP diners with advance notice. The classical structure actually helps identify where modifications are needed.


This guide provides general FODMAP guidance for fine dining. Menu items change seasonally. Always confirm ingredients directly with the restaurant.