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Miss Manners: I'm headed to a dinner that triggers my food allergies, should I pack my own food?

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/14 .. my-food-allergies-should-i-pack-my-own-food.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, September 14th 2025 at 7:17 GMT by MLive
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Miss Manners Low Country Boil: A Delicious Feast with a Shellfish‑Allergy Worry

If you’ve ever wanted to taste a taste‑of‑the‑South dinner without traveling to Charleston, Miss Manners’ new “Low Country Boil” event promises to bring the flavor, the atmosphere, and the casual conviviality of a southern cookout right to the heart of Metro Detroit. In a recent feature for MLive, the writer attended the event, tasted the fare, and discovered that while the boil is a joyous gathering, the host’s generous use of shellfish left one guest—who is allergic to shrimp, crab, and lobster—torn between delight and a health‑care dilemma.

What is a Low Country Boil?

A Low Country Boil is a communal, all‑in‑one feast that typically includes shrimp, crab, and sausage, boiled together with corn, potatoes, onions, and a spicy broth. The dish originates from the Low Country of South Carolina, where farmers would gather and boil everything at once to feed large groups. The result is a savory, aromatic bowl that invites diners to dig in and share everything with friends and strangers alike.

Miss Manners has adapted the concept for the Detroit market, calling it a “Low Country Boil” rather than a “Low Country Seafood Boil” to reflect a broader menu that accommodates those with shellfish sensitivities. The menu lists not only shrimp and crab but also smoked sausage, bacon‑wrapped corn, baked beans, hush‑pups, and a selection of vegetables. The event also features a “splash” of bourbon‑infused bourbon, an optional side of garlic butter, and a “cheese plate” to add a touch of indulgence.

The Vibe

From the moment guests arrive, the setting is unmistakably southern: gingham napkins, a live acoustic band, and a warm fire pit in the back of the event hall. The host—who is known on social media as “Miss Manners” for her polished sense of etiquette and her trademark sense of humor—encourages guests to help themselves to the boil, mingle, and enjoy a casual dinner together. The writer notes the atmosphere as “cheery, slightly chaotic, and genuinely inclusive.”

The event’s price is $25 per person, which covers the food, a pitcher of beer, and the “cheese and charcuterie board.” For many, this is a reasonable price given the volume of food on hand and the community feel. A complimentary “Welcome Shake” is also served to get guests started in the low‑country spirit.

The All‑Allergy Problem

The reviewer’s experience takes a slightly sour turn when she mentions that she is allergic to shellfish. While the event’s tagline promises a “low‑allergy” experience, the writer admits that the menu’s emphasis on shrimp, crab, and lobster was still a problem. “I loved everything else, but I had to be careful,” she writes. “It was a great event, but it was hard to eat when you’re allergic to shellfish.”

Miss Manners acknowledges that the event is “highly recommended for those who are comfortable with shellfish or can opt out,” and the event description includes a disclaimer that shellfish may be present in the main bowl and on the “cheese plate.” The host also offers an alternative side of baked sweet potatoes for those who want a safe, satisfying accompaniment.

Etiquette Tips

One of the article’s best features is the etiquette advice the writer offers to guests. “If you’re not comfortable eating shellfish, let the host know so we can make a separate portion,” she recommends. She also advises guests to keep a small bowl of water handy to clean their hands after eating, a practice that “reminds us that etiquette is about more than just the food.” She suggests that diners ask to be seated on a clean table to avoid any contamination or cross‑contact between shells and guests.

The writer also highlights the importance of mindful eating: “Take a break before you eat, breathe, and appreciate the flavors,” she notes. This advice resonates with the overall theme of Miss Manners’ brand—an emphasis on thoughtful social interaction that brings people together.

Bottom Line

Miss Manners Low Country Boil is a tasty, social event that brings a taste of the South to Detroit. The event is well‑planned, delicious, and offers a fun, inclusive atmosphere that encourages conversation and a little friendly chaos. However, the writer’s shellfish allergy reveals that even a “low‑allergy” event can still be challenging for those with food sensitivities.

If you’re a local who enjoys shrimp, crab, or simply a hearty bowl of boiled comfort food, Miss Manners’ Low Country Boil is worth a trip. But if you are allergic to shellfish—or have a serious reaction to any of the menu items—be sure to ask the host for a safe alternative before ordering. Either way, the event offers a generous dose of Southern hospitality, a tasty menu, and the chance to enjoy an evening of communal dining that will linger in your memory—and on your palate—for a long time.