What can you do to politely deal with social eating when you're allergic to everything on the menu?

Be honest: It's important that those you dine with are aware of your food allergies in case there is a reaction and you need assistance. Don't be embarrassed. Kindly ask the chef to prepare something that has safe food ingredients. Consider carrying your own "safe" snacks or meals. Food allergies are on the rise and there needs to be more public awareness.

Bring snacks: Bringing snacks with you that you can eat will reduce your need to explain yourself, though will not eliminate it. We are becoming more aware of allergies and this helps allergy sufferers not have to bear the burden of having to worry about offending others. An alternate source of foods you can eat and a brief, kind explanation ought to suffice.