Updated August 21, 2023
Miller’s Ale House is a popular restaurant and sports bar that offers a wide variety of food and drink options.
Pregnant women are often cautious about what they eat and drink during pregnancy and may wonder Can I eat Miller’s Ale House while pregnant?
The answer is yes, you can eat their during your pregnancy, but read on for what you must know before you go!
While Miller’s Ale House offers a diverse menu, some items may not be safe for pregnant women to consume.
Certain types of seafood, such as raw oysters, should be avoided due to the risk of foodborne illness.
Some menu items may contain high levels of sodium, which can be harmful to pregnant women with high blood pressure or other health conditions.
Pregnant women need to make informed decisions about what they eat and drink during pregnancy.
Can I Eat Miller’s Ale House While Pregnant?
Yes, you can eat at Miller’s Ale House while pregnant according to our OB/GYN Dr. Doug Penta, MD as long as you follow some simple guidelines when choosing your meal.
We like Miller’s Ale House for pregnancy meals because they have such a vast selection of food options on their menu.
You can mix and match to make a healthy and delicious meal for you and your baby.
You’ll need to follow a few simple tips when ordering and making smart choices is important.
- When choosing your dinner pick items that are lower in fat and calories.
The Miller’s Ale House menu is full of lower-calorie and lower-fat options that are perfect to enjoy during pregnancy.
Choose dishes that have grilled fish or grilled chicken or grilled shrimp as the main entree,
- Order the soup, salad, and or a lower-calorie appetizer
They have a good selection of soups and salads that are not only delicious but are packed with nutrition that both you and your baby need.
The salad is full of fresh veggies and chooses their low-fat dressing for only 30 calories a serving.
- Tossed Green Salad: is made with fresh greens and seasonal ingredients.
- Chicken and Pear Salad: The Chicken and Pear salad is my go-to menu item when I want something delicious, but not too heavy or caloric. Made with Grilled chicken breast, brown sugar roasted pears, candied pecans, crumbled goat cheese, roasted red peppers, and romaine, tossed with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Cobb Salad with Blackened Chicken and Shrimp. Without the blue cheese crumbles. Hard-boiled egg, Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, tomatoes, red onion, applewood-smoked bacon, and field greens.
- Chimichurri Steak Salad: If you are craving beef but want to save on calories and fat this is an excellent option to choose whlie pregnant.Sliced sirloin, pico de gallo, Queso fresco cheese, crispy tortilla strips, romaine, tossed with zesty cilantro-lime chimichurri.
If you choose a dish with Queso fresco it is important to ask if it is made with pasteutized milk.
- If you choose a pasta dish watch the portion size
It is easy to go overboard on the pasta dishes at Miller’s Ale House.
They are so good!
But it is important to watch how many calories you eat during pregnancy.
So plan to split pasta dishes or take half home for the next day.
- You’ll want to limit your consumption of dishes made with sauces that are loaded with cream or butter.
That includes dishes like the Pesto Chicken Ravioli and Chicken Scampi Pasta Bake.
So delicious!
But they are loaded with fat and calories.
They are also an excellent source of protein so they are a good option if craving pasta, just plan to take some home!
What are some of the dishes that are safe to eat at Miller’s Ale House while pregnant?
Miller’s Ale House offers a wide variety of menu items.
The best and safest choices are dishes that are cooked in healthy oils and are then baked, grilled, or broiled, like the Fajitas or Mimis’ Chicken and Shrimp bowl.
I also recommend the Mahi tacos!
Here are a few of our favorite Miller’s Ale House Pregnancy-Safe favorites:
These are not the only pregnancy-friendly items on the menu, these are simply a few of our favorites.
- Fajitas: Served with a vegetable assortment.
- Atlantic Salmon: Coated with parmesan and herb breadcrumbs and served with mashed potatoes and green beans.
- Snow Crab: Comes with mashed potatoes and broccoli. You can’t go wrong with the grilled salmon.
- Filet Mignon: A grilled 8-ounce filet served with a vegetable medley.
- Margherita Flatbread: Made with Tomato, basil pesto, mozzarella, Parmesan, marinara.
Miller’s Ale House Nutritional Information:
- Fajitas:
- Chicken: 970 calories, 33g fat, 16g saturated fat, 230mg cholesterol, 3060mg sodium, 141g carbs, 5g fiber, 16g sugar, 86g protein.
- Steak: 1200 calories, 65g fat, 30g saturated fat, 250mg cholesterol, 2790mg sodium, 85g carbs, 5g fiber, 22g sugar, 68g protein.
- Steak & Chicken Combo: 1140 calories, 44g fat, 21g saturated fat, 250mg cholesterol, 4290mg sodium, 121g carbs, 5g fiber, 26g sugar, 91g protein.
- Atlantic Salmon:
- Grilled: 500 calories, 29g fat, 6g saturated fat, 150mg cholesterol, 770mg sodium, 1g carbs, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 53g protein.
- Blackened: 550 calories, 33g fat, 7g saturated fat, 150mg cholesterol, 840mg sodium, 6g carbs, 0g fiber, <1g sugar, 54g protein.
- Broiled: 810 calories, 63g fat, 21g saturated fat, 150mg cholesterol, 860mg sodium, <1g carbs, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 53g protein.
- Snow Crab: 1020 calories, 66g fat, 14g saturated fat, 320mg cholesterol, 3980mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 108g protein.
- Filet Mignon:
- Grilled: 340 calories, 18g fat, 7g saturated fat, 120mg cholesterol, 730mg sodium, <1g carbs, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 41g protein.
- Blackened: 330 calories, 15g fat, 5g saturated fat, 120mg cholesterol, 800mg sodium, 5g carbs, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 42g protein.
- Margherita Flatbread: 530 calories, 29g fat, 10g saturated fat, 55mg cholesterol, 990mg sodium, 48g carbs, 4g fiber, 5g sugar, 21g protein.
Food Safety Concerns for Pregnant Women
You need to be extra cautious when it comes to food safety during pregnancy.
The health of both you and your unborn baby is at risk if you consume contaminated food.
It is important to be aware of food safety concerns and take necessary precautions to avoid any potential risks.
Listeria and Other Foodborne Illnesses
Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause serious health problems for pregnant women and their unborn babies.
It can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns.
Therefore, pregnant women should avoid consuming foods that are more likely to be contaminated with Listeria.
Some of the foods that are more likely to be contaminated with Listeria include:
- Soft cheeses like feta, brie, and queso fresco
- Hot dogs and deli meats
- Refrigerated pâté or meat spreads
- Smoked seafood
Other food-borne illnesses like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter can also pose a risk to you while pregnant.
You’ll need to take necessary precautions like washing hands, cooking food thoroughly, and avoiding cross-contamination.
Raw or Undercooked Meat and Seafood
You should avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat and seafood as it can contain harmful bacteria and parasites like Salmonella, E. coli, and Toxoplasma.
These can cause food-borne illnesses and lead to serious health problems for both you and your baby.
You should ensure that all meat and seafood are cooked to a safe temperature before consumption.
You should also avoid consuming raw or undercooked sushi, oysters, and other seafood contaminated with harmful bacteria and parasites.
Navigating Miller Ale House’s Menu When You’re Expecting: A Guide
1. Be Ahead of the Curve: Reserve Your Spot!
If you’re heading to a Miller Ale House, check if they offer reservations.
If not, some spots provide call-ahead seating.
It’s not just about skipping the wait but ensuring you’re comfortably seated without the long-standing – especially when pregnant!
2. Begin Light and Share the Delights
Why not kick off your culinary experience with a soup, salad, or a shared appetizer?
It’s a clever way to savor more flavors without overdoing your main course.
Plus, it’s a win-win: enjoy a tasty bite and save some room (and calories!) for the main event.
Bonus? Leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch!
3. Let Your Current Mood Guide Your Food
Feeling a tad queasy or worn out? Skip the heavy, greasy dishes.
They might amplify that nausea or disrupt your sleep. Instead, consider lighter choices like a crisp salad or a beautifully grilled chicken or salmon dish.
And always remember: hydration is your best friend.
Sip water throughout your meal.
4. Speak Up, It’s Your Meal!
Being pregnant means being doubly cautious about what you eat.
So, don’t hesitate!
If you need a tweak to your dish at Miller’s Ale House to suit your needs, just ask.
Prefer sauces on the side?
No problem.
Fancy grilled over fried? Say the word.
It’s all about enjoying your meal without compromise.
5. Relish Every Bite
There’s something magical about eating while pregnant – every flavor feels elevated.
So, savor it.
Take your time with every bite, allowing yourself to really enjoy the experience.
Plus, a leisurely pace ensures you don’t feel too stuffed.
6. Embrace Leftovers
Feeling full? No worries.
Get a take-out box and treat yourself to a delightful meal tomorrow.
It’s both eco-friendly and tummy-friendly!
7. Aim for the Nutritious Choices
Eating out while pregnant doesn’t mean compromising on nutrition.
Miller’s Ale House boasts several nourishing options.
Go for the salads topped with grilled chicken or fish.
Eye those whole-grain offerings like quinoa or brown rice.
And try to sidestep the processed meats in favor of lean proteins.
8. Quench Wisely
Hydration is a pillar of a healthy pregnancy.
Quench your thirst with ample water during your meal.
Fancy something with a twist?
Opt for unsweetened iced tea or sparkling water jazzed up with a splash of fruit juice.
But remember to skip the sugary temptations like sodas that can mess with your blood sugar levels.
Tips for eating out in restaurants while pregnant:
1. Buffet? Think Again!
Though buffet-style restaurants might offer a myriad of options, the freshness and cooking standards can sometimes be a gamble.
While you won’t face this concern at places like the Miller Ale House, it’s wise to be cautious elsewhere during your pregnancy journey.
2. Stick to Your Favorites
Opt for restaurants that have earned your trust over time.
Familiarity often ensures you’re served fresh and top-notch food that caters to your elevated standards.
3. Seek Server Suggestions
The vast expanse of a menu can be daunting, especially when you’re filtering through the ‘pregnancy-safe’ lens.
When in doubt, lean on your server’s expertise.
Ask for their recommendations tailored to expecting mothers.
4. Keep It Simple and Savory
Sometimes, the most straightforward dishes are not only the tastiest but also the easiest on your stomach.
Focus on uncomplicated, wholesome options that offer comfort and nutrition.
5. Raw? Rare? Not Now!
It’s best to skip items with raw eggs or undercooked meats during this special phase.
Your food choices should prioritize safety as much as flavor.
6. Hydrate Wisely
Water is a pregnant woman’s elixir.
Keep your glass full and sip steadily throughout your meal. As for caffeine and alcohol? Best to give them a miss.
7. Decode the Salt Sneak
Many restaurant dishes can be sodium traps, sometimes adding extra bloat or water retention to your day.
Stay informed and make choices that help maintain a balanced intake.
8. Unpasteurized? Pass!
Products made from unpasteurized dairy might sound gourmet, but they can be risky for pregnant diners.
When you’re scanning the menu, it’s best to avoid or query these.
9. Customize with Confidence
Remember, it’s your meal and your well-being.
Don’t hesitate to ask for tweaks or modifications to ensure both you and your little one are dining happily and healthily.
These are foods to not eat when pregnant:
- Foods that are not pasteurized– certain types of cheese like soft cheeses, Brie, Blue Cheese, etc.
- Certain types of fish– shark, swordfish, raw oysters, anything high in mercury
- Raw eggs including egg nog, caesar dressing, hollandaise sauce, homemade mayonnaise, homemade eggnog, and runny eggs.
- Undercooked meats– lunch meats. Deli meats. Pre-made salads.
- Hot foods that are not “hot”, avoid hot foods that have been sitting out without a warming source. Same for foods that should be eaten cold. If no ice or refrigeration source is keeping the food cold, take a pass.
- Caffeine– soda, chocolate, and energy drinks. (Limit your caffeine to less than 200 mg a day)
- Herbal Teas (There are so many ingredients in herbal teas so it is best to avoid them simply. Green tea is OK.)
- Alcohol: There is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. Avoid sauces made with alcohol, desserts made with alcohol, and all alcoholic beverages.
Eat healthy during pregnancy:
Eating healthily during pregnancy is essential to the development of your baby.
Here are some tips to help make sure you are getting the nutrients you need:
- Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. This will help ensure you get the vitamins, minerals, and fiber you need.
- Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of caffeine. These can all lead to unhealthy weight gain and other problems during pregnancy.
- Watch your sodium intake. Choose lower-sodium foods when possible.
- Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is important for both your health and the baby’s health.
- Don’t skip meals. Eating small, frequent meals will help to keep your energy up and prevent you from overeating later on.
- Eating small frequent meals can help decrease morning sickness and heartburn.