Getting the real deal, but with an allergy?

I have used the search function, but if I missed something please point me in the right direction.

I have had a lifelong nut allergy (peanuts are fine), and had managed to lead a fairly wide ranging gastronomic life. Never had to worry, as I always disclose my allergy at time of reservation or seating. I also won't ask the kitchen to 'just leave it off', because I'm from the school of thought that the ingredient is intended to be there, so I just don't partake.

My real problem started about a year ago while eating a soft shell crab sandwich, and my face transformed into something akin to Sloth from the Goonies. After a trip to the ER and later the allergist, the verdict was in: no more shellfish.

I just moved a stone's throw from all the greatness on Argyle, but am at a loss for where to start. I'm looking for someplace authentic where I can communicate my allergies and have the ability to relax and enjoy a bowl of Pho or some Korean bbq or some bad ass Chinese.

Doesn't have to be in the immediate area, just needs to be good.

Welcome, and I'm hoping some good current suggestions may be forthcoming.

I've had some success with P.S. Bangkok (3345 N Clark St) on getting suggestions or modifications on the regional Thai dishes for gluten-free, vegan, or allergy-suceptible relatives - withholding fish sauce or dried shrimp or crab and working with soy or vegetable or chicken. I think they see a lot of that traffic and can be trusted with a clear explanation.

I'm fairly certain that some of the board Thai favorites (Rainbow, Aroy, Sticky Rice, ATK) also have goodwill to accommodate and that it would just come down to how separate prep areas are (depending on severity of allergy) and how clear the communication can be in a potentially busy dining time. I would think striking for a lull (very late lunch, very early dinner, etc.) for your first experiment might yield best results.

For Chinese, I'd consider the newly refreshed Chengdu Impression (http://www.chengduimpression.com) or the newer N. Michigan location of Lao Sze Chuan, where you are more likely to find Tony Hu himself, who I've seen have frank, practical conversations with people about allergies (more suggestions of dishes than modifications), and which has a newer kitchen. Good luck!

I love Rainbow but I would not feel comfortable going there with someone with a strict allergy. I went with a vegetarian and a lot was lost in translation.

Consider Urban Vegan. It's great Thai food and somehow they manage to make it without fish sauce and all of the other good stuff. Your shellfish allergy will be a non-issue, and from what I gather, they're pretty good about handling other allergies.