Yummy or Yucky Gluten-Free Foods

Read Your Labels!

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The word is out my friends, and gluten-free is slowly but surely oozing its way into everyday conversations, literary articles, and food labels.

But beware! Not all labels are up-to-date. Why, just last night at a baseball game, I happened to glance at a bag of Doritos chips. I had even been told by the company a year ago that the item was gluten free. They looked delicious, but something in my gut (literally) told me to read the ingredient label over once more just to make sure everything was ok. And low and behold! Right there, WHEAT FLOUR. Ah! Well, I cannot say how fortunate I was to read the label. I gave myself a little pat on the back for my wise choice. But while I was disappointed that I could not eat Doritos again, I am pleased to note that I have found many other mainstream items that label themselves officially gluten-free.
Here are just some of what can be found in your local grocery store:

Yoplait 99% Fat Free Yogurt
French's mustard
Best Foods Mayonnaise
Babybel cheese
Rice Chex
...these were the only things I bought at the store the other day, but there are more items to come!

Southern California Stops for Celiacs

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Awareness of Celiac disease is spreading, by Joe, and restaurants are taking full advantage of the added patronage! Some stops that are required for the weary traveller, or simply the local resident, are listed below:

In N Out- Now, I know they have these guys all up and down the coast, but the one in Laguna Niguel is very aware of Celiacs' needs (I go there all the time, and they are more than willing to accomodate)!
Skosh Monahans. The owner's son has autism, and because of his condition, they created a gluten-free, casein free kid-friendly menu. The place is has a very laid back atmosphere and would cater to even the pickiest gluten-free consumers.
Newport Rib Steakhouse. They are very willing to help out Celiacs. Their food is delicious!
Z'Tejas- Tex/Mex lunch and dinner. Good food, good restaurant.

Also, BJ's Pizzeria, a favorite amongst high-schoolers for their low prices, big plates, and the infamous pazookie, is adding a gluten-free menu to their restaurant! They say that is will be coming soon, but how soon I am not sure. I will be checking frequently.

If anyone else has any other suggestions about some out-to-dinner locations that are sympathetic to the needs of Celiacs, do not hesitate to add them in!

Delicius Draeger's for Gluten-Free Products

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 +0000

This past weekend, I was taken to brunch by some family members. Aware of my gluten restrictions, they decided to take me to Draeger's in San Mateo, a wonderful market that not only sells produce, but also has numerous amounts of gluten-free items for purchase! A gigantic banner on the front of their store even proclaims that the store is a supporter of those who are gluten-free.

On the second level of the store, above the shoppers and tucked away in a little corner, is a magnificent restaurant that serves an unbelievable brunch. The staff is acutely aware of the need to be gluten-free, and I had no problem ordering a delicious omelette with a side of herb-roasted potatoes. What sounds like a decadent dish that may encounter cross contamination was absolutely gluten-free and just wonderful. I enjoyed my meal, and I was very comfortable that those who ran the establishment took care of my needs.

If you are ever in the area, Draeger's is not one to miss. Take a little time out of your weekend and visit their restaurant. It is well worth it!

Yummy or Yucky Gluten-Free Foods

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 +0000

I am a finicky eater. I admit it. When I was young, I used to say I didn't like a certain type of food because I just didn't like it. When asked if I had ever tasted it before, I would say no, but even so, I still didn't like the food. (Ok, I still occasionally use this excuse, but I am getting better!) Being diagnosed with Celiac made me expand my food repertoire when dining in and out of the house.

Still, you have to admit, some of the gluten-free products out on the market are just hideous! The deceiving photos on the internet and on the consumer labels make things look oh so scrumptious, but then you stick something in your mouth and it takes all your willpower just to politely spat it back into a napkin.

But wait! Do not be discouraged! It is all about the process my friends. Trial and error. We go through this with everything else in our lives, so why not food? Yes, it may cut you down at first, swipe you at the knees. After the fifth loaf of mushy bread or crunchy mac n' cheese, you just want to throw your hands up and say "Enough!" But that would be a waste, because all the foods you have found not to eat lead you on a road to foods that actually taste good!

So, the moral of the story is, continue to explore. Do not judge a book by its cover (or in this case a picture on a box). Rather, ask around, do taste tests, and learn from the experiences. Understand that once you spit something into a napkin, or if the dog won't even touch it, that food probably won't taste good the second or third time you try it. However, when you hear the hallelujah chorus in the background, you know that food item is a keeper. Your taste buds will tell you what is tasty and what is, well, not. Gluten-free, just like any other diet on the planet, has its ups and downs, the yummy and the yucky.

Out and About and Gluten-Free in Northern California

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 +0000

If you ever feel obligated to visit northern California, there are two gluten-free establishments that should not be missed.

Firstly, the Mariposa Bakehouse and Cafe is a must-see. This quaint little establishment located on the Berkeley/Oakland border is impeccably clean, and better yet, is entirely gluten-free. The food is near-gourmet and is fairly priced. No matter what you order, you will always be more than pleased. The pizza is always fresh, the muffins are near-perfection, and the bagels are sinfully delicious. The cafe is kid-friendly, and the service is nothing short of spectacular! A five-star in my book.

The second place I would recommend is Cafe Solstice in San Mateo. Located next to the Equinox gym, everything on the menu is gluten-free and vegan. It is technically a "raw" restaurant, an eatery where the philosophy is that by cooking food you deprive an individual of obtaining all the nutrients in the meal. Thus, everything is fresh and delicious. The employees are all very knowledgeable about a Celiac's needs and are more than willing to answer any questions you may have.

So, whether you are just stopping by or staying for a while, these two dining establishments are amazing places for Celiacs!