Need Info Urgently!

[Estelle]

Hi all,

Normally I'd do a proper introduction as I'm a new member but I just don't have much time right now-promise to do that later. I'm hoping that you could help me with the following:

I live in Europe and fly to the US (Palo Alto, Ca) this sunday for two weeks for work (It's my 1st time in the States). I'm looking forwards to this! I'll be staying in an apartment where I can cook-this is where the problem comes in...I an intolerant to gluten and would like to know whether it is possible to buy gluten-free products in a "normal" supermarket? I'll be happy with bread and pasta really!

What about restaurants? Do they cater for celiacs at all?

I just discovered this website and I wish I had time to read through it all before I leave but I don't- so I'm hoping someone would give me a few handy tips and info.

Thanks in advance!!!

[penguin]

Regular grocery stores don't have tons of gluten-free stuff normally, but Cali is a good place to go if you're looking for alternative diet food! this site should help you a lot:

Open Original Shared Link

It's gluten-free in San Diego, which isn't anywhere near Palo Alto, but a lot of their resources have to do with chains that are all over the state.

[cgilsing]

Welcome Estelle!

I'm half way across the country from where you will be, but I will try to offer some advice! Most grocery stores have a health food section where you can find some gluten-free basics. In California you might have even better luck than most, since they are generally a health concious culture and have a few more options than many areas. As groceries go, there is one called Whole Foods that carries a LOT of gluten-free products including fresh baked items. Health food stores in the States also carry a variety of gluten-free products. Just check the phone book in your hotel, or with the concierge and they should be able to help you locate a health food store. Some chain restaurants that have gluten-free menus include Outback Steakhouse, Texas Roadhouse, and Biaggis. I'm not sure if they all have restaurants in California though. My suggestion would be to call ahead to restaurants, explain your situation and see if they have menu items to suit you. It is often best to call the corporate offices of chain restaurants for advice, since they are better informed than the staff at the actual location. I hope this helps!

[Mango04]

Hi,

There's a Whole Foods in Palo Alto

Whole Foods Market

774 Emerson Street

Palo Alto, CA 94301

650.326.8676

650.326.0539 fax

Store hours: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week

www.wholefoods.com

If you can get to Whole Foods you will be able to buy plenty of gluten-free food to cook for yourself.

I live in California (but no where near Palo Alto) so I can't offer much restaurant advice. Two of the major US restaurant chains that offer gluten-free menus are PF Changs and Outback Steakhouse.

[cgilsing]

Two of the major US restaurant chains that offer gluten-free menus are PF Changs and Outback Steakhouse.

I forgot about PF Changs! They do have a great gluten-free menu!

[Estelle]

Many thanks for your replies! I'm sure I'll live for 2 weeks!

[jkmunchkin]

I live in NY so I can't be all that helpful as far as CA. However there are several chain restaurants that have gluten free menus here, including PF Changs (as someone mentioned), Outback and Legal Seafoods.

Not sure about in California, but I know in NY I am able to find gluten-free pasta in Stop & Shop, which is a normal supermarket. The brand of pasta is Tinkyada, which seems to be a favorite for most around here. I can also find gluten-free pretzels, cookies, cereals, and frozen meals there.

Wish I could be more help.