Lyon, Anyone?

[ewalton]

Hi,

I'm headed to a conference in Lyon this August and I'm a bit worried about eating gluten-free. I'm planning on bringing a ton of Lara bars, rice crackers, peanut butter, etc. but I was wondering if anyone had experience eating out in the region.

I've got the Triumph dining cards (I don't speak french), but I've had mixed luck with those here in the US.

Any tips, or should I just stick to the wine?

-Em

[melie]

Omelettes and salads are good bets over there. The Lyon region is also well known for its sausages and in general its cuisine gets high marks in France. Evidently you can find gluten free items in the major grocery stores. I only traveled there pre diagnosis so I don't have personal experience. I have seen some dining cards with terribly translated French, so double check yours with someone. If you posted a sentence or two I could tell you how yours rate, I speak French. Usually you will do well if you ATTEMPT to speak some French, no matter how terribly, because they really do appreciate foreigners making the effort to speak French. In general, the French love having a problem to solve, so if you present it as a sort of challenge requiring the chef's expertise, you might be surprised at the lengths they will go to for you! Bonne chance! (Good luck!)

[DILIROTH]

Hello,

I live near Toulouse and I hate to say that France is one of the more difficult countries in Europe for Celiacs but can be done with some planing.

Bring a supply of snacks and you can also buy snacks, breads, pastas and other gluten-free items at any local Biologic store. You might want to try some of the products - they are different and some are actually very good.

Also, bring some packets of salad dressings. Its difficult to have a quick meal in France so if you need to stop at a cafe you can definately order an omelet or a salad but without dressing.

STAY AWAY FROM THE SAUSAGES AND HAMS!!! Most processed meats in France contain Gluten and its not worth the risk if you are not familar with the language or the foods. Most importantly remember to always tell them "sans gluten" - they may look at you funny so have it in writing and they should understand.

For Dinners - try some of the specialities such as Margaret de Carnard (duck breast) with a fruit sauce. They make amazing dishes with duck! Also, dont forget to bring some of your favorite crackers or pick some up b/c the dessert cheeses are great. If you get the chance to go by a fresh market you will love the great selection of extremly fresh fruits and veggies.

Enjoy your trip,

Theresa

[jnclelland]

I have a related, but harder, question. I'm going to Strasbourg in September, and I'm gluten/dairy/soy-free. Having been to France many years ago, I suspect that dairy-free is significantly harder than gluten-free. (No cheese or cream - sniff!) What are my chances of being able to order things cooked in olive oil rather than butter?

I do speak a little French, although I'm VERY out of practice. Going to have to brush up before I go!

Jeanne