Boston Pizza's New Gluten Free Menu Items

[Kemmanuel]

I went to Boston Pizza the other night after doing some research. I must admit I was terrified to eat anything! I just dont eat out because of the severity of my reactions. But I did my research into their new gluten free menu and I thought I'd go and ask questions and if they answered ok, I'd maybe order something more than a coke.

I informed the server immediately that I have Celiac with immediate severe reactions and asked is he was the right person to talk to about the gluten free menu items. He assured me he could answer my questions. I asked if they pizza was was made in an area that flour pizza shells were prepared on. He said yes and no. I was ready to back out then... but he continued on. He said when they have a gluten intolerant customer they will very carefully prepare a space in the kitchen an thoroughly clean it. They dedicate a cook just to prepare your food, he is wearing fresh gloves/ apron etc.

I aske if my pizza will be put in a pan that had gluton pizza since I know they dont wash the pans, they are left greesy for the next pizza thats normal. I explained that the slightest bit of contamination will make me very ill within minutes. They promised to use a clean pan for mine.

Next came the harder part, ordering what to put on the pizza. They use a premade, pre ordered gluten free crust that they can guarantee is gluten free but they cant guarantee that all their toppings are gluten free and they warned me of this. Getting nervous again I thought about giving up and leaving but my friends suggested go veggie.

I inquired about thier bacon, and they did research for me..... and came back and the bacan may be contaminated and they dont want to take that risk. I was impressed!

They cut up red and orange peppers in small chunks, and smothered the pizza in fresh mushrooms and pinapple and then piles of cheese. The cheese was so thick that it melted onto the side of the pan about one inch around the pizza so the pizza was framed in a crispy ooze of goozy melted cheese.

I took two bites and waited to see if I'd be sick. I honestly expected to get immediate cramps and be running to the ladies room...... but Nope. I ate the whole thing and I had no gas or anything!! The pizza tasted pretty good, although you could tell it was gluten free if you know what I mean.

They waiters checked on me a few times to make sure I was feeling ok after eating it.

I was impressed with thier level of care.

So here is what I learned.

They will cator to gluten free but unless you specify that you need a cook with clean gloves, clean pan, etc, they may not do those extra's. So be really clear so they know how important it is. Those things are upon request. Also dont put thier meats on your pizza as they are NOT gluten free at all!

cheese and veggie pizza is the only way to make it gluten free.

Happy Eating

Kirsten E.

Celiac since 2004.

[hockeymomofceliacchild]

Thanks for posting this I'm desperately searching for restaurants that are here in Ont. I had heard that boston pizza had gluten free and I knew you had to let them know it was due to celiac but I guess I would have thought the toppings they would offer would have been gluten free too. And we would have ordered the meat as my son only likes meat on his pizza. lol but cheese pizza is better than no pizza! lol

[psawyer]

I have eaten at BP quite a few times, and have not had a problem.

The menu clearly marks which toppings are gluten-free--most are, including several meats.

From my local BP web site:

Gluten Free Toppings

Anchovies, Banana Peppers, Black Olives, Cheddar, Chicken, Feta, Genoa Salami, Green Onions, Green Peppers, Ham, Italian Sausage, Jalapeno Peppers, Julienne Carrots, Mushrooms, Onions, Pepperoni, Pineapples, Pizza Mozzarella, Red Onions, Red Peppers, Shrimp, Spinach, Sun-dried Tomatoes, Taco Beef, Tomatoes

[hockeymomofceliacchild]

I have eaten at BP quite a few times, and have not had a problem.

The menu clearly marks which toppings are gluten-free--most are, including several meats.

From my local BP web site:

Gluten Free Toppings

Anchovies, Banana Peppers, Black Olives, Cheddar, Chicken, Feta, Genoa Salami, Green Onions, Green Peppers, Ham, Italian Sausage, Jalapeno Peppers, Julienne Carrots, Mushrooms, Onions, Pepperoni, Pineapples, Pizza Mozzarella, Red Onions, Red Peppers, Shrimp, Spinach, Sun-dried Tomatoes, Taco Beef, Tomatoes

Thanks again Peter lol Glad to hear it is marked on the menu this will make it way easier. Boston Pizza is one of my sons favorite restaurant he actually loves the chicken pecan salad, we are just gonna have to get that one with out the crispy chicken. lol

[love2travel]

Had the gluten-free pizza at BP this week and for what it is, was quite impressed. Crust not so great BUT together with yummy toppings was quite good. As mentioned, the gluten-free toppings are clearly marked and the staff seemed to really be well-versed. I would return.