Heading To Chicago

[Jen H]

Hey guys,

I'm heading to Chicago for a wedding in September and I'll be there for a few days. Does anyone know of any restaurants that serve gluten-free food or cater to nutritional needs? Also, are there any health food stores where I could pick up a few items?

Thanks, Jen

[jenvan]

I can hook you up girl!

First off, stores... My fav is Whole Foods. Go here to see their Chicago locations: Open Original Shared Link

Then restaurants. There several with awesome food and gluten-free menus. I've been to each and the food and service was excellent...

Wildfire restaurant is an elegant 40's themed bar/grill, very cool atmosphere. You can see their Chicago locations here: Open Original Shared Link

And Vinci's is a smaller Italian restaurants with great gluten-free pasta--and a 4 course gluten-free menu. Excellent service. Last time I went they passed out the bread and I said "no thanks." The waiter than asked, "Are you gluten-free?" You can view the restaurant and location here: Open Original Shared Link

If you can, I recommend making reservations for each.

Oh, and there is always PF Chang's downtown too: Open Original Shared Link

Have a great trip!

[Jen H]

Sweet! Thanks so much for those restaurant listings. I was surprised to hear that the Italian restaurant has an entire gluten-free menu! It's been so long since I've eaten Italian.

I haven't been to any weddings since finding out I was gluten-free. Should I try to call the reception site ahead of time to see if they can prepare something gluten-free for me? I'm sure I could at least have the salad.

Thanks, Jen

[jenvan]

Jen-

I think this is what you're saying, but just in case...not all the food at Vinci's if gluten-free..but they do have a full gluten-free menu, just make sure you ask for it.

You could try calling the reception place to see about eating gluten-free...but I am guessing it will be on the difficult side. I guess it would depend from place to place. Since a reception is more of a "conveyor belt" type of product for entrees, I would personally try and stay away from the food. I would probably eat before, bring a snack with me. If it is a buffet it might be easier, as they may have fruit/veggie trays.... Good luck !

[Jen H]

Hi Jen,

I went to Chicago last weekend and wanted to thank you for your restaurant and supermarket advice! We stayed at the Swissotel and they had a refrigerator ready for me in the room. I stocked up at Whole Foods and we ate at P.F. Changs for lunch one day. I ate most meals on my own (mostly because I was nervous and it was my first trip with celiac disease). We didn't get to the other restaruants you mentioned, but when we go back to visit we'll try them. Thanks again! Jen