Erin McKenna Bakery NYC Review: 100% Gluten-Free and Vegan Bakery

A Celiac’s dining dream is 100% gluten-free eateries—and Erin McKenna’s bakery doesn’t just fill that role but exceeds expectations.  Whenever we travel near an Erin McKenna location, we make it a priority to stop by.

This review contains location information, Erin McKenna’s bakery menu, what I tried (with my full review), AND information about the Erin McKenna cookbooks!

Keep reading for my full review of Erin McKenna Bakery!

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Are you new here? I also have the following posts to help you implement the gluten-free diet without the stress!

• The guide to eating out SAFELY when you’re gluten-free
• The Ultimate Guide to eating gluten-free at Disney World
• 20 of the best snacks for gluten-free travel
• How to travel to an all-inclusive resort when you’re gluten-free
• Gluten-free guide to Universal Studios & Resorts

…and of course, you should join my EXCLUSIVE Facebook community “Stress-Free Gluten-Free” by clicking here!

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This gluten-free review of the Erin McKenna Bakery is based on personal experience.  Always be sure to discuss gluten-free options with each eatery and ensure that they are able to accommodate your personal dietary needs.

Also, this post contains affiliate links.  If you order something through one of these links I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you!    My full disclosure isn’t that interesting, but you can find it here.

Are you ready to simplify your dinner routine?
Download “FIVE IN FIVE”–my FREE e-cookbook of simple & easy gluten free dinners containing 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!

Erin McKenna Locations

Erin McKenna has locations in three cities:

• New York City,
• Los Angeles,
• and Orlando (at Disney Springs). 

The New York City and Los Angeles locations have personal delivery service through Postmates (aaaaamaazing!), and The Erin McKenna bakery Orlando location actually supplies baked goods to a couple of resorts and restaurants throughout Disney World such as Art of Animation and Pop Century. 

Looking for other places to eat gluten-free in Orlando? Click here for the ultimate guide to eating gluten-free at Orlando’s Disney Springs!

Another great thing about the Erin McKenna bakery Orlando / Disney Springs location is that you can use your Walt Disney World dining credits to purchase baked goods.  Most items are eligible for use of your snack credits!  Check out my full-post here on tips for eating gluten-free at Walt Disney World.

~~ If you’re planning a trip to Disney, I highly recommend contacting Jessica Tullino at http://www.imagineeredvacations.com.  She is a Disney Concierge and she planned everything for us (fast passes, meal reservations, tips, and more!) plus found us some excellent deals at no extra cost to us! I highly recommend her—click through to her website for a quote and tell her I, Sharon from The Helpful GF, recommended you.~~

I’ve personally visited both the New York City and Orlando locations.  Both are phenomenal!  And I’m sure the Los Angeles location is just as spectacular.

Can’t make it to any of Erin McKenna’s bakery locations?  Not only do they ship nationwide, but Erin McKenna has published THREE cookbooks as well.  You can bake your own delicious gluten-free vegan treats at home with these cookbooks!

Click through the cookbook images to learn more about them and keep reading for my review of the menu at Erin McKenna’s!

Cookbooks by Erin McKenna:

Bread & Butter: Gluten-Free Vegan Recipes to Fill Your Bread Basket by Erin McKenna

Click here to purchase on amazon.com

BabyCakes Covers the Classics: Gluten-Free Vegan Recipes from Donuts to Snickerdoodles by Erin McKenna

Click here to purchase on amazon.com

BabyCakes: Vegan, (Mostly) Gluten-Free, and (Mostly) Sugar-Free Recipes from New York’s Most Talked-About Bakery by Erin McKenna

Click here to order on amazon.com

note: an Erin McKenna cookbook would make a GREAT gift for a gluten-free foodie!  These are gorgeous hardcover cookbooks with beautiful pictures and amazing recipes.

Erin McKenna Bakery Menu

The Erin McKenna Bakery menu has an extensive assortment of baked goods and treats.  In addition to typical bakery finds like donuts, breads, cookies, and cupcakes, Erin McKenna Bakery’s menu also includes specialty items like thin mints, coconut mounds, and holiday specialties. 

If you’re traveling and want to bring back a fun souvenir, you can actually purchase a baking kit with a baking mix and frosting!

Furthermore, customers can take comfort in the fact that not only is it a 100% gluten-free facility, but all bakery items are also:

• refined sugar free,
• soy-free,
• dairy-free,
• egg-free,
• vegan,
• kosher,
• and gluten & wheat free (I know I already mentioned that… but this is a gluten-free review, so EMPHASIS on gluten-free!)

In addition to the in-store Erin McKenna bakery menu, they will also create and ship specialty cakes for special occasions.

We tried an assortment of items including cupcakes, slices of loaves, and donuts!  Check out this amazing collage of goodies below.

Check out the full Erin McKenna Bakery Menu here.

Final Thoughts

The Erin McKenna Bakery is a must-visit if traveling to New York City, Los Angeles, or Orlando.  Not only can you take comfort in a 100% gluten-free eatery, but this bakery sets the standard for delicious gluten-free and vegan goodies!

If you enjoyed this review of Erin McKenna Bakery, be sure to share it on social media and pin it to Pinterest using the social media buttons below.

Have you ever been to one of the Erin McKenna locations?  Comment below and tell us what you thought.

Don’t forget– Clear the confusion and make dinner simple with “FIVE IN FIVE”–the free e-cookbook containing easy dinners you can make with 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!

Looking for some other restaurant reviews like this one?

—The Ultimate Guide to Eating Gluten-Free at Disney Springs in Orlando
—Eating Gluten-Free (and Vegan) at Tarpon Springs, Florida
—The Best Gluten-Free Cake Mixes and Frostings

Tarpon Springs Restaurants: A Gluten-Free Guide

Tarpon Springs is small city on the gulf coast of Florida.  It boasts the highest Greek-American population in the United States making it a foodie destination!  And there are some great Tarpon Springs restaurants that offer gluten-free options.

Historically, Tarpon Springs was founded on the sponge industry and you can still watch the sponge fishermen at the docks and buy the natural sponges in Downtown Tarpon Springs. 

But today, Tarpon is better known for its Greektown Historic District and Pinellas County Parks sandy beaches.

Beautiful beaches + amazing food = dream destination. 

Keep reading to see my top picks for which Tarpon Springs restaurants to visit if you’re gluten-free!

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Are you new here? I also have the following posts to help you implement the gluten-free diet while traveling without the stress!

• The guide to eating out SAFELY when you’re gluten-free
• The Ultimate Guide to eating gluten-free at Disney World
• 20 of the best snacks for gluten-free travel
• How to travel to an all-inclusive resort when you’re gluten-free
• Gluten-free guide to Universal Studios & Resorts

…and of course, you should join my EXCLUSIVE Facebook community “Stress-Free Gluten-Free” by clicking here!

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Are you ready to simplify your dinner routine?
Download “FIVE IN FIVE”–my FREE e-cookbook of simple & easy gluten free dinners containing 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!

The gluten-free guide below is based on our personal experience at eateries in Tarpon Springs, Florida.  Always be sure to discuss gluten-free options with your server and ensure that they are able to accommodate your personal dietary needs.  My full disclosure isn’t that interesting, but you can find it here.

TARPON SPRINGS RESTAURANTS WITH GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS

Eco Bean Coffee

While Eco Bean is technically a coffee shop, it deserves to be placed first on my list of Tarpon Springs restaurants! 

Eco Bean is 100% gluten-free.  And they have MUCH more than coffee.

Eco Bean’s menu boasts many options for light breakfast and lunch fare, as well as a juice bar, delicious baked goods, and hand-crafted energy balls & candies.  And yes, all gluten-free. See their menu here.

note: their vegan options are EXTENSIVE.

I tried their café mocha, iced coffee with almond milk, banana bread, and a peanut butter cup. 

This is a MUST visit place in Tarpon Springs.  Plus, I love supporting 100% gluten-free eateries!

Hellas Tarpon Springs

Hellas is probably one of the most popular restaurants in Tarpon Springs.  Despite not having a separate gluten-free menu, they DO have quite a few items on their regular menu, such as the chicken kabobs, that are naturally gluten-free.

In addition, waitstaff are trained on which items are appropriate for those with food allergies & sensitivities and the kitchen does guard against cross-contamination.

View Hellas Tarpon Springs menu here and contact them to discuss gluten-free options.

Spirou’s Cookhouse

This diner is not something to miss among all the restaurants in Tarpon Springs, especially if you’re gluten-free!

Not only can you eat their massive Greek salad, but they do have many other options including gluten-free bread for their sandwiches.

I tried their Greek salad with grilled chicken and the Rueben sandwich on gluten-free bread.  Both were delicious!

View Spirou’s Cookhouse’s menu here.

Tommy’s Produce Stand

Although Tommy’s Produce Stand is not really a Tarpon Springs restaurant, and is located a bit outside of Tarpon Springs, you’ll want to go out of your way to stop by!

You can find an array of fruits and vegetables native to Florida.  You’ll be overwhelmed by the naturally gluten-free goodness you find!

If you’ve enjoyed this gluten-free guide to Tarpon Springs restaurants, don’t forget to use the social sharing buttons below to share on your social media or pin to Pinterest for reference later.

Have you gone to any of these restaurants in Tarpon Springs?

Please let me know about your experience in the comments below. I look forward to hearing from you!

Don’t forget– Clear the confusion and make dinner simple with “FIVE IN FIVE”–the free e-cookbook containing easy dinners you can make with 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!

Looking for more gluten-free guides?

—The Ultimate Guide to Eating Gluten-Free at Orlando’s Disney Springs
—Top Gluten-Free Restaurants in Albany, New York
—6 Tips for Staying Gluten-Free at All-Inclusive Resorts

110 GRILL MENU: A GLUTEN-FREE 110 GRILL REVIEW

The gluten-free review below on the 110 Grill Menu is based on our personal experience at 110 Grill in Albany, NY.  Always be sure to discuss gluten-free options with your server and ensure that they are able to accommodate your personal dietary needs.  My full disclosure isn’t that interesting, but you can find it here.

It isn’t often that you enter a restaurant and there are as many choices on the gluten-free menu as the regular dining menu—but the 110 Grill menu IS THAT MENU!  **cue the cheers!**

I’ve seen other gluten-free bloggers posting Instagram pics of their food and I knew that when one opened in Albany I HAD to try it!  And let me tell you—not only did 110 Grill not disappoint, but it honestly exceeded my expectations.

Keep reading to learn more about the 110 Grill Menu and see pics of what we personally ate.

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Are you new here? I also have the following posts to help you implement the gluten-free diet while traveling without the stress!

• The guide to eating out SAFELY when you’re gluten-free
• The Ultimate Guide to eating gluten-free at Disney World
• 20 of the best snacks for gluten-free travel
• How to travel to an all-inclusive resort when you’re gluten-free
• Gluten-free guide to Universal Studios & Resorts

…and of course, you should join my EXCLUSIVE Facebook community “Stress-Free Gluten-Free” by clicking here!

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Are you ready to simplify your dinner routine?
Download “FIVE IN FIVE”–my FREE e-cookbook of simple & easy gluten free dinners containing 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!

Gluten and Allergen Care

In my experience, 110 Grill sets the standard of allergen protocol in a shared kitchen.  When seated, the first thing the wait staff asked was: “Does anyone in your party have any allergies to note?”  The allergens were recorded and it was explained that all allergen-friendly food would be carried out by senior staff so it would not be mixed up.

Managers at 100 Grill receive Food Safety and Allergen Awareness certifications and staff receive extensive allergen training.

Another cool aspect of 110 Grill’s allergen commitment (which also makes their food WAY better than competitors) is that the kitchen is a from scratch kitchen, so it makes it simple for them to prepare food in a way that’s tailored to your individual needs.

PLUS—when delivered to the table, the allergen-friendly food is also marked with a little allergen marker.  Keep on reading to see what we ate!

The 110 Grill Menu

As mentioned, the 110 Grill menu for gluten-free dining is extensive.  According to the company, 100% of their regular menu can be adapted to be gluten-free!

At the time we dined, there were 10 appetizers, choices of flatbreads, salads, and soups, plus more than 25 entrees.  Plus, there are a number of vegetarian and vegan options as well!

When you’re not used to this many choices—indecision is REAL!

Here’s what we ate for appetizers:

• chorizo totchos (nachos made with tater tots as a base)
• crispy fried pickle chips (with the most amazing honey mustard and sriracha aioli dipping sauces)
• firecracker shrimp with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

The fried pickles and firecracker shrimp were both gluten and dairy free.  We devoured the appetizers.  They were so amazing!

The main courses:

• steak & cheese sandwich on a gluten-free bun with regular French fries
• Cuban sandwich with regular French fries (this was gluten and dairy free—plus, note the fried pickles ON the sandwich! genius.)
• grilled cheese with creamy tomato soup (the grilled cheese had both American and goat cheese plus garlic aioli).

Each of these sandwiches were great—but I don’t know if I can accurately explain just how delicious this combo of cheeses was on the grilled cheese.  It makes me want to keep goat cheese in the fridge JUST for grilled cheese.

THE 110 GRILL MENU—FOR KIDS!

I’m pulling out the children’s menu into it’s own section because I was honestly floored when I saw all the choices on the kids menu—which just like the adult menu—can be 100% modified to be gluten-free!

There are so many options when building the kids meal.  The price is also amazing for what you get.  Maybe next time I should order a children’s meal?

Children’s meals come with a choice of 6 different main meal options, 3 sides (regular & sweet potato fries and rice), 3 different veggie options, and 3 dessert options—plus a drink!

Here’s pictures of my daughter’s children’s meal.  She ordered the gluten-free pasta with red sauce, regular French fries, carrots & celery with ranch dip, and a bowl of berries for dessert.  She is a good eater but could not finish it because it was so much food!  But she sure loved every bite!

Final Thoughts

The gluten-free offerings on the 110 Grill menu definitely set the standard for gluten-free dining.  Not only is there a wide variety, but the food itself is really delicious!  Next time you’re in New York, Massachusetts, or New Hampshire, be sure to see if there is a 110 Grill nearby!

Visiting Massachusetts?  Be sure to read my reviews of Zaftigs Delicatessen and Wahlburgers!

If you enjoyed this 110 Grill Review, share it on social media and pin it to Pinterest using the share buttons below!

Don’t forget– Clear the confusion and make dinner simple with “FIVE IN FIVE”–the free e-cookbook containing easy dinners you can make with 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!

Other posts you may find interesting:

• Top Tips for Simple & Easy Gluten-free Living
• Best Gluten-Free Gifts to Give
• How to raise a child who is gluten-free: real parents share their top tips
• How to Stay on a Budget when Eating Gluten-Free
• The ultimate guide to gluten-free skincare

The review below is based on our personal experience at Zaftigs Delicatessen.  Always be sure to discuss gluten-free options with your server and ensure that they are able to accommodate your personal dietary needs.  My full disclosure isn’t that interesting, but you can find it here.

Zaftigs Delicatessen: A Gluten-Free Restaurant Review

Although Upstate New York is our home base, we travel to Boston, Massachusetts frequently to see my husband’s Celiac specialists.  Whenever we drive down, we always make it a point to take full advantage of the amazing gluten-free restaurants in Boston!  On our most recent trip, we ate at Zaftigs Delicatessen and tried out their gluten-free menu.  Zaftigs Delicatessen currently has two locations—we ate at the Brookline location and had a great experience!

Are you ready to simplify your dinner routine?
Download “FIVE IN FIVE”–my FREE e-cookbook of simple & easy gluten free dinners containing 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!

Atmosphere

The atmosphere at Zaftigs Delicatessen was fun, and a bit quirky—which matches their menu.  They have both a “take out” counter (with pastry case) and general seating.

Menu

Zaftigs Delicatessen serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  Many of their menu items can be made gluten-free by substituting either gluten-free bread or a gluten-free bagel.  There is a wide variety of options including some super fun sandwich creations!  Unfortunately, they have a shared fryer, so beware of cross contamination there—shared fryers are not safe for Celiacs.  However, they have other options for sides including cole slaw and potato salad that are gluten-free.  This was a welcome change from the typical “oh, you’re gluten-free? here’s a salad” that we get at so many restaurants!

Here’s what we ate:

For an appetizer we shared the Stuffed Cabbages.  These were really yummy—sweeter than I anticipated due to the cranberries in the sauce.  It was a nice flavor combo!

For our main courses we ordered The Reuben: corned beef, swiss, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on gluten-free bread with a side of potato salad and The Patty Melt: an 8 0z Sirloin Burger, caramelized onions, swiss and Russian Dressing on gluten-free bread with a side of coleslaw.

Each of these main courses were so delicious.  The gluten-free bread actually held together while eating instead of disintegrating like so many do.

Not only was the food we ordered really yummy, but the waitstaff was knowledgeable about gluten-free accommodations!  They asked if the gluten-free request was due to a preference or a sensitivity/allergy and made note of the serious nature of our dietary requirements.  I will note that directly upon being seated someone tried to give us a plate of bagel chips and spreads—we declined them stating that we are gluten-free.  Our waitress then tried to give us some the first time she came over (before we were able to tell her that we are gluten-free).  But when we told her we were eating gluten-free and she confirmed that it was not a preference, she quickly took it back off the table.  Then, without us even asking, she quickly removed the small “bread plates” that were near the bagel chips as well and brought us new ones with our appetizer.

Final Thoughts

We really enjoyed our food at Zaftigs Delicatessen.  We’ve said that if we go back we want to try some of the entrees (outside of the sandwiches) but knowing us—we might just get the same things again.  We’re creatures of habit.  Have you eaten at Zaftigs Delicatessen?  Let us know about your experience in the comments!

Don’t forget– Clear the confusion and make dinner simple with “FIVE IN FIVE”–the free e-cookbook containing easy dinners you can make with 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!

Looking for another restaurant in the Boston, Mass area?  Read my review of Wahlburgers here!

Wahlburgers: A Gluten-Free Restaurant Review

Wahlburgers is a restaurant made famous by the A&E reality show Wahlburgers.  In this show, the Wahlberg brothers, Mark and Donnie, help their brother Paul open his dream restaurant.  While the first Wahlburgers location opened in Hingham, Massachusetts, Wahlburgers restaurants are located throughout the United States and Canada.  And new locations continue to pop up.  They feature both a bar and diverse menu—which include a great variety of gluten-free options!  Seriously, if you’re gluten-free and have the chance to go—GO!  And keep on reading to learn all about the food we enjoyed.

Are you ready to simplify your dinner routine?
Download “FIVE IN FIVE”–my FREE e-cookbook of simple & easy gluten free dinners containing 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!

This post contains affiliate links.  I may earn a small commission for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial, and/or link to any products or services from this website at no extra cost to you.   My full disclosure isn’t that interesting, but you can find it here.

Atmosphere

I visited the Wahlburgers location in Boston, and the atmosphere is fun.  It has a quick to-go counter in the front (so you can get in and out) with a bar and indoor/ outdoor seating in the back.  However, this aspect may vary by location.

In addition, Wahlburgers is plastered with memorabilia.  Not just from the reality show, but movie posters from the Wahlberg brothers and more!  It’s a fun environment.

Menu

Now for the reason why you’re reading this—the menu!  The menu at Wahlburgers is impressive in terms of gluten-free offerings.  Most of their main entrees can be made gluten-free.  They offer gluten-free buns, bread, and croutons for substitution.  Their fries and tater tots (both regular and sweet potato) are also GLUTEN-FREE!  Ya’ll, they have a dedicated gluten-free fryer!  **rejoice**  Plus, they even have “Wahlbowls” which are basically a burger salad.

Here’s what I tried:

• The Super Melt: a 1/2lb burger with “government cheese”, bacon, caramelized onions, pickles, and mustard sauce grilled on gluten-free bread)
• Jenn’s Chicken Sandwich: chicken breast with caramelized onions, lettuce, and honey-garlic mayo on a gluten-free bun.  Note: the sandwich comes with crispy onions, but the waiter knew to leave them off because they are not gluten-free
• tater tots
• and sweet potato tots

The verdict?  DELISH!  Honestly, the waiter was super knowledgeable about the needs of Celiac and assured us that they take things very seriously.  Without us asking additional questions, he voluntarily shared with us how they protect against cross contamination.  Also, he knew what needed to be substituted to meet gluten-free needs.  In addition to that, the food is REALLY good.  I wish there was one closer—I’d be hitting that to-go counter!  Although… maybe it’s good for my waistline that there’s not.

Final Thoughts

If you have a Wahlburgers near you and haven’t tried it—go.  It’s not just sensationalized; the food is honestly delicious.  It’s a great option for dining with mixed parties in which some order gluten and some do not.  Everyone will be satisfied.  When traveling around the US and Canada and looking for a safe, gluten-free dining experience, see if there’s a Wahlburgers nearby.  You will not be disappointed!

Don’t forget– Clear the confusion and make dinner simple with “FIVE IN FIVE”–the free e-cookbook containing easy dinners you can make with 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!

Looking for more gluten-free recipes or tips?

Here are more recipes and tips you will LOVE:

• Gluten-Free Holiday Gift Guide
• 10 Minute Gluten-Free Fried Rice
• Grain-Free Lemon Mug Cake for One
• No-Soy Steak Marinade
• 17+ Vegan Shakes & Smoothie Bowls

 

Brown’s Brewing Company–Walloomsac Taproom: A Restaurant Review

Brown’s Brewing Company first opened in Troy back in the ‘90s and it holds the reputation in the Capital Region of New York as having excellent food and atmosphere.  However, breweries can be risky places for the gluten-free.  They tend to put beer. in. everything.  And in all honesty, Tyler was ‘glutened’ at Brown’s early on in our marriage.  He ordered a garden salad with chicken on top, no croutons—but did not tell the waiter that he needed his meal to be gluten-free.  I’ll stress, this was not Brown’s fault.  We did not inform them that we needed gluten-free accommodations.  Furthermore, that menu item did not make gluten-free claims.

note: learn from our mistakes and ALWAYS inform wait staff that you are gluten-free for medical reasons.  For simplicity, we usually we just say “wheat allergy.”  When your food is delivered, double check: “Is this gluten-free?”  Every. Stinking. Time.  This was one of our early learning experiences on the need to advocate for yourself when dining out. This is also why I designed an “allergy alert” card to use when eating out.  It makes advocating easy peasy!

Are you ready to simplify your dinner routine?
Download “FIVE IN FIVE”–my FREE e-cookbook of simple & easy gluten free dinners containing 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!
Fast forward 6 years to today, and Brown’s Brewing Company makes our gluten-free hearts (and tummies) happy!  They’ve opened a new location, the Walloomsac Taproom, in an old manufacturing facility about 2 miles from where we live–and it’s one of our current favorites.  Keep reading to see why!

Atmosphere

I cannot say enough about the atmosphere at Brown’s Walloomsac Taproom.  They’ve restored an old factory complex from the mid-1800s and actually create and distribute their craft beer from the location.  We haven’t done a brewery tour, but unfortunately, none of their craft beers are gluten-free, but we can dream huh?

In addition, Brown’s Walloomsac Taproom hosts entertaining theme nights including live music and trivia.  Not only does this location have eclectic and rustic indoor décor including original brick walls and antiques, but it’s located right on the Walloomsac River.  If you choose to dine outdoors you’ll not only view the river, but hear the little water fall as well.

Menu

The Walloomsac Tavern does not have a dedicated gluten-free menu, but each of the times we’ve dined the waitstaff was very knowledgeable about the gluten-free options available.  That’s a big plus!  When eating out, it is unsettling to have a waitstaff that does not understand gluten-free accommodations—amiright?  The staff at Brown’s explained their gluten-free accommodations and confirmed that each item they brought us was gluten-free.  As an added bonus, many of their menu items are locally sourced.  (And I mean local.  I actually know some of these farmers personally!)

The menu specials change weekly, but there are some staple gluten-free substitutes including gluten-free tortilla chips (note: the gluten-free chips are not the house-fried tortilla chips.  They do not have a dedicated gluten-free fryer), gluten-free buns, and gluten-free pizza crust.  On our most recent trip we shared the nachos appetizer (made with gluten-free chips) and Yushak’s pizza.

The nachos came topped with onions, tomatoes, peppers, jalapenos, black olives, cheese, and sour cream and served with a cup of salsa on the side.  I’m a sucker for nachos, pretty much any nachos, but I’m telling you—these were excellent!  The Yushak’s pizza has on a gluten-free shell and topped with chunks of pepperoni, Yushak’s sausage, and bacon.  This honestly is probably one of the best gluten-free pizzas we’ve eaten.  I actually asked our server a second time if it was actually a gluten-free pizza.  The cheese was so melty and stretchy and the toppings were perfect.  There were none of the tell-tell signs that the crust was gluten-free.  The texture, consistency, and flavor were spot on for pizza crust.  It seriously tasted that good.  (It definitely was gluten-free!  No gluten reactions!)  Plus, can you go wrong with bacon on a pizza?

We’ve had a couple other menu items at past visits including the Tiashoke Farm Wood Fire Grilled Hamburger on a gluten-free bun with a side salad.  This choice was also super yummy!

Final Thoughts

I am seriously so impressed with the gluten-free food we ate at Brown’s Walloomsac Taproom.  While their gluten-free selection is not expansive, we’ve been a couple times and have not been deprived.  Especially when there are more pizza creations to try and their specials change weekly.  Have you eaten at Brown’s?  If so, share your experience with us in the comments!  If visiting the Capital Region of New York, I highly recommend you visit one of the Brown’s Brewing Company restaurant locations.

Also–just to make sure that you don’t make the same mistake we did the first time we ate at Brown’s, I made an Allergy-Alert Restaurant Card just for YOU!  Download it now and print at your own convenience.  It’s business card sized, so it fits right in your wallet to carry with you whenever you eat out.  When you order, give the card to your waiter.  Happy dining!

Don’t forget– Clear the confusion and make dinner simple with “FIVE IN FIVE”–the free e-cookbook containing easy dinners you can make with 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!

The Brown Cow Café:
A Restaurant Review, Southern Vermont

I love little, local cafés.  There’s something so peaceful and nostalgic about them—like I want to forget about the day’s responsibilities and and get lost in a good book.  Unfortunately, it’s often difficult to find a small restaurant able to accommodate the needs of gluten-free patrons.  However, The Brown Cow Café in Bennington, Vermont is that gem.

This post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. My full disclosure isn’t that interesting, but you can find it here. 

Atmosphere

The atmosphere at The Brown Cow Café is totally inviting.  Upon entering, you quickly notice they have all the cute aspects of the typical eclectic café—the chalkboard menu, a treat case, café tables for two.  Off to the side they have a larger dining room with tables that can accommodate larger parties (and comfy couches if that’s more your thing) and the walls feature the work of local artists.  There’s even a shelf with toys on it for the kids!  As a mom, I totally appreciate this.

They also have outdoor seating, perfect for the typical Vermont summer day.

Menu

Their menu is diverse for a small café.  They serve breakfast all day, soup, salad, and sandwiches.  And, the best part, they offer gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options in each category!  To accommodate gluten-free, they will substitute Udi’s bread, Udi’s bagel, or a Toufayan gluten-free wrap.  [Note: when ordering, always be sure to inform them if you have Celiac or an allergy to ensure there’s no cross-contamination.  As a tip, if you order a bagel or toast, try requesting them to toast it in a clean pan instead of the toaster!]  In addition, they also try to source local ingredients whenever available.  You can see their current suppliers here.

It was honestly difficult to choose what I wanted to try.  I went back and forth between the Brown Cow Club (a sandwich with turkey, bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and chipotle mayo) and the Breakfast Bowl (a bed of spinach topped with scrambled eggs, avocado, bacon, feta, and a pesto vinaigrette).  I ended up ordering the Breakfast Bowl, and I am so glad I did!  It was filling, while still feeling fresh and light.   Plus, it was served in a gorgeous bowl.

Since eating there for lunch, I’ve been back and gotten an iced coffee made with almond milk.  Yay for dairy-free coffee!

Final Thoughts

I’ve known about The Brown Cow Café for a couple years, but I’m so happy I finally went.  I know I will be returning, and I highly recommend it to all of you!  If you ever visit Southern Vermont, make sure you put The Brown Cow Café on your restaurant list.

Plus, I designed something special for you–my gluten-free friend!  Download this custom made (by me!) restaurant card, print it out, and put it in your wallet (it’s business card sized!) to bring with you whenever you eat out!  Just give it to the person taking your order so your dietary needs are clear.

Are you ready to simplify your dinner routine?
Download “FIVE IN FIVE”–my FREE e-cookbook of simple & easy gluten free dinners containing 5 ingredients or less!

I WANT IT!