eat – The Gluten Free Suitcase

Recently voted the best place to live in London, Crystal Palace is buzzy, green and full of good places to eat. I went to school just down the road, so I have many a memory here from my childhood, but food options were few and far between (for gluten free people at least). My husband to be and I moved back here earlier in 2022 so I’ve had the chance to rediscover the area and have put together this handy guide for anyone visiting/living locally. From cannoli to gluten free onion bhajis, Crystal Palace has a lot to offer the gluten free community!

Brown & Green

Crystal Palace’s perfect brunch spot luckily has more than one branch! Here at Brown & Green you can get your hands on gluten free breakfast sandwiches! Pick from several flavours and the lovely team will toast and prep your bread separately. I always have the bacon, halloumi, rocket and avocado sandwich and wash it down with an Americano. A number of egg dishes can also be adapted to be gluten free if you’re eating in. These guys sometimes have a gluten free cake on display in the cake counter, so keep your eyes peeled.

Where?

99 Church Road
London SE19 2PR
Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace Park
Thicket Road
London SE20 8DS
Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace Station Road
London SE19 2AZ
Crystal Palace

Urban Orient

This local Vietnamese restaurant has been a family favourite for many years. Most of the pho soups are gluten free while others can often be adapted to be coeliac safe so please ask the lovely team upon arrival. I always start with the summer rolls here, which are made freshly on the premises and never disappoint. This place is very budget friendly and the service is speedy and friendly. Booking advised, especially on weekends.

Where?

74 Westow Street
London SE19 3AE
Crystal Palace

Roasted Bean

This cafe is my go-to coffee spot in Crystal Palace. To prevent cross contamination, the team here will thoroughly wipe down the coffee machine upon request and wash jugs in the dishwasher before serving me my flat white. I am always impressed by how friendly the team are and by the fact that there are always gluten free cannoli on display! While we can’t enjoy most of the other cakes, who needs more than cannoli anyway?!

Where?

23 Westow Street
London SE19 3RY
Crystal Palace

Timur

The ONLY Indian restaurant I have EVER been to that serves gluten free onion bhajis – surely that’s enough to convince you to book a table?! The lovely team here serve up Indian and Nepalese cuisine – a lot of which is street food inspired. If you’re coeliac, you can ask the kitchen to fry you up a fresh batch of poppadums to avoid cross contamination and then choose from an array of gluten free curries and sides. Timur serves up some of the best Indian food I’ve had in ages – couldn’t recommend it enough!

Where?

17 Westow Street
London SE19 3RY
Crystal Palace

Chuckling Wings

This gluten free fried chicken stand will absolutely blow your mind at the weekly Sunday Crystal Palace Farmers Market. You can find these guys serving up insane gluten free fried chicken in an array of sauces and fries most Sundays. They don’t shout about the fact that all their chicken and fries are GF so it’s incredibly satisfying to just be able to swan up to the stand and order without issues. Obviously we can’t have the buns on offer, but everything else is fine and the team are very allergy-aware.

Where?

Crystal Palace Farmers Market
Bottom of Haynes Lane/Top of Bedwardine Road
London SE19 3AP
Crystal Palace

Craft & Courage

This local craft beer shop and bar has several gluten free beers available to either drink in or take away. The selection can vary depending on when you choose to pop in but it’s so great to have this spot nearby! Their garden is also lovely when the weather is nice and makes a great pre-dinner drinking spot.

Where?

28 Westow Hill
London SE19 1RX
Crystal Palace

Westow House

Ever miss ordering an actual pint of beer? Well, at Westow House you can usually do that as they often have local Gipsy Hill Brewery’s Bandit gluten free pale ale on tap! I’ve only eaten here once and it was tricky to find many GF options so would advise just sticking to beer for now, but it’ll soon be time for me to enquire about the menu again so watch this space!

Where?

79 Westow Hill
London SE19 1TX
Crystal Palace

June 12, 2022June 12, 2022

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Lyon: The Mini Gluten Free Suitcase Guide

Known as the culinary capital of France, Lyon is an absolute dream destination for any gluten free foodie. I spent a weekend here earlier this year and fit in as much food as I could in the space of 48 hours but would definitely love to head back for an extended stay. Top tip: grab a gluten free croissant and coffee to go from one of the city’s gluten free bakeries and soak up the local architecture – it reminded me so much of Paris. Bon appetit!

Les Gasteliers

What I can only describe as THE gluten free place to be in Lyon, this beautiful 100% GF bakery has it all. Incredible sandwiches, fresh bread, pizza, croissants and stunning patisserie-style cakes. These guys even have eclairs and the wonderfully almondy, elaborate Paris-Brest pastries. Whatever you do, make sure you grab one of the chocolate and custard Brioches Suisse and have a coffee before departing with a bag full of goodies for the road.

Where?
123 Rue de Sèze
69006 Lyon, France

L’Avocat Café

This cute little café is not only 100% gluten free, but both lactose and refined sugar free too. Perfect for a weekend brunch, smoothie session or a sit down with a coffee and cake in between all the sightseeing. This place is famous for its vegetarian Croque Monsieur however so you might want to get your hands on one of those! Closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Where?
19 Rue Cuvier
69006 Lyon, France

Chez Grégoire

Another wonderful 100% gluten free spot, this small bakery is also entirely lactose-free. There’s a beautiful selection of delicate cakes on offer to enjoy with your coffee either there or to go. I opted for a chocolate and praline tart, which was like a work of art. There are also quiches and a selection of gluten free baking products. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Where?
6 Rue Constantine
69001 Lyon, France

Sans Gluten Pizza Epicerie

Lo and behold – the one and only fully GF pizzeria in the city of Lyon! As well as a selection of great gluten free pizzas, y’all will be ecstatic to hear that calzone is also on the menu here. There’s also a selection of gluten free flours to buy so you can try and recreate this wonderful spot’s gluten free pizza at home. Be sure to call ahead and book a table to avoid disappointment. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Where?
88 Gd Rue de la Guillotière
69007 Lyon, France

Epona

If you are looking for somewhere special to have dinner during your stay in Lyon, Epona is a lovely gluten free-friendly spot, located inside the stunning InterContinental Hôtel-Dieu in the city centre. This restaurant has many gluten free options on its menu and can also cater for lactose-free and vegan diets. There’s gluten free bread on offer to start, which is heated safely and separately. The menu changes seasonally and local produce is used for most of the dishes, which was a great touch. Booking a must.

Where?
Hôtel-Dieu
20 Quai Jules Courmont
69002 Lyon, France

September 14, 2021September 11, 2021

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Torquay, Devon: The Gluten Free Suitcase Guide

This summer I took my first EVER trip to the UK’s beautiful South Coast and our first stop was the quintessentially British beach town of Torquay. This lovely seaside town is located along the English Riviera and home to an insane selection of gluten free hot spots and I felt absolutely spoiled for choice when eating out. From the freshest of seafood to one of the best gluten free bakeries ever, you’ll want to add Torquay to your destination list at any time of year!

Jacksons Gluten Free Bakery

Tucked away in Torquay’s old market place, Jacksons Gluten Free Bakery is a family run bakery which has the most incredible selection of classic bakery style treats, including custard slices, deep fried doughnuts, Cornish pasties and award-winning loaves of gluten free bread. While these guys always have a selection on display to buy, I would recommend pre-ordering your treats online to avoid disappointment. I just wish I lived closer to this bakery! Open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Where?

Market Forum Market Street
Torquay TQ1 3AE

Hanbury’s Fish and Chips

This epic fish and chip restaurant has been serving up the goods for over three decades and it’s absolute music to any gluten free person’s ears that they have a dedicated fryer. Any fish can be fried in gluten free batter and comes with a mountain of crispy, fluffy chips. Be prepared to queue for your order as this restaurant gets popular, especially at dinner time! Closed on Sundays.

Where?

Princes Streetm, Babbacombe
Torquay TQ1 3LW

Kalipso Artisan Coffee

This delightful, independent coffee shop is a haven for coffee lovers in Torquay and also offers a lovely selection of gluten free cakes and sweet treats. We grabbed coffee and snacks to go and wandered to the seafront, which was the perfect pick me up!

Where?

45 Fleet Street
Torquay TQ2 5DW

On the Rocks

Located on the water front, this seafood brasserie has an extensive gluten free menu upon request and is home to the holy grail – A SEPARATE GLUTEN FREE FRYER! They offer lots of delicious seafood dishes including a Devon Crab Crumpet which blew my mind. Also available are gluten free burgers, pasta, gazpacho and more. All desserts can also be made gluten free. Highly recommend booking a table on the terrace if the weather is nice so you can take in the Riviera views with your meal.

Where?

1 Abbey Crescent, Torbay Road
Torquay TQ2 5FB

The Elephant by Simon Hulstone

Did someone say GLUTEN FREE TASTING MENU? Yes, you read right. This beautiful Michelin starred restaurant overlooking Torquay Harbour offers a gluten free version of their famous tasting menu and adapts all dishes so we get to partake in the fun too! Featuring eight courses of goodness with coffee and petits fours to finish, you will want to make The Elephant a location for a special occasion! The service is wonderful and the wine list fantastic. Booking well in advance is recommended to secure your table. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Where?

3&4 Beacon Hill
Torquay TQ1 2BH

Rockfish

Torquay is home to one of nine Rockfish restaurant locations and is somewhere you will want to visit over and over again. Accredited by Coeliac UK, this beautiful and casual seafood restaurant offers gluten free fish and chips, whitebait, fried squid and so much more (including dessert!). This eatery is located along Victoria Parade with views of Torquay Harbour, so if the weather is nice definitely grab a table outside! Closed on Mondays.

Where?

Victoria Parade
Torquay TQ1 2BB

Number 7 Fish Bistro

Serving up some of the best seafood I’ve had in the UK, Number 7 Fish Bistro is a paradise for seafood lovers. Almost the entire menu can be adapted to be gluten free and the staff are incredibly helpful and re-assuring. The specials on offer are bound to tempt you too, and change on a daily basis. With gluten free bread on offer to enjoy on the side of your meal too, it’s an absolute win win situation. The restaurant has an extensive wine list too and a wine bar upstairs if you fancy a tipple before or after your meal. Closed on Sundays.

Where?

7 Beacon Hill
Torquay TQ1 2BH

February 23, 2020February 23, 2020

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Madrid: The Gluten Free Suitcase Guide

Spain has always been a great destination for anyone gluten free and the Spanish capital of Madrid is no exception. One of the first places I ever travelled as a gluten free person and the home of notorious bakery Celicioso and tapas galore, Madrid will have you spoilt for choice. Just take note that most restaurants in Madrid still take bookings, especially at peak times on weekends, so call ahead to make sure you secure your spot!

Sana Locura Gluten Free Bakery

By far my favourite bakery in Madrid, Sana Locura boasts one of the most impressive cake, pastry and bread counters I’ve ever seen in my life. The bakery has a family business atmosphere and is always buzzing with people either buying treats to go or sitting down for breakfast and lunch. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Sana Locura’s croissants or red velvet cake. And if you’re dairy free order a delicious soy or rice milk latte and ask the staff to point you towards any dairy free sweet treats for the perfect afternoon combination. Closed on Mondays.

Where?
Calle del Gral Oraá 49
28006 Madrid

Celicioso

The original gluten free bakery in Madrid, Celicioso has branched out to four different locations across the city, and now even has branches in Malaga and Marbella. Picture anything you miss since going gluten free and I can guarantee you that Celicioso offers the gluten free version. Perfect for brunch (order the legendary avo toast!) or lunch with an epic sweet and savoury selection of goods to pack in your bag to fuel your sightseeing around Madrid, Celicioso is somewhere you will want to visit over and over again.

Where?
Calle de O’Donnell, 4
28009 Madrid

Plaza del Callao, 2, 9º planta
28013 Madrid

Calle de Hortaleza 3
28004 Madrid

Calle del Barquillo 19
28004 Madrid

Maestro Churrero

Lo and behold – a place that has finally answered all our gluten free churro prayers! Maestro Churrero prepares its gluten free churros separately so there’s no chance of cross contamination and you can even dip them into lactose free hot chocolate. A perfect spot for in between meals or even to start your day because is there ever a bad time for churros?!

Where?
Plaza de Jacinto Benavente 2
28012 Madrid

Pasteleria La Oriental

Another winner on the gluten free bakery scene in Madrid, La Oriental is packed almost to the ceiling with gluten free cakes, cookies, tarts and pastries that will make you do a double take. Their traditional Roscon cake is something else and keeps well for a few days if you want to stash one away in your hand luggage! Better yet, La Oriental is open seven days a week!

Where?
Calle de Ferraz 47
28008 Madrid

Solo de Croquetas

Croquettes are a special part of the Spanish food scene and sadly one that we’re rarely able to indulge in. So you will be delighted to know that Madrid is home to a 100% gluten free croquette restaurant where you can sample the whole menu and wash down your selections with an icy gluten free beer. Perfect for lunch!

Where?
Calle de Echegaray 5
28014 Madrid

Mercado de San Miguel

Well worth a visit, Mercado de San Miguel is one of Madrid’s oldest markets, with an array of food and drink stalls offering some of the freshest seafood, tapas and chilled cava I’ve ever had. Keep your eyes peeled for what’s on offer gluten free wise as the menus at various stalls can change. I hopped around sampling tortilla and fresh prawns at different stalls when I went but I have it on good authority that Tacos Margaritas y Punto is 100% gluten free and well worth a pitt stop for their outrageously delicious tacos.

Where?
Plaza de San Miguel S/N
28005 Madrid

La Tintoreria

A traditional Spanish restaurant, La Tintoreria is a great spot for tortilla and a good platter of traditional jamon. The staff are very clued up when it comes to allergies and will take extra care when serving a gluten free customer. Booking advised, especially on Fridays and Saturdays if you want to ensure you are seated!

Where?
Calle Espoz y Mina 20
28012 Madrid

Emma y Julia

In the market for some delicious Italian food while in Madrid? Well when it comes to the menu on offer at Emma y Julia I think it’s well worth a go! This restaurant makes almost every single item on its regular menu gluten free upon request and has some of the best pizza I’ve had in years. The portions are huge and the staff go out of their way to accomodate coeliacs and customers with dietary requirements. Another gem that is sure to set you up well for a night out on the town! Closed on Mondays.

Where?
Calle de la Cava Baja 19
28005 Madrid

Taberna La Concha

By far my favourite tapas bar in Madrid, Taberna La Concha is small, traditional and offers an extensive gluten free menu upon request. What’s special about Taberna La Concha is the albondigas or meatballs which are so rarely gluten free and here they are huge and delicious! This restaurant is perfect for a late night dinner but be prepared to wait in line as it’s a popular spot!

Where?
Calle de la Cava Baja 7
28005 Madrid

La Gamella

Finally, if you’re in need of a top notch brunch to start or end your time in Madrid on a high, venture to La Gamella for a gorgeous and gluten free friendly brunch. Most things on the menu can be made gluten free and can be all washed down with a mimosa with freshly squeezed orange juice and followed with an array of sweet treats to accompany a post brunch espresso. The Eggs Benedict here is incredible so don’t forget to call and reserve your table as this place gets packed during the day on weekends.

Where?
Calle de Alfonso XII 4
28014 Madrid

Burger King

Like the rest of Spain, Burger King in Madrid offers a gluten free bun for their burgers and cheeseburgers. Better yet, this option is available at the airport so in case you didn’t have enough pastries or tapas while in Madrid, you can grab a cheeseburger on your way out of the country. Check with each branch if the chips are fried separately as sometimes they are not. P.S. McDonald’s has gluten free options in Spain too!

February 9, 2020February 9, 2020

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Rome: The Gluten Free Suitcase Guide

My earliest memories of Rome are full of gluten – a smorgasbord of pasta, pizza, arancini, pastries and more. Going gluten free definitely made me fear that this city – a long-standing favourite holiday destination of my family’s – would never be the same again. I couldn’t have been more wrong! Like much of Italy, Rome takes coeliac disease and gluten free eating incredibly seriously and if anything there is now too much choice! I have pulled all my favourites together into one handy guide and I highly recommend you work your way through all of these gems! Buon appetito!

Le Altre Farine del Mulino

One of the newer additions to the Roman gluten free scene, Le Altre Farine del Mulino is a 100% gluten free bakery near the Vatican. With an epic cake, sweet and pastry selection as well as lactose free options, Le Altre Farine is an ideal spot for breakfast or a snack on a sightseeing day. I loved the calzone here so much I had two – so make sure you grab one to go!

Where?
Via di Porta Cavalleggeri, 151/153
00165 Rome, Italy

Pasticceria Napoleoni Gluten Free

Located next to the Colli Albani metro station, Pasticceria Napoleoni is an impressive bakery with a dedicated gluten free counter and cake fridge. I sampled a selection of pastries when I was last there and they did not disappoint. At lunchtime, fresh sandwiches, pizza and other savoury delights are brought out. Worth stopping here for a coffee and some people watching, especially at breakfast time when some of Rome’s busiest espresso drinkers appear. Closed on Mondays.

Where?
Via Appia Nuova, 590
00179 Roma RM, Italy

A Gogo – Gluten Free

Another regular bakery with impressive gluten free options, A Gogo offers a variety of cakes and savoury snacks, which are displayed in their own separate counter. I had some of the best arancini that Rome has to offer, which I took to go and fuelled me during a busy day of walking. Make sure you check for any daily specials as A Gogo sometimes changes up its gluten free offerings.

Where?
Viale Giulio Cesare 66/68
00192 Rome, Italy

Celiachiamo Lab

I cannot explain the excitement I felt when I cam across Celiachiamo Lab – a 100% new hot spot which is home to both a supermarket and bakery. I found a huge array of gluten free items I had never seen before and of course couldn’t resist buying them to fill up my suitcase. The pastry selection is outrageous, with Nutella-stuffed croissants, tarts, cakes, freshly baked bread and much much more. Celiachiamo also sells hot pizza by the slice with dairy free options available too. A MUST visit!

Where?
Via della Magliana, 183
00146 Roma, Italy

Pandali

Pandali is another 100% gluten free bakery situated near to the Pantheon. It is open every day of the week for late breakfast and lunch, and specials change most days, with wholesome vegan salad bowls, arancini, pizza and sandwiches on rotation. Pandali also has a huge array of cookies and cakes, some of which are dairy free. Don’t forget to order a gluten free beer to wash all the treats down with!

Where?
Via di Torre Argentina 3
00186 Roma, Italy

Grom

Our favourite gluten free gelateria has multiple locations across Rome, which means we can indulge in gelato worry-free! The joys of eating ice cream in a cone will never get old for me, especially as the ones on offer in Grom do not taste gluten free in the slightest. Grom has also added several other sweet treats to its menu including brioche, cookies and fantastic hot chocolate. Check the company website for your nearest branch in Rome.

Voglia di Pizza

My original favourite in Rome, Voglia di Pizza is home to some of the best pizza I have ever had. The dough is so good, I cried the first time I ate here seven years ago and have been going back ever since. The pasta options are also vast, as well as a number of deep fried starters like supli and arancini. Voglia di Pizza takes dietary requirements incredibly seriously and places a little flag in each and every gluten free dish they serve. Don’t forget to save room for a gluten free tiramisu to finish!

Where?
Via dei Giubbonari, 33
00186 Roma, Italy

Mama Eat Gluten Free

I’ve eaten a number of fantastic meals at Mama Eat – including some of the best gluten free rigatoni I’ve ever tried and brilliant arancini, deep fried mozzarella and pizza dough. All the gluten free food is prepared in a separate kitchen to avoid cross contamination so it is an entirely worry-free environment. The staff are clued up and the service is perfect and it is no wonder this restaurant is always packed! Open 7 days a week and well worth a visit (or two).

Where?
Via di S. Cosimato, 7/9
00153 Roma RM, Italy

Mama Eat Street Food

A grab and go branch of the above mentioned Mama Eat restaurant, this 100% gluten free hole-in-the-wall eatery is located close to the Vatican and perfect for lunch. On the menu is a selection of pizzas, arancini, fried seafood, and a monster meatball and fries combo which I feasted on in the street, barely breathing as I was eating it so fast. While the restaurant is advertised as street food and light bites, I strongly advise you go hungry – the portions are incredibly generous.

Where?
Borgo Pio, 28
00193 Roma Italy

La Soffita Renovatio

Eating here was truly one of the best dining experiences I have ever had. The gluten free menu is mind-blowing and even includes homemade ravioli, which I enjoyed in a classic butter and sage sauce and fantastic pizza. Start your meal with a generous serving of calamari and fried zucchini because why not. It’s easy to not have enough room for dessert after a meal here so I highly recommend you take it to go. Ask your waiter for the daily cake options and prepare to be amazed! Booking in advance to avoid disappointment is recommended.

Where?
Piazza del Risorgimento 46/a
00192 Rome, Italy

Pantha Rei

Another gem tucked behind the Patheon, Pantha Rei offers up a fantastic gluten free menu upon request and does everything it can to ensure there is no cross contamination in its restaurant. I turn into a creature of habit whenever I visit, and usually order gnocchi (who here is surprised?) which never disappoints. Wash it down with gluten free beer or a lovely glass of Italian wine for the ultimate and relaxed lunch or dinner experience.

Where?
Via della Minerva 19
00186 Roma, Italy

Il Viaggio

If you’re in the mood for some fine dining while in Rome, Il Viaggio offers a delicate twist on many classic Italian dishes and a tasting menu for those with a bit more time on their hands. All the menu can be made gluten free and again, the staff here take dietary requirements incredibly seriously and the restaurant is accredited by the Italian Coeliac Association. The homemade gluten free bread is delicious and a great pre-cursor to a lovely main course. I enjoyed gluten free cannelloni last time I ate at Il Viaggio and hope it’s still on the menu when I next go back!

Where?
Via Isonzo 14
00198 Rome, Italy

McDonald’s

Yes, you read right! McDonald’s in Rome, like the rest of Italy offers a gluten free burger and cheeseburger and safely fried French fries to those of you who are in the mood for something fast! Check the Mcdonald’s company website for your nearest branch in Rome.

May 20, 2019May 20, 2019

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Hong Kong: The Gluten Free Suitcase Guide

This year I took my very first trip to Asia to visit a friend in Hong Kong. A city full to the brim with amazing Dim Sum and other traditionally glutenous treats, I was sceptical about just how well I would eat when I was there. I had heard endless reports of just how hard it is to come across safe gluten free options and so took it upon myself to research every single place I would be eating. What happened? I ended finding some amazing places and never went hungry. From Dim Sum to Venezuelan Empanadas, from crepes to epic toasties – Hong Kong really does have it all! Check out my guide for a number of options within Hong Kong itself and a bonus addition for Macao, which is just an hour’s ferry ride away and well worth a trip.

Sweetpea Cafe

Officially Hong Kong’s sole 100% spot, Sweetpea Cafe really found a gap in the market. This gorgeous little cafe is hidden away in the hilly streets of Hong Kong Central and has a menu with more options than you would think from the size of the place itself. Get ready to be wowed by the impressive cake counter as soon as you walk into the shop, which offers a selection of vegan and sugar free cakes too. The sandwiches here are all delicious, and individually made to order, including a selection of toasties. However be warned, Sweetpea Cafe works on a cash only basis and prices are high as, unsurprisingly, gluten free products are hard to source in Hong Kong. I thought this was a great shame however as I would have quite happily eaten breakfast here most days had it been more affordable. Definitely a must-visit, if for nothing more than a wonderful slice of cake and a latte with homemade nut mylk! Closed on Mondays.

Where?
4 Shin Hing Street
Hong Kong Central

Fresca

Another Hong Kong Central find, Fresca offers up healthy breakfast and lunch options which you can either enjoy in-store or to go. Fresca is most known for its amazing salad bar, which boasts many gluten free options that can be mixed and matched for a decent sized lunch. The cafe also offers several gluten free sweet treats however, which are widely advertised. Their steamed muffins come in several flavours and are made using all natural ingredients. I opted for salted caramel, which paired nicely with a coffee. The gluten free crepes are undoubtedly the yummiest thing on the menu at Fresca however, and come stuffed with either banana and nutella or baked apples and summer berries. Closed on Mondays.

Brickhouse

Everyone headed to Hong Kong must put one night aside to head to Brickhouse where nearly all tacos are gluten free! Even better, if you go on Monday or Tuesday, the restaurant has a great deal on tacos between 6pm and 8pm and always has a delicious taco of the month on offer. Several starters are also gluten free – just be sure to ask a member of staff for guidance on the menu. Brickhouse fills up pretty quickly most nights so get there early to avoid disappointment. We were lucky enough to sit at the bar in front of the chefs and so got to watch all our delicious food being prepared (which is basically my version of being in a toy shop). Don’t forget to wash your food down with several of the house margaritas – they’re fantastic! Closed on Sundays.

Where?
20 D’Aguilar Street
Hong Kong Central

Yardbird

For the most delicious rice dishes you’ll try during your entire stay, head straight to Yardbird. This chicken-lovers paradise is located in the bustling Sheung Wan area of Hong Kong and pays great attention to dietary requirements. A number of rice dishes – including the unbeatable Chicken Rice – are gluten free and both incredibly filling and good value for money. While the fried chicken on offer at Yardbird is also gluten free, it is not coeliac safe due to cross contamination and the use of a shared fryer. While this was heartbreaking to learn at first, I quickly got over it when I received my main and a delicious steaming bowl of edamame beans. Top marks for both food and the general vibe at this Soho hotspot. Closed on Sundays.

Where?
154-158 Wing Lok Street
Sheung Wan
Hong Kong

Picada

I did not expect to find so much amazing Latin American food in Hong Kong but I really hit the jackpot with Picada. Not only does this restaurant offer an amazing variety of meat and fish dishes as main courses, but an impressive starter selection too including (lo and behold) gluten free fried chicken AND gluten free empanadas. Of course we had to order both and we were by no means disappointed. It was hard to believe the fried chicken was gluten free and the empanadas were not only beautiful (pink, green and yellow) but each and every one delicious. Picada also has a delicious selection of cocktails and live music on the weekends – what’s not to like? Closed on Saturdays.

Where?
2F & 3F LKF 29 Building
29 Wyndham Street
Hong Kong Central

Madame Fu

I was told that gluten free dim sum was not a thing. Whoever told me this was oh so wrong. Madame Fu – a beautiful eatery tucked away in the brand new Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts – offers a fully gluten free menu to diners upon request which includes a selection of phenomenal dim sum. A little on the pricier side, this restaurant also has a selection of gluten free main dishes and desserts which are all almost too pretty to eat. I highly recommend a trip here for lunch one day when you’re wanting a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Where?
Shop 03-101A Blk
3 No.10 Hollywood Rd
Hong Kong Central

Mott 32

Located in the Standard Chartered Bank Building, Mott 32 has two Michelin stars. The menu is mostly designed for sharing and offers up traditional Cantonese cuisine with a modern flair. Gluten free diners will receive an extensive gluten free menu upon request, which is almost identical to the regular menu with the exception of a handful of dishes. We ordered from the gluten free menu and shared everything, including lobster dim sum which was probably the most delicious thing I had during my entire stay in Hong Kong. While the meal was expensive it was totally worth it and an ideal spot for a special occasion or when you feel tempted to just treat yourself!

Where?
Standard Chartered Bank Building
4-4A Des Voeux Rd Central
Hong Kong Central

Pizza Express

I was as surprised as you to see that not only does Pizza Express exist in Hong Kong, it offers gluten free bases too! With several branches across the city, rest assured you can give into those pizza cravings pretty easily whilst in Hong Kong. We opted for takeaway gluten free pizzas one evening as a no-fuss dinner and the bases were just as good as in the UK and the attention paid to dietary requirements also on a par. Check the company website for your closest branch.

Shopping

Filling up your suitcase with gluten free bread and other essentials before heading to Hong Kong is something I would highly recommend. However, a chain of supermarkets around the city – Market Place by Jason’s – has an impressive selection of sweet treats and snacks that you can top up with whilst you are there. I noticed a number of gluten free bread, cake and pancake mixes so ideal if you are staying in self-catered accommodation during your stay. Important to note there is no dedicated gluten free section in these stores so be prepared to scour the aisles like I did. Check the company website for your nearest branch.

Gluten Free at the Venetian in Macau

During my time in Hong Kong, we took a day trip to Macau, via the Turbo Jet Ferry which took just under one hour. Known as Chinese Vegas, Macao is home to multiple famous hotels including the MGM Grand, The Parisian, Mandarin Oriental and more. We opted for a bottomless brunch at The Venetian where we sat for three hours plus indulging in The Portofino restaurant’s endless raw seafood, steak, cheese and salad bars as well as limitless mimosas, Bloody Marys and more. The gluten free options here were fantastic and I was given great guidance by staff on duty as to what was gluten free. I was brought my own basket of gluten free bread but I advise stating your dietary requirements when you book to ensure they have bread for you. Check the hotel website for current prices and table availability.

Category: eat

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