gluten free – Page 7 – The Gluten Free Suitcase

Baking cookies is something I will always associate with my time in Massachusetts when I was little. I would visit my Nana – who still practised law well into her 90s – for the summer months. I accompanied her to the office most days armed with toys and activity books, apart from when she had to appear in court. It was then that she would leave me with her dearest friend for a few hours who was always baking something delicious, even in the 90 degree summer heat (that’s a whopping 32 degrees in European terms). She taught me many valuable lessons including: 1) no brownie is complete without the addition of nuts and 2) blueberry pies made with blueberries from any state outside of New England will never be as sweet.

I love a chocolate chip cookie as much as the next person but I have found that the addition of cranberries – in true New England style – adds an extra special dimension. There’s something about the sweetness that comes out in dark chocolate after baking that goes so well with the tart nature of the cranberries. I hope that you cookie lovers out there enjoy trying this simple and foolproof recipe and that, time permitting, you will share your top baking memory with me.

Massachusetts Chocolate Chip and Cranberry Cookies
(Makes 20 Small Cookies)

Ingredients

1 ¼ x Cups Gluten Free Flour
½ x Teaspoon Gluten Free Baking Powder
½ x Teaspoon Gluten Free Bicarbonate of Soda
1 x Cup Dairy Free Dark Chocolate Chips
½ x Cup Dried Cranberries
¾ x Cup Light Brown Muscovado Sugar
1 x Large Egg
8 x Tablespoons Vegetable Oil
2 x Tablespoons Water
½ x Teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Method

Preheat the oven to 175 degrees and line two baking trays with parchment paper.
Mix all dry ingredients except the chocolate chips and cranberries in a medium sized bowl and set aside.
Mix the oil, sugar, water and vanilla extract together in a large bowl.
Beat the egg separately and add to the liquid.
Gradually add the dry mix to the liquid, stirring in small amounts at a time. Mix until smooth.
Add the chocolate chips and cranberries until equally dispersed in the mixture.
Form cookies out of 1 tablespoon of dough on the baking trays, giving them enough space (the cookies grow in size in the oven!).
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the top.
Leave to cool on a cooling rack for 30 minutes before eating. The cookies will remain soft and chewy!

March 19, 2018June 21, 2022

The Gluten Free Suitcase13 Comments

Amsterdam: The Gluten Free Suitcase Guide

UPDATED IN JUNE 2022!

If canals, culture and good gluten free food are your thing then you will not be disappointed by Amsterdam. Every time I venture to the Dutch capital I count myself lucky, not least because of the spiffing public transport which allows me to hop from gluten free destination to gluten free destination with relative ease. Feast your eyes upon the diverse options in my guide, which I have pulled together after several trips to this gem of a city! From traditional Dutch fare to Italian delicacies – Amsterdam has it, so eet smakelijk!

G in West

This beautiful 100% gluten free convenience store and cafe will blow your mind. Not only do they have two rooms of gluten free pantry items, snacks and frozen goods, G in West offers up fresh sandwiches, toasties, hot empanadas in several flavours and an array of cakes to choose from to accompany your coffee. You can also browse the gorgeous gifts for sale and local crafts, which makes this store so much more than just a mini supermarket! You’ll recognise many of the brands of gluten free products on sale here and will enjoy seeing a few new and less widely-available names on the shelves too! Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Where?
Jan Pieter Heijestraat 76
1053 GS Amsterdam

Loulou Pizza Bar

This place is a brand new gem I was delighted to try when I ventured back to Amsterdam in 2022 after several years of postponed trips. While not a 100% gluten free kitchen, this place offer coeliac-safe gluten free pizzas, which are prepped ahead of time in a gluten free facility and then cooked safely in the restaurant kitchen. I was super sad to see my previous favourite Mastino V close down but having Lou Lou Pizza Bar is the next best thing. Delicious GF bases and toppings as well as a gluten free beer on offer to wash it down with. Perfection! This restaurant has two locations but I would recommend booking at both and letting the team know in advance you will be ordering a gluten free pizza just to make sure they don’t run out!

Where?
Weesperzijde 42A
1091 EE Amsterdam

Maasstraat 18
1078 HK Amsterdam

Luza’s Caffeine Club

Forever searching for the perfect sandwich, I was delighted to come across Luza’s – a new gluten free friendly café – on my most recent trip to Amsterdam. This gorgeously quaint café will serve you Parisian vibes with your sandwiches and tea and is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet moment in the Dutch capital. While most sandwiches can be made on homemade gluten free bread, you may wish to try one of the gluten free quiche options, which alongside a number of free from cakes are proudly displayed in the café window. All food is prepared in an open kitchen in the corner of the restaurant and could not be fresher!

Where?
Van Woustraat 47
1074 AC Amsterdam

Miuz Gelato Artigianale

A BRAND NEW and 100% GLUTEN FREE gelateria, Miuz is worth the queues. I managed to get there the week they opened in June of 2022 and it was absolutely incredible. An array of delicious homemade flavours including gluten free apple pie, straciatella, pistachio and so many more are on offer as well as a selection of beautiful ice cream lollies. This place only has gluten free cones so no need to worry about cross contamination. I would recommend going here early to avoid the crowds and to also make sure you’re served before they close!

Where?
Overtoom 117
1054 HE Amsterdam

Stroom

In case you fancy a brunch or a sandwich on delicious, homemade gluten free bread you should definitely head to Stroom. Located in the De Pijp area, this Brooklyn style coffee shop come sandwich bar has one of the most gluten free friendly menus in Amsterdam. Almost all sandwiches can be prepared on free from bread, including toasties, which can be paired with a variety of soups too. Perfect spot for a lazy or working lunch.

Where?
Ferdinand Bolstraat 151
1072 LH Amsterdam

Pesca

One of the best dinner experiences I’ve ever had in Amsterdam, Pesca is a true treat of an evening. For seafood lovers only, this place allows you to choose your own fish from the fresh fish counter, where the gluten free options are extensive. Once you’ve chosen your fish, the staff will recommend how it should be cooked and will also suggest sides to match. Fear not – Pesca fries its chips separately so they’re coeliac safe (just be sure to tell the staff of your dietary requirements when ordering). We feasted on the most sensational razor clams in seafood broth (pictured), home cured salmon, whole freshly grilled seabass, chips and the freshest gem salad. You’ll be asked to pay a deposit online when you book but fear not, they make this up by serving you a chilled glass of Cava upon arrival to drink while you peruse the fish display!

Where?
Rozengracht 133
1016 LV Amsterdam

Loetje

Famous Dutch steak restaurant Loetje knows its stuff when it comes to gluten free dining, and lists all allergens in its clearly marked and accessible menu. As this eatery is known for its meat, staff will urge you to try the traditional Dutch beef steak, which comes swimming in a rich and delectable gluten free gravy. French fries, naturally, are the perfect accompaniment to this meat fiesta, and here they are fried in their own oil to avoid any risk of cross contamination with other fried items served onsite. Vegetarians needn’t shy away however as they will be catered for too. Loetje now has several locations across the city but my favourite is listed below.

Where?
Ferdinand Bolstraat 188A
1072 LV Amsterdam

The Meets

Another new spot to add to your De Pijp list, The Meets is a gluten free, vegan haven with plenty of free from options which not only are delicious but healthy too. It’s the perfect spot for breakfast or lunch with incredibly allergy-aware staff who triple check everything for you according to your allergy or dietary requirement. Take your pick from the clearly labelled menu from a selection of soups, salads and wraps or if you’re feeling something sweet opt for a vegan twix bar and wash it down with a beautifully instagrammable turmeric latte.

Where?
Cornelius Troostplein 3,
1072 JJ Amsterdam

Pancakes Amsterdam

With three Amsterdam locations, gluten free tourists won’t have to skip the quintessentially Dutch pancake experience when they are in town! Here, most pancakes on the menu – both sweet and savoury – can be made using the house gluten free batter, which is buckwheat-based. Gluten free pancakes are prepped in separate pans, according to staff, and so risk of cross contamination is very low. I can never resist a savoury pancake when I am here and often leave no room for dessert so sharing is highly recommended! Get ready to queue – Pancakes Amsterdam is highly popular with gluten free and non gluten free patrons alike!

Where?
Berenstraat 38
1016 GH Amsterdam

Prins Hendrikkade 48
1012 AC Amsterdam

Prinsengracht 277
1016 GW Amsterdam

Lottie’s Bar at The Hoxton Hotel

The perfect place to come for pre-dinner drinks and snacks, Lottie’s bar is one of the hottest bars in Amsterdam. Situated inside the stunning Hoxton Hotel, this bar has a beautiful drinks menu, which puts a spin on well-known classics. If you’re peckish, the wait staff will mark up on the menu what they have available gluten free. I opted for a delicious seasonal soup and then we shared a gorgeous burrata with heritage tomatoes and the freshest homemade basil. Walk-ins available but if you fancy dining in the restaurant I would recommend calling ahead to book.

Where?
Herengracht 255
1016 BJ Amsterdam

Omelegg

Never have I seen such an homage to eggs! Omelegg (if you hadn’t guessed from the name) serves up everything egg-based and has a humongous menu to boot. While this institution of a restaurant does not have any gluten free bread, the omelettes are so generously sized that you won’t miss it. Just about every omelette combination can be served with delightfully dressed mixed leaves on the side instead of toast to make a delicious breakfast, brunch or lunch. The restaurant also serves Shakshuka and fry ups for those egg fans wanting something a little different to the traditional fare. Luckily for us, Omelegg has two locations. Go early to avoid disappointment!

Where?
Ferdinand Bolstraat 143
1072 LH Amsterdam

Nieuwebrugsteeg 24
1012 AC Amsterdam

Blushing Amsterdam

If you’re looking for a decent coffee spot in Amsterdam near to all the museums, Blushing is great for allergies. They have a variety of gluten free snacks and cakes on offer to go or eat in and even have several gluten free breakfast and brunch options on the menu for those with a bit more time. The staff were very conscious of dietary requirements and took extra care when preparing my coffee.

Where?
Paulus Potterstraat 30A
1071 DA Amsterdam

Cafe Piazza

In case you’re in the mood for pasta, Cafe Piazza has a number of delicious options on its gluten free menu. Sit down and mention you are gluten free and a long list will be reeled off by staff – something which made me feel immediately at ease in this modest Nieuwmarkt eatery. As well as fresh starters and main dishes starring different types of meat and fish, gluten free diners can tuck into a rustic lasagne or a simple spaghetti with homemade pesto sauce, to name but a few of the heavenly carb-loaded options. Save room for dessert – chocolate lovers won’t want to skip the Tartufo Nero.

Where?
Kloveniersburgwal 5
1011 JT Amsterdam

Vapiano

Sometimes all you need is a chain to get your pizza fix. International restaurant group Vapiano does exactly what it says on the tin – fast, cheap and tasty pizza in a number of locations across the city. Gluten free pizzas are cooked separately and on their own special foil tray to avoid cross contamination and can be enjoyed straight out of the box with a decently priced glass of wine onsite or taken to go for those not wanting to sit in the middle of the hustle and bustle. For your closest restaurant, check out the company website.

McDonald’s

Yes, Amsterdam is one of the few cities that offer the Mcdonald’s experience to gluten free visitors and I can confirm it is fantastic. Most classic burgers can be made on a fluffy, sesame seed gluten free bun, served with the classic french fries which I can’t seem to get enough of. If you don’t want to miss out on the more quintessentially Dutch food options during your stay in the city, save this indulgent stop for your route home and enjoy at the Amsterdam Schipol Airport branch. For your closest restaurant, use the online store locator.

Haesje Claes

Typical Dutch cuisine is known for being hearty, warming and often laced with wheat flour. At one of Amsterdam’s oldest restaurants Haesje Claes however, gluten free folk needn’t feel left out – there is a whole menu for you! From a selection of naturally gluten free fresh fish starter plates to filling stews and fried dishes – this canal side restaurant has it all! I asked the waitress what she recommended last time I went and was not disappointed. I started off my meal with some salted herring, smoked salmon and a gluten free beer, before moving on to a Stamppot stew loaded with meatballs, sausage and bacon. Those wanting lighter fare can opt for pan fried fish if they need to ensure room is left for gluten free dessert pancakes!

Where?
Spuistraat 275
1012 VR Amsterdam

Bagels and Beans

This long-standing Netherlands chain became accessible to gluten free diners a few years ago when it introduced a gluten free bagel. Bagels and Beans now make breakfast or lunch as a gluten free tourist incredibly easy. Stop by and choose from a number of cream-cheese flavours or more sandwich-like fillings, all of which can be prepared on a toasted gluten free bagel. With over 20 locations in Amsterdam, how can you go wrong? Use the online store locator to find your nearest branch.

De Glutenvrije Winkel

Not only is Oostpoort’s gluten free hot spot De Gluten Vrije Winkel your one stop destination for every single gluten free pantry or frozen item you might ever want, it also offers fresh cakes, bread and amazing sandwiches you can eat in or take away, with a number of dairy free options. Owner Nadia has been passionate about bringing the best of gluten free to her customers ever since her son was diagnosed a coeliac. Wonderful family business which I already can’t wait to visit again! Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Where?
Pretoriusstraat 37
1092 EZ Amsterdam

Meanwhile, general supermarkets in Amsterdam are often fantastic for gluten free options, with the wonderful Albert Heijn firmly in the lead. Here you can stock up on an array of gluten free pantry items, including gluten free caramel waffles or Stroopwafels, which I highly recommend you fill your suitcase with on the way home!

Marqt, meanwhile, is home to a vast array of gluten free and organic products, including more widely available goods from labels like Schar and Genius. Don’t forget to pick up a packet of chocolate-covered gluten free waffles here by Damhert Nutrition!

February 7, 2018February 20, 2023

The Gluten Free Suitcase2 Comments

Creamy Spinach and Comté Stuffed Pancakes

Pancakes, my American mother taught me from an early age, are an incredibly versatile foodstuff. The common misconception is that they can be eaten only at breakfast time or for brunch, but, when they are prepared in a savoury way, they are the perfect base for any meal. This sentiment was backed up even more by my Dutch friend Elfi, who I met when I landed my first journalism job in London. She would often bring pancakes for lunch – the thick, crepe kind – that she would stuff and roll up with salad, meats, cheeses and more. I soon caught on added them to my desk lunch repertoire.

This wonderful lunch discovery gave me great practice in the art of pancake flipping for the annual Pancake Day party that my school friends and I take turns to host each year. If you’re looking to step away from the ‘lemon and sugar’ tradition this Shrove Tuesday or are simply wanting to try something different as a weeknight dinner, I urge you to try my recipe below. It’s a wonderfully indulgent way to eat pancakes as a main course and tops any sweet combination in my view. Happy flipping guys!

Creamy Spinach and Comté Stuffed Pancakes
(Serves 4)

Ingredients

For the Pancakes
220g Gluten Free Flour
2 x Eggs
2 x Egg Yolks
2 x Cups Milk
4 x Tablespoons Vegetable Oil
1 x Teaspoon Vegetable Bouillon Powder
50g Unsalted Butter
Salt and Pepper

For the Filling:
500g Spinach
300g Cherry Tomatoes
200g Comté Cheese, grated
1 x Teaspoon dried parsley
Pepper

For the Sauce:
1/3 x Cup Gluten Free Flour
200g Comté Cheese, grated
1 x Cup milk
30g Unsalted Butter
2 x Garlic cloves, minced
½ x 1 onion
1 x Cup white wine
2 x Tablespoons Dijon mustard
Pinch of Nutmeg
Salt and Pepper

Method

1. Prepare your pancake mixture by adding all dry ingredients to a large bowl and mix well with a wooden spoon. Beat eggs, milk and vegetable oil in a separate bowl and gradually add to the dry mixture until smooth.
2. Melt a little bit of your butter a non-stick pan over medium heat and when melted and hot, add your pancake mixture using a soup ladle which is 2/3 of the way full.
3. Let the pancake mixture cook until air bubbles appear. This is when the pancake is ready to flip, or, if you’re feeling less adventurous, turn over carefully with a fish slice. Repeat until all mixture is used up and set pancakes aside on a plate lined with paper towels and cool (this mixture will be enough to make 8-10 pancakes, depending on how full your ladle is)
4. Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius before moving on to the pancake filling.
5. Place spinach in a microwaveable bowl and heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute until withered. Remove and place in a mixing bowl.
6. Chop each cherry tomato into fours, setting aside a handful to decorate the pancakes before baking. Add the chopped tomatoes to the withered spinach and mix in the grated Comte cheese with a large spoon, seasoning with some black pepper and the parsley.
7. Stuff your pancakes with 1-2 tablespoons each of the filling mixture and roll carefully to form tubes. Line up the pancakes in a standard lasagne dish (I am able to fit around 8 in mine).
8. Now prepare your sauce by melting the butter in a pot and sautéing the garlic and onion until soft.
9. Remove from heat and place in a mixing bowl with the milk, white wine, mustard, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Stir with a whisk before adding the flour and then using a hand mixer, blend until smooth.
10. Return sauce to the heat and gradually stir in cheese until melted. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes before removing from heat again to cool. If the sauce is too thick for you, add a splash of milk and whisk lightly again.
11. Pour the sauce evenly over the pancakes. Halve the remaining cherry tomatoes to decorate the dish.
12. Bake in the oven for 35-45 minutes or until the dish is bubbling, and the top is golden brown.
13. Leave to cool for 5 minutes before serving with fresh leaves.

February 2, 2018April 29, 2020

The Gluten Free Suitcase2 Comments

Baked Garlic Chicken Tenders

I spent a good part of my early twenties living, studying and working in South Carolina. It was there, in the Deep South, that my love for proper fried chicken was born. I realised within 24 hours of arriving in the state capital for the first time that I had never really eaten fried chicken. What I had eaten for years in the UK had just been breaded chicken, which often lacked flavour and crunch. Here in the southern states however, fried chicken was not only the real deal but a way of life.

The official food of my University football team was a regional fast food restaurant’s signature deep fried chicken sandwich, which they would pass out by the thousand to students during games. While my arteries may not have been enjoying themselves that much, my taste buds were having a permanent party and every moment of it was fantastic.

Ever since coming back home, I’ve been working on recreating this southern staple with a healthier twist. I do not often trust myself with a deep fryer and that is just as well because these chicken tenders I make are baked in the oven, instantly making them a lighter choice. I hope you enjoy them as either a meal, an appetiser or simply because you want to snack on them. Dig in y’all!

Baked Garlic Chicken Tenders
(Serves 2-3)

Ingredients

320-360g Chicken (pre-cut supermarket mini chicken breast fillets are a great time-saver)
3 x Large eggs
2 x Cups gluten free flour
2 x Cups gluten free breadcrumbs
1 x Teaspoon garlic powder
1 x Teaspoon minced garlic
1 x Teaspoon dried parsley
1 x Teaspoon dried chives
2 x Tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and Pepper
Vegetable Oil of Choice

To Serve:
Freshly Chopped Chives (to garnish)
Garlic Mayonnaise or Ranch Dressing for dipping

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Prepare your “dipping stations”. Place beaten eggs in a shallow bowl, gluten free flour in a second and the breadcrumbs in a third.
3. Season the egg mixture with the garlic powder and salt and stir.
4. Add the parmesan cheese, minced garlic and pepper to the breadcrumbs and mix.
5. If your chicken is not pre-chopped, cut into strips with a width of around 1 1/2 – 2 inches wide.
6. Using a fork, start dipping your chicken strips by placing each tender into the egg. When the tender is well covered in egg mix, dip in the flour, ensuring a good dusting all-around the tender (this is easiest, and less messy, if you hold the tender on a fork and use an additional fork to pile the flour onto each tender).
7. After the flour, pass the tender lightly through the egg mix once more and then into the breadcrumb mix, again ensuring the entire tender has a good coating. Top up dipping bowls as required, although the measurements above should be enough to cover the specified amount of chicken.
8. Place each tender on the lined baking sheet, leaving at least a centimetre between each piece.
9. Pour a light drizzle of a vegetable oil of your choice over the tenders before baking.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, turning the chicken tenders over gently with a fork or thin knife half way through cooking, making sure to do this slowly so breadcrumbs do not fall off in the process.
11. Sprinkle with freshly chopped chives before serving with a dipping sauce of your choice.

January 28, 2018January 28, 2018

The Gluten Free Suitcase2 Comments

Eighty Ate Burger: Fast Food Heaven in Surrey

If there is one type of food that the UK is not lacking, it is the hamburger. For years, while I eagerly awaited the arrival of a decent gluten free hamburger bun, I would order a naked burger and be only partially satisfied. Now, thanks to a few chains in the UK, a gluten free bun is a reality but the bread is not always on point and is often crumbly and dry.

This is not the case, I am pleased to say, at Eighty Ate Burger – an independent hamburger eatery in Reigate, Surrey. Located on the high street, this modest and bright restaurant has been serving classic and more creative hamburgers to the public since January 2017. Since the very beginning, Eighty Ate has catered to gluten free, vegetarian and vegan diners and its efforts deserve to be shouted about.

I went for dinner there recently with my wonderful friend Kirstine after she brought to my attention that an incredibly “me-friendly” restaurant was located a mere five minutes away from her new home. We were waited on by the manager herself, who explained that a number of burgers were available to me on a fresh gluten free bun, including all vegan and vegetarian options.

While the Camembert veggie burger sounded like a fantastic call, I opted for a Crispy Bacon Avocado burger: a mashed avocado topped beef patty with paprika, crispy bacon melted cheese and buttered watercress, cooked medium rare. The manager told me before ordering that while the patties have no gluten containing ingredients, they are made offsite in a facility where other non gluten free foods are also processed. This is something for anyone reading to take into consideration before ordering but I suffered no side effects from eating here whatsoever. The chicken burger, however, is guaranteed gluten free.

I had only read good things about gluten free experiences at Eighty Ate and am happy to say the meal, service and awareness of allergies made the outing incredibly easy and enjoyable. My burger arrived on a perfectly soft and non-crumbly hamburger bun, accompanied by an order of 100% gluten free, crispy french fries. We, unsurprisingly, could not resist ordering a sweet potato nest on the side: a mound of caramelised sweet potato shoestring fries.

Eighty Ate Burger boasts a long list of milkshakes and hard milkshakes for dessert or to accompany your meal. To round off the night, the manager prepared me a gluten and dairy free almond and vanilla milkshake which was creamy and refreshing. The perfect end to a lovely evening at a restaurant I will definitely be visiting again next time I am in Reigate.

Eighty Ate Burger
88 High Street
Reigate RH2 9AP
Tel: 01737 233888
(Tables bookable over the phone)

January 4, 2018January 15, 2019

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Lisbon: The Gluten Free Suitcase Guide

The sun always seems to be shining on Portugal’s hilly capital, which is not only one of the world’s oldest cities, but one of the richest when it comes to culture, nightlife and good food. However, as the home of the Pasteis de Nata – or custard tarts – Lisbon can, at first, seem impenetrable for a gluten free traveller. I can assure you that this is most certainly not the case. While so much of Portuguese cuisine is naturally gluten free, a lot of restaurants and producers have gone out of their way to prove that they are moving with the times and catering to gluten free diners specifically. Here’s hoping this guide convinces you to book those flights you’ve been considering!

Pastelaria Zarzuela

If you arrive hungry and in need of breakfast, lunch or a sweet treat, Zarzuela should be your first destination. Located in the hilly and historical Bairro Alto district, this bar and bakery is Lisbon’s most well-known gluten free spot, known for its cross-contamination awareness and Pasteis de Nata! The bakery also produces gluten filled treats but keeps them strictly separate from the gluten free items, in separate and clearly marked display cases. As well as the vast array of cakes, pastries and sweets, patrons can sit down and tuck into a gluten free toasted or fresh sandwich, pasta dishes and homemade gluten free pizzas. All go perfectly with a bottle of Daura Damm beer so pull up a chair! Closed on Tuesdays.

Where?
R. Barnadino Costa 21-23
1200-052 Lisbon

Brown’s Hotel Group and Restaurants

If you’re looking for gorgeous accommodation which offers a great gluten free breakfast and access to a bar, look no further than the Brown’s Hotel Group. I had the pleasure of staying at the group’s central location for a whole week and realised that the gluten free bread there was second to none. Put a call in to the hotel prior to your arrival and they will ensure you are provided with the crustiest and warmest of bread baskets each morning. The rolls are heated in an oven away from the toasters used for regular bread so there is no chance of cross contamination. The breakfast buffet has an ample selection of cured meats, cheeses and fresh fruit as well as eggs, bacon and gluten free cereal upon request.

Where?
Rua da Assunção nº75
1100-042 Lisbon

Rua dos Sapateiros 73
1100-579 Lisbon

Rua da Vitória 88
1100-619 Lisbon

Time Out Market Lisboa

Foodies from near and far will rejoice when they step inside the recently refurbished Mercado da Ribeira market, which in 2014 was taken over by travel guide publisher Time Out. The market is now home to a multitude of upmarket food stalls, which in many cases are headed up by top Lisbon chefs and offer wine pairing to compliment the dishes on offer. Seafood dominates the agenda here, which makes sense given the market’s close proximity to the river bank. The only problem inside the Time Out Market is that there is too much choice, with many of the stalls listing the GF options clearly on their billboard-style menus. I personally recommend you start your market journey with a glass of the chilled Vinho Verde of the day at Manteigaria Silva and wander over to top chef Alexandre Silva’s kitchen for the black rice with sauteed scallops and seaweed or some hearty and fresh Bacalao atop a bed of spinach. If you’re not stuffed, snack on some freshly sliced ham from various vendors or an ice cream from Santini, where the staff will show you a gluten free allergen chart and open a new barrel of ice cream before serving you to avoid cross contamination.

Where?
Av. 24 de Julho 49
1200-479 Lisbon

Flower Power

A true hidden gem in the Bairro Alto district, Flower Power is a flower and art shop turned restaurant which prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients. You’ll find a number of traditional Portuguese dishes on the menu, including the most delicious baked bacalao and on the dessert menu: one of the best chocolate cakes I have ever had, made up of lots of layers of thin chewy meringue. The waiting staff here go above and beyond to tend to anyone with a dietary requirement and you’ll enjoy your meal surrounded by beautiful art – what more could you ask for?

Where?
Calçada do Combro 2
1200-086 Lisbon

Nicolau Lisboa

Arguably the most Instagrammed cafe in Lisbon, Nicolau’s pastel colours and organic menu offerings draw in patrons from all over the world. You will undoubtedly have to wait for a table here but the gluten free crepiocas are worth the wait. They are clearly marked on the menu as gluten free, as well as the buckwheat pancakes and a selection of cakes. It’s a good idea to mention your dietary requirements upon arrival regardless as the hustle and bustle in this cafe is non stop. There are two additional locations in Lisbon – Amelia and Basilio – but their gluten free options are more limited so it’s definitely worth paying Nicolau a visit!

Where?
R. São Nicolau 17
1100-547 Lisbon

McDonald’s

While people may not set out to eat McDonald’s in a place as gastronomically rich as Lisbon, sometimes it will just happen. With numerous locations across the city, McDonald’s is a goldmine for gluten free patrons desperate to get their hands on some nostalgic and coeliac-safe junk food. Portugal offers a gluten free bun as a substitute on every single hamburger with the exception of the deep fried chicken and fish fillets. As always, the classic french fries are safe and fried in their own separate fryer so a complete meal of indulgence is possible! McDonald’s in Portugal also offers a number of gluten free extras including soups and salads. Those of you craving something sweet can enjoy a gluten free cone for your ice cream after your meal. A selection of locations are listed below.

Where?
Centro Comercial Continente de Lojas 008
Av. Nações Unidas 1-4
1600 Lisbon

Praça Alvalade 14A-15D
1700-000 Lisbon

Aeroporto de Lisboa
Alameda das Comunidades Portuguesas
1700-008 Lisbon

La Trattoria

It doesn’t matter where I am in the world, at some point during my travels I will crave what has got to be my favourite cuisine – Italian. While Lisbon may be peppered with Italian restaurants, the one that really goes out of its way to cater to the gluten free community is tucked away in the hills of the Campo de Ourique neighbourhood. Say you’re gluten free at La Trattoria and you’ll be immediately presented with the most wonderful of bread baskets, featuring ciabatta, breadsticks, olives and truffle ricotta dip. This restaurant has an extensive gluten free menu which includes a Melanzane Alla Parmigiana starter which could win awards – so crispy and cheesy, surrounded by bubbling tomato sauce and a crispy side salad for extra freshness. Choose from a number of sensational pasta dishes for your main or hearty meat and fish options and expect to leave stuffed and happy!

Where?
R. Artilharia 79
1250-038 Lisbon

A Marisqueira Do Lis

Seafood lovers will not want to miss out on a night indulging in langoustines and fresh clams at this traditional Marisqueira. This no frills restaurant is permanently full of locals and seems to not have been inundated with tourists despite its delicious offerings. Choose from an array of naturally gluten free fresh shellfish and prepare to be amazed at the vast platters that then arrive at your table. The portions make it perfect for sharing and the ideal prep for drinks later on. Patrons should be prepared to wait for tables if arriving after 9pm but I promise it will be worth it! Closed on Tuesdays.

Where?
Av. Alm. Reis 27B
1150-008 Lisbon

Sacramento do Chiado

If by now you haven’t had enough bacalao or codfish, I recommend you head straight to Sacramento do Chiado where the best Carpaccio de Bacalao of your life awaits. Order this to start and enjoy it solo or with some of the fresh gluten free bread that the restaurant brings upon request. While the decor may be garish, with deep reds and faux crystal chandeliers, you’ll want to stay at this contemporary Portuguese eatery for mains and desserts. The steaks are particularly good here, as are the traditional fried potatoes and vegetable sides. Incredibly accommodating staff made the experience all the more enjoyable.

Where?
Calçada Sacramento 40 a 46
1200-394

Restaurante Conqvistador

What could possibly be better than taking in one of Lisbon’s most historic sites while enjoying a meal? Restaurante Conqvistador is located high up in the hilltop neighbourhood of Castelo, which is home to the medieval Sao Jorge castle. Have a seat outside on the tables set up on the cobblestone street or inside the tiled restaurant and start with a plate of freshly sauteed king prawns and some marinated olives. While this restaurant would not seem an obvious choice for the allergy or coeliac crowd, it cooks up a number of Portuguese specials daily that are again, naturally free from gluten. The veal in jus is a house speciality and comes complete with a fried egg and flash fried potatoes that are so thin they are essentially crisps – perfect for soaking up the moisture of the leftover sauce. Absolutely worth the hike!

Where?
Tv. de São Bartolomeu 12
1100-078 Lisbon

Bomjardin

Last but not least, Bomjardin is a must-visit for the meat eaters out there. The concept of this old and historical eatery is simple – spit roasted chicken with piri piri seasoning and an array of sides. Do not dwell too long on the extensive menu because chicken is what this place does best. Choose your size and your piping hot plates will be with you in a flash. The fries are entirely safe for coeliacs and will be quickly topped up should you require more. The salads are large and also a good sharer to add green to your beautiful beige meal, which can be enjoyed al fresco or indoors. Order a bottle of Vinho Verde and enjoy!

Where?
Tv. de Santo Antão 11
1150-312 Lisbon

Nosolo Italia

This Italian restaurant is located on the water edge with a wonderful view of the old port – Belem. You’ll be handed a gluten free menu upon arrival when you state your requirements from which you can choose a number of pasta dishes or pizza. One thing to note about this restaurant is that it is by no means a 100% gluten free kitchen so while the staff try their hardest to keep gluten free items separate, there is a risk of cross contamination. I enjoyed a lasagne (a rarity!) at Nosolo Italia and had only a great experience. The wine list is pretty decent too!

Where?
Avenida Brasília, 202, Santa Maria de Belém
1400-038 Lisbon

Shopping

Lisbon is home to multiple supermarkets, the larger ones of which are incredibly well stocked when it comes to gluten free snacks. Jumbo Pao de Acucar in the Amoireras Shopping Centre should be your one-stop-shop while you’re in Lisbon, with a reasonably priced and eclectic gluten free range. Be prepared to leave with multiple bags and stock for your Gluten Free Suitcase on the way home! Also check out Pingo Doce stores, dotted around the city for their Sem Gluten range.