Gluten Free Philly

News & Notes: June 1, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 03:32:27 PDT

With an opening set for Thursday, June 7, Center City Philadelphia's fast-casual Honeygrow (1601 Sansom St., 215-279-7679) will be a haven for gluten-free diners. The sleek yet warm interior has stations for preparing stir-fried rice and rice noodles, chopped salads and healthy shakes. Allergen listings for inclusions such as salad dressings and sauces will be displayed on the touch-screen menu used for ordering, and clean woks, utensils and the like will be used for each order. Owner Justin Rosenberg, who hired local chef Shola Olunloyo as a menu consultant, is on the hunt for future locations.

Michael Klein of Philly.com reports that high-end surf-and-turf chain Ocean Prime will open at 15th and Sansom streets in Center City in space last occupied by Roy's. The restaurant, with locations mainly in the Southeast and Midwest, features a gluten-free menu. Projected opening is in Spring 2013.

New NFCA-designated GREAT Kitchens at Harrah's Resort in Atlantic City (777 Harrah's Blvd.) include Bill's Bar & Burger (609-441-5800), Dos Caminos (609-441-5747), Luke Palladino (609-441-5576), Sammy D's (609-441-5402), The Steakhouse (609-441-5575) and the Waterfront Buffet (609-441-5000). Incidentally, the NFCA has suspended the GREAT Kitchens' intermediate Amber designation (applicable to the Domino's and its gluten-free pizza crust) so that the program's only credential is for those restaurants that have undergone training and can accommodate diners with celiac disease.

Reader Eileen V. recommends two Mexican restaurants in South Philly: The Adobe Cafe (1919 E. Passyunk Ave., 215-551-2243) and Cantina Los Caballitos (1651 E. Passyunk Ave., 215-755-3550), both of which can accommodate gluten-free requests.

The inaugural beer menu at the new Morgan's Pier at Penn's Landing (221 N. Columbus Blvd., 215-279-7134) has gluten-free American pale ale Fox Tail in cans and Crispin cider on tap. The list is good through June 9.

New York-based soft serve chain The Lite Choice just opened its first area location in Sea Isle City (4201 Landis Ave.). The all-natural vanilla and chocolate dairy desserts and the 80 different organic flavorings are gluten free, as are most toppings; gluten-free cones also are available and gluten-free sandwich wafers are coming soon. Future locations are planned for Philadelphia, Collegeville and West Chester.

Reader Heather H. let me know that a new beer called Glutenator is available at Canal's in Hainesport (1500 Route 38 E., 609-518-1000). Produced by Epic Brewing in Salt Lake City, the beer isn't sorghum-based, but instead is made with millet, brown rice, sweet potatoes and molasses along with American hops. According to the tasting notes, the beer has a "golden color, aromas of hops and sweet potatoes with a sweet grain flavor and a clean, sorghum-free finish."

I picked up a gluten-free Orchid Vanilla Macaroon ice cream sandwich from Jeni's at the Whole Foods on Callowhill Street in Center City. The company's other gluten-free sandwiches are Chocolate Hazelnut Macaroon and Salty Caramel With Smoked Almond Macaroon.

The Delaware County Gluten-Free Meetup Group will get together for brunch at Sazon in Philadelphia this Sunday (a perfect time for churros!) and for dinner at Ariano in Media on Friday, June 15. Interested readers can sign up via the group's events page.

Tickets are still available for Celiac Awareness Night at the Phillies game on Friday, July 20 against the San Francisco Giants. Purchases made through this link using code CELIAC will support awareness efforts.

Also available are tickets for Appetite for Awareness on Sunday, September 23 in Center City. The NFCA currently is enlisting participating vendors and local restaurants for the event, which will feature a Gluten-Free Cooking Spree, beer garden, chef demos and a children's pavilion.

Sunday is the last day to enter my latest giveaway, with prizes from Rudi's Gluten-Free Bakery. You can enter to win some Rudi's swag, free-product coupons and a cookbook.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

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My new 'Gluten Free Philly' Delaware Dining Guide is available as an e-book download. The guide provides hyperlinked listings for restaurants, bakeries, markets and attractions throughout the First State, including the southern resort towns like Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach. Updated editions published within 30 days of initial purchase will be emailed to purchasers free of charge.

Goodies Giveaway: Rudi's Gluten-Free Prize Pack

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Tue, 29 May 2012 03:18:00 PDT

Rudi’s Gluten-Free Bakery has been celebrating Celiac Awareness Month by giving back to the national celiac disease organizations dedicated to helping raise awareness. Through May 31, Rudi’s Gluten-Free fans can get and give some dough through Spread the Bread, a Facebook campaign with the goal of raising up to $30,000 for the leading celiac disease education and awareness organizations, including the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, Celiac Disease Foundation, Celiac Sprue Association and Gluten Intolerance Group.

Rudi’s Gluten-Free Facebook fans are invited to select one of these four community partners to receive a $1 donation from Rudi’s Gluten-Free and then click for a downloadable coupon good for $1 off any Rudi’s Gluten-Free product. Fans can track the amount pledged to each organization and help encourage family and friends to donate to their favorite organization.

Breakfast wrap made with Rudi's Gluten-Free
Spinach Tortilla, eggs and cheese

Rudi’s Gluten-Free just introduced tortillas made with whole-grain flours. The new line - sampled at last month's Celiac Awareness Tour stop in King of Prussia - includes soft and pliable Plain, Spinach and Fiesta Tortillas.

Rudi's is offering one lucky Gluten Free Philly reader a prize pack that includes an apron, a T-shirt, a copy of the Gluten-Free on a Shoestring cookbook by Nicole Hunn, Rudi’s Gluten-Free coupons, a reusable shopping bag, and bread clips.

To enter up to three different ways, follow the instructions below. Entries are being accepted through Sunday, June 3. You must enter a valid email address so that I can contact you if you're the winner.

Good luck!

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My new 'Gluten Free Philly' Delaware Dining Guide is available as an e-book download. The guide provides hyperlinked listings for restaurants, bakeries, markets and attractions throughout the First State, including the southern resort towns like Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach. Updated editions published within 30 days of initial purchase will be emailed to purchasers free of charge.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

News & Notes: May 18, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Thu, 24 May 2012 18:39:47 PDT

The Philly outpost of New York City's acclaimed Shake Shack is set to open at the corner of 20th & Sansom on June 6.

The burger stand will have a gluten-free menu featuring bunless burgers and hot dogs, fries and frozen custard. Thanks to reader Emily D., one of the managers there, for sharing more details on the Gluten Free Philly Facebook page. She wrote that the fries will be prepared in a dedicated fryer that is not connected to the same oil line as other fryers. Staff will also use a separate shake spinner and designated tins (black for malted, red for peanut butter) for shakes with allergens. Special custard flavors with cake batter (Boston cream pie, for instance) will dispense from a separate machine and designated scoopers will be used. The staff will also change gloves and use a fresh bin for toppings such as lettuce and tomatoes when a ticket is rung through with an allergy modification; just inform the cashier of the gluten-free request.

Reader Marcella P. recommends New American Honey in Doylestown (42 Shewell Ave., 215-489-4200), which has a gluten-free menu that changes seasonally. The kitchen and staff are accommodating of dietary requests.

The Di Bruno Bros. market at the Comcast Center (1701 JFK Blvd., 215-531-5666) has an expanded selection of gluten-free snacks. You can find Tate's chocolate chip cookies, Cracklebred by Natural Nectar, Lentil & Veggie crisps by Mediterranean Snacks, Danielle Fruit Chips, and locally made Metropolitan Bakery granola and macaroons from Pure Sweets.

Last week I mentioned Wegmans' new gluten-free pasta and dessert mixes, which will be located in both the Nature’s Marketplace section of the stores and in regular aisles for pasta and baking. The baking mixes include a vanilla cake mix and chocolate cake mix (each mix makes one 8-inch round cake layer and sells for $3.49), a sugar cookie mix - which sells for $3.49 and makes 22 cookies - and a double chocolate brownie mix for $3.49 that makes one 8-inch square pan of brownies. Wegmans worked for nearly a year testing and tweaking the formulation for the four mixes before releasing them.

In Tuesday's post, I wrote about the many amusement parks in this area (and a couple in Virginia) that have gluten-free concessions this season.

Finally this week, I wanted to announce that I have self-published my first e-book. It's a dining guide to Delaware, including beach towns (the listings for which aren't on the blog) and New Castle County - that's Wilmington, Newark and environs. The book contains detailed listings for restaurants, stores and attractions with gluten-free options, and includes hyperlinks to the businesses' websites and gluten-free menus where available. You can buy the book (in PDF format) for just $2.99 via PayPal and you'll get an e-mail to download the link. It's readable in the iBooks app on Apple mobile devices and on most Android devices. Feel free to pass along comments and suggestions for future versions and other editions.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

For Your Amusement

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Tue, 22 May 2012 17:52:06 PDT

With the school year winding down, amusement parks throughout the country will soon be packed with kids and kids at heart. In this neck of the woods, HersheyPark had no peer for the longest time when it came to offering gluten-free foods, but now others are catching up.

Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom in Allentown has added gluten-free pizza (at Patio Pizza, Coaster's and Typhoon Treats), fries from dedicated fryers (at Chickie's & Pete's, Coaster's and Just Chicken/Just Tacos), salads (at Coaster’s, Center Stage, Monster Grille, Patio Pizza, Game Day Grille, Clucks & Franks and Typhoon Treats), Dippin' Dots (all flavors except Cookies n’ Cream and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough), soft frozen lemonade and cotton candy. The kitchens are also able to accommodate preparation requests such as hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken without rolls.

At Knoebels in Elysburg, Pennsylvania - advertised as America's largest free admission park - there are several options. The Alamo Restaurant has proteins and salads (without croutons), while you can order hard-shell corn tacos, salads and nachos at the Mexican stand in the International Food Court. Breakfast items at the Food Court include eggs, bacon, sausage and hash browns.

The new Merlin's Restaurant at Lancaster's Dutch Wonderland, opening early this summer, will have a gluten-free menu. Ingredient lists for the park's restaurants will be posted at the Dutch Wonderland website.

This season, Sesame Place in Langhorne offers Conte's bake-in-bag gluten-free pizza at Elmo's Eatery and Captain Ernie's Bistro. The park also has allergen-friendly snack packs from Rebecca & Devyn’s Gluten Free To Go at Elmo’s Eatery, the Snack Cart in front of the Dine with Me building and at the Popcorn Cart located behind Elmo’s Eatery.

In the Poconos, Great Wolf Lodge - home of a huge indoor water park - has specially-trained chefs that can offer a variety of gluten-free items. Guests can contact the lodge directly at 570-688-9899 to speak with a Food and Beverage Management team member.

Camelbeach, another Poconos waterpark, has gluten-free pizza by request at the Cammello's Pizza concession.

Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey isn't particularly gluten-free-friendly. There's no mention of any safe foods at its website; a rep told me over the phone that guests can order salads and proteins without bread at various locations.

HersheyPark continues to offer many gluten-free choices for the 2012 season, including Famous Famiglia pizza (stands located in the Hollow, Midway and Rhineland areas and at Minetown Restaurant), rotisserie chicken (at the Central PA Kosher Mart), burgers with buns (at Craftbarn Kitchen, Whistle Stop Restaurant, Shore Line Grill, Decades and Minetown Restaurant), chicken tenders (at Shore Line Grill and Minetown Restaurant), chicken sandwiches and grilled chicken salads (at Decades and Shore Line Grill), tacos and nachos (at Tumbleweeds Taco), wraps (at Crustano's Deli) and sandwiches (at SooperDooper Sandwich Shop and Crustano's Deli). The staff is trained to handle allergen-friendly food options with care; when an order is placed for a specialty item, kitchen staff will wash their hands, put on new gloves, and use all new utensils designated specifically for our specialty items. If more information is needed, email Guest Services or call 717-534-3855.

A bit further away is Kings Dominion in central Virginia, where guests can find personal-size cheese pizzas (at Tower Pizza, Victoria’s Pizza and Congo Grill & Pizza), nachos and cheese sauce (at Border Café), hot dogs (at Johnny’s Grove Grill), hamburgers (at Trail’s End Grill), french fries (at Border Café, Johnny’s Grove Grill and Trail’s End Grill), and salads with Honey French dressing, Dippin’ Dots, soft frozen lemonade and cotton candy throughout the park. Ask for a supervisor when ordering gluten-free nachos, hot dogs and burgers.

Williamsburg, Virginia's Busch Gardens advises guests to speak with a supervisor at meal facilities to determine a meal that will be safe. The park offers several allergen-friendly prepackaged items for special dietary needs, including Conte's gluten-free pizza. For inquiries in advance, email Guest Services.

News & Notes: May 11, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Fri, 11 May 2012 03:49:36 PDT

Now you can get a gluten-free bagel and a schmear at Short Hills Restaurant & Deli in Cherry Hill (486 Evesham Rd., 856-429-6900). For now, the bagels, burger buns and sandwich bread are warmed in foil in an oven, but a new dedicated toaster is coming soon.

The Good Karma Cafe location in Philadelphia's Society Hill neighborhood (10th and Pine, 267-519-8860) sources bread from Whole Foods for gluten-free sandwiches. Thanks to reader Sherrie S. of Living Simply Gluten Free for the tip.

Center City Philadelphia's new Brodo (31 S. 18th St., 215-977-7766) has a variety of gluten-free soups daily (with appropriate signage) and salads sans croutons.

A new Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, which has a gluten-free menu, is now open in Collegeville (51 Town Center, 484-902-1850).

Also newly opened is the Wegmans market in King of Prussia is now open (1 Village Drive, 484-690-3500). It was there that reader Bill L. spotted Wegman's new gluten-free dessert baking mixes. The supermarket chain also has introduced a line of gluten-free corn pastas - elbows, fusilli, spaghetti and penne - selling for $2.49 each. Shoppers can download a dollar-off coupon for the pasta from Wegmans' website.

In addition to the news earlier this week that Domino's now has a gluten-free crust (which is not recommended for those with celiac disease and others due to cross-contamination), Chuck E. Cheese's is testing a bake-in-bag gluten-free pizza and a brownie at its Minnesota locations.

Thomas Jefferson University Hospital's Celiac Center is conducting research that aims to better clarify men and women's experiences with fertility and pregnancy outcomes. The hope is that this study will clarify inconsistencies in the current literature, increase physician knowledge of this issue and gain awareness for the celiac community. Adults ages 18 and older are invited to take the survey, which closes on June 17, 2012.

A new cooking game show will soon be casting in Philadelphia - wouldn't it be fantastic if they accepted someone cooking gluten free? Here are the details:

GSN (Game Show Network) and the producers of THE GREAT FOOD TRUCK RACE, are thrilled to bring you BEAT THE CHEFS, an exciting new cooking game show that celebrates REAL people who make great food! BEAT THE CHEFS gives talented home cooks the chance to go up against some of the best chefs in the business, battle it out in the kitchen, and win a BIG CASH PRIZE!

We are scouring the nation for passionate home cooks from all walks of life. Are you a great cook despite never having been formally trained? Whether you are a chili cook-off champion, the queen of the bake sale, or just a whiz in the kitchen, now is your chance to see if your signature dish has what it takes to compete with our professional chefs! Gather up two of your family members or best friends as your sous chefs and pick the dish that you know will leave the judges begging for more!

We are looking for fun, outgoing teams of all ages. If you love to cook, have a competitive spirit, and think you have a winning dish, email us at BeatTheChefs@rrstaff.com. Please include your name, age, contact info, photo, two proposed teammates (and their photos), a description of your culinary background and your signature dish! Put the city/state where you live in the subject line for priority.

The Children's Celiac Support Group will meet on Sunday, May 20 from noon to 2 p.m. at the Bucks Specialty Care Center in Chalfont. (It's at 500 West Butler Avenue, but for GPS purposes it's 800 Manor Drive.) Children of all ages are welcome. RSVP by May 17, 2012 by emailing the CHOP Celiac Center or calling 215-590-2985.

Have a great weekend and happy Mother's Day!

- Michael

Q&A with Domino's and the NFCA

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Wed, 09 May 2012 06:08:11 PDT

Questions and concerns abound in the gluten-free community, particularly among celiacs, about Domino's Pizza's new gluten-free crust. (You can read my post from Monday for the details, which includes the press release, a video from the company, and a link to a Frequently Asked Questions page.) In short, the crust is not recommended for those with celiac disease.

Given what I know about this product, I will not be serving this to my celiac son or listing Domino's on my restaurant list. However, since there are different segments of the gluten-free community that read this blog regularly, I am continuing to share information here.

I've read many comments on Facebook, Twitter and other blogs on this topic in the last 48 hours, especially as to Domino's rationale for introducing a product that celiacs should not consume and the role of the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness in working with the company. I asked Alice Bast, founder and president of the NFCA, and Chris Brandon of Domino's Public Relations Department by email to respond to some of the questions surrounding the introduction of the crust.

Why is the NFCA associated with Domino's roll-out of the new gluten-free pizza crust if it's not recommended for people with celiac disease?

Alice Bast: Our main goal was to keep those with celiac disease safe. When we first spoke with Domino’s, we thought we would be helping them launch a gluten-free crust pizza for everyone to enjoy. However, upon review of operating procedures, we realized that we could not recommend this pizza for those with celiac disease. Both Domino's and NFCA felt that it was important for us to play a role in this launch to ensure the safety of those with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

We launched the GREAT Kitchens tiered system to provide a common language for restaurants to communicate their practices while being educated about the needs of the gluten-free consumer. [Editor's note: The NFCA's statement regarding GREAT Kitchens Designations was posted this morning.] We would love for every restaurant to have the Green designation, and that is our goal. But we also understand that the requirements can seem daunting at first. The Amber designation is designed to get restaurants started down a path to one day serving those with celiac disease. With the Amber designation, and in Domino’s case, we have started a dialogue, educated the company and trained their employees so they have a better understanding of celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity and a strong foundation to build from.

Isn't there a risk of confusing the consumer with Domino's having a designation from GREAT Kitchens?

Alice Bast: The GREAT Kitchens tiered system aims to combat the widespread confusion and a lack of consistent standards around gluten-free food preparation in restaurants and promote a common language to voice those discrepancies. The purpose of the tiered system is to guide those with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity to fully understand a restaurant’s gluten-free practices. In this tiered system, consumers will find two designations:

Amber Designation – This level requires ingredient verification and basic training of wait staff and managers. Kitchen practices may vary with this designation, level one of the tier system, meaning those with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity should ask questions and exercise judgment when dining at an establishment with an Amber Designation.
Green Designation – Level two of the system is for restaurants with robust gluten-free protocols that meet the needs of diners with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. They have comprehensive training of wait staff, managers and kitchen staff, have verified the gluten-free status of incoming ingredients and have instituted strict cross-contamination controls.

As we said, our goal is to one day have all restaurants at the Green Designation, and we believe that the way to encourage that is to enter a relationship that meets them where they are and provides education that will enable them to make a deeper commitment when they are ready. Through this system, we also want to ensure that all gluten-free diners have the information they need to truly make an informed decision.

Why is Domino's offering this new product when there are many gluten-intolerant people who won't be able to consume it? Isn't that limiting your customer base?

Chris Brandon: Our first priority was ensuring that the Gluten Free Crust pizza that we developed was safe and intended for the correct group of consumers who could benefit from it – which ended up being some of the approximately 18 million people who suffer from gluten sensitivity.

Why did Domino's involve the NFCA for this product?

Chris Brandon: We wanted to do our homework and consulted with the NFCA to ensure that the product we were developing ended up with the correct group of consumers. NFCA helped us realize that current store operations cannot guarantee a gluten-free pizza, but that our Gluten Free Crust addresses a large population of consumers who are interested in menu items made with gluten-free ingredients. While we acknowledge that we are not able to achieve the cross-contamination controls necessary to meet NFCA’s GREAT Kitchens Green Designation, we are pleased that Domino’s earned the NFCA’s GREAT Kitchens Amber Designation for the education and training we’ve completed.

Did the company consider taking steps to avoid cross-contamination before going this route? If so, why didn't the company pursue it?

Chris Brandon: Our store operations would not guarantee a gluten-free pizza that we could safely recommend for those with celiac disease.

There is a perception in the gluten-free community that the company is looking to capitalize on the trendy aspect of the gluten-free diet. How would you respond to that?

Chris Brandon: Domino’s is the first national pizza delivery chain to offer a Gluten Free Crust pizza. Our goal with this is to take the lead in developing a solution for these consumers that has nothing to do with a trend or fad, but has to do with helping many people who had previously not been able to enjoy a Domino’s pizza the chance to do so.

Is Domino's taking any steps beyond the initial announcement to inform customers at the store level that the pizza is not recommended for those with celiac disease?

Chris Brandon: Domino’s top priority is the safety of its food. To help make sure we are being as open and informative as possible, we have done the following:

Posted a video on YouTube
Created a tab on our Facebook page and FAQs on our website
We have a disclaimer that is present with in-store promotional materials
Also, if you order online you are prompted about the product before proceeding with your order if you choose the Gluten Free Crust option

Would the company consider selling the crusts to allow people to make gluten-free pizza at home?

Chris Brandon: No plans for that at this time.

Is the company exploring any options to make the pizzas safe for those with celiac disease, such as bake-in-bag pizzas or using separate ingredients and utensils?

Chris Brandon: With the help of NFCA, we explored all options for this product and determined that our current operational model does not make it feasible to offer a gluten-free option that is safe for people with celiac disease at this time.

The First Domino

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Tue, 08 May 2012 20:27:41 PDT

Big news in the gluten-free world today with the announcement that Domino's Pizza now has a gluten-free crust. However, the company is being upfront about the fact that the pizza with this crust is not recommended for those with celiac disease. Given what I know about this product, I will not be serving this to my celiac son. However, since there are different constituencies of the gluten-free community that read this blog, I am posting the information here.

Here's the full press release:

Domino's Pizza is responding to the needs of choice consumers, today launching a Gluten Free Crust available in all of its nearly 5,000 U.S. stores and becoming the first national pizza delivery chain to offer such a product.

Domino's Pizza consulted with the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (NFCA) to ensure its products and team member training meet the standards of the foundation's GREAT Kitchens Amber Designation. NFCA's GREAT Kitchens is an official credentialing program that has expanded to include restaurants offering gluten free products with varying kitchen practices, therefore suitable for those with gluten sensitivity under the Amber Designation.

Domino's new Gluten Free Crust provides a great-tasting option for consumers who previously could not enjoy pizza from the recognized world leader in pizza delivery because of sensitivity to gluten - a protein found in wheat, rye and barley.

"Many of our customers have asked for a gluten free crust, and Domino's is excited to offer a product to customers with mild gluten sensitivity - as well as partner with the NFCA, which has been instrumental to our learning more about how to take this step," said J. Patrick Doyle, Domino's Pizza president and CEO. "The prevalence of gluten sensitivity has become a real issue with significant impact on consumer choice, and we want to be a part of the solution. Now, the whole group can enjoy Domino's with the addition of our new Gluten Free Crust."

While Domino's new Gluten Free Crust is appropriate for those with mild gluten sensitivity, Domino's and the NFCA do not recommend it for those with celiac disease. Domino's and the NFCA found that while the crust is certified as gluten free, current store operations at Domino's cannot guarantee that each handcrafted pizza will be completely free from gluten.

"The NFCA is thrilled that Domino's Pizza has developed a product that will improve the quality of life for many of the estimated 18 million Americans who are gluten sensitive," said Alice Bast, NFCA founder and president. "Not only is Domino's Gluten Free Crust a huge win for much of the gluten free community who can now get pizza delivered to their door, it's also delicious. Customers aren't going to believe they're eating a pizza made on a gluten free crust when they try it. And the variety of fresh toppings that are available is a giant leap ahead."

In an effort to remain open and informative about Domino's Gluten Free Crust, Domino's has created a video on YouTube that allows customers to decide whether this product is suitable for their diet, found here: www.youtube.com/user/dominosvids.

"Offering Domino's Gluten Free Crust is a big step for us, and we wanted to make sure we were doing it right," said Doyle. "Domino's is doing that by partnering with experts at the NFCA and by empowering the gluten sensitive community with the information they need."

Domino's new Gluten Free Crust is available in stores across the U.S. in a small, 10-inch size only, and prices vary by store.

Domino's pizza made with a Gluten Free Crust is prepared in a common kitchen with the risk of gluten exposure. The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness supports the availability of Domino's Gluten Free Crust, but cannot recommend the pizza for customers with celiac disease. Customers with gluten sensitivities should exercise judgment in consuming this pizza.

Domino's also has a frequently-asked questions page at its website about the pizza. Here's the video:

News & Notes: May 4, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Fri, 04 May 2012 03:18:00 PDT

Center City Philadelphia is getting more gluten-free pizza. The new modern Italian restaurant Spiga (1305 Locust St., 267-273-1690), from the owners of GREAT-trained Le Castagne, will serve pizza and pasta for gluten-free guests. The chef intends to take precautions in preparing those items, but flour and glutenous ingredients are present in the kitchen.

Reader Daria D. let me know that French BYOB Bibou in Philadelphia's Bella Vista neighborhood (1009 S. 8th St., 215-965-8290) can accommodate gluten-free requests. Note that the restaurant is cash only.

Thanks to Lisa M., who shared the news that Trattoria Guiseppe in Edgmont (4799 West Chester Pike, 610-353-4871) has gluten-free penne pasta.

Readers my age or older who grew up in Philadelphia probably have fond memories of the Ground Round. Well, the chain is making a comeback. The first area location is in Langhorne (735 Middletown Blvd., 215-757-2323) at the site of a former Charlie Brown's Steakhouse near the Oxford Valley Mall. Gluten-free items are noted on the menus.

Matt F. recommends two accommodating Center City restaurants with knowledgeable staffs. At French bistro Zinc (246 S. 11th St., 215-351-9901), most items are gluten free and others can be modified. The kitchen now stocks bread from Taffets (formerly Tote) and usually has at least one gluten-free dessert on the daily menu. The majority of menu items at The Farm and Fisherman (1120 Pine St., 267-287-1555) also are gluten free.

The Fox's Pizza Den location in Kennett Square (347 Scarlett Rd., 610-444-6060) serves gluten-free pizza using Still Riding crusts.

New Hope vegetarian Sprig & Vine (450 Union Square Dr., 215-693-1427) notes gluten-free and soy-free options on its lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch menus.

Landmark Americana, which has a gluten-free menu, opened its newest location in Wayne (629 W. Lancaster Ave., 610-995-1001) on Wednesday.

Center City's Garces Trading Company (1111 Locust St., 215-574-1099) is celebrating Celiac Awareness Month by adding Estella Damm Daura gluten-free lager to its drinks menu.

Through Sunday, you can order a one-year/four-issue subscription to Delight Gluten-Free magazine for $9, which is half off the regular price, through Gluten Free Works' deals page. (As an affiliate, I get a small commission on orders at no extra cost to you.)

General Mills announced this week its newest cereal - Apple Cinnamon Chex. It's made with whole-grain rice with "real apple and cinnamon" and has no artificial flavors or colors.

You can read about last Saturday's Celiac Awareness Tour stop in King of Prussia in my post from Tuesday.

As a prelude to June's Philly Beer Week, Hawthorne's Cafe (738 S. 11th St., 215-627-3012) is hosting its third annual IPA Block Party tomorrow, which is Cinco de Mayo. Each drink ticket is $5 (the event is cash only) that can be redeemed at the keg of your choice. Gluten-free Crispin Cider will be available. There will be burgers, hots dogs, tacos, popcorn and nachos, but no word on which may be gluten free.

World-renowned celiac expert Peter Green, M.D. will be speaking at Paoli Hospital on Wednesday, May 9 at 2 p.m. You can register to attend in person or via webinar.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

Celiac Awareness Tour Recap

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Tue, 01 May 2012 08:40:06 PDT

The two-year-old Celiac Awareness Tour came to town on Saturday, greeting hundreds of gluten-free guests at the Crowne Plaza hotel in King of Prussia. This was the first-ever East Coast stop for the event, which will visit Midwestern cities throughout 2012.

About two dozen vendors, both local and national, sampled their wares for the hungry crowd. Manayunk's The Tomato Bistro was the featured restaurant, with Chef Christian Gatti showcasing his cooking skills by preparing gourmet gluten-free pizza for the rapt audience. (The restaurant will soon have the NFCA's GREAT Kitchens designation.)

Attendees were able to eat lotsa pasta, with fried ravioli from Philadelphia Gluten Free Ravioli Pasta Company, gnocchi from Conte's, and lasagna from Caesar's. (How lucky we are to have three locally based gluten-free pasta companies.)

I got to try a number of items for the first time, including Taza stone-ground organic chocolates, Rudi's new gluten-free tortilla wraps, Glutino's cinnamon-and-sugar bagel chips, and Udi's soft snickerdoodle cookies. Perhaps the biggest treat was the debut of Sweet Megan's onto the gluten free scene. Delicious sugar cookies and chocolate-covered banana cake pops were some of the many treats owner Pattie Lerner shared.

The Tour representatives are looking to return to the area next year. If I had one suggestion to make for future tour events, it would be to add a vendor who offers non-alcoholic beverages. Many attendees were thirsty after eating the savory samples and, short of buying water or soda from the hotel vending machine or quaffing hard cider or beer at an early hour, there were no soft drinks available.

News & Notes: April 27, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 11:06:09 PDT

Peter McAndrews just keeps 'em coming. Not long after opening Popolino in Northern Liberties, the chef is about to debut his fifth Italian concept - the first outside of Philadelphia. La Porta in Edgmont (1192 N. Middleton Rd., 610-358-5104), due open on May 1, will have pizza sensa glutine prepared and baked in a separate area.

Lots of additions in the First State this week (the home of tax-free shopping, you know). FireStone in Wilmington (110 S. West St., 302-658-6626) has a gluten-free menu with appetizers, salads, entrees, bunless sandwiches and sides.

Mad Mac's in Newark (801 S. College Ave., 302-737-4800) has gluten-free mac & cheese, prepared separately from other kinds. Living Social is currently running a deal for Mad Mac's: $10 for $20 worth of mac-&-cheese delivery or $15 for $30 worth of dine-in fare.

The PureBread chain of cafes, with locations in Wilmington (500 Delaware Ave., 302-421-9866; 4801 Limestone Rd., 302-239-9866), Greenville (4001 Kennett Pike, 302-426-9866), Newark (1309 Churchmans Rd., 302-455-9866) and Glen Mills, Pennsylvania (100 Evergreen Dr., 610-358-9866) has gluten-free bagels and lists gluten-free soups and salads on its menu.

To promote a greater level of food safety, the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness is introducing a tiered credentialing system for restaurants that will enable gluten-free diners to understand restaurant practices through a voluntary and transparent disclosure process. The GREAT Kitchen's Green Designation means that a restaurant has verified ingredients and has undertaken comprehensive training and strict cross-examination controls. An Amber Designation means that a restaurant has verified ingredients and undertaken basic server training, but kitchen practices may vary widely.

Toté in the Italian Market (1024 S. 9th Street, 215-551-5511) has been renamed Taffets, as chef Omer Taffet and his wife are now co-owners of the bakery.

Free Is For Me Desserts (609-920-3086) bakes gluten-free cheesecakes exclusively, out of Hainesport, New Jersey. Delivery is free within Burlington County, with a $1 charge to Camden and Gloucester counties.

On the other side of the Delaware, Sensational Soiree in Bensalem (215-964-3805) specializes in gluten-free wedding cakes (and wedding planning). The cakes are made with coconut flour.

Crocodile Catering in Wayne (610-971-9993) can prepare gluten-free salads and other meals for events in Philadelphia and the western suburbs. (Hat tip to Molly H.)

Sesame Place in Langhorne (100 Sesame Rd., 215-752-7070) offers Conte's bake-in-bag gluten-free pizza at Elmo's Eatery and Captain Ernie's Bistro. The park continues to have allergen-friendly snack packs from Rebecca & Devyn’s Gluten Free To Go at Elmo’s Eatery, the Snack Cart in front of the Dine with Me building and at the Popcorn Cart located behind Elmo’s Eatery.

This May, in honor of Celiac Awareness Month, Davio's in Center City Philadelphia (111 S. 17th St., 215-563-4810) will be offering a special four-course tasting menu. Executive Chef David Boyle will be serving up this gluten-free menu all month long for $65 during lunch and dinner (tax and gratuity not included). Here's the menu:

Caprese Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes, Baby Basil and Balsamic Reduction

Gluten Free Pasta, Applewood Smoked Chicken, Spinach, Sundried Tomatoes in a Walnut Cream Sauce

Grilled Fillet Mignon, Jumbo Sea Scallops, Barolo Sauce, Shellfish Butter

Vanilla Panna Cotta

Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and the NFCA are sponsoring an educational event on Wednesday, May 2 at 5:30 p.m. at the hospital. Dr. Anthony DiMarino, the director of Jefferson's Celiac Center will be speaking about causes and treatments, and Chef Gregg Ciprioni of Garces Trading Company will be conducting a food demo and sampling. Call 1-800-JEFF-NOW or register online.

As I reported on Tuesday, the long-awaited return date for the NFCA's Appetite for Awareness is on the books. Tickets are now available for the event, which will be held in Center City Philadelphia on Sunday, September 23.

I hope to see you at the Celiac Awareness Tour tomorrow - I'll be at the NFCA table from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Have a great weekend!

- Michael

Many Happy Returns

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 03:18:00 PDT

Barring an extension, last Tuesday was the deadline for filing your tax returns - for most of us, an unpleasant task if there ever was one. One return date that is welcome, though, is Appetite for Awareness. The signature event of the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness will take place on Sunday, September 23 at the historic Strawbridge & Clothier building at 801 Market Street in Center City Philadelphia from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. I'm proud to share the news that I will be honored at this year's event.

As in the past, a highlight is the Gluten-Free Cooking Spree, where the city’s top chefs work with local physicians to serve their creative gluten-free dishes. There will also be cooking demos in front of the Grand Staircase, a Children’s Pavilion with kid-friendly gluten-free food and activities, dozens of vendors, a Beer Garden with flat-screen TVs to watch the day's sporting events, and the opportunity to win a one-year Mercedes lease. (You can read my recaps of the 2009 and 2010 events.) Guests can also participate in an attempt to set the record for the world’s largest gluten-free Rice Krispies Treat.

For one admission price, you'll have unlimited gluten-free food and drink and a reusable shopping bag to take all of those free samples home. Early-bird tickets are now available and are $50 for adults, $25 for students (ages 12 and up) and $20 for children ages 5-11. A discounted family package (two adults and two children) is $125. (The cost of admission may be tax-deductible as a charitable donation; check with your tax advisor.) Non-discounted tickets will be sold at the door. At the same time, you can also purchase raffle tickets for a one-year lease of either a 2012 Mercedes GLK350 or C300. The venue is easily accessible via public transportation and there is free on-street parking in nearby Chinatown on Sundays.

News & Notes: April 20, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 03:18:00 PDT

Appetite for Awareness, the Delaware Valley's signature gluten-free event, makes its return on Sunday, September 23. You can enter to win one of two pairs of admission tickets by dining at Pasta Pomorodo in Voorhees (700 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd.) this Sunday. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness. Reservations can be made for seating anytime from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Call chef-owner Pasquale Masters at 856-296-1268 or email him with the time and number of your party.

In Tuesday's post, I chronicled our recent road trip to Pittsburgh, which - aside from watching the Pirates beat the Phillies - was delightful. On the subject of the Phillies, a limited number of tickets are still available for Celiac Awareness Night at Citizens Bank Park on Friday, July 20. Use code CELIAC to support gluten-free awareness efforts. The Phillies have donated a gift basket, which you can enter to win by visiting the NFCA table at the game.

There's yet another gluten-free option joining the likes of Sweet Freedom Bakery, The QUICK FIXX and Pumpkin on Philadelphia's venerable South Street. The recently opened Rex 1516 (1516 South St., 267-319-1366) has a gluten-free menu that includes a burger on a house-made bun and a delectable-sounding dark chocolate torte for dessert. (Thanks to reader Elise L. for the tip.) General manager Heather Rodkey was kind enough to share pastry chef Seamus Moriarty's gluten-free burger bun recipe.

Ramona A. let me know that The Washington Inn in Cape May notes gluten-free items on its dinner menu.

The Bertucci's Italian restaurant chain updated its gluten-free menu and added 11 new items, including a tapas-size baked polenta with pomodoro plate, grilled salmon and baked cod.

I updated the restaurant list with the newest gluten-free menus from Center City's Tinto (114 S. 20th St., 215-665-9150) and Distrito (3945 Chestnut St., 215-222-1657). I've also added two other Jose Garces restaurants: Garces Trading Company (1111 Locust St., 215-574-1099) and Tinto's next-door neighbor Village Whiskey (118 S. 20th St., 215-665-1088). Look for the Iron Chef's Atlantic City versions of Amada, Village Whiskey, Distrito/Guapos Tacos at the new Revel resort (500 Boardwalk, 855-548-0500).

Casa Bella Trattoria in Haddonfield (51 E. Kings Hwy., 856-429-2885), which plates gluten-free pasta, has a lunch-for-two deal running with MyTown VIP through Sunday for $19. You can save an additional 10% off with code GLUTENFREE1.

Gluten-free friendly kosher spot Max and David's in Elkins Park has closed, as has Long's Gourmet Chinese in Center City. (Thanks, Tom P.)

The Grain Exchange's Caramel Delight Bars are now available at the Marlton Whole Foods. The gluten-free bakery will also be offering apple, peach and blueberry pies by special order.

The Gluten Free Dynasty market at Water To Go has moved from Pennsauken to Audubon (226 S. White Horse Pike, 856-547-4025). Thanks to Miriam B. for the heads-up.

Reader Eileen A., a communications and marketing professor at West Chester University and Immaculata University, has been researching the popularity of gluten-free foods in the marketplace. Her article about these foods, titled "Gluten Free: Friend or Fad?", was recently published at industry website FoodProcessing.com.

Gluten-free/egg-free English muffins are the newest products from Katz Gluten Free. Katz has free shipping for all orders over $30. (Purchases made through these links net me a small commission as an affiliate, but cost you nothing extra. Thanks!)

Sweet Freedom Bakery will be featured on the next Unique Sweets episode on the Cooking Channel, debuting this Sunday night at 10:30 p.m.

If you haven't yet made it down to the Italian Market to try Toté's tasty breads, co-owner and chef Omer Taffet will be at Williams-Sonoma (200 S. Broad St.) tomorrow from noon to 2 p.m. with samples of his tomato pie.

Atlantic Gastroenterology Associates in Egg Harbor Township (3205 Fire Rd., 609-407-1220) is sponsoring a celiac support group meeting on Tuesday, April 24 at 7 pm.

You can check out the full list of upcoming events (and there are a bunch) at the blog.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

Gluten Free Road Trip: 'Burghers and Flies

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 03:18:00 PDT

"Pittsburgh?" My wife looked at me incredulously. "Pittsburgh over Spring Break?" I smiled. "Ah, it's the Phillies," she said. I had scanned the Phillies' 2012 schedule as soon as it came out last fall and made a mental note that the Phillies would open on the road there. "The season starts that weekend," I countered. Co-workers in Pittsburgh - the same ones that boasted how great the Penguins are, mind you - told me that the Pirates ballpark, PNC Park, is one of the nicest in the country, so I certainly didn't need much arm-twisting. With three sports-crazy males in the house, my wife was hardly in a position to put the kibosh on my suggestion.

I realized how expensive Phillies seats are when I went to buy tickets for the two Pirates games we planned to attend. While I paid $35 apiece for seats in the lower level for the Easter Sunday game, I picked up upper-level tickets for the Saturday night game for the kids for just $10 (the adult tickets were $16).

Beyond going to the games, though, we had no itinerary planned except that we wanted to visit architect Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece Fallingwater. As the weekend drew near, I realized that the Flyers would end the regular season in Pittsburgh against the Penguins. It looked for a bit like that game would decide seeding for the playoffs and would be an exciting game to attend. As it turned out, the seedings were decided earlier in the week so the game wasn't going to have any significance. To boot, the cheapest seat on StubHub was $115 for standing room.

We left early on Saturday morning and traversed much of the Pennsylvania Turnpike. We stopped for breakfast in King of Prussia at Ruby's Diner, where my son savored an Awesome Egg Sandwich served on a Udi's gluten-free burger bun.

Our lunch was further west in Somerset. Eat'n Park, a neighborhood restaurant chain with more than 75 locations in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia, has a surprisingly large gluten-free menu. It was there that our son opted for a Black Angus hamburger, which came on a French Meadow sandwich roll.

By late afternoon, we rolled into the Steel City, crossed into the city's North Shore via the Andy Warhol Bridge, and arrived at our hotel, which was across the street from PNC Park. There were thousands of Phillies fans in town already, hanging out at the hotel and tailgating in nearby parking lots.

The ballpark, now in its 12th season, is indeed magnificent. It stands along the Allegheny River and provides a fantastic view of downtown Pittsburgh. The vista was even more impressive that night when the post-game fireworks show began. (Turns out there really isn't a bad seat in the house.) As for the games - well, let's just say the Phightins' continued their struggles at that ballpark. They failed to hit the ball consistently and dropped both weekend games.

PNC Park added a gluten-free concession stand called Just4U this season. On the menu are hot dogs, nachos, salads, grilled cheese and grilled veggie sandwiches (made with Schar bread), potato chips and Redbridge beer. Gluten-free fries from dedicated fryers are also available at the Chickie's & Pete's stand (nice to see a familiar Philly brand in enemy territory) and the Primanti Brothers stand.

Before the Sunday matinee, we drove over to the popular Duquesne Incline, a century-old inclined plane railroad that scales Mount Washington. Once at the observation deck, we took in the gorgeous view of Pittsburgh's skyline.

There were a few gluten-free spots in the city that were closed for the holiday (including Gluuteny bakery), so we ended up having dinner Sunday at the BRAVO! Cucina Italiana in the Galleria Mall. The chain just added a gluten-free menu that features pasta. Our son opted for the grilled salmon served with penne (cooked, intentionally or not, al dente) and I ordered the gluten-free pasta pomodoro with chicken. Although the menu was new, the staff and kitchen were knowledgeable about proper prep. We also appreciated that, for a change, none of the places we ate upcharged us for ordering gluten-free bread or pasta.

Fallingwater, a home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1930s for a well-to-do Pittsburgh family, is an architectural marvel located about 90 minutes southeast of the city in Mill Run. The house, a National Historic Landmark, looks like it's built right over a waterfall. We took an hour-long guided tour of the house's interior Monday morning and were able to snap some spectacular pictures of the iconic building.

Guided by our GPS, we tracked down the address for the Flight 93 National Memorial and then drove to the Somerset County field where the heroic passengers and crew members on that plane lost their lives but saved countless others. The first phase of the Memorial was dedicated last year, and construction has begun on other features, including a larger visitor center and memorial groves. Our oldest was a toddler on 9/11 and our youngest wasn't even born. It was important for us - and for them - to fully appreciate what those 40 people did and to pay respects.

As I finished the drive home, my wife told me that she enjoyed the trip much more than she expected. When we travel with the kids, we're often trying to cram in so many activities and visit certain places that it's exhausting. Our long weekend in western Pennsylvania reminded us that it doesn't have to be that way.

Goodies Giveaway: Celiac Awareness Tour Tickets

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 03:18:00 PDT

Later this month, the 2012 edition of the Celiac Awareness Tour makes its only East Coast stop in King of Prussia. The Tour is a series of national events dedicated to providing education and entertainment for those on a gluten-free diet. (The Tour is not affiliated with the NFCA's Appetite for Awareness event, which will be held this fall with a date and venue to be announced shortly.)

On April 28, the Tour will be at the Crowne Plaza Valley Forge Hotel in King of Prussia (260 Mall Blvd.) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Besides meeting medical experts, you can watch live cooking demonstrations on the Rudi's Gluten Free Bakery Stage and enjoy gluten-free food samples from dozens of local and national companies. Through this Saturday, April 14, early-bird tickets can be purchased for $9 per person online; thereafter and at the door, it's $10. Kids under 12 are admitted free.

NFCA founder Alice Bast and local health coach Jennifer Fugo will be among the speakers, and there will be raffles and prizes. I'll be at the NFCA booth from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Participating vendors include Mim's Kitchen, Nature's Path, Blue Diamond Growers, French Meadow Bakery, Natural Nectar, Lisanatti Foods, Kinnikinnick, Rudi's Gluten Free Bakery, Turtle Mountain, Bloomfield Farms, Cabot Creamery, Food For Life Baking Company, Glutino Food Group, Udi's Gluten Free Foods, Conte Pasta, Lizbeth Lane, Mediterranean Snack Food Company, New Planet Beer, Philadelphia Gluten Free Pasta Company, Posh Pop Bakeshop, Quest Nutrition, So Delicious, Vermont Hard Cider and Taza Chocolate.

The Tour organizers are offering a pair of general admission tickets to one lucky Gluten Free Philly reader. To enter up to three different ways, follow the instructions below. Entries are being accepted through Sunday, April 15. You must enter a valid email address so that I can contact you if you're the winner.

Good luck and see you there!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

News & Notes: April 6, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 03:26:26 PDT

Brio Italian Grille's gluten-free Pasta BRIO

Bravo! to two Italian restaurant chains for adding gluten-free menus this week. Siblings Bravo! Cucina Italiana in Willow Grove (2500 Moreland Rd., 215-657-1131) and Brio Tuscan Grille in Cherry Hill (901 Haddonfield Rd., 856-91-8166), Marlton (500 Rt. 73 S., 856-983-0277) and Newark (305 Christiana Mall Rd., 302-368-1448) are serving gluten-free penne as one of the new selections. The Bravo! menu and the Brio menu are the same.

In Wilmington, Harry's Savoy Grill (2020 Naamans Rd., 302-475-3000) has raw bar options, appetizers, salads, entrees and sides on its new gluten-free menu.

The Roman Delight location in Doylestown (1456 Ferry Rd., 215-348-2222) serves gluten-free pizza, pasta and entrees. According to the manager, the kitchen uses separate cookware, ingredients and utensils.

Reader Gina L. let me know that the Jersey Mike's chain of sub shops offer a gluten-free Sub in a Tub. There are New Jersey spots in Cinnaminson, Forked River, Hamilton, Little Egg Harbor and Manahawkin. Gina says that she has ordered with success at the Cinnaminson location (195 Rt. 30, 856-786-7827), where the staff will change gloves and get the cold cuts and toppings from the back.

As I mentioned last Friday, P.F. Chang's has added five new items to its gluten-free menu and brought back the popular Dali Chicken and lemon chicken dishes.

In addition to getting gluten-free grilled cheese sandwiches at The Pop Shop in Collingswood (729 Haddon Ave., 856-869-0111), diners can now enjoy gluten-free chicken tenders and fries since they are prepared in a new dedicated fryer.

Melt Down Grilled Cheese has opened its second location (thanks Katrina S.), this one in Wayne (522 W. Lancaster Ave., 610-293-6988). Sandwiches can be made with gluten-free bread.

Essene Market & Cafe (719 S. 4th St., 215-922-1146) has prepared gluten-free sandwiches. (Hat tip to Jackie P.)

Philly.com reports that Collingswood's gluten-free friendly IndeBlue is opening a second location in the Washington Square West section of Philadelphia (205 S. 13th St.).

Coming in May from Anheuser-Busch is gluten-free Michelob Ultra Light Cider. According to Advertising Age, the company is touting the beverage as a "less sweet, lower calorie, all-natural alternative" to traditional flavored malt beverages and ciders. The drink has 118 calories and 4% alcohol by volume.

New from Natural Nectar are ChocoDream rice sticks - crisp rice sticks filled with creamy cocoa spread. There are three two-stick packs per box, and each pack is a modest 115 calories and 4 grams of fat. I found these at Whole Foods in Marlton for $3.69 a package.

The Delaware County Gluten-Free Meetup group will break bread at Sweet Christine's Bakery in Kennett Square on Saturday, April 14 at 10 a.m. You can RSVP at the event page.

A reminder that on Sunday, April 22, Pasta Pomodoro in Voorhees (700 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd.) will host a gluten-free fundraising dinner to support the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Diners will be able to choose from Pasta Pomodoro's extensive gluten-free menu in its entirety. Call chef-owner Pasquale Masters at 856-296-1268 to RSVP or email him with the time and number of your party.

If you missed my other recent posts, you can read about the gluten-free concessions available at all 30 Major League Baseball stadiums, including our own Citizens Bank Park, as the 2012 baseball season gets underway.

Just across the street from the ballpark is XFINITY Live! All of the restaurants at the new dining-and-entertainment complex have gluten-free options listed on their respective menus.

For those who observe the upcoming holidays, have a happy Passover and Easter and safe travels if you're hitting the road!

- Michael

The Hungry Games

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 03:18:00 PDT

The Spectrum was the site of many great Philadelphia sports moments. But by the turn of the century, the building had seen better days. It was torn down with great fanfare in 2010, but in its place is a complex designed to entertain the masses before, during and after sporting events in South Philly and even on non-game nights - the newly opened (if awkwardly named) XFINITY Live! Philadelphia. The best news is that all of the restaurants at the complex have gluten-free menu options.

The expansive outdoor area of the dining and entertainment district is centered around the XFINITY On Demand Theater, a 24-foot wide, LED video board, which will show both sports games and family-friendly movies. Adjacent to the theater, the NBC Sports Field, an outdoor miniature artificial turf field, will host numerous activities and free concerts.

Artist's rendering of Philly MarketPlace

The Philly MarketPlace serves as a central gathering place for groups and grants guests access to each of the venues. The MarketPlace will showcase many local institutions including Goodnoe Ice Cream.

Created in the essence of the Spectrum itself, the Spectrum Grill features prime steaks, chops, and seafood, and will host cocktail parties nightly. A gluten-free menu is available on request.

In partnership with Philadelphia’s Victory Brewing Company, the Victory Beer Hall features elongated, beer hall-style tables, a stage for live indoor entertainment, and a 2,000-square-foot patio complete with a fire pit and a unique panoramic view of the Philadelphia skyline. Gluten-free options noted on the menu include poached pear salad, brat bites and sausages.

The NBC Sports Arena offers fans a one-of-a-kind sports viewing experience, featuring a 32-foot diagonal, 6mm Sony LED HD television and high impact LED Rings displaying the NBC Sports Ticker. The menu features gluten-free choices such as salads and chicken wings.

PBR Bar & Grill (that's Professional Bull Riders, not Pabst Blue Ribbon) serves Tex-Mex cuisine and hosts a country and southern rock party at night featuring a mechanical bull. You'll find gluten-free ribs and chicken on the menu there.

Broad Street Bullies Pub features authentic memorabilia from the legendary Flyers teams of the 1970s. The pub will serve lunch and dinner and often feature live acoustic entertainment at night. Wings and chicken are notable gluten-free choices on the pub menu.

Ka-Chang!

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 03:18:00 PDT

P.F. Chang's new Caramel Mango Chicken
(Photos courtesy of P.F. Chang's)

P.F. Chang's has long been a safe haven for diners with a yen for gluten-free Asian fusion cuisine. For example, all gluten-free items are served on special plates emblazoned with the restaurant logo and take-out orders are clearly labeled.

Two years ago, P.F.Chang's added entrees that included a gluten-free version of its Mongolian Beef. Come Monday, the menu will grow even larger. The restaurants will add seven gluten-free choices, for a total of 25 items. In addition to current favorites like the Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Singapore Street Noodles and Mongolian Beef, you'll find these new items available:

Vietnamese Crab Salad - Lump crab meat tossed with green papaya, mango, apple, fresh vegetables and herbs in a zesty Vietnamese Nuoc Cham dressing
Crab Fried Rice - Wok-fried rice with lump crab meat, shiitake mushrooms, asparagus, egg, smoky bacon, zesty lemon and Sriracha
Caramel Mango Chicken - Tender chicken caramelized in a Southeast Asian glaze with mango, tomatoes, Fresno chiles and Thai basil
Asian Tomato-Cucumber Salad
Lemon Scented Brussels Sprouts - Thinly shaved, wok-charred with ginger, garlic, Thai basil and fresh lemon zest

Crab Fried Rice, new at P.F. Chang's

Back by popular demand are two classic entrees - the spicy Dali Chicken with sliced potatoes and our longtime favorite, Philip’s Better Lemon Chicken, served with broccoli in a citrus sauce.

Of course, the sinful Flourless Chocolate Dome is still available for dessert.

P.F. Chang's has local outposts in Collegeville (10 Town Center Dr., 610-489-0110), Glen Mills (983 Baltimore Pike, 610-545-3030), Plymouth Meeting (519 Germantown Pike, 610-567-0226), Warrington (721 Easton Rd., 215-918-3340) Atlantic City (2801 Pacific Ave., 609-348-4600), Princeton (3545 Rt. 1, 609-799-5163) and Marlton (500 Rt. 73 S., 856-396-0818).

Not Just Peanuts and Cracker Jack

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Wed, 02 May 2012 18:04:07 PDT

April is the best month in sports. A college basketball champion is crowned. The pro hockey and basketball regular-season games take on more importance. And hope begins anew for the 30 Major League Baseball teams. After the two-game Opening Series between the Mariners and Athletics in Tokyo that begins tomorrow, the rest of the 2012 season starts on Wednesday, April 4 with the Miami Marlins hosting the defending World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals.

More baseball stadiums than ever have dedicated gluten-free concession stands and carts, including new ones at Pittsburgh's PNC Park and Marlins Park in Miami. Ballparks in Toronto and Houston have added gluten-free fare this season. Many offer more than just bunless franks and burgers; there's everything from grilled cheese sandwiches to fish and chips. Here's where you can find gluten-free concessions at each of the 30 MLB ballparks:

NL East:

Kozy Shack gluten-free stand at Citi Field

Atlanta Braves (Turner Field) - Hot dogs, burgers, chicken sandwiches, chips, popcorn, brownies, cookies and Redbridge beer at gluten-free cart (Aisle 106)
Miami Marlins (Marlins Park) - Hot dogs, nachos, sandwiches, apple chips, muffins and Redbridge beer at gluten-free cart (Section 140); Greek and Caesar salads, buffalo wings, popcorn and caramel apples at the Clevelander
New York Mets (Citi Field) - Hot dogs, hamburgers, sausages, puddings and beer at Kozy Shack Stand at World's Fare Market (Section 104)
Philadelphia Phillies (Citizens Bank Park) - Hot dogs, snacks, Redbridge beer and Woodchuck hard cider at South Philadelphia Market stand (Section 128); Redbridge beer at Brewerytown stands (Ashburn Alley and Sections 139, 204 and 323); Woodchuck hard cider at Brewerytown stand (Section 108); all meat products, barbeque sauce, cole slaw and beans at Bull's BBQ (Ashburn Alley); Chickie's & Pete's Crabfries and cheese sauce (Section 102)
Washington Nationals (Nationals Park) - Hot dogs, chili cheese dogs, nachos, loaded nachos, popcorn, potato chips and Redbridge beer at gluten-free cart (Section 136); soft pretzels and Redbridge beer at Curly W pretzel stands (Sections 105 and 319)

NL Central:

Chicago Cubs (Wrigley Field) - Hot dogs, hamburgers, snacks and Redbridge beer at Sheffield Grill (Section 140); Redbridge beer at various beer stands; Lifeway frozen kefir at Starfruit Café (next to main entrance)
Cincinnati Reds (Great American Ball Park) - Bunless hot dogs, wursts, sausages, brat burgers and soft-serve ice cream at various stands; sushi, fruit and salads at United Dairy Farmers Market stands (Sections 125 and 522); Skyline chili (Sections 103, 114, 130, 519 and 534)
Houston Astros (Minute Maid Park) - Hot dogs and beer at Goya Latin Café (Section 119); made-to-order salads (Section 116); baked potatoes at Spuds Crossing stands (Sections 125 and 409)
Milwaukee Brewers (Miller Park) - Bunless hot dogs, bratwursts and sausages, chicken taco salads, chicken nachos, cheese fries in a helmet, popcorn, kettle corn, peanuts, Cracker Jack, cotton candy, Minute Maid frozen treats and soft-serve custard at various stands; Popchips and Sprecher Beer kettle chips (Section 123); New Grist beer (Sections 112, 123, 214 and 225)
Pittsburgh Pirates (PNC Park) - Kosher hot dogs, panini sandwiches, nachos and salsa, salads, sweet potato chips, fruit and Redbridge beer at Just4U stand (Section 128); Chickie's & Pete's Crabfries and cheese sauce (Section 132); Rita's Italian Ices (Section 103/105)
St. Louis Cardinals (Busch Stadium) - Bratwurst, hot dogs, grilled chicken, sausage, hamburgers, beef brisket and pulled pork (all without bun or sauce) vended throughout stadium; turkey legs, peanuts and Redbridge beer at Farmer's Market (Section 136)

NL West:

Arizona Diamondbacks (Chase Field) - Hot dogs, nachos, snacks and Redbridge beer at gluten-free cart (Section 106)
Colorado Rockies (Coors Field) - Hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, chips, cookies, brownies and Redbridge beer at gluten-free stand (Section 147)
Los Angeles Dodgers (Dodger Stadium) - Snacks and Redbridge beer at Healthy Plate carts (Sections 7 and 12)
San Diego Padres (PETCO Park) - Hot dogs, hamburgers, hummus and vegetables, salads and beer at gluten-free stand (Section 104)
San Francisco Giants (AT&T Park) - Hot dogs, chips and Redbridge beer at Budweiser Brew Pub (Promenade Section 112)

AL East:

Baltimore Orioles (Oriole Park at Camden Yards) - Beef, pork and chicken sandwiches at Boog's BBQ (Eutaw Street); cheese pizza at By the Slice Pizza (Sections 43 and 334)
Boston Red Sox (Fenway Park) - Hot dogs, pizza, beer and snacks at gluten-free stand (Big Concourse)
New York Yankees (Yankee Stadium) - Pizza at Famous Famiglia (Section 125); Hebrew National hot dogs, Premio sausages and Boar's Head deli meats (without buns or bread); Kozy Shack pudding at Highlanders (Sections 110, 233, 305, 311, 318, 322, 325 and at the Bleachers); Carvel soft-serve ice cream (Sections 113, 125, 207, 232, 319, 325, 332 and at the Bleachers); vegetable and fruit salads at Melissa's Farmers Market (Gate 4); Redbridge beer at Beers of the World (Sections 110, 134, 206, 222, 226, 232, 312, 322 and at the Bleachers)
Tampa Bay Rays (Tropicana Field) - Hot dogs, pretzels and beer at GF! stand (Center Field Street)
Toronto Blue Jays (Rogers Centre) - Sandwiches (Barq's BBQ beef brisket, Big Smoke jerk chicken, T.O. chopped pork and Market Burger), pizza, traditional butter chicken with fresh greens, three-bean chili and fruit at Muddy York Market (Section 109); beer at King Club (Level 100)

AL Central:

Chicago White Sox (U.S. Cellular Field) - Sandwiches and cookies at Triple Play Carvery (Section 110) and at All-Star Stand (Section 522); hot dogs at Comiskey Dog (Sections 105 and 544); nachos and toppings at TexMex (Sections 122, 152 and 523); nachos at portable locations located around the ballpark on the 100 and 500 levels; soft-serve ice cream at Winning Ugly is Sweet (Section 144) and at All-Star Stand (Section 538); Bard's Tale beer at Beers of the World (Sections 109, 157 and 531)
Cleveland Indians (Progressive Field) - Hot dogs, cookies, snacks and beer at Spuds and Suds (Section 541)
Detroit Tigers (Comerica Park) - Turkey legs at Brushfire Grill (Section 131); bunless hot dogs, sausages and grilled chicken, french fries, peanuts, popcorn, nachos without cheese and frozen Minute Maid treats throughout stadium; Redbridge beer at Beer Hall (Section 131)
Kansas City Royals (Kauffman Stadium) - Bunless hot dogs and sausages, popcorn and Cracker Jack throughout stadium; barbequed meats, house-made BBQ sauce and potato salad at Royals All-Star Barbeque (Outfield Experience and Sections 219 and 423); Redbridge beer at Pine Tar Pub (Sections 210 and 245)
Minnesota Twins (Target Field) - Shrimp skewers, veggie kabobs, turkey legs and pork chops on a stick (Section 133); turkey legs (Section 311); fruits, vegetables and snacks at Farmers Market (Section 141); bunless hot dogs and grilled chicken, Angie's Kettle Corn, Rachel's Kettle Chips, Fruichi smoothies, nachos and cheese, Cracker Jack, Land O'Lakes soft-serve ice cream, Push Up Fruit Bars, cotton candy, popcorn and Killebrew Root Beer vended throughout stadium; Talenti Gelato (Sections 141 and 302); Redbridge beer (Sections 116, 124 and 325)

AL West:

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (Angel Stadium of Anaheim) - Veggie dogs, black bean burgers, sweet potato fries, salads and hummus at Melissa's Fresh For You stand (First Base and Third Base food courts); beer throughout stadium; pizza on suite menus
Oakland Athletics (The Coliseum) - Special dietary needs accommodated upon request
Seattle Mariners (Safeco Field) - Hot dogs, sandwiches, soups, snacks and Redbridge beer at The Natural (Section 132); halibut and chips and Redbridge beer at Sound Seafood (Section 248); beer at Good Hops (Section 330)
Texas Rangers (Rangers Ballpark) - Snacks and beer (Section 30)

In addition, several teams are sponsoring Celiac Awareness Nights this season. They include the New York Mets (May 4), Arizona Diamondbacks (May 25), Colorado Rockies (June 9), Seattle Mariners (June 15), Philadelphia Phillies (July 20), San Diego Padres (July 21) and Los Angeles Dodgers (August 25).

Play ball!

News & Notes: March 23, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 08:32:41 PDT

As much as I think Philadelphia is the friendliest gluten-free city in the country, I must acknowledge that New York City has its fair share of excellent gluten-free restaurants. Last week I met my old friend Brian (whose wife Nicole, coincidentally, is a gluten-free cookbook author and blogs at Gluten Free on a Shoestring) at Mozzarelli's on 23rd Street in Manhattan. It's a restaurant in name only - the place is really a gourmet pizza parlor. And that's just fine. You want a slice of gluten-free barbeque chicken pizza? No problem. How about Margherita? You got it. The varieties rotate daily, but there's always several choices available. (They're kept on the top shelf of the counter and the staff is aware of proper prep.) The proprietors of Mozzarelli's also created My Dad's Cookies, which can be purchased at the shop. There's freshly made gluten-free cheesecakes and specialty cakes sold by the slice too.

Back home, everything on the menu at the new juice-and-raw cafe Jar Bar (113 S. 12th St., 215-923-1600) is gluten-free. Thanks to reader Adriana Z. for the tip.

At Velvet Sky Bakery in Jenkintown (307 Leedom St., 215-884-0254), all cakes, cupcakes and cookies can be made without gluten. The bakery offers gluten-free cupcakes in the store every Wednesday and Thursday, frosted to order, and takes special orders for other days. The gluten-free products are made separately after the kitchen and bakeware are cleaned. A tip of the hat to reader Rachel S. for the heads-up.

The Big Fish Grill in Glen Mills (981 Baltimore Pike, 484-842-1757) offers a gluten-free menu.

St. Joseph's University on the Main Line now has a dedicated gluten-free section at its Campion Dining Hall, complete with separate toasters and a microwave oven, according to The Hawk student newspaper.

I picked up Schar's new Bonta d'Italia ("The Goodness of Italy") gluten-free frozen cheese pizza at Whole Foods in Marlton for $7.99. The thin-crust brick-oven pizza also comes in a pepperoni version. Our son thought this was among the best home-baked pies he's had.

Amazon is stocking a new cereal line - well, new to the United States anyway. Australia's Freedom Foods produces several gluten-free cereals, including Fruit Loop-like Tropico's (with natural colors and flavors), Ultra Maple Rice Crunch and Rice Flakes. The cost of a pack of five boxes comes to about $4 a box, a bit less if you order via Amazon's Subscribe & Save option.

As a reminder, you can help support the blog by making Amazon purchases through the links above or the banner at Gluten Free Philly. If you like what you get here, you can also contribute to the "tip jar."

As I mentioned in Tuesday's post, on Sunday, April 22, Pasta Pomodoro in Voorhees (700 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd.) will be host a gluten-free dinner event with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness.The restaurant's extensive gluten-free menu will be available. Reservations can be made for seating anytime from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Call chef-owner Pasquale Masters at 856-296-1268 or email him with the time and number of your party.

Sur La Table will be presenting gluten- and lactose-free baking classes at many locations next month, including King of Prussia (April 23) and Marlton (April 25). The fee is $69 per person.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

April Flours

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 03:18:00 PDT

On April 22, diners at Pasta Pomodoro in Voorhees (700 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd.) will be able to support the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness just by enjoying a fabulous gluten-free meal. From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. that evening, the BYOB restaurant will be hosting a gluten-free dinner event and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the NFCA. Diners will be able to choose from Pasta Pomodoro's extensive gluten-free menu in its entirety - from garlic bread to pizza, from mozzarella sticks to tempting dessert selections. Reservations are a must, though, so call chef-owner Pasquale Masters at 856-296-1268 or email him with the time and number of your party.

It's not the reunited Van Halen, but another tour will hit the Philadelphia area less than a week after the Pasta Pomodoro dinner. The Celiac Awareness Tour is a series of national events dedicated to providing education and entertainment for those on a gluten-free diet. On April 28, the Tour will be at the Crowne Plaza Valley Forge Hotel in King of Prussia (260 Mall Blvd.) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Full disclosure: The Celiac Awareness Tour is an advertiser at the Gluten Free Philly blog.) Besides meeting medical experts, you can watch live cooking demonstrations on the Rudi's Gluten Free Bakery Stage and enjoy gluten-free food samples from dozens of local and national companies, including French Meadow Bakery, Nature's Path, Kinnikinnick, Food For Life, Glutino and Udi's Gluten Free Foods. Presenters include NFCA founder Alice Bast and local health coach Jennifer Fugo, and there will be raffles and prizes. I will be at the NFCA booth from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Through April 14, early-bird tickets can be purchased for $9 per person online; thereafter and at the door, it's $10. Kids under 12 are admitted free.

I hope to see you at both events!

News & Notes: March 16, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 15:58:11 PDT

The creative force behind Philadelphia's Modo Mio, Monsu and Paesano's is at it again. Gluten-free-friendly chef Peter McAndrews has just opened Popolino (501 Fairmount Ave., 215-928-0106), a Roman trattoria in Northern Liberties featuring a lavish antipasti bar. As noted on the menu, accommodations can be made for gluten-free diners. McAndrews, whose children are celiacs, raved about Toté Bakery's gluten-free bread to the Philadelphia Inquirer, which featured the bakery in the Food section of yesterday's edition.

If all goes well today during inspections, Jules Thin Crust - with its fabulous gluten-free pizza - will open its Wayne location (114 E. Lancaster Ave.) for business tomorrow at 4 p.m.

Goodies from Pure Sweets, featured here a few weeks ago, are now available at Ultimo Coffee (1900 S. 15th St., 215-339-5177) in South Philadelphia and Northern Liberties' One Shot Coffee (217 W. George St., 215-627-1620).

The all-gluten-free Little Bakery in Blue Bell (921 Penllyn-Blue Bell Pike, 267-708-0984) now sells bake-eat-home chocolate chip cookie dough and brownie dough by the pound.

Last weekend, many companies announced new gluten-free products at the Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, California. Udi's Gluten Free Foods is launching classic French and whole-grain seeded dinner rolls and vanilla cupcakes that will debut in July. The company's previously announced frozen pizzas and muffin tops are on the way to stores now.

Rudi’s Gluten-Free Bakery's new gluten-free tortillas are made with whole grain flours and have a soft, pliable texture. The tortillas, which will retail for $5.99 a package, are available in plain, spinach and fiesta flavors.

The Pop-Tart-like gluten-free toaster pastries from Eco-Planet should be in stores by May, reports Jennifer H., who writes a gluten-free blog out of Georgia and who attended the Expo. Eco-Planet will also have a new line of gluten-free granola bars and bites, says Jennifer.

Jennifer also provided some other info via her Twitter feed. Hain Celestial's Gluten Free Cafe line of soups has three new additions: Chicken Orzo, Beef Noodle and Vegetable Quinoa. In September Van's Natural Foods is relaunching a version of gluten-free pancakes, which will also be dairy and egg free.

The Celiac Center at Paoli Hospital is sponsoring a seminar on the neurologic manifestations of celiac disease on Wednesday, March 28 at 6:30 p.m. The event will take place at Paoli Hospital's Potter Room (255 W. Lancaster Ave.) Call 1-866-CALL-MLH to register.

"Nourished Together" is a four-session nutrition and cooking course being held next month in University City. The course fee of $180 is inclusive of all instruction, ingredients, course materials and dinner. You can save $36 (20%) through Tuesday, March 20 by mentioning that you read about the course at Gluten Free Philly. Call 215-872-5521 for registration.

The Flavor Festival at Phoenixville will take place on Saturday, April 21 from noon to 5 p.m. at Franklin Commons (400 Franklin Ave.). Most of the wineries at this food-and-drink event will have gluten-free crackers and local gluten-free-friendly vendors such as Cupcake Wars victor Dia Doce, Mompops, FreshaPeel Hummus and Chile Spot will be participating. Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the gate.

My "Dining Out Philly" giveaway celebrating the blog's 3rd birthday runs through Sunday. (I very much appreciate all the birthday notes received this week!) Food For All in Mt. Airy has generously offered a $30 gift certificate as one of the prizes, so there will be seven winners in all. Other prizes are from Zavino, The Tomato Bistro, Pure Tacos, THE QUICK FIXX, Sweet Freedom Bakery and Toté.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

Goodies Giveaway: Dining Out Philly

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 17:31:23 PDT

It's been three amazing years since I started Gluten Free Philly. I offer my heartiest thanks to everyone who has come along for the ride. Your feedback, compliments and tips have been invaluable.

To help me celebrate the blog's third birthday, six gluten-free-friendly Philadelphia restaurants and bakeries are offering you, dear readers and followers, the presents - six gift certificates as part of my "Dining Out Philly" giveaway. There will be six different winners in all (limit one gift certificate per winner).

Participating restaurants are the [NEWLY ADDED] Food For All Cafe and Market (7127 Germantown Ave., 267-297-7122) offering a $30 gift certificate, THE QUICK FIXX [GF pasta] (1511 South St., 267-273-1066), The Tomato Bistro [GF pizza] (102 Rector St., 215-483-2233), Zavino [GF pizza] (112 S. 13th St., 215-732-2400) - each of which is furnishing a $25 gift certificate - and Pure Tacos [all GF] (coming this Spring to 1935 Chestnut St.), where one winner can enjoy lunch every day for a week, a $50 value (two tacos and one drink per day for five days).

The all-gluten free Toté Bakery (1024 S. 9th St., 215-551-5511) and Sweet Freedom Bakery (1424 South St., 215-545-1899) are also offering $25 gift certificates.

To enter up to three different ways, follow the instructions below. Be sure to let me know of your top three choices; although winners will be randomly selected I will try to accommodate specific requests if possible.

Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

News & Notes: March 9, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 06:24:33 PST

If Chipotle merged with Starbucks, the result might be something like Center City's Odd Fellows Cafe (1201 Spruce St., 484-897-0633). The Latin American BYOB restaurant and coffee bar has a gluten-free menu and the kitchen and service staffs are knowledgeable about safe prep and handling.

Reader Melanie H. recommends another Philly BYOB, this one in University City. At Marigold Kitchen (501 S. 45th St., 215-222-3699), the chef at this contemporary American can make appropriate menu adjustments. A parade of amuse-bouche is a highlight of the meal, reports Melanie.

In Wilmington, Ulysses Gastropub (1716 Marsh Rd., 302-691-3456) offers a gluten-free menu and beer.

You can find gluten-free pasta, bread and desserts at Buonissimo in Blue Bell (700 Dekalb Pike, 610-270-9100).

On the heels of opening a location in Mt. Laurel, Miller's Ale House has received approval to proceed with another area spot in Springfield at 1618 Baltimore Pike. No word on a projected opening date.

Healthy Bites Cafe and Market, near Graduate Hospital in Philadelphia, is closing on March 18, but owner Katie Cavuto-Boyle will continue offering nutrition services, meal delivery, catering and cooking classes.

Joe Palombo's Mirabella Cafe in Cherry Hill, which underwent GREAT Kitchen training from the NFCA and served gluten-free pasta, has closed, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

The new Sweet T's Bakeshop in Haddonfield (7 Kings Court, 856-428-0222) offers a variety of gluten-free cupcakes. Owner Toni Walton, who appeared on Seasons 1 and 2 of TLC's Cake Boss, takes precautions to avoid cross-contamination when making gluten-free items.

Chester County cupcakery Dia Doce will appear on Food Network's Cupcake Wars this Sunday at 8 p.m. Eastern. My son tried one of owner Thais da Silva's gluten-free cake pops this week (thanks Daria!) and couldn't stop raving about it.

The latest additions to the JELL-O product line are S'more and Strawberry Sundae pudding snacks. There's no gluten in either product.

New to the refrigerated section at Whole Foods is Alpina Foods' Restart yogurt packaged with Udi's gluten-free granola. It's available in strawberry, blueberry, vanilla and peach flavors.

Pamela's Products is debuting new gluten-free baking products this month: Pizza Crust Mix, Artisan Flour Blend, Biscuit & Scone Mix, Oatmeal Cookie Mix and roll-and-cut Sugar Cookie Mix.

The new microwaveable Smart Ones three cheese omelet, which comes with a side of Ore-Ida potatoes, is gluten free. Hey - it's convenient!

My annual Passover gluten-free product roundup went up at the blog on Tuesday. New items are making their way into stores now.

Upcoming events in the next week include a gluten-free/dairy-free tasting event tomorrow at Deliteful Foods in Lawrenceville (4110 Quakerbridge Rd., 609-799-7756) from noon to 3 p.m. The event will feature products from Udi's, Katz, Namaste and others. While there, look for the fabulous Tonya's gluten-free soft pretzels.

On Sunday, the Berks County Gluten-Free Meetup Group will have a potluck lunch at 1 p.m. at the New Apostolic Church in Reading.

Trader Joe's in Ardmore (112 Coulter Ave., 610-658-0645) will host a gluten-free store tour on Tuesday, March 12 at 9 a.m. Thanks to Sherrie S. for the tip.

Don't forget to visit the blog next Tuesday, when I'll be celebrating the third anniversary of Gluten Free Philly with a multi-prize giveaway for my readers and followers.

Have a great weekend, everyone!

- Michael

The "In" Holiday

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 03:18:00 PST

I love Passover, and not just because I'm a fan of old Charlton Heston movies. The holiday commemorating the biblical Jewish exodus from Egypt, which begins this year in the evening of April 6, is a time when many more gluten-free products are available at supermarkets. This grew out of the observance of certain segments of the Jewish population to refrain from eating wheat products at all during Passover.

The packaging of many gluten-free products is expressly labeled as such, while others have a "non-gebrokts" notation. (As always, read the ingredient label before buying and consuming a particular item.)

Some stores carry only the basics, such as Manischewitz noodles, while those with larger Kosher sections tend to have more options. The ShopRite markets on Roosevelt Boulevard in Philadelphia and on Route 70 in Cherry Hill have a wide selection of gluten-free items on the shelves, from chow mein noodles and Gefen cake mixes (some even sugar free) to Osem loaf cakes, cereals, pizza bagels and matzoh ball mixes.

Wegmans stores plan to carry a number of gluten-free products, including Klein's Viennese Ice Cream Cake and Passover Flats (great for making pizza and sandwiches), Macabee Passover Pizza, and - to mark the famous "10 Plagues" - Zelda's Locusts and Frogs chocolate-covered marshmallows.

Of course, what would Passover be without matzoh? This year Yehuda has introduced a Toasted Onion flavor to complement its original gluten-free variety. This matzoh is reasonably priced (between $5 and $6), as compared to the gluten-free oat matzoh that also is available this time of year.

Among the new gluten-free products for 2012 are Manischewitz chocolate and yellow cake mixes, Jeff Nathan Creations panko flakes, and four flavors of Sweet Goodies licorice.

If you want to try "Mexican Coke" (made with sugar rather than high-fructose corn syrup), Passover Coca-Cola will be available in the Philadelphia area. Look for bottles with a distinctive yellow cap.

About a week or so before the start of Passover, markets receive their shipments of fresh gluten-free cakes and cookies from New York bakeries such as Oberlander's, Shabtai Gourmet, and Schick's. Look for sandwich and rainbow cookies, cake rolls and layer cakes.

Prices of some Passover foods tend to be higher than their non-holiday counterparts, so I suggest buying one of a particular item to see if you like it before stocking up. Keep an eye on Passover sections after the second night of the holiday, when markets tend to cut prices on whatever products are left.

News & Notes: March 2, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Michael) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 17:53:46 PST

Gourmet hot-dog stands are the new fancy burger joints. That's the only explanation why there are two new eateries in Center City Philadelphia dedicated to the frankfurter. Underdogs (132 S. 17th St., 215-665-8080) serves Dietz & Watson hot dogs on Toté Bakery's gluten-free buns; the fries and a variety of dipping sauces are safe as well.

At the Bellevue Food Court, Maui's Dog House (200 S. Broad St., 215-735-1533) has gluten-free franks and burgers (sans buns) and fries.

Still on the subject of hot dogs, you'll be able to get them at Bright House Field, the Phillies' Spring Training home in Clearwater, Florida. The wieners will be sold at the hot dog stand behind third base and look for other options at the home plate stand.

At Philadelphia Chutney Company (1628 Sansom St., 215-564-6446; 1932 Liacouras Walk), all of the Indian dosas and uttapas (made with rice batter), fillings and chutneys are gluten free, along with the steamed rice lentil cake appetizer and the Indian stew.

Village Belle, an Italian restaurant in Philadelphia's Queen Village neighborhood (757 S. Front St., 215-551-2200), serves gluten-free pasta and has a dedicated menu. (Tomorrow is the last day to snag a Living Social deal for the restaurant; it's $40 worth of food and non-alcoholic drinks for $20.)

At Lawrenceville's Varsity Pizza & Subs (1296 Lawrenceville Rd., 609-882-4100), the gluten-free pizza is made with separate ingredients, cooked on a dedicated pan and cut with a dedicated knife.

Casa Bella Trattoria in Haddonfield (51 E. Kings Hwy., 856-429-2885) has gluten-free pasta.

New in Mt. Laurel is Miller's Ale House (554 Fellowship Rd., 856-722-5690), which has a gluten-free menu mainly comprised of steaks, seafood and salads.

In Tuesday's post I featured local bakery Pure Sweets, which makes unique gluten-free, organic and vegan sweets sold in area markets.

You can now bake Sweet Freedom Bakery's chocolate chip cookies at home. Packaged mixes are available for purchase at the bakery (1424 South St., 215-545-1899). In addition, Sweet Freedom's goodies are now sold at The Sweet Spot Cafe in Northern Liberties (1040 N. 2d St., 267-639-9588).

Look for The Grain Exchange's baked goods at Whole Foods in Wynnewood and the new Jules Thin Crust Pizza, opening this month in Wayne.

Well-known baking mix brand Krusteaz has added gluten-free frozen waffles to its product lineup. A two-waffle serving is 200 calories and 7 grams of fat (1 gram of saturated fat).

Tomorrow at noon I'll be at the gluten-free cooking demo at the Marlton ShopRite (307 W. Route 70, 856-983-7370), where you can sample foods from Italian Gluten Free Foods and O'Doughs; the event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It's a great chance to double dip, as you can also pick up gluten-free Passover foods like cake and cookie mixes, loaf cakes, cookies, and matzoh. I hope to see you there.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael