I get it ā life without gluten can be difficult. Itās like the whole world is suddenly a giant loaf of bread that you canāt escape from, and at times, you might feel as if youāre getting punished for taking care of your body.Ā As someone with Celiac Disease, Iāve got almost eight years of experience and am proud to report that I have nearly perfected the art of eating gluten-free, especially at restaurants. What does that mean for you, dear reader? I did the hard work so you donāt have to. With that being said, here are some of my favorite gluten-friendly restaurants in Tallahassee. Happy eating!
1.Ā Sweet Pea CafeĀ
As someone whoās got a whole lot going on with her diet woes (gluten, dairy, soy, artificial things – the list goes on) finding a place that accommodates not just one, but all of my restrictions is a blessing – a dream come true. Sweet Pea Cafe prides itself on being 100% vegan in addition to providing gluten-free alternatives to many of their sandwiches and wraps. They also bake a bunch of delicious gluten-free brownies and cookies which vary depending upon the day and time. Their roadside cafe located on West Tharpe is earthy in the rawest and most eclectic form. Itās literally impossible not to smile when you pull up – especially when some gluten-free goodness is awaiting you inside!
My recommendation: the Vegan Quesadilla on a gluten-free brown rice tortilla and a GF brownie if they have them.
2. Lucy and Leoās CupcakeryĀ
I – and I cannot stress this enough – have the biggest sweet tooth of any singular human being on this earth. Navigating the dessert industry as a Celiac can be daunting and at times impossible, but fear not! Lucy and Leoās has you covered. The selection of cupcakes in their storefront (which, by the way, is in the cutest corner of a bookstore) is homemade daily and free of preservatives. They offer a large selection of gluten-free and vegan options, and take my word for it – youāll love them all. The lovely ladies who work there will even take orders for specific cupcakes if you give them enough heads up!Ā
My recommendation: the gluten-free Lemon Blue Sky cupcake. (Pictured)
3. Jeriās Midtown Cafe
I first discovered Jeriās when my parents came to visit for my first parentās weekend, and since then, itās become my favorite Tally brunch spot! Jeri, the owner, and her staff are super accommodating to dietary needs, and they serve some of the most delicious food that I have had the pleasure of eating since coming to Tallahassee. Seriously – gourmet quality, but wallet-friendly. Their menu is filled with little āGFā symbols next to various items, so there is plenty to choose from! They have gluten-free bread alternatives for sandwiches, and they introduced me to the wonder that is apple butter. Need I say more?
My recommendation: The āTABā Pressed Sandwich on gluten-free bread with a side of the Grits & Apple butter.
4. Canopy Road CafeĀ Ā
If youāre a āNole or a Tallahassee local, chances are youāve most definitely been to or heard of Canopy Road Cafe. With three locations in town, there is almost always still a big oleā wait to snag a table – and for good reason. Their food is amazing, and if youāre gluten-free, Iām happy to inform you that you can get in on this breakfast goodness too! Canopy Road offers gluten-free pancakes, french toast and the usual omelet/egg creations.Ā
My recommendation: The Avocado Toast on gluten-free bread. (SO. GOOD.)
5. The Bark
Shoutout to my brother for introducing me to Bark. The Bark is super accommodating to people with dietary restrictions, whether or not itās a lifestyle choice or a health condition. They typically are able to turn many of their sandwiches or salads into a gluten-free taco or wrap, and pretty much all of their sides are gluten-free, aside from the obvious, of course. Not to mention their atmosphere is so chill and perfect for those a part of the artsy scene. They even host local bands and poetry readings – check them out!
My recommendation: Tofu Bahn Mi on a gluten-free taco shell. (Pictured)
6. Gaines Street Pies
Listen, Iāll admit that Iām not the biggest pizza fan, but there are some late nights where I just really want to chow down on some delicious cheesy slices of heaven with my girl gang – and no, I donāt think thatās too much to ask. Open until one a.m. most nights, Gaines Street Pies can and will make you a bomb gluten-free pizza, customizable to your heartās content.Ā
My recommendation: GF Cheese Pizza because Iām basic.
7. Black Dog at Lake Ella
Black Dog at Lake Ella is my literal happy place. Itās the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee and finally find the motivation to check off those assignments on your to-do list, and the deal only gets sweeter when it involves any of their gluten-free and/or vegan baked goods!Ā Gluten-free Banana Bread, Carrot Cake, PB&J Bars – the list goes on. With clear winter skies, crisp air and gluten-free options galore, I highly recommend you check out this lovely cafe on your next break between classes!
My recommendation: Gluten-free & vegan PB&J Bars.
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