– Part 1: Gluten Free Living in Brisbane – Restaurants and Cafes –

Gluten free food options have come a long way in Brisbane. These days, most supermarkets, health food stores, restaurants and cafes make some effort to provide gluten free options at reasonable prices. And yet, sometimes it all gets a bit… same same. Or worse, things that say gluten free aren’t always truly gluten free. In Part 1 of our special on gluten free living, we take a look at some of the best dining out options for gluten free living in Brisbane.

Colle Rosso

Can luscious Italian food and gluten free foodies ever be friends? At Colle Rosso they can! This Red Hill restaurant serves up an impressive selection of gluten-free options, including all your Italian favorites like pizzas, pasta, gnocchi and bread. Buon appetito! www.collerosso.com.au

Montezuma’s

If you haven’t yet done Montezuma’s (or Monte’s, as it’s affectionately known), then you’re missing out. And with nine locations across Brisbane you’ve got no excuse! Mexican food is fairly safe territory for gluten free options, but Montezuma’s take pride in the fact that “almost every menu item is gluten free or can be adapted”. With an Aztec theme and a vibrant and lively atmosphere, Montes is a definitely one for the kids too. www.montezumas.com.au

Primal Pantry

Boasting a 100% Paleo and gluten free menu, Primal Pantry in Tenneriffe and Nundah just might bring out the caveman (or cavewoman) in you. But there’s nothing primitive about their menu. For breakfast, try the vanilla maple walnut scrolls or the pan-fried choc chip bread with crisp bacon, macerated berries and coconut cream. More of a lunch person? Go for the crispy fish taco or the Mexican beef cheeks. They even do a kids menu and can whip up a range of smoothies to go. www.primalpantry.com.au

PitStop Pastries & Pizza

With an unusual mix of Italian, Serbian, Greek and Macedonian cuisine, PitStop Pastries and Pizza in West End is definitely a chance to try something different. Their gluten free pizzas are reportedly outstanding, and as a registered member of Coeliac Queensland, you know they take it seriously. www.pitstoppastriesandpizza.wordpress.com

Whisky Business

Hidden away in a shopping village and with no website to speak of, Whisky Business in Capalaba is worth the effort it takes to find it. The majority of the menu, from pancakes to pizzas is gluten free at this fantastic little café. Be warned: you might just have to the bust a button on your jeans, especially when you see the 40+ different flavours of macaroons available! www.facebook.com/MacaronsByKylie

Paleo Café

With locations in the CBD, Northlakes and Paddington, the Paleo Café is a haven for gluten free. Pop in for breakfast, or linger over lunch. Feeling hungry? Don’t fret – Paleo Café has you covered with big eats like the open lamb burger with sweet potato fries and lemon aioli, or the braised beef cheeks with creamy sweet potato and pumpkin mash. Stock up on gluten free pantry items while you’re there. www.paleo-cafe.com.au

French Twist

French Twist has a huge range of gluten free cakes, brownies and petit fours – there’s something delicious for adults and kids alike. With locations all across Brisbane, including the Barracks at Paddington, James St Markets, Bulimba, Indooroopilly Shopping Centre and Westfield Chermside, French Twist is perfect for casual dining, as well as a quick takeaway morning or afternoon tea. www.facebook.com/pages/French-Twist/239007239552223?fref=nf

Inspire Café

Don’t bother scanning the menu for gluten free items at this modern cafe because everything is 100% gluten free! It’s the perfect spot for a lazy breakfast: how about the French toast with vanilla mascarpone, berry compote and pistachio praline? Yes please. With free wifi and gluten free beer on offer, you might be staying for lunch too. www.inspirecafe.com

Wholesomeness

Primarily operating as a home meal delivery service, Wholesomeness also runs a relaxed 100% gluten free café in The Grange. They even scored a mention on Gourmand & Gourmet’s top places for pulled pork in Brisbane list, which they dish up with poached eggs, potato hash, spinach and tomato jam meals. Bonus timesaver: pick up frozen gluten free meals and snacks while you’re there. www.wholesomeness.com.au

A word to the wise…

Many cafes and restaurants list gluten free items on the menu these days, but that doesn’t mean they’re necessarily gluten free -friendly. Always double check with your server and have them inform the kitchen when you require strictly gluten free. The cafes and restaurants listed above are either completely gluten free or have procedures in place to minimize the risk of cross-contamination, such as dedicated gluten free food prep areas and special staff training. Better still, look for the “Gluten Free – Endorsed by Coeliac Australia” logo.

Hungry for more? Check out the Gluten Free Eating Directory –

 

An indispensible guide to gluten free restaurants and grocery stores anywhere in Australia. Download the app for iPhone or Android and search by cuisine or by postcode: very handy when you’re out and about. www.glutenfreeeatingdirectory.com.au

Join Coeliac Queensland

The Queensland branch of Coeliac Australia, an organization for people affected by coeliac disease has all the information and resources you could need for living the gluten free life. Most useful is the comprehensive directory of over 800 ingredients and 300 additives sold in Australia and NZ and whether they are gluten free or not. The ingredient list is free to members.. www.qld.coeliac.org.au

Have you got a favourite spot for gluten free dining in Brisbane? Let us know! Leave your comments below.