As someone who has been living with celiac disease for over a decade, I understand the struggle of finding safe and delicious dining options. When I first moved to Eastern MA, I was worried that I would have to give up eating out altogether. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that there are many restaurants in this region that offer gluten-free options.
The Rise of Gluten-Free Dining
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of people following a gluten-free diet. Whether it's due to celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or simply a personal preference, more and more individuals are seeking out gluten-free options when dining out.This has led to a rise in demand for restaurants to cater to these dietary needs. Eastern MA is no exception to this trend. With its diverse population and thriving food scene, it's no surprise that there are plenty of restaurants in this region that offer gluten-free options.
The Challenge of Finding Safe Options
While it's great to see more restaurants offering gluten-free options, it's important to note that not all of these options are created equal. As someone with celiac disease, I have to be extremely careful about cross-contamination and hidden sources of gluten. This means that even if a dish is labeled as gluten-free, it may not be safe for me to eat. This is why it's crucial for restaurants to not only offer gluten-free options but also to properly train their staff on how to handle these dishes.Cross-contamination can occur in many ways, from using the same utensils or cooking surfaces to not properly cleaning hands after handling gluten-containing ingredients. It's essential for restaurants to take these precautions seriously in order to provide a safe dining experience for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Restaurants in Eastern MA That Offer Gluten-Free Options
Now, let's get to the good stuff - the restaurants in Eastern MA that offer gluten-free options! Here are just a few of my top picks:The Friendly Toast
This popular breakfast and brunch spot has locations in Cambridge, Back Bay, and Burlington. They offer a separate gluten-free menu with options like gluten-free pancakes, French toast, and even a gluten-free version of their famous mac and cheese. They also have a dedicated fryer for their delicious home fries.Boloco
If you're in the mood for a burrito, head to Boloco for their gluten-free options.They offer gluten-free tortillas and have a detailed allergen chart on their website so you can customize your order to fit your dietary needs.
The Chateau
This Italian restaurant has locations in Waltham, Norwood, and Norton. They have an extensive gluten-free menu with options like pasta dishes, pizza, and even gluten-free bread for sandwiches. They also have a separate fryer for their delicious fried calamari.Legal Sea Foods
For seafood lovers, Legal Sea Foods is a must-visit. They have locations all over Eastern MA and offer a gluten-free menu with options like grilled fish, salads, and even a gluten-free version of their famous clam chowder.Life Alive
If you're looking for healthy and delicious gluten-free options, check out Life Alive.They have locations in Cambridge, Lowell, and Salem and offer a variety of gluten-free bowls, wraps, and smoothies.
