New York City GF
New York City is a food lover's paradise, but as a teen with celiac disease, finding safe, gluten-free options can be a challenge. Thankfully, NYC offers a plethora of restaurants that cater to gluten-free diets without compromising on taste or experience. Here’s a journey through some incredible gluten-free dining spots I visited during my first trip to the Big Apple.
Friedmans Hell's Kitchen
Dinner on my first night was nothing short of spectacular at Friedmans Hell's Kitchen. This cozy, family-friendly restaurant takes gluten-free dining seriously, ensuring no cross-contamination with dedicated cooking areas and flagged GF dishes.
What I Ordered:
GF Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy perfection that set the bar high for gluten-free pasta dishes.
Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Brussel Sprouts: A hearty and comforting meal, with succulent chicken and perfectly seasoned veggies.
Veggie Gyoza: These gluten-free dumplings were a delightful surprise, bursting with flavor.
Fried Chicken on a Maple Waffle: The sweet and savory combination was heavenly.
Cheesecake for Dessert: A rich and creamy end to an incredible meal.
Max Brenner's at the NYC Christmas Markets
While exploring the magical NYC Christmas markets, I discovered Max Brenner's, renowned for its decadent chocolate creations.
Must-Try:
GF Hot Chocolate: This was the thickest, richest hot chocolate I have ever tasted, and it was entirely gluten-free. It was the perfect way to warm up and indulge in some festive cheer.
WILD
For an unforgettable Italian dinner, WILD is the place to be. This entirely gluten-free restaurant offers a cozy and inviting ambiance perfect for a comforting meal.
What I Ordered:
Creamy Ravioli: Soft, delicate pasta filled with luscious, creamy goodness.
Spaghetti Bolognese: A classic Italian favorite done to perfection.
Cheese Biscuits: Warm, cheesy, and utterly addictive.
Penne alla Vodka: Creamy and tangy, a must-try for pasta lovers.
Desserts: The dessert menu is an array of gluten-free delights including cheesecake, brownies, macarons, red velvet and carrot cake, and crème brûlée.
Modern Bread and Bagel
Brunch at Modern Bread and Bagel was a gluten-free dream come true. This entirely GF bagel shop and bakery offers a wide variety of mouth-watering options.
What I Ordered:
Cupcakes: Light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet.
Chocolate Filled Donuts: A delicious treat that oozes chocolate with every bite.
Mint Flavored Brownies: A refreshing twist on a classic dessert.
Bagels with Lox and Cream Cheese: A quintessential New York experience, made gluten-free.
Pastrami or Avocado Toppings: Both were delicious, adding a hearty and flavorful kick to the bagels.
Senza Gluten
Another Italian gem, Senza Gluten is a family-owned restaurant that exudes warmth and charm. Everything here is gluten-free, ensuring a safe and delightful dining experience.
What I Ordered:
GF Bread: Freshly baked and perfect for dipping.
Fried Mozzarella Balls: Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside.
Caesar Salad: Crisp and refreshing, with a gluten-free twist.
Gnocchi: Pillowy soft and drenched in a rich sauce.
Truffle Pasta: Earthy and aromatic, a luxurious dish.
Lasagna and Spaghetti Bolognese: Both were hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.
GF Shortbread Biscuits for Dessert: A sweet and crumbly treat to finish the meal.
Return to Friedmans Hell's Kitchen for Brunch
On my last day in NYC, I returned to Friedmans Hell's Kitchen for brunch, eager to experience more of their gluten-free offerings.
What I Ordered:
Lemon and Raspberry Ricotta Pancakes: Light, fluffy, and bursting with zesty and sweet flavors.
Eggs and Toast on a Potato and Ham Mash: A savory and satisfying start to the day.
Conclusion
Exploring NYC as a teen with celiac disease was a culinary adventure thanks to these amazing gluten-free restaurants. Each spot offered delicious, safe, and inclusive dining experiences, proving that gluten-free doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or variety. From hearty dinners to decadent desserts, my gluten-free journey through NYC was truly unforgettable.
