By Gale Hemmann
It may sound funny, but wheat gluten and other grain glutens are a topic near and dear to my heart. I have a family member with Celiac disease, and have many years’ experience navigating gluten-free options when dining out. The good news is that knowledge of gluten sensitivity is growing rapidly. The even better news is that many local restaurants are catching on to the need to make gluten-free products and preparation methods available to their customers.
As a veteran seeker of gluten-free food, I present to you a “gluten-free dining tour of Thurston County.” This list is by no means exhaustive, but rather a sampling of some businesses that are working extra-hard to provide gluten-free gustatory delights. No matter what your price point or dining needs (a quick pick-up lunch or a fine dining experience) I hope you’ll find some new ideas here to add to your dining repertoire.
West Olympia
- Iron Rabbit: This gem of a restaurant and bar offers locally-sourced ingredients and an entire gluten-free menu. The “Polenta Portabella Tower” and lemon-glazed wild salmon are favorites. They also feature a gluten-free dessert, the decadent “Chocolate Amarena pot de Crème.” Iron Rabbit makes a great spot for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch. (Read about a ThurstonTalk writer’s visit here.)
- Vic’s Pizzeria: Pizza, soups and salads – this friendly, casual spot has it all for the gluten-free diner. You can choose from two sizes of gluten-free pizza crusts and select your own sauce and toppings (which include everything from smoked mozzarella to artichoke hearts). Kids and adults alike enjoy an affordable meal out at Vic’s. (Read more about this popular pizza joint here).
- Wally’s Sandwich Bar: This sandwich shop combines a funky ambiance and delicious eats for an easy dine-in or take-out summer meal. You can order any sandwich with gluten-free bread (try the house-made falafel or the “Pesto Change-o”), or make any sandwich into a hearty salad. Wally’s house-made baked Waffle Fries are also delicious.
- Olive Garden: This reliable, family-friendly Italian chain restaurant has recently stepped up their game in gluten-free offerings. You can now find a special gluten-free menu, including several rotini pasta dishes (gluten-free kids meals are also available).
Downtown Olympia
- Basilico Ristorante Italiano: For a fine dining atmosphere with plenty of gluten-free choices, Basilico is the place to go. They even have a special webpage devoted to their gluten-free philosophy and menu items. You can get a variety of gluten-free pastas, from spaghetti to ravioli, as well as eggplant parmesan and soups (both veggie and seafood-based). Basilico also offers gluten-free appetizers and an expert wine list to pair with your meal.
- Darby’s Café: This immensely popular downtown fixture has something for everyone, from the meat-eater to the vegan. Darby’s also offers plenty to keep the gluten-free customer happy: you can substitute gluten-free bread from the local 8 Arms Community Bakery on any sandwich, burger or breakfast meal. I would recommend Darby’s as a go-to spot for brunch.
-
Gluten-free dining at Bamboo includes a tasty fried rice recipe. Bamboo: If you haven’t stopped by Bamboo yet, you should give it a try. All menu items can be prepared gluten-free. They feature a classy, airy environment, and the colorful fish tanks will keep kids entertained. From Pad Thai to tamarind prawns to vegetarian teriyaki “chicken,” both herbivores and more traditional eaters will be happy here. Entrée choices include plenty of rice noodle dishes, soups, and combo plates.
- Bonjour Cupcakes: This mother and daughter team bake delicious cupcakes, including an array of gluten-free cake flavors (from traditional vanilla to chipotle). All their buttercream frostings are gluten-free as well. Bonjour Cupcakes is open late most nights, so this is a sweet way to wrap up your evening. This spot is sure to be a hit with kids too. (They can also create custom gluten-free cakes and cupcakes for your special event).
- The Bearded Lady: Looking for a unique date spot, or special place to gather with friends? The Bearded Lady Food Company is an intimate, weekend-only artisan dessert venue (they also offer breakfast to-go on Saturday and Sunday mornings). Sample one of the truly delicious creations on their ever-changing menu (they always have several gluten-free options on hand). Savor a gluten-free torte with peanut butter mousse, for example. You can also enjoy their build-your-own sundae bar (complete with gluten-free cookie crumbles). Read more about them here.
East Olympia
- Eastside Big Tom’s: This local landmark has been making customers smile for over 60 years, and now the gluten-free have something to smile about too. Big Tom’s now offers a gluten-free bun option for any of their 13 burgers, from the classic “Big Tom” burger to the Boca burger. Pair with their famous fries or tater tots for gluten-free to go.
Lacey
-
Spring rolls at Tofu Hut in Lacey are gluten-free. The Tofu Hut: This charming spot offers fresh Korean and Asian-fusion items, as well as a menu and staff that are clearly knowledgeable about the needs of gluten-free diners. Everything on their menu is labeled as to whether it’s gluten-free, as well as vegetarian or vegan. I recommend the sautéed tofu appetizer and the Korean-style stew bowls. (You can also try classic Korean dishes such as Bibimbop). The Tofu Hut also makes sure to have gluten-free tamari sauce (which doesn’t contain wheat like soy sauce) available to guests. (Read all about their house-made kimchi here.)
- Curry House Cuisine of India: This family-run, inviting Indian restaurant offers an array of choices for the gluten-free, and a great value. Many flours used are chickpea-based, and the Curry House staff is happy to answer any gluten-related questions. Choose from a variety of pakoras, tandoori oven entrees, paneer (cheese) dishes, and much more.
Tumwater
- Pellegrino’s Italian Kitchen: This authentic Italian restaurant brings over a dozen gluten-free entrées to those seeking fine dining in Tumwater. Choices range from pasta to seafood to sandwiches. They also offer renowned catering services. Pellegrino’s offers a special gluten-free menu. (Check out this past ThurstonTalk article about this locally owned restaurant).
- Lemon Grass Café: For authentic Thai food that stands out, visit the Lemon Grass at their Tumwater or downtown Olympia locations. Though their menu doesn’t specifically list which items are gluten-free, I’ve heard from locals that the staff is very willing to help you navigate the menu. Their outstanding flavor combinations and reasonable prices make this café a great stop for a business lunch or a family dinner.
Across Thurston County
-
Meconi’s Subs has recently launched their gluten-free rolls. Meconi’s Italian Subs: The iconic Meconi’s sub shop now offers a fresh-baked gluten-free sandwich roll at each of their four locations (Lacey, Hawks Prairie, Olympia, and Tumwater). You can read about their two-year process of developing the perfect signature roll here.
Again, these are just some of the restaurants that cater to the gluten-free crowd. You can also find plenty of options at most Indian restaurants, Mexican and Latin American restaurants, and Asian restaurants, including Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese venues. (Make sure to ask about whether dishes contain soy sauce).
If you’re not sure about a restaurant’s gluten-free options, you can check out their menu online ahead of time and call before visiting to ask about preparation methods. I recommend calling at off-peak dining hours. Be willing to ask questions – if the server doesn’t know, he or she can ask the chef or manager.
