San Francisco, California

Whew!  This was a whirl wind trip but I did get some great food in.

First stop was breakfast of course.  There was a gaggle of us with many particular food requirements including gluten free, healthy, hearty, suitable for a 2 year old, San Francisco-esque and close by. We decided on the Union Square Hyatt.  I was a little skeptical.  I had been there during my last trip for a drink.  Gluten Free!  Anyway, the view is breathtaking with a scape that includes the financial district, both bridges, North Beach, Coit tower, and Alcatraz.  I figured, even if I could only have mimosas and look out the window I would be fine.   I once again didn't get any pics.  Sorry.  I had a good, not great, but good omelet (spinach tomatoes and super yummy fresh mozzarella) and a dish of very nice fruit.  The mimosa was darn good as well.  They were happy to ask the chef any questions I had and served me a good, gluten free meal with a great view.

Next was an early dinner, late lunch after a busy day at Steinhart Aquarium and the Golden Gate Park.  I convinced the group to head to one of my favorite spots to eat in the city,  Chow.  This has been a favorite since well before I realized I was gluten free.  It is a little difficult to look at all the glutenous options on the menu and remember how they each tasted.  Fortunately, I can always find many things gluten free as well. This place is wonderful,  the staff is always helpful, it is cozy, everything tasted great and it is quite affordable for San Francisco.  This time we started with some shared appetizers.

Grilled calamari with fennel and lemon.  This was great.  It is SO rare that calamari is not breaded and fried.  It was a real treat.

Fine.  There is only one left.  At least I remembered to take a picture!

Steamed mussels (sourdough bread on the side)

Since we were going to have a second dinner later, I had something light.  I had the Thai style organic chicken salad. This was a favorite of mine when pre-celiac.  It was just as good as I remembered.  Great flavors with a little kick.

Everything was so good we actually ended up there again the next evening for dinner.  I had a juicy pork chop.  The server was great about checking multiple special items for me.  Another successful meal.

For our second dinner that evening we went to my old San Francisco standby, Tangerine.  Everything in this place is interesting and fantastic.  Even the water tastes great.  The butter has rosemary and orange zest.  I admit I eat the butter alone it is so good. My companion and I decided to share appetizers, an entree and desserts.  The wait staff is incredible.  I don't even live there any more and they still recognize me when I come in.  I simply ask what is safe and they go over the entire menu.  "Yes, no, yes, we can make this GF..."

We started with yam cakes with pine nuts, Parmesan and pesto.  They are so good I have to close my eyes so you can concentrate on the delicate tastes and texture.

I did have to eat a few before taking my pic.

Then scallops.  These were not originally gluten free but they replaced the soy sauce with browned butter and brown sugar. 

We shared a special, a piece of white fish with peppercorn sauce over bok choy and jasmine rice.  We devoured it before i got a picture.

Then dessert of course.  We had to have two.  Chocolate mousse and lemon cello ice cream.  The mousse is not as good as it used to be but still okay.  It is made with milk chocolate now so not all that rich.  All of their ice creams are luscious though.

The next morning we tried to go to THE best breakfast place in the city, Mama's.  The food is unbelievable!  Everything that should be GF is and they are very helpful.  If you ever get the chance, try it!  There is usually about a 1 hour wait but, it is completely worth it.   It had been raining all morning so, I thought maybe the line wouldn't be so long.  Instead, it was two hours long!  I had too much shopping to do to wait that long this time.  We headed to the other end of Washington Square Park to Cafe Divine.

We started with, big surprise, mimosas!  This is yet another place that is not specifically GF but happy to check on everything for me, even on a busy morning. I had an egg scramble with Italian sausage, bell peppers, scallions and mozzarella.  The sausage was very tasty and the side of potatoes was super good.

For lunch we just wanted something quick to keep our blood sugar up for shopping.  We stopped in the fancy food court of the Westfield Shopping Center.  This no ordinary food court.  Check out the previous link for the list of quality eateries.  While my companion went to Bristol Farms for bread, cheese and fruit, I stood overwhelmed with my soup choices at the San Francisco Soup Company.  I had been aware that they had GF soup choices but, wow!  The soups were all clearly marked GF and all but a few were GF.  Everything looked good.  I settled on a chicken curry soup over rice.  Just right for shopping fortification.

I did make my companion stop at a gluten friendly bakery for some snacks.  Again, overwhelmed.  Crepe O Chocolate  is a very organicy, fresh kind of place.  There were so many GF option.  Approximately half of the options were GF.  I bought many things to taste test later.

OMG

All in all a very successful, no contamination, lots of food trip!!!

Berkeley, California

Tonight I am back in the Bay Area, one of my favorite places on earth.  I meat some friends from PA school at a central meeting point in Berkeley for dinner.  We went to a swanky farm to table restaurant just near the university.  Gather  is gluten free and vegan friendly as well as delicious.

 Unfortunately, I was too busy catching up with my old friends to take any pictures.  Check out the web site for some beauties.  The menu is not all gluten free but everything GF was labeled.  There were at least 2 dishes in each category that were gluten free, including dessert.  All of the specials were gluten free as well.  Also, the waiter was knowledgeable regarding the GF diet.  It was nice to not have to go through the whole celiac schpeal.

They had two dishes made from a wild boar bred with regular hog from a local farm.  I had a chop from that animal.  Super good!

Portland, Maine

Here we are, full "circle" back to good ol' Portland.  I planned to get back to Portland a little earlier than my flight left to have lunch at one of my favorite pizza places, Flatbread's.  I have been here many times both pre and post celiac.  Their gluten free crust is wonderful and all of the toppings are organic, fresh and completely delectable.  I can't even tell they are gluten free.  My companion, who is not celiac, thought it was extremely tasty as well.

I could eat this everyday.

Bethel, Maine

We went to the beautiful town of Bethel for a Gould Academy reunion.  What a perfect time of year to go. All the leaves were turning brilliant autumn colors and the weather was fresh and crisp.  I was very concerned about this part of the trip.  Bethel is a very small town.  We stayed at a condo at the Bethel Inn Resort.  It had a full kitchen.  It worked out beautifully.  I brought my bag of groceries from Whole Foods with me.  I really worked out.  We even had a fabulous late night dinner of french toast one evening.  it was actually a great time.

We had lunch at the inn tavern one day.  There was definitely not a gluten free menu and the staff wasn't very informed but they were very helpful.  It limited my choices but they were very careful and provided me with a flavorful bowl of chili.  Satisfying!

I was surprised to find a pizza place in town with gluten free pizza AND beer.  In Bethel!  I can never pass up the pizza.  We gave it a try the very first opportunity.

    

This was fun.  There were gluten free signs everywhere.  This was good for such a remote place.  The crust was starchy.  It seemed to be made of all white starch ingredients but it was not bad overall.  It certainly didn't prevent me from eating  the entire pizza.

Kudos Bethel!

Brunswick, Maine

I did a little gluten free google before going to Maine this trip.  I know we would be driving around a little more than usual and wanted to see what I could find.  So, on our way out of Boothbay, I insisted an a quick stop in Brunswick.  I wanted to check out the claims of gluten free whoopie pie.  Whoopie pie as a Maine tradition, one I dearly missed.

We stopped at Wildfour Bakery.

 I was dumbfounded.  There was SO much there and everything gluten free.  Some things I have never even seen or heard of before.  It was a gluten free smorgasborg.

I tried to use some restraint.  I failed.  Okay, maybe not failed but certainly got more than necessary for a 2 hour car trip.  Here's what I found.

First, I was starving so, I started with a sandwich.  They make there own bread.  It was not fabulous, but good, it satisfied my empty belly.

Then on to the good part.  Cupcakes and whoopie pies and twinkies, oh my!  

Lemon cupcake with cream cheese frosting.

The cupcake was very good, not a very strong lemon flavor but delicious.

GF vs the real thing.

WHOOPIE PIE!!!

Isn't it beautiful?  Unfortunately, this beautiful creation had garbanzo bean flour in it.  Darn it!  I can't not stand that taste! It was a good try though.  The center was sinfully sweet and yummy.  If you can take the garbanzo bean flour this would be excellent.  

GF Twinkie!

Finally, my GF twinkie.  It really was wonderful.  Now, I realize that this is just a vanilla cupcake in a different shape but it is fun, fun, fun.  It was very tasty.    It tasted much like King Authur's vanilla cake mix.  Worth the trip!

Rockland, Maine

I was SO excited about going to Rockland.  It was all about the food!  My SI and I had watched an episode of  Anthony Bourdain's show "No Reservations" which took place in Maine.  One of the featured restaurants was a place called PRIMO.  The restaurant raises its own food, veggies and pigs!  We had to go.  A birthday in Maine was the perfect excuse.  I wish I had taken more pictures but I was too busy eating, sorry.

Primo was beyond fabulous!  I was in a beautiful house with 3 floors surrounded by incredible gardens.  With the first step in the door came heaven.  It smelled of warm, tasty food and a wood burning stove.  It felt like walking into a warm log cabin after a cold day of hard skiing.  Very cozy.

A lot of the menu was gluten free on it's own.  Good fresh food.  The waiter was very knowledgeable about gluten and even thought of a few things that I wouldn't have asked about.

First, the amuse bouche.  My companions had something that looked quite good but the waiter brought out my own special GF treat (without me requesting it).  Endive, creamy cheese and a fig topped with a sinful vinegar.

I continued with a fresh, wonderful salad.  Then the most fabulous special appetizer.  I don't know that I can even really explain it.  It was basically a corn puree flan topped with marinated pork belly and drizzled with a pepper sauce and then served with tiny roasted peppers.  It was one of the best things I have ever eaten.  Dinner was a great duck dish.  It had caramelized onions and mushrooms.  Really good!

Next, well dessert of course.  And, oh my goodness, they had GF cannolis.  I'm not talking about some gross processed GF canolli shell stuffed with their filling.  Oh, no.  A beautiful home made shell, like a florentine cookie, stuffed with luscious, creamy filling, dipped in pistachios and served with marinated cherries.  I haven't had a cannoli since I went GF.  When I lived in SF and lived in the Italian area I was tortured daily.  Finally, sweet relief in my mouth.  Who cares if my stomach bursts open from fullness.  My mouth and soul were happy.

Despite visceral  protestations, there was more.  A sweet coffee drink topped with whip cream. A little caffeine for the drive back to Boothbay. Mmmmm.

The bill was requested (ouch!) and we leaned back with painful satisfaction, when it happened.  A post meal treat. (I thought that is what dessert was.  Apparently I was raised by wolves.)  We were brought a long tray of homemade dark chocolate truffles with hints of orange and other yumminess and soft, spongy marshmallows and chocolate dipped gooseberries.  I did walk into heaven!!

Boothbay Harbor, ME

Boothbay is such a wonderful place.  It is like turning back time.  It is full of lobsters with butter on the ocean at sunset, sea kayaking, combing the beach for sea glass and basically just a slower, less complicated life.   Thankfully, it is also somewhat accommodating to the GF life.  It gets better every time I am there.  On my first trip, years ago, there was very little gluten free.  At that time, I would send 365 bread mix ahead and be sure to get a cabin with a kitchen so I could back up a few loaves.  Toast and yogurt for breakfast, PB&J for lunch and lobster for dinner.  Not bad.  I also always pick up some GF ice cream cones on the way (Portland Whole Foods) so I could have soft serve ice cream (safe every time I have checked) at the East Boothbay General Store.  They are always happy to check ingredients for me as well as make one of there great sandwiches on my GF bread (I just bring my Udi's with me in a Ziploc).

This trip was very successful, celiac speaking.

After a late night of travel, shopping and dinner in Freeport we stopped at the Hannaford (say it with a Maine accent) for a few more supplies.  I had a plan for GF chocolate chip birthday pie in the morning.  For a small town (I'm talking one traffic light) grocery store, Hannaford has a nice little gluten free section.

pasta and crackers and flour, oh my!

Next stop, bed.

We stayed at the Tugboat Inn in the crow's nest.  It was perfect.  It had a full kitchen with a full size oven.  Perfect for my gluten free baking.  Not to mention the incredible views from the deck.

Boothbay Harbor

After a sound nights sleep, it was time for some breakfast!!  After a few morning mimosas we wandered down to the Blue Moon Cafe.  I have been here numerous times over many visits to Boothbay.  The same gentleman is always behind the counter and always willing to answer all my questions.  I always get about the same thing.  Omelet with veggies and cheese, potatoes and coffee.  The cheese and potato spices are all safe.  I confirm on each trip.

For lunch we had plans to meet family for a birthday lunch.  While waiting outside I saw the local popcorn stand that just moved to the center of town (http://www.coastalmainepopcorn.com/).  I told my companion that I didn't feel like asking all  the gluten questions but wanted to just LOOK at the popcorn.  Maybe we could go back later and ask.  I just didn't have the energy.  Turns out...I didn't have to!

They had all the gluten free flavors right there! On the board. No asking.  The woman behind the counter was lovely and gracious and gave me multiple samples.  Yum!!

Alas, I could not have popcorn for lunch ... on to Jordan's.

Jordan's does not have a dedicated GF menu but the staff is very helpful and patient.  I have also eaten here a few times throughout the year.  They have been consistent with their service, great food and helpfulness with all my questions and requests.

We went up to Rockland, ME for dinner.  Wow!!  More on that to come.

Though I did not get there this trip, I also must note 93 Townsend as a dining option.  They are probably the most upscale restaurant in Boothbay Harbor.  Though they also do not have a gluten free menu, the former chef is celiac.  So, they are used to getting celiac customers and are helpful in finding safe options.  Plus, they have a crazy martini menu!

Next trip I plan on trying the Chinese restaurant.  I know... soy sauce.  I have been told by an employee/family member that they are happy to cater to gluten free and do so often.  No time on this trip but definitely on the the list for next.

Freeport, Maine

On the way to Boothbay Harbor I stopped in Freeport for a little shopping.  I wanted to check out L.L. Bean in preparation for my Feb trip to Antarctica.  Of course, after a long day of travel and shopping, I needed food.
I had a lovely dinner at the Harraseeket Inn.  They have a restaurant in the main inn as well as a tavern.  We went to the tavern.  There menu specifies gluten free. http://www.harraseeketinn.com/site/batmenu.shtml

We started with the Oven Baked Lobster and Artichoke Dip with Crudite.  OMG!  SO GOOD!  Huge chunks of lobster.

Did I mention lobster?

For dinner... Line Caught Haddock.  Also, quite good.  It was a huge portion.  I forgot to take a picture.
To be honest I can't remember what was gluten free on the dessert menu.  I was so full I couldn't have taken another bite.

Portland, Maine

First stop in Maine is Portland for some GF staples.  I headed straight to Whole Foods for some Udi's bread, gluten free ice cream cones, granola, etc.   I have heard people complaining recently about the lack of gluten free at the Portland Whole Foods.  I disagree.  I would say it is pretty close to the selections we have here in Austin.  It looks smaller because most of it is on end caps but there was nothing they didn't have that I needed.  Makings for gluten free snacks, chocolate peanut butter pie, great breakfast and mimosas...check!  On to Freeport. 

JFK Airport - NYC

So, I am once again off to Maine.  Ocean air and some much deserved relaxation.  A quick breakfast of coconut milk yogurt and Bakery on Maine granola (seemed fitting) and I'm on my way.

Flying Jet Blue.  Yipee! GF Blue chips for snack!

First stop, JFK airport, NYC.  I was a little concerned about the food there.  Honestly, it has been quite a few years since I have had to fly through JFK.  The last time I was there the only options were pizza and Japanese.  Neither very gluten free friendly.  Wow, was I pleasantly surprised!  There were many very nice and yummy looking restaurants.  I am sorry to report that I just didn't have the gumption  to ask all the questions or drop $30 for a quick lunch today.  Thankfully, there is also a lovely food court at CIBO EXPRESS.

Now, I didn't see place that was specifically labeled gluten friendly BUT  there was a wonderful salad bar.

It looked like a little Whole Foods.  It was clean and food was well separated.  There were no signs regarding allergies or ingredients so I stayed with the safe stuff.  Veggies!!  They also had separate oil and vinegar so I didn't have to worry about the dressings.

There were also many prepackaged meals that looked delicious and had all the ingredients clearly marked.

I must say, I kind of want to book another trip through NY just so I can try some of the restaurants in the airport.  Kind of sad, I know!

The Beginning

I was diagnosed with celiac about four and a half years ago.  I had been sick for over 11 years.  My diagnosis came, finally, while living temporarily in Austin, TX.  Oh drat!  No more flour tortillas!  No more beer!  About 2 weeks after my diagnosis I was sent to Greenville, Maine.  I was living in a small building next to the small hospital.  The only kitchen was a fridge and a microwave. It was mud season so all of the restaurants were closed.  The only places to get ANY food were a bar (gin is gluten free!!), the hospital cafeteria or the grocery store, which was the size of a 7-Eleven.

Downtown Greenville

Everyone at the hospital was very helpful.  They had had a patient living in the nursing home a few years prior with celiac.  So, they were knowledgeable about what was safe in the cafeteria.  Unfortunately, that wasn't a lot.  I mostly lived on Jif Peanut Butter in spoonfuls, grapes, and apples at first.
On weekends,  I would drive three hours down to Portland, ME to hit up Wild Oats grocery store for some food.  At that time, it was still very difficult to find anything gluten free.  Plus, I was not very savvy yet either. I would stock up on San-J Sesame Crackers to eat with my peanut butter and Amy's Frozen Mexican Casseroles.  Thank whoever is in charge for Amy's!!!!  They only had one thing gluten-free there at that time but it said "gluten-free" right there on it.  I ate one daily!

From Greenville,  I moved back to San Francisco.  Yay!  All the great restaurants, all my favorite foods, sour dough bread!  CRAP!!  I had to relearn it all.  Thankfully, San Francisco has a huge variety of restaurants, grocery stores and a lot of very helpful chefs. I had wonderful gluten free meals at Tangerine, Chow, One Market, The Boulevard and a serious amount of Scharffen-Burger Chocolate.  I would eat cheese and sesame crackers with some 2 Buck Chuck red wine from Trader Joe's for appetizer nightly while staring out over the bay.  I figured out what was safe at Starbuck's.  I was getting the hang of this.  (I will post more on San Francisco later as I just came back from a trip and have updated info).

Six months later and back to Austin, TX which is where I currently live.

Since my diagnosis I have lived in a few cities and have visited many more.  I look forward to sharing my experiences and helping  find new places with great tasting gluten free food!