News & Notes: August 18, 2017

Let's get the bad news out of the way first. The Jules Thin Crust location in Cherry Hill (1558 Kings Hwy. N., 856-448-4275) is closing on Sunday, August 27, leaving one less place in the area to order gluten-free pizza. The other Jules locations are not affected.

Philly.com reports that Washington Square West's Pennsylvania 6 has closed. The gastropub offered a number of gluten-free options.

On the plus side, reader Joe M. let me know that M.A.T.T.'s Gourmet Sliders has opened a storefront in University City section of Philadelphia (3601 Market St., 215-222-0195), serving burgers with buns (from a designated area of the grill) as well as wings and fries prepped in a dedicated fryer.

The two Delaware locations of Matt's Fish Camp - in Bethany (28635 Coastal Hwy., 302-539-2267) and Lewes (34401 Tenley Ct., 302-644-2267) - have gluten-free menus [Bethany/Lewes]. The Bethany location has gluten-free crabcakes, but note that both utilize shared fryers. (Hat tip to reader Melissa Y.)

News & Notes: July 28, 2017

Better-burger chain Johnny Rockets has introduced Udi's gluten-free buns at all U.S. locations, including the two in this area: the Society Hill section of Philadelphia (443 South St., 215-829-9222) and Atlantic City at Bally's Casino (1900 Pacific Ave., 609-340-0099).

With the recent closure of Paesano's in the Italian Market, another gluten-free cheesesteak option in Philadelphia is Campo's in Old City (214 Market St., 215-923-1000), which prepares gluten-free orders separately.

The new Museum of the American Revolution in Old City (101 S. 3rd St., 215-253-6731) has several gluten-free salads and a soup available at its Cross Keys Cafe, as noted on the menu.

The Greene Turtle has opened its newest sports bar and restaurant in Middletown, Delaware (416 S. Ridge Ave., 302-376-7800.) There are now six locations in Delaware and one in North Wales, Pennsylvania, all of which offer a gluten-free menu.

Hot Dog Tommy's in Cape May (319 Beach Ave., 609-884-8388) offers gluten-free hot dogs with buns and fries.

News & Notes: May 12, 2017

New additions to the Philadelphia gluten-free restaurant scene include Asian fusion SuGa by Susanna Foo (1720 Sansom St., 215-717-8968), which notes gluten-free options on the lunch, dinner and brunch menus.

Thanks to reader Marissa R., who let me know that Wm. Mulherin's Sons (1355 N. Front St., 215-291-1355), an Italian restaurant in the city's Fishtown section, is able to prepare celiac-friendly meals.

The ArtBar at Center City's Sonesta hotel (1800 Market St., 215-561-7500) has gluten-free sandwiches and salads for lunch, among options on the menu.

At the Franklin Institute science museum, Franklin Foodworks (271 N. 21st St., 215-448-1200) has a gluten-free menu primarily featuring salads and bunless burgers and hot dogs.

Philly.com reports that natural and organic grocer Sprouts Farmers Market will be opening stores in South Philadelphia (Broad and Washington) and the Moorestown Mall as part of a nationwide expansion. Sprouts offers hundreds of gluten-free products.

News & Notes: January 13, 2017

With the new year comes a round of new gluten-free products. Look in the cereal aisle for Post's new Cinnamon Pebbles, part of the regular - not limited edition - Pebbles line. The company has nutrition and ingredient information posted at its website.

Kellogg's has added two gluten-free Special K Nourish chewy nut bars: Chocolate Coconut Cashew and Caramel Almond Sea Salt. Kashi, also owned by Kellogg's, has a new line of gluten-free chewy nut butter bars. Those bars come in four varieties: Salted Chocolate Chunk,  Almond Snickerdoodle, Chocolate Trail Mix (all made with almond butter) and Coconut Cashew Macaroon (made with cashew butter). All of these bars include oats as an ingredient.

The gluten-free Canyon Bakehouse bakery is introducing a new line of breads called Heritage Style, which come in Honey White and Whole Grain varieties. The bread is sold fresh, not frozen, and the slices are larger than those in the company's original bread loaves. Look for them in the grocery section at Target stores nationwide; they'll soon be available for online ordering through Canyon Bakehouse's website.

Schar's newest gluten-free cookies include Butter Cookies, Chocolate Thins and Oat Biscuits.

As I wrote in Tuesday's blog post, Jersey Mike's Subs locations in the greater Philadelphia area are participating in a 90-day test of gluten-free sub rolls. The locations that opened this week in Trexlertown, Pennsylvania and Voorhees, New Jersey are among those slated to participate in the program.

The region's first BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse recently opened in Allentown (665 N. Krocks Rd., 484-268-2340). The gluten-free menu there includes thin-crust pizza and a chocolate chip Pizookie for dessert.

Reader Dalice let me know that in the Queen Village section of Philadelphia, Thai restaurant Pad Chili (604-606 S. 2nd St., 215-470-4301) can prepare selected items gluten free.

Two more Philadelphia Snap Kitchen locations have opened, one in Bella Vista (601 S. 10th St., 215-845-0027) and the other in Fishtown (1325 Frankford Ave., 267-838-6590). Practically all of the to-go meals sold there are gluten free.

City Kitchen, the demonstration kitchen at Philadelphia's Reading Terminal Market (12th & Arch Sts.), is hosting a "Gluten Free Friday" cooking class on Friday, March 3 beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $65 per person and can be ordered online.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

With the Gluten Free Philly app for iOS and Android devices, find more than 1,500 area gluten-free-friendly businesses on the go, search by cuisine or neighborhood, make reservations and more!

News & Notes: December 16, 2016

After months of renovations, Catelli Duo has opened at the Moorestown Mall in the former Osteria space (400 Rt. 38 W., 856-437-5757). The kitchen can prepare gluten-free pasta upon request; ask that it be cooked in a clean pot with fresh water.

The newest addition to the King of Prussia Town Center is City Works Eatery & Pour House (220 Main St., 484-690-4150). Gluten-free options are listed on the menu on the premises.

Indian restaurant Monsoon in Mt. Laurel (4180 Dearborn Circle, 856-234-0080) can prepare many menu items gluten free. The owners are planning to open a second location, in Cherry Hill's Barclay Farms Shopping Center in the spot last occupied by La Terrazza (1401 Rt. 70 E.).

HipCityVeg's Arugula Taco Salad

HipCityVeg has opened a third location in Philadelphia, this one on the Avenue of the Arts (121 S. Broad St., 267-273-0603). The fast-casual vegan restaurant can prepare salads and other menu items gluten free.

Philly.com reports that the short-lived Travinia Italian Kitchen in Fishtown has closed.

The Food Network-featured Cake That in Manahawkin (657 E. Bay Ave., 609-713-9125) offers gluten-free sweets. Though not prepared a dedicated kitchen, the gluten-free products are baked first in the morning on equipment that is cleaned prior to use.

Sur La Table is hosting a "Deliciously Gluten Free" cooking class at its Marlton, Lawrenceville and King of Prussia locations on January 11 and 22. The menu includes Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage and Lemon, Quinoa-Crusted Chicken with Spicy Cherry Tomato Chutney and Free-From Apple-Almond Pie. The cost is $69 per person and online registration is available.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

With the Gluten Free Philly app for iOS and Android devices, find more than 1,500 area gluten-free-friendly businesses on the go, search by cuisine or neighborhood, make reservations and more!

News & Notes: April 29, 2016

(Photo credit: Beefsteak/Facebook)

Celebrity chef José Andrés, whose culinary empire is based on Washington, D.C., is heading to Philadelphia to open a branch of his quick-service concept called Beefsteak. The menu at the vegetable-focused restaurant, set to open in June in University City (3417 Spruce St.), is almost entirely gluten free. In fact, it's the gluten-containing items that are noted on the menu, not the other way around. Gluten-free diners will be able to order bowls composed of ingredients of their choosing or opt for chef-recommended combinations.

Street Side's tofu rice paper rolls
(Photo credit: Street Side/Facebook)

Street Side brings Vietnamese street food to Northern Liberties (165 W. Girard Ave., 267-737-9165). All of the rice paper rolls can be made with gluten-free tamari instead of hoisin peanut sauce. The pho is gluten free, as are most small plates and desserts. All gluten-free items are listed on the menu.

News & Notes: March 27, 2015

(Photo: Buena Onda/Instagram)

The newest culinary endeavor for celebrity chef Jose Garces is Center City taqueria Buena Onda (1901 Callowhill St., 215-302-3530). The meat and chicken classic tacos, made with corn tortillas, are gluten free. As for the non-batter-fried fish tacos, request that they be prepared with corn tortillas and without glaze, which contains non-gluten-free soy sauce.

Spanish wine bar Jamonera (105 S. 13th St., 215-922-6061), a sister restaurant to nearby Lolita and Barbuzzo in Center City, can accommodate gluten-free requests.

The Fire Hill Pub in Kennett Square (1470 Baltimore Pike, 610-268-8252) notes gluten-free options on all menus. Nearby, Fire Hill co-owner and chef Raymond Maxwell, Jr. has just opened Chef-a-Topia at the Market at Liberty Place (148 W. State St., 610-925-3800), where he offers prepared meals to go. Many of the items there, including his crab cake and rice noodles at the noodle bar, are gluten free.

News & Notes: December 5, 2014

Two Cocco's Pizza locations in the western suburbs have expanded their gluten-free choices. The Springfield location (35 E. Woodland Ave., 610-544-6730) not only has pizza on the menu, but also fries, wings and sandwiches along with a dedicated fryer. The menu in Downingtown (260 Norwood Rd., 610-873-2088) has pizza, crab cakes, chicken tenders, hoagies and steaks - even Tonya's soft pretzels.

For South Jerseyans like myself who have only occasionally (if ever) enjoyed Jules Thin Crust's gluten-free pizza, change is nigh. Philly.com reports that the newest Jules location will open next month at the Ellisburg Shopping Center in Cherry Hill (1558 Kings Hwy. N.). According to the story, a Newtown Square location is in the works. (You can read about the gluten-free crust and prep here.)

At Penn's Landing, the Blue Cross RiverRink (101 S. Columbus Blvd., 215-922-2386) has opened for another season and will be in operation seven days a week, including holidays, until March 1, 2015. Garces Events is providing a couple of gluten-free options at the venue: The Lodge Restaurant has a Village Burger with a gluten-free roll (something not currently available at Village Whiskey on Rittenhouse Square), while the Distrito Cantina Truck will serve assorted tacos and hot dogs on gluten-free rolls.

News & Notes: September 12, 2014

Noodles & Co. has opened a location in Moorestown (1540 Nixon Dr., 856-780-1987). Gluten-free fusilli, pad Thai and several salads are options. My family and I just ate there last weekend and were told that the rice noodles are prepared in advance in separate water.

Most of the menu at Cambodian restaurant Daly Angkor in Bryn Mawr (845A W. Lancaster Ave., 484-380-2642) is gluten free and the kitchen staff takes care to avoid any cross contact. (Thanks to Shari S. for the tip.)

News & Notes: September 5, 2014

Grub Burger Bar is targeting the end of this month for its Philadelphia-area debut in Willow Grove (159 N. York Rd.) Look for gluten-free buns and sweet potato fries cooked in a dedicated fryer. A second Delaware Valley branch is coming to North Wales in June 2015 (230 Montgomery Mall).

The just-opened Bareburger in the Washington Square West section of Philadelphia (1109 Walnut St., 215-627-2273) serves traditional and exotic proteins on gluten-free buns (baked by Free Bread) along with four salad varieties. The fries are prepped in a separate fryer and all of the shakes are gluten free. A flourless chocolate cake and a vegan carrot cake headline the dessert options. Owner Daniel Kemelman stresses that the kitchen takes every precaution to avoid cross-contamination.

News & Notes: November 22, 2013

I'm proud to announce the launch of the Gluten Free Philly mobile app for iPhone and iPad users. (Fear not Android users, a similar version is in the works.) You can search for more than 1,200 curated gluten-free-friendly restaurant, bakery, market and attractions listings in southeastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and all of Delaware. You can see what's closest to your location and make use of other great features like turn-by-turn directions and menu links. More screen shots and the full description of the app can be found at the Apple App Store. The cost is $2.99.

Delicias will serve gluten-free arepas at its new location
(Photo credit: Delicias)

Philadelphia is getting two more gluten-free-friendly restaurants that will be among the dozens already listed in the app. Latin food truck Delicias is setting up a brick-and-mortar spot at 526 S. 4th St. in the next week or two with an all-gluten-free menu featuring grilled arepas. You can read about Delicias and other gluten-free food truck options here.

News & Notes: October 18, 2013

The Avenue's Polenta Cake with Veggie Sausage
(Photo courtesy The Avenue Deli/Facebook)

The menu at Italian-Jewish deli mashup The Avenue in Lansdowne (27 N. Lansdowne Ave., 610-622-3354) lists gluten-free breakfast items like corned beef hash and spiced quinoa porridge and dinner entrees such as mushroom polenta cake. Other items can be adapted.

One of Philadelphia's oldest Indian restaurants, Minar Palace (1304 Walnut St., 215-546-9443), has gluten-free options noted on the menu.

News & Notes: October 4, 2013

Gluten-free pizza, take two. After a short-lived rollout back in 2011, California Pizza Kitchen has reintroduced gluten-free pizza to its restaurants nationwide. This time out, there are five personal-size varieties - Original BBQ Chicken, Pepperoni, Mushroom Pepperoni Sausage, Margherita and Untraditional Cheese - prepared under strict procedures approved by the Gluten Intolerance Group using a certified gluten-free crust and other ingredients verified by suppliers as gluten-free, according to the menu. (Though not on the printed menu, CPK's online ordering system and several employees I spoke with noted that the Untraditional Cheese, with a combination of traditional and fresh mozzarella, is an approved pizza.)

Gluten-Free Food Network Star

Jaquy Yngvason is building herself quite a resume. Diagnosed with celiac disease more than a decade ago, Jaquy's a professional food stylist and recipe tester (someone has to make all the food in magazines and on television look good!), allergen-friendly cooking class leader and, most recently, an Internet and TV chef.

Jaquy began posting episodes of her web cooking show on YouTube last fall, when she began traveling the United States to work on a documentary series chronicling the gluten-free community. She just posted a preview of the upcoming "Tasty Freedom" series, and popular Philadelphia gluten-free-friendly spots like Sweet Freedom Bakery, Paesano's Philly Style and Food For All Market are featured (along with a certain blogger).


Her stardom isn't limited to the web though. On last week's episode of the Food Network series Chopped, titled "Gyro We Go Again," Jaquy battled three other competitors for the chance to win $10,000. If you missed it, set your DVR to record the episode, which airs again Thursday at 9 p.m. Eastern/Pacific and Friday at midnight Eastern/Pacific.

News & Notes: May 24, 2013

As Jimmy Buffett would say, "It's 5 O'Clock Somewhere." As of today, it'll be time to eat at his newest Margaritaville restaurant, located at Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City (1133 Boardwalk, 609-431-4100). Although it's not yet posted on the restaurant website, there's a gluten-free menu consisting of entrees, sandwiches (with buns), fries prepped in a separate fryer, desserts and beer.

Agno Grill's coconut-flour flatbread with fillings

The owners of Rittenhouse Square's Pure Fare are set to open their second all-gluten-free eatery nearby on May 29. Agno Grill (2104 Chestnut St., 267-997-4524) is styled as modern Mediterranean, serving items like flatbreads, baked falafel, quinoa tabbouleh and grilled, marinated chicken with harissa sauce. Thanks to reader Sherrie C. for the tip.

Readers Elly A. and Heather H. wrote me about New American Ela in Philadelphia's Queen Village section (627 S. 3rd St., 267-687-8512), where gluten-free options are starred on the frequently rotating menu. Heather recently enjoyed a kale salad with sautéed onions, green apples and whole mustard vinaigrette, a short rib entree with whipped mashed potatoes and broccoli gremolata, and strawberry-rhubarb cobbler (poached strawberries with cheesecake ice cream, minus the cobbler) for dessert.

Manakeesh Cafe, a Middle Eastern spot in University City (4420 Walnut St., 215-921-2135) has a gluten-free platter that's made up of hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel (fried in a dedicated fryer), fattoush and grape leaves.

Hearth, a new addition to the New Hope dining scene (7 E. Ferry St., 267-714-7400), is a BYOB featuring seafood and vegetarian selections. Gluten-free options such as baked polenta, salmon niçoise and tuna steak salad are noted on the menu, while others can be made gluten free on request.

5 O'Clock Brew Co. plans an IPA called "Blue Skies"

Speaking of the 5 o'clock hour, contributing writer Dori wrote this week about Philly's 5 O'Clock Brew Co. and New Jersey's Departed Soles Brewing Company. Both are finalizing plans to launch gluten-free beers in the area by the end of the year.

Amazon.com's gluten-free grocery sale is still live, ranging from up to 15% off Glutino and Pamela's products to up to 25% off Betty Crocker mixes (with a $6 instant coupon, you can get a six-pack of BC's yellow cake mix for less than $3 a box) and GoPicnic. You can get automatic free shipping with the Subscribe & Save option. (I get a small commission when you purchase items through the above links.)

Greensgrow Farms is hosting a gluten-free cooking class featuring Vietnamese cuisine, being held at noon tomorrow at St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Philadelphia (2139 E. Cumberland St., 267-283-6787). Tickets are $35.

Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness are sponsoring a free celiac disease educational event and cooking demo on Tues. May 29 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Katz Jewish Community Center in Cherry Hill (1301 Springdale Rd.). Speakers include Dr. Anthony DiMarino, Jr. from Jefferson, the NFCA's Alice Bast and Jefferson dietitian Emily Rubin, while Pasquale Masters of Pasta Pomodoro in Voorhees will run a cooking demo and food sampling. Call 1-800-JEFF-NOW to register or use the online form.

Have a great holiday weekend!

- Michael

News & Notes: May 3, 2013

The owners of Doylestown Italian spot Cafe Alessio have doubled down on gluten-free dining, recently opening Alessio's Seafood Grille in nearby Warrington (827 Easton Rd., 267-483-8500). Diners can enjoy fried scallops and crab cakes, sides like mozzarella sticks and French fries, and flourless chocolate cake for dessert.

A hat tip to reader Jaime L. for letting me know that Em J's Cafe in Berwyn (814 Lancaster Ave., 610-644-8275) has gluten-free pancakes, French toast, waffles (served all day) and bread. There is a separate waffle iron and a dedicated toaster, while the pancakes and French toast are prepared on a cleaned grill.

West Chester Italian BYOB Avalon (312 S. High St., 610-436-4100) is now serving gluten-free pasta.

Charlie Brown's Steakhouse has been rechristened Charlie Brown's Fresh Grill and has a new, seasonal gluten-free menu that includes a garlic shrimp appetizer and entrees like mango swordfish, lobster tail and pork ribeye. Area locations are in Springfield, Pennsylvania and in East Windsor, Hamilton, Maple Shade, Westampton and Woodbury, New Jersey.

Bake 425, a take-and-bake pizza shop that sold gluten-free pies in Bryn Mawr, has closed.

Danishes from Lawrenceville's WildFlour Bakery/Cafe
(Photo credit: WildFlour Bakery/Cafe)

There are a few 100% gluten-free storefront bakeries on the Pennsylvania side of the Delaware River, but now there's one in the Garden State. WildFlour Bakery/Cafe in Lawrenceville (2691 Main St., 609-620-1100), opening Sat. May 11, will serve quick breakfasts, brunches and lunches of made-to-order savory crepes, house-made soups, salads and smoothies, as well as a line of breads and desserts.

Betty Crocker has extended its line of gluten-free baking products with a new sugar cookie mix and an all-purpose rice flour blend. The entire line has been given a face lift with new packaging. All of the products are processed in a dedicated facility. (Disclosure: General Mills, through MyBlogSpark, provided me with this information along with a baking set.) The new mixes should hit stores by early July.

With May being National Celiac Awareness Month, there are many events on the calendar locally. The ShopRite in Marlton (307 W. Rt. 70, 856-983-7370) will be hosting free gluten-free grocery tours throughout the month. The store's registered dietitian, Ashley Cully, will lead the tours, which are scheduled for Mon. May 6 (12 p.m. to 2 p.m.), Fri. May 17 (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.), Sat. May 18 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), Tues. May 21 (5 p.m. to 7 p.m.) and Wed. May 29 (10 a.m. to 12 p.m.). At the May 18th event, there will be free samples from dozens of companies - Caesar's Pasta, Absolutely Gluten Free, Snyder's and Tastykake, to name a few - and volunteers from the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness will be on hand to share the latest information on celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

The Little Bakery in Blue Bell (921 Penllyn-Blue Bell Pike, 267-708-0984) is holding a gluten-free cooking workshop on Wed. May 8 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. On tap is a discussion of flour mixes, substitutions, breakfast menus, soups, salads, dinner menus, desserts, and party hors d'oeuvres. The cost is $40 per person; call to RSVP.

The Celiac Awareness Tour returns to Philadelphia on Sat. May 18. This year it's being held at The Franklin Institute (222 N. 20th St.) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event includes a gluten-free food expo with the likes of national vendors Udi's, Rudi's and Feel Good Foods and local companies such as Brulee Bakery, Sweet Megan and Gluten Free Labels (which I wrote about on Tuesday). There will also be speakers and a cooking demo from Chinatown's own Joseph Poon. Tickets can be purchased online for $9 through May 10 and $10 thereafter or at the door.

If you live, work or vacation in Delaware, my tablet-friendly Delaware gluten-free dining guide is a must have. In it, you'll find updated listings for restaurants, bakeries, markets and attractions throughout the First State, including Wilmington, Newark and resort towns like Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach. It's selling for $4.99, and updated editions published within 30 days of initial purchase will be emailed to purchasers free of charge.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

News & Notes: February 22, 2013

Mediterranean-inspired comfort foodery Zoës Kitchen is entering the Philadelphia market with three locations in the early going. The first spot, in Collegeville at the Providence Town Center (161 Market St., Suite 6), will open on March 7. Expect spring openings for the company's first New Jersey location in Marlton at the Promenade in Sagemore (500 Rt. 73) and an outpost in Newtown at Goodnoe's Corner (104 Pheasant Run) in the space next to Jules Thin Crust. The Alabama-based chain offers a variety of soups and salads, kabobs and other entrees, and fresh sides on its gluten-free menu.

All entrees and other items at Old City Indian restaurant Lovash (236 South St., 215-925-3881) are gluten free.

The new OCF Coffee House location in Fairmount (2100 Fairmount Ave., 267-773-8081) has gluten-free sandwich bread and desserts from Amaranth Bakery on hand. (Thanks, Elise L.)

Grocery Market in Midtown Village (101 S. 13th St., 215-922-5252) rotates gluten-free soups several times a week. Follow the market on Twitter for the daily schedule. (Thanks, Amanda C.)

And to round out the Philadelphia part of the post, after a hue and cry last week Washington Square West's Percy Street Barbeque (900 South St., 215-625-8510) has gone back to gluten-free sauces.

Melt Down Grilled Cheese's first Delaware location will open in Newark (145 E. Main St., 302-737-1135) on March 5. Gluten-free bread will be on hand.

Thanks to reader Jared G. for alerting me to the fact that the Marlton Whole Foods began stocking Glutino's new gluten-free toaster pastries, which prompted me to run out and pick them up. I reviewed them in my post on Tuesday and think they're worth seeking out.

The Little Bakery in Blue Bell (921 Penllyn-Blue Bell Pike, 267-708-0984) is hosting a gluten-free cooking workshop on site Tuesday, March 12 at 7 p.m. Topics include flour mixes, substitutions, breakfast menus, soups, salads, dinner menus,desserts and party hors d'oeuvres. Cost is $40 and space is limited; call to RSVP.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

News & Notes: January 4. 2013

Happy 2013 to everyone! With the start of the new year comes new food. There are so many items to write about today that I'm bumping mention of restaurant news to next Friday's post.

Van's Natural Foods has entered several new product categories, all GFCO-certified, whole-grain items. (The new items contain gluten-free oats.) The company adds to its existing gluten-free breakfast line - waffles, French toast sticks and pancakes - with the introduction of its first cold cereals, Honey Nut Crunch and Cinnamon Heaven.

In addition to the cereals, Van's has also rolled out several snacks. New all-natural, high-fiber snack bar varieties are Peanut Butter Chocolate, Cranberry Almond and Chocolate Chip. There are also three kinds of baked crackers, made with oats, brown rice, millet, quinoa and amaranth: Say Cheese, Lots of Everything and Multigrain.

Chung's Gourmet Foods has reformulated its line of microwaveable Asian dishes with a switch to gluten-free soy sauce. The Chung's For 2 entrees come in eight varieties: General Tso Chicken, Chicken Fried Rice, Pork & Chicken Fried Rice, Shrimp Fried Rice, Vegetable Fried Rice, Sweet & Sour Chicken, Sweet & Sour Pork and Teriyaki Chicken. I bought a few of these at Wal-Mart in Somerdale, New Jersey for $3.48 each. They are high in sodium, so stick to the recommended "for two" serving size unless you want to siphon water all day.

Hain Celestial's Gluten Free Cafe brand has added to its portfolio with a new line of baking mixes. The products, which bear the Gluten-Free Certification Organization seal, include mixes for chocolate cake, brownie, pancake and all-purpose baking. These sell for around $4 each at the Somerdale Wal-Mart.

I thought after my last News & Notes post that I was done posting for 2012. However, that changed when I learned that Dunkin' Donuts is testing out a gluten-free cinnamon sugar donut and blueberry muffin in Miami and the Boston area. If all goes well, look for these sweets to be available nationwide by summertime.

Katz Gluten Free's new glazed donuts

On that note, Katz Gluten Free has introduced glazed and powdered donuts and corn muffins. Orders over $50 include free shipping; otherwise, the flat rate is $7.99. Customers can use promo code FACEBOOK for 25% off their orders. (You can support Gluten Free Philly by purchasing through this link.)

Upcoming events include the monthly meeting of the South Jersey celiac support group in Voorhees on Sunday. A representative of Bob & Ruth's Gluten-Free Dining & Travel Club will be sharing information about upcoming trips.

On Wednesday, January 9, the Woodlawn Library in Wilmington will host a free "Gluten-Free Cooking at Home" class at 7 p.m. Registration is required. Area gluten-free events through April are listed at the blog.

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

News & Notes: December 7, 2012

Fette Sau, named New York City's Best BBQ by Zagat voters since 2009, has set up shop in Fishtown (1208 Frankford Ave., 215-391-4888) as part of the Stephen Starr empire. All of the smoked meats are gluten free (the rub contains coffee, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, garlic powder and black pepper), as are the potato and broccoli salads, baked beans, coleslaw, sauerkraut, pickles and all three table sauces.

Old City Irish pub The Plough & The Stars (123 Chestnut St., 215-733-0300) notes gluten-free items on its menus, as does Mi Lah Vegetarian near Rittenhouse Square (218 S. 16th St., 215-732-8888).

The Station Bistro in Kimberton (1300 Hares Hill Rd., 610-933-1147) serves gluten-free shrimp primavera at lunch and dinner, among other options noted on the menu.

Also in the suburbs, Kennett Square's Bite of Italy (847 E. Baltimore Pike, 610-925-2762) offers gluten-free pasta and other options are listed on the menus.

Previously on my "Where to Eat and Shop" list was Basil Leaf in Newtown (2808 S. Eagle Rd., 215-968-7505). The French-Vietnamese restaurant recently converted to a 100% gluten-free environment, so everything on the menu - from the spring rolls to the hoisin sauce - is safe. Basil Leaf is now part of GIG's Gluten-Free Restaurant Awareness Program.

Mexican restaurant La Calaca Feliz is a welcome addition to Philadelphia's Fairmount section, as I wrote in Tuesday's review, with the fish and pulled pork tacos standing out.

Reader Leah J. let me know that Camp Green Lane, an sleepaway camp in the foothills of the Poconos, can accommodate gluten-free campers. The kitchen at the Montgomery County camp, which runs a seven-week overnight session, has separate cookware, utensils and the like and serves comparable meals.

Carlow Cookery in Doylestown (432 N. Main St., 215-489-2677) is hosting an intro-level gluten-free cooking class on Tuesday, February 5 at 7 p.m. On the menu is Pizza with San Marzano Tomatoes, Sausage and Caramelized Mushrooms; Stuffed Pork Chops with Apples and Mustard Glaze; Quinoa and Fennel Pilaf; and Chocolate Cake with Ganache Frosting.  The class is $45 and online registration is available.

Wegmans markets are now exclusively featuring gluten-free versions of European holiday favorites made by Schar: Panettone (Italian Christmas Cake), Chocolate Chip Panettone (Chocolate Chip Italian Christmas Cake), Fantasia (Yellow Cake), Cioccolini (Double Chocolate Cookies), Fior di Sole (Ring Cookies) and Spekulatius (Spiced Windmill Cookies).

Have a great weekend!

- Michael

News & Notes: August 24, 2012

I'm back from a great family vacation to southern California, where among my favorite gluten-free finds were a donut shop in Los Angeles and a pan-Asian restaurant in Santa Monica serving dumplings. With a couple of exceptions (and a bit of research), it was extremely easy to find gluten-free options. I'll be writing about the trip in an future "Road Trip" post.

I attended Tuesday's Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park and got a first-hand look at the dramatic improvements that Aramark has made since the Celiac Awareness night last month. Various concession stands clearly advertise gluten-free options and there's increased signage throughout the ballpark. I sampled a terrific gluten-free cheesesteak that was at least a foot long and overflowed with meat. If all goes according to plan, there'll be a dedicated gluten-free concession stand next season.

The modern American restaurant Sbraga in Center City (440 S. Broad St., 215-735-1913), helmed by Top Chef Season 7 winner Kevin Sbraga, offers a gluten-free prix fixe menu that changes frequently. (Thanks Kristin V.)

Out in Reading, the menu at Jimmie Kramer's Peanut Bar Restaurant (332 Penn St., 610-376-8500) notes gluten-free and gluten-free-available options, including chicken tenders and pizza. The restaurant's new executive chef is Andrea Heinly, who appeared on Season 5 of Fox's Hell's Kitchen cooking competition show. The Berks County Gluten-Free Meetup Group is planning dinner there on Thursday, August 30.

The Cocco's Pizza locations in Primos (540 Oak Ave., 610-622-4147) and Downingtown (261 Norwood Rd., 610-873-2088) have gluten-free pizza made with separate sauce, cheese, utensils and bakeware. (Thanks to Dana M. for the tip.)

Gluten-free sandwiches at Center City's Brodo (31 S. 18th St., 215-977-7766), which is now GREAT-trained, can be made with Taffets bread. Many soups and salads are also options there. Brodo will be participating in Appetite for Awareness next month.

I posted a review of Rex 1516 on Tuesday. The South Street newcomer has house-baked gluten-free burger buns and a sinful a la mode dessert.

Fresh gluten-free bagels are no longer a dream - at least in the Delaware Valley. Michelle MacDonald's Gluten Free Bagel has plain, everything, sesame, poppy and cinnamon raisin varieties available at Redhouse Bagels in Bensalem (1542 Bristol Pike, 215-244-0776) and at all Green Line Cafe locations in West Philadelphia (4239 Baltimore Ave., 215-222-3431; 4426 Locust St., 215-222-0799; 3649 Lancaster Ave., 215-382-2143). While the bagels are made in a shared facility, MacDonald uses dedicated racks and baking sheets. The gluten-free bagels are prepped in a separate area and aren't made at the same time as wheat versions. Best bet is to call ahead to confirm availability and to place large orders.

On tap this weekend at Beer Cakes Philly (517 S. 5th St., 267-940-7264): Gluten-free strawberry cupcakes made with Dogfish Head's Tweason'ale. Owner Lexi Malmros bakes these separately from her other wares, and she's looking to expand the gluten-free line.

Ardmore's new Tired Hands Brewing Company (16 Ardmore Ave., 610-896-7621) is brewing Nuendo, a gluten-free Saison made with white sorghum and wildflower honey. Some of the gluten-free menu items include locally sourced meats and cheeses, house-made pickles and salads. (Thanks to Kristen B.)

Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey (1 Six Flags Blvd., 732-928-1821) has finally made gluten-free food available at the park. Gluten-free (and also gluten-free/dairy-free) pizza, brownies and blueberry muffins are sold at the Main Street Pub, while fresh fruit can be found there and at Granny's Chicken and Ichiban's Tea House. The salads at Best of the West and Granny's Chicken are also safe. Great Adventure is open daily through September 3, then weekends in the fall.

New from Kozy Shack is a line of "Soda Shoppe" puddings. The first two flavors released are Orange Cream Pop and Root Beer Float.

If you're interested in gluten-free cooking, there are several upcoming classes in the area. Check out the Events page at the blog for more information.

I'm planning to take next week off, with posts to resume after Labor Day. I'm always active on Twitter and Facebook, though, so be sure to follow me there. Have a great weekend!

- Michael