Here’s Where to Go in Delco For Great Gluten-Free Fare — Round 1

Great — yes, great! — gluten-free food keeps increasing in popularity, and it’s clearly not a fad. For those who are gluten-sensitive, or have celiac disease, having safe meals available is a must, and enables them to enjoy a night out without worrying about how they’ll feel later or the next day.

These Delco establishments offer various degrees of gluten-free items, from one using dedicated pans, to others that can accommodate gluten-free requests. In many cases there’s a small up-charge for gluten-free pastas or breads, but it’s well worth it. Ask about catering, too, when you want to serve restaurant-quality, gluten-free options at your event or at home.

Pro tip: When dining, it’s always prudent to follow these quick guidelines so that your server and the kitchen staff know there’s someone with a food allergy/sensitivity at the table:

• Let the server know you require gluten-free food.
• If you’ve been diagnosed with celiac disease, mention that, as well.
• Ask if gluten-free food is cooked separately, especially in the fryer.
• If you’re modifying a dish, specify what must be left off (croutons, bread crumbs, etc.).
• If in doubt when the dish arrives, confirm that it’s gluten-free with the server.

Enjoy!

 

 

Apple Walnut Café

Its motto? “Life is sweet without wheat!” And, they back it up with food cooked or toasted in dedicated pans. You can also substitute gluten-free bread on any sandwich or for any toast. Save room for these two more-than-drool-worthy stand-outs: gluten-free stuffed apple walnut French toast and gluten-free chocolate vanilla cake. Wow! That’s what you get from a family that’s been in the restaurant business for more than six decades. Open every day from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

2924 West Chester Pike, Broomall, (610) 353-1384.

 

Harvest Seasonal Grill

The name confirms it: The menu is seasonal, but there are always gluten-free items and more available upon request. Summer might bring something like this: roasted summer squash that also features plant-based mozzarella and ricotta! Fall could feature local mushroom bisque. Bonus: Almost every item on the menu is 500 calories or less. Open Monday from 4 to 9 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 9 p.m., Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check out happy hour, Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m., in the bar and courtyard patio.

549 Wilmington Pike, Glen Mills, (610) 358-1005.

 

 

Jules Thin Crust

When you see “gluten-free” is prominent on the website, then you know it’s the real deal. This restaurant collaborates with the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) of North America to cater to celiac customers with its GIG-certified gluten-free dough — and then some! Toppings and sauces are also certified gluten-free. Plus, the staff is trained to prevent gluten contamination. Bonus: The gluten-free dough is also available to-go, either frozen or hand-rolled into crust. So, go ahead and choose your favorites, whether that’s piling on the meats or the veggies. Open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

114 Lancaster Ave., Wayne, (484) 580-8003.

 

 

DanDan

When you have a hankering for Sichuan and Taiwanese cuisine, look no further than the gluten-free items at this popular restaurant. There are a few menu items that can’t be made gluten-free, but many can — it’s worth the trip. Pair something from the full bar with ginger shredded duck, a signature dish that’s also gluten-free! Pro tip: Check out the vegetarian options, and ask about other allergy-friendly foods. Open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Closed on Thanksgiving. 

214 Sugartown Rd., Wayne, (484) 580-8558.

 

 

Brick & Brew

This cozy gastropub tucked into a historic property offers quite a number of gluten-free options from a menu that changes a few times a year — plus weekly specials! Everything is handcrafted from locally sourced ingredients, too. Dig into gluten-free pork belly burnt ends or blackened mahi mahi bibb lettuce wraps. There’s also a full bar. Hours vary by location, so call before heading out.

31 E. Eagle Road, Havertown, (484) 455-7250; 26 W. State St., Media, (484) 443-8411; and 400 E. King St., Malvern, (484) 320-8688.

 

DYI at Home:

 

 

Settantatré Pasta Company

Pappardelle, tagliatelle, capellini, burrata-stuffed tortelloni, cheese ravioli, short rib ravioli, mushroom and three cheese ravioli, and potato, black truffle and fontina ravioli — all freshly made and gluten-free! Heaven on earth when you want to cook at home. Pick up a big batch of gluten-free meatballs, and you’ve got a feast. Currently open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., but keep an eye on Facebook or Instagram for the latest. Takeout by appointment, too!

605 W. MacDade Blvd., Folsom, (610) 314-0876.

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Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA, and we’ve got you covered from Philly to the Brandywine. Contact us at (610) 565-3679, by email, or online.

— Nina Malone

Featured photo of Blackened Mahi Mahi Bibb Lettuce Wraps courtesy of Brick & Brew Gastropub