Tag: Travel

I love, love, love to travel… But there have certainly been times when I have made errors and had to worship the porcelain goddess of gluten hatred… And she is vindictive!! All you have to do is select from the menu carefully, and select gluten free restaurants even more carefully! And then.. Have FUN and see the world!! Here are my top tips for a tip-top trip!

Tip1- In the airport, stick with brand name gluten free bars, like KIND or Odwalla, or stick to fruits, nuts and pre packaged smoothies, like Naked juice. For a more filling meal, go to a sit down restaurant and go for something like a salad (Caprese is my on the road go-to), making sure not to get dressing unless verified to be gluten free! Other options are chips and salsa, rice and beans, or a sandwich or burger- sans the bread (just make sure they are not just peeling the bread off)!

320 calories.. with a bag of nuts, I’m powered up for my morning!

Tip 2- Avoid frozen mixed drinks! If you’re on vacay and you want to have a nice drink (or 2..), go for a yummy glass of wine, a gluten free beer, Apple cider, or a handmade high quality mixed drink on the rocks!

yum… nice evening reprieve!

Tip 3- KISS … Keep it Simple… Seriously!!! Don’t order the entree with 3 creamy dreamy sauces…gluten based thickeners abound! Go for a balsamic or balsalmic vinegrette! Yum!! Even molé is often made with flour and roux is as well. All of these can be prepared gluten free, but if not specified in the menu, steer clear!

edamame… cold… hot… LOVE IT! my snack!

Tip 4- Dare to try new things! Check the ingredients & dig in!!! There are so many beautiful, wonderful foods that are gluten free!!!

Today, at the Gaylord Opryland resort, I ordered a roasted sweet potato sandwich with olive tampenade and arugula… Sans bun… delish!!!!

THIS was a delicious treat! sweet potatos, olives & arugula with a fig jam! Shut the front door!!! excellent!

Definitely going to try that in the home kitchen!

Book that flight! Don’t have food fear! Just have food RESPECT!

Make it a great night! I’ve got an grand ole opry show to catch

Highlights from the Big Apple

By GlutenFreeHolly

On March 17, 2015

In Gluten free, Gluten Free Dining

There she is, lady liberty, wrapped in her billowing robes. She seems, from her attire, like she would understand bloating…. and expressly prohibit this condition from the American people and our guests. There is probably nothing more frustrating than going on a trip and getting gluten-ed. Honestly, it makes you feel like you should stay in your gluten free home and never venture out again …..EVER. Education, courage and careful selections can make your next dining out or travel experience safe and enjoyable! And remember, Open Table has a link to search for Gluten free!

http://www.opentable.com/promo.aspx?pid=630&m=8

Be adventurous! Here are some tips from my recent trip to NYC.

1. Where to stay: Manhattan! As close to Central Park as possible! Why? It is beautiful! There is great shopping, the Rockefeller Center, Times Square and Broadway all in walking distance (or the subway, if you prefer). I love the London NYC. It is a stylish all suites hotel, its super swanky, and they have great deals! Their restaurant, Maze, offers Gluten-Free selections, including toast in the morning and the pleasant staff, upbeat setting and impeccable service cannot be beat.

Maze at London NYC – from thelondonnyc.com

www.thelondonnyc.com

2. Gluten Free Dining

Aside from my prior post, where I strongly recommend Bouchon (www.bouchonbakery.com), Eataly (www.eataly.com), and Grom (www.grom.it), I have 2 more favorites that I visit each time I go to the city.

Toloache

An authentic Mexican Restaurant serving up to die for Margaritas and Mexican food. The Toloache Margarita features hibiscus and blueberries and is the most decadent margarita I have ever had! This weekend, we went for brunch and I had the vegetarian Huarache while my dining companion had the fish tacos! Time after time, this restaurant serves up delicious food and drinks with NO tummy ache!

Deliciousness served up at Toloache!

www.toloachenyc.com

Rubirosa

Italian… Yes Italian! Did you think you could ever have Italian again? One word… Rubirosa! Located a short subway or taxi drive away, this trendy restaurant located in the lower east side serves up tasty Italian and features an entire Gluten free menu! Word to the wise, make reservations in ADVANCE! Please try the GLUTEN FREE MOZARELLA STICKS!!!! and Pizza! Not kidding! This place is THE BOMB!

www.rubirosanyc.com

Check this out!

What are you waiting for? Enjoy!

NY city gluten free gems!

By GlutenFreeHolly

On March 15, 2015

Pistachio macaroon

So Friday, my boyfriend and I flew to NYC for the NYC half marathon 2015. I wish I could say I’m the one running…. But alas, no! However, I am here to enjoy the feeding frenzy, (not to mention the brief respite from work) that precedes any athletic event and want to mention some notable locations!

After a long walk through the beautiful, but somewhat frozen, Central Park, we decided to get gelato… And found Grom. This gem on Broadway just off Central Park has all natural, organic and gluten free products that are just incredible. I would post a photo of the hot chocolate, but I drank it too fast! Heavenly! Thick molten chocolate with a side of whipped cream so cold and perfect that it maintained its form without melting away into the mix. The gelato was awesome too. Next time you’re in the city, it’s worth a try! www.grom.it.

My other NYC favorite is Bouchon Bakery, right off of Rockefellar center… Macaroons! Oh my! The pistachio is my all time favorite! Just ask because some flavors are not gluten free!

Finally, Eataly! Near Madison square garden… An Italian complex featuring multiple themed restaurants, shopping, and areas for wine and beer tasting… Even a fresh fruit and veggie market! Fun to visit and try out ..and safe to eat with gluten free selections including pasta! www.eataly.com.