Off the Menu: Doc B's Fresh Kitchen

Oh, the baked chicken wings :) Doc B's has been one of our staples for years now. With one location in

Austin at Domain Northside, it's an easy to-go or dine-in for us. Their menu is diverse with a mostly American fare tilt. 

Their dine-in menu calls out gluten-free options and their staff is very knowledgeable about cross-contamination, and if you sit at the bar you get free bacon! It is one of the few locations where I don't get the same thing every single time. 

Options (make sure you tell them you have Celiac so they can make the proper adjustments:

Snack + Start + Share

- Our "Famous" Candied Bacon

- Rustic Salsa

- Housemade Guacamole

- Oven Roasted Chimichurri Wings

- Grilled California Artichokes

Salads (All can be altered!)

Burgers + Sandwiches (w/gluten-free bun)

- Traditional Cheeseburger

- The Wedge Burger

- Turkey Burger

- "All Green" Burger

- The Wright Chicken Sandwich

- The Number Six (sub grilled chicken)

- Crispy Chicken Sandwich (sub grilled chicken)

- Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

- Carnitas Sandwich (no onion ring)

- West Coast Steak Sandwich

Very Special Entrees

- Chicken Kebabs

- 6oz. Petite Filet

- 10oz. Chimichurri Steak

- Fall Off the Bone Danish Barbeque Ribs

- Simply Grilled Salmon

Wok Out Bowl (all - double check on teriyaki dressing)

Sides

- French Fries (yes they are fried without cross-contamination!)

- Sautéed Broccoli

- Coleslaw

- Kale Slaw

- Cucumber Salad

Enjoy!!

Off the Menu: ATX Cocina

This weekend my husband and I had a great staycation here in Austin, and one of the highlights was our dinner at ATX Cocina - a 100% gluten-free kitchen!

We've been eyeing this new downtown Austin hot spot, but needed a night away from the kiddo to really enjoy it (read: multiple margaritas). Upon entry you find a beautiful open space that feels a little more chic than we're used to seeing in our ever evolving city. There is ample seating and the atmosphere is light and airy.

Our waitstaff was fantastic and verified that everything but the beer was gluten-free...heaven! We munched on happy hour tacos, enjoyed the salsa sampler + queso fundido and capped it off with some esquites. We were so full from our snacks and drinks that we didn't go for a full dinner, but plan on returning soon.

Menu:

Hours

Happy hour daily from 4:30-6:30 PMDinner seating begins at 5 PMSunday 5 – 9 PMMonday- Thursday 5 – 10 PMFriday Lunch 11:30AM – 3PMFriday Dinner 5-11PMSaturday 5 – 11 PM

20 Austin Restaurants Perfect for Celiacs

Wanting to share an updated list of the 20 places where our family can be found dining around Austin on the regular! As everyone prepares for summer vacation, check out these locations that have proven safe for this Celiac time and time again. You can show up at any of these restaurants, mention Celiac Disease and they will take care of you - easy peasy.

Click for link to menu.
(G-free either marked or separate menu - most have a button on their ordering system to alert the kitchen of a food allergy/Celiac.)

Alamo Drafthouse Mueller

American

• Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas (multiple locations - g-free pizza, chips/queso and sandwiches)
• Chez Zee American Bistro
• Flower Child (multiple locations)
• Galaxy Cafe (multiple locations)
• True Food Kitchen (soon to have two locations)

Asian

• Koriente
• Thai Cuisine (almost everything is g-free, try the pad thai!)
• Thai Fresh

BBQ

• Salt Lick (everything except bread and dessert are g-free)

Indian

• Clay Pit
• Tarka Indian Kitchen (multiple locations)

Italian

• Brick Oven (multiple locations)



True Food Kitchen

• Taverna (multiple locations)

Pizza

• Austin's Pizza (multiple locations)
• Via313 (multiple locations - the brick and mortar are safer vs. food truck)

Steak/Seafood

• III Forks
• Vince Young Steakhouse

Tex-Mex

• Fonda San Miguel (almost everything is g-free!)
• Maudie's (multiple locations)
• Tacodeli (multiple locations)

Enjoy!

An Update from Home Slice Pizza

Hey friends! Every couple of years I check back in with Home Slice Pizza to see whether they have found their solution for gluten-free pizza. Unfortunately, they haven't found their perfect version yet, but I received the following information for those who'd still like to dine!

Feel free to comment if you've tried their options below.

We strongly suggest (along with Home Slice!) that you try Via313. We've never gotten sick and it is AMAZING!

Home Slice’s response to g-free option: Thanks for your note. We have experimented with different locally-produced and homemade gluten free crusts and so far they just haven’t met our expectations. New York Style pizza is defined by gluten, so it’s been a tall order. We are just so hesitant to put out a product that is less than amazing, or one that is so different in look and texture from our regular pies that frankly we’ve gotten discouraged and have put our explorations on hold for the time being. The good news is that we do have items on our menu that are naturally gluten free: our delicious green salads (Greek, Caesar or House), the fresh and colorful Insalata Caprese, or the heartier antipasto plate. We even have some gluten-free desserts. Our Italian ices are made in house — lemon and chocolate, and they are super delicious and more satisfying than you’d think. They’re dairy free, too! Not many people have room for dessert after pizza so they often get overlooked, but we're super proud of them. (Also our home made rice krispy treats are gf.) Another tip we are happy to share: Via 313 has one of the best gluten free pizzas we’ve ever tasted. It’s not NY-style but Detroit-style, which means it’s thick like our Sicilian pie but with this awesome crusty cheese baked around the edges. After all our research I think we’d have a better chance of making a delicious gluten free pie more like this style than the thin crust. Please do let us know if you ever find a crust out there that you love, and we’ll investigate! Lastly, we have opened our North Loop location and we are featuring Classic Buffalo Wings at that location only. We will be making them crispy, spicy and tangy served with blue cheese dressing, all gluten free. We will continue to serve all our gluten free salads, antipasto and Caprese as well. We look forward to serving you soon! Your Homies

Off the Menu: Taverna

For a long time I've known that Taverna here in Austin had a couple of gluten-free items, and on many occasions I crave their Balsamic Chicken Risotto (it is to die for!) but this last brunch I was presented for the first time with a gluten-free menu! How excited was I to realize that they finally put it on paper :) I'm not sure if this menu serves all Taverna locations (I would assume so)- but at least I know I have options when it comes to Austin! 

Antipasti
House Salad

Caprese

Carpaccio di Manzo - sliced beef, served with rucola, shaved parmesean, country mustard, lemon, truffle oil and capers

Fritto Misto - calamari, shrimp, shallots, zucchini & carrots sauteed and served with spicy tomato aioli (sauteed instead of fried)

Tuna Tar Tar - (server will eliminate the crispy zucchini)

Risotteria
Balsamic Risotto with Chicken Rollatine

Parmesan cheese & Truffle Oil

Artichokes, Roasted Grape Tomatoes, Lemon Confit, Pan Seared Diver Scallops

Saffron Risotto with Mixed Seafood

Shimp, Pesto, Butter & Parmesan (served will eliminate fried zucchini)

Secondi
Tagliata di Manzo - pan seared beef tenderloin, with arugula salad, EVOO and pancetta roasted potatoes

Pan Seared Sea Bass - served over mixed vegetables with a clam & mussel brodetto (served substitute vegetables instead of orzo pasta)

Scottish Salmon - pan roasted Scottish salmon with mango sweet relish, zucchini, yellow squash & roasted pomodoroini

**Please note - several of our daily specials can also be altered to be gluten-free as well

Off the Menu: Tacodeli

Okay, this one is more like what is NOT on the menu! Tacodeli has done a fantastic job making almost everything gluten-free with a corn tortilla, and they are very careful about it. Added bonus - their breakfast taco "potato" is mashed and SO good.

There isn't much seating at the different locations, so I think the best bet with Tacodeli is to order for pick-up. However, if it is a nice day, lunch on a picnic table is relaxing and fun.

I'll outline what is off limits below, and it is also marked on their menu here: http://tacodeli.com/Tacodeli_menu_web.pdf Other than that they offer tacos, salads and more - for a great price.

Do not eat:


Tacos:
Cochinita Pibil
Poblano
Sausage (as an option for breakfast)

Tortilla Creations


Tortas

Enjoy!

Off the Menu: Gusto Italian Kitchen

For my friend Maha's birthday bash she chose Gusto Italian Kitchen off Burnet Road - and of course made sure they had some gluten-free for me (such a great friend!).

As usual I called ahead to make sure and got an overwhelmingly confident response about their offerings and understanding of the diet. Upon arrival, I felt the same confidence from our waiter and the manager so I successfully ordered a VERY yummy pizza!

They let me know that the following items (all toppings and sauces included) can be made gluten-free so I will definitely be back - I miss Italian food and the more places I can get it the better :)

Please let your waiter know when you are ordering gluten-free and be sure to ask and make sure none of the menu options have changed.





Pastas:
Gemelli Pollo
Spinach & Three Cheese Lasagna
Rigatoni Arrabbiata
Pappardelle Bolognese
Spaghetti Carbonara
Linguine & Mussels

Pizzas:
The Italian Job
Margherita
Four Cheese
Mushroom
Soppressata
Bacon

Then of course - there are salad, cheese and side options upon request. Bon Appetit!

Off the Menu: Austin Terrier

I want to thank some more friends in the MBA program for bringing this location to my attention! Austin Terrier prides itself on being healthy, fresh and community oriented. They also have a great variety of gluten-free options and are very kid and family friendly! I urge you to give it a try as soon as possible:


Build your own Pizza - gluten-free pizza crust available and all toppings are OK



CHEESE
Parmesan, Mozzarella, Goat, Feta, Brie

TOPPINGS
Black Olives, Broccoli, Jalapeños, Mushrooms, Pineapple, Spinach, Marinated Tomatoes, Red Onions, Cilantro, Basil

MEAT
Chicken, Sausage, Pepperoni, Ham

SPECIALTY
Roasted Red Peppers, Artichoke Hearts, Pesto, Bacon



Specialty Pizzas:


WILLIE
Sausage, red onions, jalapeños,
black olives

TRAVIS PIE
Grilled chicken, pesto, feta, red
onions, basil

TASSO’S PIE
Feta, artichoke hearts, black olives,
red onions, oregano

SPICY TERRIER
Jalapeños, red onions, grilled
chicken, cheddar

CAPITOL PIE
Marinated Tomatoes, Italian
sausage, mushrooms, roasted red
peppers

HYBRID
Grilled Chicken, artichokes, basil,
red onions, parmesan

HAWAIIAN
Ham, pineapple, jalapeños

ZILKER LOVE
Spinach, red onions, marinated
tomatoes, feta, pesto, black olives

SXSW
Broccoli, Chicken, Red Onions,
Cheddar, Cilantro

THE ORIGINAL
Tomato sauce and cheese

THE STANDARD
Pepperoni, fontina & mozzarella

FIVE POINTS PIE
Mozzarella, provolone, fontina,
parmesan and feta, with tomato
sauce.

Soup:
Seasonal Carrot Ginger


Salads: 
ADD CHICKEN OR STEAK $2.95  •  ADD AVOCADO $1.95
DRESSINGS: House Vinaigrette, Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette

HOUSE SALAD
Fresh Romaine lettuce, marinated tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion and
feta cheese with our house vinaigrette

CAESAR SALAD (NO CROUTONS)
Fresh Romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese and crispy croutons with a
traditional Caesar dressing

APPLE & BLUE CHEESE SALAD
Organic Mixed Greens, sliced apples, blue cheese crumbles, walnuts, and
house vinaigrette

GREEK SALAD
Fresh Romaine lettuce, cucumbers, marinated tomatoes, shaved red
onions, feta cheese, roasted red peppers and black olives, with house
vinaigrette

SOUTHWEST SALAD
Organic Mixed Greens, diced tomatoes, roasted corn, black beans,
avocado, cilantro and feta cheese, with chipotle ranch dressing

CHOP’D SALAD
Fresh Romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, bacon, blue cheese, black olives
shaved red onions, and fresh avocado, with ranch or blue cheese dressing

SEASONAL ORGANIC SALAD

Sandwiches: Served on Romaine Leaf


CHICKEN 
JACKSON  
Chicken breast, lettuce, marinated tomatoes, garlic mayo, and cheddar

GETTY
Chicken breast, pesto mayo, marinated tomatoes, spinach topped with
melted provolone cheese and feta

BUSTER
Chicken breast, mushrooms, red onions and red peppers with melted brie

CHARLIE
Chicken breast, avocado, lettuce, red onions, marinated tomatoes and mayo

HUTCH
Chicken breast, lettuce, marinated tomatoes, onions, olives, pesto mayo
and feta cheese

BUDDY
Chicken breast, spinach, marinated tomatoes, lettuce, garlic mayo,
parmesan with provolone and cheddar cheeses

CHAMPION
Chicken breast, lettuce, marinated tomatoes, garlic mayo, mozzarella,
and feta

TURKEY 
SALLY  
Turkey breast, marinated tomatoes, lettuce, pesto mayo, and brie

PEYTON  
Turkey breast, bacon, marinated tomatoes, lettuce, onions, blue cheese
dressing, Dijon horseradish, and swiss cheese

DANCER
Turkey breast, lettuce, diced tomatoes, alfalfa sprouts and avocado with
garlic mayo

TOMMY
Turkey breast, alfalfa sprouts, cilantro-lime vinaigrette, and provolone


ROAST BEEF
BUFFY
Roast beef, garlic mayo or Dijon mustard, and melted brie

JACK
Roast beef, bacon, lettuce, diced tomato, horseradish and spicy Dijon
mustard, and blue cheese

FRITZ  
Roast beef, lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado with blue cheese dressing
and cheddar

REAGAN  
Roast beef, turkey breast, coleslaw, Thousand Island dressing, and swiss cheese

MEAT
FRANKIE
Genoa salami, turkey breast, lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, mayo, a
touch of oil and vinegar and provolone cheese

SCOTTIE
Bacon, organic greens, and marinated tomatoes  with avocado

FINNEGAN
Ham, turkey breast , lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, oil and vinegar with
melted provolone

EMMA
Hot pastrami, roast beef, coleslaw, Dijon mustard, and melted swiss

LOGAN
Sliced steak marinated in an Adobo sauce garnished with a red wine
onion reduction, cheddar cheese, garlic mayonnaise, organic greens and
tomatoes served on a baguette.

VEGGIE
TORO
Avocado, broccoli , mushrooms, alfalfa sprouts covered with melted
provolone, and pesto mayo

ROADIE
Hummus, marinated tomatoes, red onions, alfalfa sprouts and lettuce
with feta

NELLIE
Spinach, marinated tomatoes, artichoke hearts, feta, fontina and basil mayo

UPDATED Off the Menu: Third Base Sports Bar

Hey all! It has been awhile since I posted up about Third Base, and I've been there many times since. However, when I went in on Saturday I was presented with a fancy new gluten-free menu that I wanted to be sure to share with you! The options are much more extensive than the original...and they have multiple locations!

Go Team!


BAR SNACKS

CHIPS & SALSA
GUACAMOLE
TRUFFLED POPCORN
QUESO
+ black beans, guacamole or ground beef  .5 each
STUFFED TOTS  
crawfish, andouille sausage, cheese

SOUPS & SALADS

TORTILLA SOUP
chicken, peppers, onions, corn, tortilla strips, avocado,
cheese
THIRD BASE SALAD
butter leaf, romaine, iceberg, and arugula, with carrots,
tomatoes, oregano, parmesan, Third Base vinaigrette
+ grilled chicken
+ smoked steak, seared ahi, BBQ salmon, grilled shrimp
BEEFY BLUES ON THE GREENS
smoked tenderloin, red potatoes, green beans, house
lettuce mix, pickled red onions, red wine blue cheese
vinaigrette
COBB SALAD
romaine, avocado, bacon, blue cheese, tomatoes, egg,
creamy blue cheese dressing
+ chicken
+ smoked steak, seared ahi, BBQ salmon, grilled shrimp
SOUTH AUSTIN CAESAR
romaine, jalapeño caesar dressing, tortilla strips, corn
+ chicken
+ smoked steak, seared ahi, BBQ salmon, grilled shrimp
CAPRESE  
fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, sundried tomato pesto

SIDES

Garlic Cheese Grits
Crushed Red Potatoes
Sweet Potato Fries
Creole Potato Salad
Lemon Pepper Grilled Asparagus
Fresh Fruit Salad
Blue Cheese Slaw
Sautéed Vegetables
Chips |  Fries
Chili Spiced Pineapple + Strawberry

STARTERS

CHICKEN DIABLOS  chicken, peppadew chiles, bacon, sweet chile sauce
WINGS  6 wings   |  12 wings   |  24 wings
sweet chile, smokey BBQ, spicy ranch, teriyaki, jalapeño lime, spicy garlic,
hoisin-honey mustard, lemon pepper, cajun, mild, medium, hot or habanero
with ranch or blue cheese
CHICKEN KABOBS  chicken, zucchini, squash, peppers, onions, sweet chile sauce
TRES BASE
+ HOMEMADE GUACAMOLE to any item
NACHOS  tostadas, cheese, beans, sour cream, jalapeños, pico, queso fresco  
+ chicken or beef
TILAPIA TACOS  cabbage, jalapeño cilantro ranch, escabeche carrots, grilled  
AHI TACOS  seared ahi tuna, cabbage, jalapeño cilantro ranch, escabeche carrots
CARNITAS TACOS  slow roasted pork carnitas, salsa doña pickled red onions,
queso fresco, cilantro
SHRIMP TACOS  cabbage, jalapeño cilantro ranch, escabeche carrots, grilled
tacos include rice and black beans, corn tortillas

ENTREES

BBQ SALMON  Atlantic salmon, garlic cheese grits, lemon pepper grilled asparagus
RIBS  applewood smoked St. Louis pork ribs, blue cheese slaw, fries
PORK CHOP  applewood smoked, bone-in, creole potato salad, apricot chipotle glaze
TUSCAN CHICKEN  organic chickenbreast, lemon, garlic, oregano, crushed red potatoes,
wilted spinach

SANDWICHES
house pickle, blue cheese slaw, and choice of chips or fries

SMOKEY BLU  smoked steak, arugula, pickled red onions, blue cheese, Udi’s roll
GAUCHO’S POLLO  chimichurri chicken breast, avocado aioli, Udi’s roll
BUFFALO CHICKEN  grilled chicken, medium wing sauce, lettuce,
tomato, blue cheese dressing, Udi’s roll
TURKEY BLT  smoked turkey breast, peppered bacon,
lettuce, tomato, mayo, Udi’s whole grain bread
CAPRESE SANDWICH  grilled zucchini, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes,
sundried tomato pesto, Udi’s roll

BURGERS

+ PEPPER BACON to any burger
CLASSIC CHEESE BURGER  cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion
MUSHROOM SWISS RANCH BURGER  sautéed mushrooms, ranch dressing, swiss
S.O.B.  garlicky black bean puree, guacamole, jack, cheddar, jalapeños, lettuce

BEERS

Red Bridge      $4.50
Greens Discovery Amber  16.9oz  $8.00

Off the Menu: Corazon at Castle Hill

Corazon at Castle Hill is FANTASTIC for gluten-free diners!!! Please note also that many items below are without empanadas, flour tortillas or croutons to make them gluten-free. All items are marked on the menu with a heart symbol.  Enjoy!!

Dinner
Soups:
Sopa de Elote
Posole Blanco

Salads:
Nopalitos Salad
Corazon House Salad
Southwestern Caesar Salad add either chicken or grilled shrimp
Interior Mexican Grilled Chicken Salad
Spicy "Hacked" Chicken Salad
Grilled Salmon and Arugula Salad

Entrees:
Grilled Black Angus Beef Tenderloin
Grilled Half Rack of Lamb
Sauteed Gulf Redfish
Pan Seared and Roasted Duck Breast
Roasted Pork Tenderloin
New York Strip with Red Wine Sauce
Potato-Corn Sope with Wild Mushroom
Vegetable Chile Relleno
Shrimp Enchiladas

Differences in Lunch Menu:
Soups and Salad Same as Above


Casual Plates:
Al Pastor

Entrees:
Beef Carne Asada
Yucatecan Style Seared Fish
Chicken Enchiladas Mole Negro

Off the Menu: North by Northwest

North by Northwest Brewery at 183N and Mopac is a hidden gem. They have a fantastic atmosphere, good food, great happy hour specials and entertainment; but because they are slightly away from downtown (for my grad school friends who think 5 miles north is far!) I think many don't know about them. I've had fantastic experiences there because I have friends from college who LOVED NXNW and it is only fitting to talk about them during SXSW :) They also do a huge celebration for Oktoberfest and have a Brewer's Brunch every weekend.

Here is their gluten-free menu - and of course they have a variety of wines! Enjoy:

Starters

• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail

  NXNW’s twist on delicious jumbo shrimp

Salads

• Silver Lake Spinach Salad

  cucumbers, green beans, red onion & citrus shallot vinaigrette

• Garden Salad

  cucumbers, snap peas, red onions, kalamata olives & tomatoes tossed w/ baby greens and a chive basil vinaigrette

• NXNW Cobb Salad

  a flavorful mix of spring and green leaf lettuce w/ chicken, avocado, olives, bacon, tomatoes, red onion & bleu cheese in a jalapeño-cilantro buttermilk dressing

• Pan Seared Salmon

  over silver lake spinach, green beans, cucumber & red onions w/ whole grain mustard sauce

• Sirloin Salad

  grilled sirloin sliced and served over spinach, cucumbers, red onions & roma tomatoes tossed w/ a balsamic vinaigrette

Entrees

• NXNW Chicken

  grilled chicken breast w/ seasonal vegetables & choice of green beans, lentils, black beans, sauteed spinach, braised red cabbage, spinach salad or garden salad
  $8^.95

• Grilled Duck Breast

  in marsala sauce, roasted garlic parmesan polenta & seasonal vegetables

• Fresh Vegetable Grille

  a delectable blend of grilled portabello mushrooms, zucchini, eggplant & carrots w/ mint-cilantro pesto, piled high over bell pepper lentil salad

• Atlantic Salmon

  cooked on cedar planks, served over sautéed spinach w/ blue cheese scalloped potatoes in a port wine demi-glas

• Smoked Pork Tenderloin

  w/ soy ginger sauce, wasabi mashers & spiced braised red cabbage

• Grilled Center Cut Sirloin

  w/ brandy mushroom cream sauce, caramelized onion mashers & seasonal vegetables – available at lunch only

Off the Menu: Austin's Pizza

I realized that I have been ordering Austin's Pizza since being diagnosed but I never actually wrote about them on my blog. There are multiple locations, all of which are very tuned in to gluten-free and what that means. I've never gotten sick from their pizza or hot wings and really enjoy the "splurge". It is definitely easy for one person to finish the 10" gluten-free pizza so plan accordingly!

Gluten-free friendly items:
Pizza crust - 10" only
Sauces: marinara, pesto and alfredo
Toppings: (they say all are gluten-free and I know the pepperoni is, but I was ask just in case for the other meats)
Pepperoni
Sausage
Canadian Bacon
Bacon
Hamburger
Grilled Chicken
Salami
Anchovies
Artichoke Hearts
Basil
Black Olives
Broccoli
Cilantro
Garlic
Green Bell Peppers
Green Olives
Jalapeños
Kalamata Olives
Mushrooms
Pepperoncini
Pineapple
Red Onions
Roma Tomatoes
Sun-dried Tomatoes
Spinach
Extra Mozzarella
Jack Cheddar Cheese
Chevere Goat Cheese
Feta Cheese
Portabella Mushrooms
Salads: Greek and Garden
Hot Wings
Gluten-Free Blondie Bar for dessert!

Enjoy! The g-free pizzas don't take any longer either, added bonus!

SXSW Gluten-Free

The time has come for techies, musicians, artists, actors and all of their fans to rain down upon Austin for the 2012 SXSW Festival. I have been in Austin for almost 10 years now and am shocked at how huge it has actually gotten over time. With almost three weeks of events it is nothing short of a phenomenon.

I am well-aware that eating gluten-free and traveling aren't the most friendly mix. So...I wanted to put my mapping tool front and center for all of our visitors so no one will miss out on the amazing food that Austin has to offer for those of us who are normally don't get to be excited about food.

My goal in collecting the menus from these locations was not just to tell you that they are "gluten-free friendly" but show you what you can actually order. Each pinpoint has got the contact information as well as a link to my blog post that highlights that restaurant and it's menu items.

In addition, here is a link to the food carts and trailers that have gluten-free menu items. I don't have specific information for each one but they are always accommodating!
http://g-freeinthecity.blogspot.com/2011/07/gluten-free-options-at-austin-food.html

Please enjoy the food, music and fun!

Organique by Himalaya - Gluten-Free Products

In my Christmas stocking this year I received two Organique products from my parents, toothpaste and face wash. I had never seen the brand before but my mom picked it up at the Mustard Seed near to our home in Cleveland. The website is working on it's Store Locator right now which should be up soon. It has received the Whole Foods Market Premium Body Care seal of approval so I'm sure I'll be able to find it at both of our Austin-area locations.

Since being diagnosed I've been a fan of the pink Tom's of Maine toothpaste but was more than willing to try something new...and I love it! It tastes almost like regular toothpaste (more so than others that have a chalky taste) and the face wash is very refreshing and clean feeling. So far, I've been converted.

Other products include:

- Amla & Holy Basil Conditioner
- Volumizing  Shampoo
- Hydrating Shampoo
- Rejuvenating Shampoo
- Exfoliating Walnut & Wood Apple
- Nourishing Night Cream
- Nourishing Face Moisturizing Lotion
- Neem & Turmeric Face Wash
- Invigorating Face Wash
- Hydrating Face Wash
- Soothing Lotus Flower LipCare
- Revitalizing Hand & Body Lotion
- Rejuvenating Body & Massage Oil
- Stress Free Body & Massage Oil
- Purifying Neem & Turmeric Handcrafted Cleansing Bar
- Refreshing Lavender & Rosemary Handcrafted Cleansing Bar
- i.e. balm (inhale ~ exhale)
- U-Knead-It Balm
- Toothpaste
- Intensive Moisturizing FootCare Cream

In addition to having an extensive collection of personal care products, all of their products are gluten-free and they boast that all of the products are free from over 200 synthetic ingredients. I suggest you give it a try!

Favorite G-Free Video Clips!

Okay, so you come across some interesting clips on the internet...YouTube, Facebook, who knows. So, I wanted to share some of my favorite gluten-free video clips, both serious and silly. Enjoy!

Reading Gluten-Free Labels:

First gluten-free commercial I've ever seen in mass media, go General Mills!

Adam Carolla Rant on Dieting and Gluten-Free:

Top 5 Tips for Gluten-Free Kids:

Haha...Sex and the Celiac:

Off the Menu: Torchy's Tacos

Thanks to Brittany Neighbors, Director of Communication at Torchy's Tacos, I got their full gluten-free list. Torchy's is well-known in Austin for being amazing so I'm thrilled that I can eat at one of their multiple locations around the city. If you come visit or read because you live here, check them out!


GLUTEN FREE ITEMS

TORTILLAS
Corn Tortillas

MEATS
Jalapeno Sausage, Bacon, Pork, Barbacoa, Brisket

SEAFOOD
Tuna, Grilled Shrimp

SALSA
Red Salsa, Green Salsa, Diablo

DAIRY
All cheeses, Queso, Egg

SIDES & TOPPINGS
Rice, Beans, Escabeche, Pickled Onions, Guacamole, Pickled Jalapenos, Fajita Veggies, Pico, Fresh Avocados, Green Chilies, Potatoes, Mangos
___________________________________________________________________________
www.torchystacos.com

Why get diagnosed?

So, there are a number of people who don't think about Celiac disease as a cause of their symptoms. On top of that, many who know a family member who has it don't want to get diagnosed for fear of losing their current lifestyle. However, there are some major long-term effects of untreated Celiac disease and gluten intolerance, including infertility, thyroid problems, cancer, etc. I found a good summary article that is outline below from www.everydayhealth.com - http://www.everydayhealth.com/celiac-disease/celiac-disease-complications.aspx

Complications of Celiac Disease

If the symptoms of celiac disease go unrecognized and untreated, complications can develop.

By Chris Iliades, MD

Medically reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH

Celiac disease is a common digestive disorder. At one time, it was thought that celiac disease was a disease of childhood and that the most common symptoms were bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and failure to thrive. Now that blood tests can identify celiac disease in adults, we are realizing that it is much more common than once thought.

Celiac Disease: Why It Happens

Celiac disease, also called the "great mimic" disease, can cause many different symptoms and vary from person to person. It is therefore easy for celiac disease to be overlooked or misdiagnosed as another condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome.

"If you have celiac disease, it means that your immune system can't tolerate the protein in wheat, rye, or barley," says John Birk, MD, chief of gastroenterology at the University of Connecticut Health Center in Farmington. "This causes inflammation of your small intestine that decreases your ability to absorb essential nutrients in food. Over time, these nutrient deficits can lead to complications."

Celiac Disease Complications

In adults, the digestive symptoms may be less common and the signs or symptoms of celiac disease may be related to the long-term effects of poor absorption. Some of the more common complications include:

• Malnutrition. Many people with celiac disease will have trouble maintaining a healthy weight and may complain of fatigue and weakness. Blood tests often show iron deficiency despite iron therapy. Vitamins may not be absorbed properly. This failure of the intestine to absorb nutrients is called "malabsorption."
• Bone loss. "Failure to absorb nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D can contribute to poor bone density," notes Dr. Birk. This can lead to osteoporosis, bone pain, and bone weakness that may cause bones to break easily.
• Lactose intolerance. "Lactose intolerance is more common if you have celiac disease but can also be a byproduct of inflammation caused by celiac disease," notes Birk. The inflammation in the lining of your intestine can keep you from producing the enzyme needed to break down lactose, which is the sugar in dairy products. Undigested lactose can cause gas and diarrhea.
• Irritability and depression. Children with celiac disease are extremely irritable. In adults, celiac disease can cause symptoms of depression, lack of energy, and problems with memory and concentration. Research shows that these symptoms may be due to malabsorption of vitamin B6 and tryptophan. These are important nutrients you need to produce chemicals called "neurotransmitters" that stimulate nerve cells in your brain.
• Lymphoma and bowel cancer. If celiac disease is left untreated, it can increase your risk for developing certain types of digestive system cancers. Lymphoma of the small intestine is a rare type of cancer but may be 30 times more common in people with celiac disease. Adenocarcinoma of the intestine and cancer of the esophagus are also more common. This increased risk of cancer is probably due to the irritation and inflammation in untreated celiac disease over a long period of time.
• Low birth-weight babies. This is a common occurrence in women with uncontrolled celiac disease.
• Dental defects. Permanent damage to the enamel of the teeth occurs due to malabsorption of calcium and other minerals.

"The good news is that in most cases the symptoms can be reversed and the complications prevented by a gluten-free diet," says Birk. In about 70 percent of cases, symptoms of celiac disease start to improve within a few weeks. It may take longer for some people, and it may take as long as two years for all the damage in the small intestine to be healed. The sooner you get a proper diagnosis and start a gluten-free diet, the better chance you have of avoiding complications.

Off the Menu: Texican Cafe

Hey all, first off, THANK YOU for reading my blog! I hope it helps you all as much as it helps me while learning how to cope with a gluten-free lifestyle.


Please find the Texican Cafe locations here: addition to the map coming soon! As always make sure to tell your server that you are gluten-free to ensure they won't add anything incorrectly.


Appetizers:

Botana Platter     

Four stuffed jalapenos, four chicken taquitos, a guacamole slad and chile con queso. Served with sour cream.

Nachos:

“Texican Nachos”

A pile of chips with your choice of ground beef or shredded chicken, smothered with black beans, chile con queso, lettuce, pico de gallo, jalapenos and sour cream.

Nachos al Carbon

Tostada chips covered with your choice of beef or chicken fajita with refried beans, white cheese, topped with lettuce, tomatoes and sour cream.

Nachos Supreme

Nachos wth a twist! Refried beans and ground beef with cheddar cheese or shredden chicken with white cheese, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, guacamole and sour cream.

Bean & Cheese Nachos

Tostada chips with refried beans and melted cheddar cheese, lettuce and tomatoes.

Soups, Salads y Mas

Tortilla Soup

Best in town! A zesty spicy chicken soup. Served with rice, white cheese, fresh homemade tortilla strips and lime.

Add avocado slices – 1.50

Shrimp Soup Cozumel

Large tomato based shrimp soup topped with cilantro. Served with fresh homemade tortilla strips and lime.    (made to order)

House Salad

Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots and tortilla strips.

Grilled or Crispy Chicken Salad

A large House Salad with grilled chicken breast strips or fried chicken strips.

Grilled Specialties:

Steak Juana Maria (10 oz.)

Tender rib-eye steak in a citrus marinade with grilled bell peppers, onion and tomatoes. Served with homemade fries, charro beans, guacamole and pico de gallo.

Steak Tampiquena (10 oz.)

The Owner’s Favorite! Juicy succulent rib-eye steak in a citrus marinade with one cheese “El Paso” enchilada and a side of ranchero sauce, refried beans, guacamole and pico de gallo.

Steak Fabian (10 oz.)

Tender rib-eye steak strips in a citrus marinade with whole Serrano peppers and onions. Served with Mexican rice, charro beans, guacamole and pico de gallo.

Golla’s Pollo

Grilled chicken breast smothered in white cheese and topped with sauteed tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, bell peppers and whole Serrano peppers. Served with Mexican rice, charro beans, guacamole and pico de gallo.

Pork Chop Platter

Two tender pork chops grilled to perfection with onions, tomatoes and whole Serrano peppers. Served with Mexican rice, charro beans, guacamole and pico de gallo.

Seafood:

Fish Tacos

Two corn or flour tilapia fillet tacos, grilled with bell peppers, onions and roasted tomatillo salsa, lettuce and tomatoes. Served with Mexican rice, black beans, guacamole and pico de gallo.

Tilapia Oscar

Tilapia fillet and shrimp topped with a rich creamy sauce. Served with Mexican rice, black beans, guacamole and pico de gallo.

Tilapia Cozumel

Grilled tilapia fillet with onions, bell peppers, whole Serrano peppers and tomatoes with one “Shrimp Enchilada Cozumel.” Served with Mexican rice, black beans, guacamole and pico de gallo.

Shrimp Enchiladas Cozumel

Two enchiladas stuffed with shrimp, topped with Cozumel (a buttery red tomatillo) sauce and white cheese. Served with Mexican rice, black beans and pico de gallo.

Shrimp Flautas

Two red chile corn tortillas stuffed with grilled shrimp and white cheese and fried crisp. Served with Mexican rice, black beans, guacamole, pico de gallo and Ancho Mayo sauce.

Traditional Plates:

Carne Chile Colorado

Traditional Mexican pork tips cooked in our New Mexico chile sauce. Served with pico de gallo.

Flautas

Two corn tortillas filled with your choice of ground beef or shredded chicken, rolled and fried crisp, topped with guacamole, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese and sour cream.

Plato de Tamales

Two shredded pork tamales with red chile sauce and white cheese. Served with pico de gallo.

Carne Guisada

Tender beef tips in a brown gravy. Served with pico de gallo.

Enchiladas

Sour Cream Enchiladas

House Specialty! Two shredded chicken enchiladas with our homemade sour cream sauce

Santa Fe Enchiladas

Three flat stacked enchiladas with ground beef, shredded chicken or cheese with a smokey red chile sauce.

Chef suggests adding two eggs on top – 1.50

San Antonio Enchiladas

Two cheese enchiladas topped with carne guisada and creamy chile con queso.

Chef suggests adding red chile sauce – 1.00

Spinach Enchiladas

Sauteed onions, mushrooms and spinach rolled in two corn tortillas and topped with a cream cheese cilantro sauce. Served with black beans.

Shrimp Enchiladas Cozumel

Two shrimp enchiladas topped with Cozumel (a buttery red tomatillo) sauce. Served with black beans.

Enchiladas Rancheras

Two corn tortillas with your choice of ground beef or shredded chicken topped with our spicy ranchero sauce. Served with chile con queso.

Migas:

Migas with Cheese

Not just for breakfast anymore! Scrambled eggs with salsa, tortilla strips and cheddar cheese. Served with ranchero sauce.

San Antonio Migas

Migas with a twist! Scrambled eggs with tortillas strips, topped with carne guisada and chile con queso!

Monterey Migas

Scrambled eggs with tortillas strips, topped with chile colorado and chile con queso!

Please Help: G-Free in the City Mobile App

Hi friends! For those of you who eat gluten-free, know someone who eats gluten-free or are pondering the lifestyle, I'm reaching out for some help. I got accepted as part of an amazing program through my MBA called 3 Day Startup.

A group of lawyers, engineers, software developers and those of us who are business minding gather to pitch entrepreneurial ideas and decide what companies we want to start in 3 days. Of the 40 original ideas, a G-Free in the City mobile and web application is one of the 4 remaining. That being said the final hurdle is proving that there is a need and desire for this to be out there.

If you follow me you know that I work hard with local restaurants to tweak their menus to be gluten-free and help them dig a little deeper to get some actual items together for me to share with others. That model can be replicated and made available in a format much easier to use than my blog.

What I need from you is to help me validate this by signing up for an email update for when the BETA version goes live if you are affected or know someone who would need this tool!! Please visit my landing page here: www.gfreeinthecity.com as soon as you can. We present to venture capitalists and local entrepreneurs on Sunday night so as much support as I can get before them is much appreciated.

Thank you and let's keep growing this community!

The truth about salads...

There is a misunderstanding among those who do not eat gluten-free that salads are a perfect go-to to feed us when there are no other options. I have to admit, this is not always true and kind of frustrating...

First off, salads are not universally gluten-free! Lettuce is...therefore, just asking if I want a salad is not enough information. I need to know what is on that salad:

- Is there meat? If so, what kind? Most deli meats have gluten fillers and many cooked meats have seasonings or are in danger of being cross-contaminated in the kitchen

- What about cheese? Celiac patients cannot have the "moldy" cheeses so if they are sprinkled in that's a no-go

- If croutons are automatically on included (pre-packaged) then forget it; and also don't accidentally put them on and take them off because that's cross-contamination too

- Less likely, but still a concern, how did you cut up and prepare the vegetables? Did you cut something glutenous with that knife first?

- Finally....dressing. MOST dressings are NOT gluten-free. I would pretty much need to know the brand and check with them or read the label in order to feel comfortable with it. Oil & vinegar is an option but...that gets old fast.

Secondly, salads are not that good, especially with all the goodies that have to be left off from above. I understand it seems easy and safe but I mean come on...I can't eat glorified lettuce every meal of the day. The hunger comes back about 30 minutes later and I end up reaching for some plain potato chips. 

For those of you who have made this mistakes time and time again, this is not to blame you...how would you know? Please just be aware that if we do get a salad it has to be specific and if we have to spend more than one meal with you, get creative and try to provide something different next time around :)