In the Hunt for 'Gluten-Free' Brunch?

There’s nothing better than breakfast or brunch on a lazy or physically-active weekend. Ditto for the occasional indulgent weekday. Finding a restaurant that can offer truly gluten-free options in downtown Victoria, while satisfying the needs of our ‘gluten’ friends and family can be a challenge. Not any more! Fuego Old Town Eatery is set to be Victoria’s new hotspot – for anyone and everyone who loves a great breakfast!

More than any proffered ‘gluten-free’ menu – celiacs know that ingredient sourcing, cross-contamination prevention protocol and the sensitivity of staff with nervous diners form the foundation of a safe and enjoyable gluten-free experience.

It was in this tentative frame of mind that I popped into Fuego’s moments before 3pm closing last week. Rather than being turned away, I was treated to friendly smiles from Fuego servers, Elsie and Erick after another epic Saturday at this Inner Harbour destination. The ‘E-Team’ was only too eager to show me the menu they provide to diners who identify themselves as needing gluten-free options, highlighting how careful their chefs are in preparing our meals.

When I asked about the brand of chorizo they used and what assurances they had about it’s gluten-free status, Chef Armanda quickly finished up making her last order of the day, and took the time to speak with me.

Armanda readily provided me with the name, email address and business card of Fuego’s conscientious owner, Hilda Olberg. Don’t you wish more restaurants were this welcoming?

Within a matter of hours, Hilda followed up with me, providing me with images that confirmed the gluten-free label on the brand they use – the fabulous Freybe’s! Talk about transparency – safety never fails to get a celiac’s juices flowing!

I encourage anyone living in – or planning to travel to – Victoria, BC to take in this humble but oh-so-good operation so that they can experience Fuego’s fabulous gluten-free service.

No reservations, space is limited. Arrive early and please be very, very nice to Fuego’s wonderful team! They’re gluten-free family!