Celiac Scene Investigation – Restaurant Round Up 2016!
The Celiac Scene follows up on the feedback we receive from gluten-free diners across Vancouver Island (good and not-so-good). We reach out to the restaurant involved to commend their efforts, or to support them in refining their ingredient sourcing, cross-contact prevention or their overall gluten-free protocol.
Communication is the most important ingredient to a successful gluten-free relationship. When diners seeking celiac-friendly options and their attending chefs and servers are able to collaborate on what is required – and what can be reasonably delivered – there is every chance for a safe and delicious meal!
Scroll down for the loose ends we’ve just tied up for 2016. The news is good!
10 Acres Bistro Commons & Kitchen – a grass roots report from a celiac diner prompted The Celiac Scene to issue a social media caution that 10 Acre’s chef and servers were advising celiac diners that gluten is ‘destroyed’ by the high heat of a deep fryer.
10 Acres PR Liaison Shannon Kowalko responded,
- “Good morning, I wanted to message you directly to let you know how sorry we are that our main cook working on the the day that The Celiac Scene was contacted, was misinformed about the preparation of fried foods. Sadly, that misinformation was passed on to the diner, through our server. The misconception about deep fryers ‘being able to destroy gluten’ has been addressed with all staff. Going forward, servers will fully inform diners who identify their need for a gluten-free meal that our deep-fryers are used to cook gluten items. We remain committed to serving as many celiac-friendly food options as possible at all three of our locations. Once again, we are truly sorry that this situation occurred.”
Apology Accepted! Confidence Restored!
- See 10 Acres | The Kitchen (Scene map)
- See 10 Acres | The Commons (Scene map)
- See 10 Acres | The Bistro (Scene map)
Big Wheel Burger opens up an even better 2nd location in Saanich!
- Location #1 in Cook Street Village enjoys a solid reputation with gluten-free diners for their dedicated deep-fryer and careful protocol!
- The second Big Wheel location is nestled next to Starbucks at the Gateway Village, kitty corner from uptown mall.
- Why better? Gluten-free ‘Big Crunch Chicken Burger’ is available every day at this location.
- See Scene map
Join us as we Dare to Dine at Big Wheel Burger – Friday, January 13, 2017 at 6pm
Cowichan Bay Seafood – NOW Oak Bay Seafood!!
- famous for its gluten-free fish and chips at their location in the Hudson
- moved to 2024 Oak Bay Avenue (take-out only)
- See Scene map
John’s Place – we received reports that this wildly popular, gluten-centric breakfast destination is finally catering to the gluten free with waffles and toast – cooked on dedicated appliances! All true!
- an in-person restaurant visit with Hilary had her digging through coolers to confirm the safety of their deli meats
- John’s in-house Hollandaise sauce is made with gluten-free soy sauce (not worcestireshire)
- almost any meal can now be adapted to gluten free
- See Scene map
Seeking Celiac Feedback!
- Il Covo Trattoria – If you have dined here – please contact ellen@theceliacscene.com with your comments.
- If you have had a great gluten-free dining experience – or not – please be in touch! Your input keeps this resource safe and delicious!
BONUS! Island Farms Finally Commits to Gluten-Free Desserts
- with the usual proviso, “while we employ good manufacturing processes to reduce all chances of cross-contamination, we cannot 100% guarantee that no cross-contamination occurs during ingredient storage,” we have a list at last! Proceed according to your best judgement.
Where We Dine – All the Time
- Bitez Sandwich Bar • La Fogata Latina • Noodle Box • Olive Grove Restaurant • Pirate Chips • Rock Cod Cafe • Route 14 Sooke • Sante Gluten Free Cafe • Six Mile Pub • The Joint Pizzeria • Union Street Grill • The Uncommon Carrot • Wild Poppy Bakery & Bistro
Thank you to everyone who supports this resource with their gluten-free feedback. It keeps our listing safe and interesting! If you find yourself venturing into unchartered celiac waters, take along this handy tool kit of gluten-free questions – How to Order a Gluten-Free Meal – then keep us posted on the results!
