BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse’s Certified G-free Menu

I had received a flyer in the mail about BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse’s gluten-free for two dinner. I have been a fan of their restaurant for a few years now. It use to be the place where my friends and I would meet up for Friday dinners. They have a wonderful menu filled with pasta dishes, specialty salads, deep dish pizzas, and their super yummy pizookie (vanilla ice cream on top of a warm chocolate chip cookie). Oh, and did I mention their beer menu and large flat screen televisions? BJ’s is the kind of restaurant where you can take date or watch the game with friends.

The flyer sat in our “things to do” pile until  my husband and I finally went for our Friday date night dinner. We were able to get seated  before the dinner rush and asked for the gluten-free menu. It was interesting to see that one side of their menu was g-free offerings and the other was a chart composed of all their dishes and the most common allergies. Making it very simple to see what dish contained what food allergies. I had a verity of items to choose from including their version of a gluten-free pizookie! But I had my eye on the pizza!

My husband and I decided to share the barbe que chicken chopped salad (no onion strings), veggie pizza, and a pizookie for dessert. They didn’t have any gluten-free beer in-house but offered 3 different  ciders. After chatting with my husband and looking over the menu time passed and our food was on its way.

My eyes lit up at the sight of our thin crust pizza as my nose took in the wonderful aroma of my long missed friend. I was so taken by the pizza that I didn’t even look at the salad. Helping myself to a slice of and salad it was time for tasting! Trying the salad first I enjoyed the sweet BBQ ranch dressing against the crunch of the fresh lettuce. It was super tasty and I can image it to be quite filling had it been the only thing I ordered.

Next it was time for the pizza, after tasting a hand-full of mushy g-free pizza I wasn’t sure if it would hold up to my memories. Going into my first bite as a skeptic but after tasting I thought I was dreaming! It was delicious! Bit after bite I consumed my first slice quickly. I was happy to see that the middle of the crust wasn’t a mushy mess  and could hold all the toppings without wilting. Diving into my second piece I took care to enjoy it at a slower pace. I had finally found it! A gluten-free pizza that I didn’t have to make myself or lack in flavor and texture.

Noticing that they are certified GF I inquired about their g-free pizza production. Speaking to the manager, Rich C., he informed me that they have separate pans, refrigerator, bins, and utensils that are only for their g-free dishes. That the cooks are knowledgeable about cross contamination, changing their gloves and sterilizing any surfaces before use. The gluten-free items are stored in their own refrigerator and are covered with green caps. They even use separate cooking pans for the pizookie that are also green. Gluten free ice cream is only scooped with their gluten-free scooper and then booth are covered after use.

After we devoured the bar-b-q salad and pizza it was time for our pizookie. Out came a warm g-free chocolate chip cookie with two scoops of vanilla ice cream. Again BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse could have fooled me into thinking this was a regular cookie because it flavors were amazing.

I will gladly return to BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse for more of their gluten-free dishes. I would recommend stopping by and enjoying their gluten-free offerings!

Now that I am writing about it… if you’ll excuse me, I have a pizza to order.

Our Anniversary and Cupcakes Squared

This past weekend was my husband and I’s second anniversary. But it was extra special because we celebrated it as if it was our first anniversary. (Last year he was at sea so we were unable to be together.) Packing for an eight day vacation on Coronado Island, San Diego, we waved good-bye to our place. We had a great list of boating, hiking, swimming, bon-firing, picking up my in-laws,  and making a stop at Cupcake Squared! What better way to celebrate our anniversary then with cupcakes!

While searching for G-free bakeries online I came across Cupcake Squared, in Point Loma. I don’t know how many times I have hung around Point Loma and have never come across this super cute bakery. This being our first trip to Cupcake Squared my husband and I were filled with excitement.

Robin, owner of Cupcakes Squared

We found it to the left of a market in a little shopping center. Walking up we noticed a doggie bowl, filled with water, with Cupcake Squared engraved on it. We commented on how sweet it was for them to leave water out for doggies. Walking into the bakery we were welcomed by Robin herself (owner). I was taken by how cute the little squared cupcakes look. Speaking with Robin she told me a little bit about Cupcake Squared. They open 4 year ago and after having many customers inquiring about G-free cupcakes she decided to give it a try. After trying different mixes she ended up working with rice flour, that bakes a dense moist cake. She has a verity of different flavors to choose from and can make everything on her list but smores and cheesecake. They bake fresh every morning and the gluten-free cakes are displayed on their own tray. No, this bakery is not 100% G-free but they go to great measures to keep their products gluten-free. They use a separate mixer and cook the gluten-free products separately.

Another super great quality about this bakery is that if you call and request a gluten-free flavor, off their list of flavors, she can put it on a list to be made during the week! How awesome is that! Robin was super sweet and it was truly a pleasure speaking with her. She had made the G-free Lilikoi, vanilla cupcake with lilikoi (passionfruit) buttercream, and vanilla, hawaiian vanilla with vanilla buttercream, Almond Apricot Squares, and Cranberry White Chocolate Squares that day. She gave us a taste of the Lilikoi and Vanilla cupcakes and we quickly feel in love with the Lilikoi! The taste of the cakes were very moist and, as she said, was more of a dense consistency. The frosting was light and delicious without having an overpowering sweet flavor. These cupcakes have a lovely light flavor that keeps you going back for more bites.

They don’t just make gluten-free cupcakes but also a yummy treat called squares. To me they remind me of a thicker cookie. They would be great with coffee in the evening or warned up with ice cream on top!

It looks like Cupcake Squared has everyone’s well-being in mind. From the gluten-free, vegan, sugar-free, and even doggie customers, Cupcake Squared has something for everyone!

Cupcakes and Squares

Saying good-bye to Cupcake Squared my husband and I were off to celebrate our anniversary. After spending a wonderful day of boating we set up our bonfire. Cooking hot dogs (Nathans are G-free) and sharing, Cupcake Squared, Lilikoi cupcake was a great way to finish off our day.

Thank you Cupcake Squared for playing a special part in our anniversary!

Sending a happy anniversary to my wonderful husband! Thanks for supporting me through my gluten-free trail and errors. For picking me up when I am feeling down or frustrated. And for never making me ever feel silly when crying over pizza. I love you! Cheers to another year together. 

Celiac and Me

After waiting months (due to a busy schedule) I finally went in for my test results. And it turns out I don’t just have a gluten allergy but (drum roll please) Celiac Disease.  After reviewing different sites, checking into symptoms, and what my body has been going through, I had a pretty good idea I would be joining the percentage of people with Celiac. So this was not a shock for me. When having a gluten allergy or Celiac Disease the treatment is similar. NO GLUTEN. The difference between the allergy and disease is that Celiac is an autoimmune disease. The problem is my body is attacking itself. So, here I am with Celiac Disease and still gluten-free.

My doc prescribed me a variety of vitamins, a probiotic, and a gluten-free diet. EPA, DHA, malabsorption, deficiency, nutrients, autoantibodies, villa, intestines, vitamins, and gut were some of the words being crammed into my head. After reviewing everything I had clear idea of what was going on in my gut. What a mess! But on the bright side… I am still here alive and kicking! I have to go back in six months for more test to see if my vitamin’s have improved.

I walked out of the doc’s office singing, lyrics to a Puff Daddy song, “Can’t nobody hold me down… ohh no, I got to keep on movin” in my head. And moving I went… to the health food store.

Lesson learned: Don’t wait forever to get test results back! I will not be making this mistake again… EVER!

2GOOD2B Bakery & Cafe

Photo taken at 2GOOD2B Bakery & Cafe in Encinitas, California

Searching the internet for gluten-free restaurants 2GOOD2B Bakery & Cafe popped up. Clicking on the link to see what G-free baked goods they offered I was unknowingly in for a real treat!

This special bakery is “always 100% gluten, corn, soy and peanut free”. Reading the bios about Mike Barbanti, Diana Mourato Benedek, and the conception of the bakery I knew I had to make a visit. Viewing their gallery and drooling over images of pizza, french toast, and cupcakes I couldn’t wait to visit. The weekend was fast approaching, my husband and I were looking forward to our upcoming visit to Encinitas where 2GOOD2B Bakery & Cafe is located.

Finally making our way up for breakfast on Saturday morning we pulled into the shopping center, parked, and jumped out with excitement.Walking into the bakery and looking right there was a display case full of cupcakes! Had I reached the G-free pride-lands? Maybe, but first a taste test. Their menu had plenty to offer including the french toast from the gallery. My husband ordered the breakfast panini and I the french toast. Both of us are fans of cinnamon rolls, so we added one to our selection.

We paid the cashier and took seat by the window. My husband and I had our eyes fixed on the cupcake display case. Feeling a little greedy we decided to pick out some mini cupcakes for home. The helpful cashier told us that if we check-in on facebook we could get a discounted price. After choosing red velvet, chocolate, white chocolate raspberry, and carrot cake our order was ready.

Having the memory of how good french toast use to taste I was ready to give this gluten-free one a try. After tasting my first bite (with my husband eagerly awaiting my reaction) I couldn’t help but smile. It was just like how I remember it… maybe even better! I happily took another bite and offered my husband a taste. After seeing how pleased I was he dove right into his breakfast panini.

Taking bites of each others meal has always been something we love doing. Each ordering a different item on the menu allowing us to taste different flavors. Since being diagnosed with gluten intolerance we have not been able to share. But not here, it was safe to share and not be afraid of my husbands fork contaminating my food. He did stop himself a few time out of habit.

Photo taken at 2GOOD2B Bakery & Cafe in Encinitas, California

Finishing most of our meal we moved on and tasted the cinnamon roll. I stuck my fork right in middle for a taste; it was so moist and delicious. Normally I expect the outside of the roll to be dry. That was not the case here, it was moist all the way through, my husband said it just might be the best cinnamon roll he had. Feeling stuffed we took the rest of our food, mini cupcakes, and half our cinnamon roll to go. Fully satisfied and with treats to go we got into the car and head back home.

After breakfast we meet up with my sister; I let my nephew and niece have the mini cupcakes. They ate them up enjoying each bite. On my next visit I will have to buy some for them and me too. Along with about a dozen of their delicious cinnamon rolls.

Visiting 2GOOG2B gave me a new outlook on eating gluten-free. I don’t have to sacrifice flavor to be gluten-free and healthy. I am lucky to have such a great bakery and cafe so close to me. I look forward to stopping by for their dinner menu!

Hidden Charges?

My sister and her family came down to stay with us for the weekend. They really got lucky because the weather was amazing. Heading out for dinner we decided to go to my favorite pre-gluten free Italian restaurant, Filippi’s Pizza Grotto. We had planned go to there for dinner during our 4th of July vacation, but ended up eating else where. I know their pizza is not G-free but I figured I could order the anti-pasta salad (no dressing).

While waiting in line I went up and asked the hostess if they had any G-free options. She said that they offer a gluten-free pasta, alfredo cream sauces, and marinara sauce. She guided me to the gluten-free pasta section in their market (the front of the restaurant is an Italian market). Taking my name to inform our server of my gluten intolerance, when it was time for us to be seated.

After being seated I talked my order over with my server. I ordered the gluten-free rice pasta with alfredo cream sauce. My sister, brother-in-law, there kids, and my husband were having pizza (I could have cried when I saw the cheesy deliciousness)

Not to long after ordering our dinner was headed to the table. My pasta with alfredo cream sauce was not that bad. I have never rice noodles with pasta sauce before so I had to get use to the taste. I can’t see it holding up well enough to take home for left overs. I could smell the wonderful aroma of their pizza. But I made it through dinner without longing over it, breaking down into tears, drooling, or fighting myself to grab a piece. Which was an accomplishment for me.

Happy and satisfied with full tummies out came the bill. Now here is where I was confused. My pasta cost $15.45. Huh? Was I reading the bill right? When I looked at the menu I saw that fettuccine alfredo with cream sauce was $11.75 So where did my pasta go wrong? Did they charge me more for the special care? For using a different pasta? Not wanting to make a fuss over the extra $3.70 I went ahead and paid the bill.

And this brings us to today, I was thinking about my bill from last Saturday and wanted more information. I have been to other restaurants where servers have told me of price increases when ordering special items. Or I there would be an asterisk on the menu indicating and additional price.

The extra $3.70 was not putting me out, but I would have like to been aware of the price increase.

I decided to call Filippi’s Grotto this afternoon and get the info. I spoke with a very nice gentleman and proceeded to tell him my situation. That I was in with my family last Saturday night and ordered the gluten-free pasta with alfredo cream sauce. Asking him to confirm the price of their regular dish to my dish, inquiring about the difference. That I didn’t see anything on the menu informing me of the price increase and that our server (who was otherwise lovely) didn’t inform me. He said it’s not their policy for the server to inform of price differences unless asked. And that so many people have been coming with a gluten intolerance that they decided to carrying gluten-free pasta in their store. Stating that it is more of a specialty item not listed on the menu. I asked them if there was anything they could do to inform G-free customers of the price difference. He said that they reprint the menus ever few months and he would make a suggestion to add an asterisk. And that, is all I could ever ask for. Thanking him for his great customer service I hung up the phone very pleased.

This has been a great lesson for me. I am still learning so much about the G-free lifestyle and what restaurants have to offer. I know they work for the general public, but with so many G-free people out there, it doesn’t hurt to make a suggestion or ask a few question. So far every restaurant I have spoken with has been more than gracious.

Thank you Filippi’s Pizza Grotto for hearing me out. You are still my favorite Italian restaurant in San Diego. See you soon!

Dinner in Downtown

Photo taken at Yard House Downtown San Diego, California

After a long crazy week my husband and I decided to have dinner in Downtown, San Diego. Meeting up with friends we made our way to Yard House. Having three sailors in our party, happy hour at an establishment offering a variety of beers on tap made it an obvious pick. Walking through the door I was getting ready to jump, doge, and zigzag from gluten like in an obstacle course. As soon as our server came out take our drink order I informed her of my gluten intolerance. My fellow friends were still drooling over the larger beer menu, the server said she would get me their G-free menu. The menu listed plenty of options and what to omit if you have a certain allergy. I went ahead and ordered the chicken sandwich (hold the bun), side of veggies, and Wyder’s raspberry cider. I am a huge fan of cider and very happy that it’s gluten free! My husband and friends ordered half yard of dark beers.

While we were laughing over conversation the manager came out to speak with me. I was really suprised by this. She said that my server told her I was gluten free. She wanted me to know that my order would be taken care of to provide me with a safe meal. Also asking if I had tried some of the gluten free beer they offer. I told her that I was enjoying a lovely glass of cider but hadn’t tried the beer yet. She offered me a bottle free of charge so I could try it since it’s not on tap. We were all impressed with the amount of care they were taking with  my meal; making me feel very comfortable.

Moments later the manager came out with a really cute bottle of Brunehaut Amber Ale, gluten free beer. I was super excited to taste it. I use to love a tall glass of beer at the end of the week. After pouring I took a few sips and was delighted by the flavor! It tasted just like real beer! Pyramid Hefeweizen use to be my beer of choice. Since waving good bye I haven’t welcomed another beer to my glass. But I will now happily welcome Brunehaut. My husband and his friends were interested in tasting a G-free beer so I let them share a taste in my old cider glass. They are fans of darker beers and stronger flavors but were impressed by this little bottle. They said it was a little light for them but it did have a good flavor to it and would have never guessed that it was G-free.

A few beers later and out came out food. My chicken sandwich with bacon, cheese, avocado, wrapped in lettuce, and a side of steamed veggies found its way to me. My meal tasted wonderful; followed by a sip of beer you just can’t go wrong. Our server came out to make sure that every was alright with my order and if we needed anymore drinks. It was really great how much attention they gave my meal. I will gladly visit Yard House in San Diego again.

A special thanks to their wonderful staff for giving my meal a little extra love.

Kick off to 4th of July

Image courtesy of greenlitebites.com

I feel like the next few days are going to be a big adventure for me in the world of gluten. It all kicks off tomorrow at my grandparents house. My whole family is heading over to my grandpa’s house to celebrate his 83rd birthday. I am lucky to say my grandpa, who I love so much, is still in very good health. A summer bar-b-q of burgers, hotdogs, salads, and other treats will be on the menu. Now, I know I can buy G-free burger/hotdog buns but I wont be home the rest of the week, so I’ll wait to try those. My sister had pinned, on Pinterest, a cabbage dish from GreenLiteBites and suggested I try it. I just have to remember to bring my G-free Worcestershire sauce and to watch out from cross-contamination in the kitchen. So, that is the kick off to my 4th of July celebrations!

Next on the list… family fun in San Diego! We’re heading down for the remainder of the week and weekend to beautiful San Diego. Planning a few beach days and plenty of eating on the go. Filippi’s Pizza Grotto and Cafe Coyote are two of the favorite places we love to visit. Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, an Italian, restaurant will be a big time test. This will be my first trip back as a G-free individual. I’ll probably order the yummy anti-pasta salad and watch my family eat their delicious pizza.

Cafe Coyote is a Mexican restaurant so I might have a chance at eating a bit more there. My sis, who is full of wonderful ideas, said I could bring my own G-free corn tortilla chips to eat with the salsa. And to be sure to use a different salsa from the flour chips. I don’t know how gluten sensitive I am since I’m just starting out; so this is all trial and error. But since I will be on vacation I would like to stay away from cross-contamination to avoid a flare up.

I made a stop today at my local Trader Joe’s to pick up a few snacks, salad dressing, and rice cakes. I hope these and some fresh fruit and veggies will hold me over in the way of snacks. So, this will be my first big G-free week on the go. I will be checking for travel tips from some of the sites I posted in my Links section. Wish me luck and happy Independence Day!

Slater’s 50/50 – Burgers by Design

Just got back from spending the week in San Diego! After spending the day relaxing at the beach I picked up my husband and met some of his friends at  Slater’s 50/50 – Burgers by Design. I have to say this was one of the best burger places I have ever been to. The prices were very reasonable they have a 100 bears on tap, and you can make your own burger! That’s right, I said make your own burger! They offer you a list mind blowing mouth watering choices. And best of all… they offer a gluten-free menu and serve G-free beer. I wish I could remember the name of our knowledgeable waitress. After informing her that I was allergic to gluten she quickly got me the G-free menu. She informed me that a few staff members were also gluten sensitive. After ordering my lettuce wrapped, beef, 1000 island dressing, asparagus spears, onion, egg over medium burger, I washed it all down with a gluten-free beer. The beer, New Planet Beer, was a little heavier then the cider I am use to drinking. The flavor pleasing but a little to filling for me when paired with a burger. One last thing, order the vampire dip (not in bread bowl) with veggies! You wont be sorry if you like cheese and garlic melted together in a bowl of wonderfulness. Just be sure you are comfortable breathing on the people surrounding you. 🙂

Thanks Slater’s 50/50 – Burgers by Design for being gluten friendly.

Cheers!