Tips for Dining Out

My mom came to visit for Thanksgiving and we spent some time talking about dining out. We both have Celiac so eating gluten free isn't a choice, it's a requirement! We have both been at this for more than five years and it was really fun to hear her talk about how much more confidence she has in dining out since the early days. I agree, both wait staff and those in the kitchen are so much more knowledgeable!

Here are mom's latest tips:

1. Look at the menu and determine two dishes that might be or could easily be made gluten free. Order one and ask if it can be made gluten free. Most of the time the server will go speak with the chef and the chef will actually deliver the food to the table. They want you to enjoy your meal as much as you do!

2. Watch for soy sauce! I enjoy eating Carne Asada but some recipes include soy sauce. Remember to ask and you'll have a better experience.

3. GOOGLE! If I know ahead of time what restaurant I'm going to, I Google. For example, type Wendy's gluten free in the search engine and you'll quickly find their gluten free menu.

What are your best dining out tips?

WOW - Without Wheat sugar cookie dough

http://www.wowbaking.com/products/cookie-dough/sugar-cookie-dough/

This is a great time to be gluten free. We all benefit from better awareness, better labeling, and many new products available at local stores. I was in Mother's Market before Thanksgiving and picked up WOW Sugar Cookie dough in the refrigerated section. I have been intimidated by making sugar cookies, but wanted to share this holiday decorating tradition with my son. So, I eagerly grabbed the WOW dough off the shelf and smiled as I put it in my cart.

WOW is right! I let the dough sit a little bit on the counter so it was easier to work with and we were good to go. I rolled out the dough between two sheets of waxed paper. I don't know if you need to do this, but it made it super easy to work with. Within minutes the cookies were in the oven and baking to perfection. Now that I've seen how great sugar cookie dough can be, I am finally going to use make the Bob's Red Mill mix that has been sitting in my pantry for weeks.

The tub sells for under $5 at Mother's and you can make up to 14 cookies. Our cookie cutters were a little big, so we made fewer cookies. They tasted delicious!

The cookie dough comes in a variety of flavors: Chocolate Chip, peanut butter and ginger bread.

Looking for a gluten free spot for lunch? Try Corner Bakery!

http://www.cornerbakerycafe.com/Files/Misc/Nutritionals2008.pdf

It is easy to overlook the Corner Bakery as a dining option. They serve sandwiches and bakery items and cross-contamination was always a concern--until recently! The Corner Bakery has a gluten free menu. You have to scroll to the bottom of their nutritional chart, but it's there.

Many of their salads are gluten free, or can be made gluten free. ***To be on the safe side, request that they prepare the salad in a clean bowl and mention your allergy*** The salads usually come with a roll, so you will want to make sure they don't include it.

My favorite salad is the Santa Fe Ranch with Chicken. Very filling and flavorful!

It also appears that they have two soups to choose from: Three Lentil Vegetable and Tortilla. If you choose the Tortilla soup, request no tortilla strips. They tend to use the same utensils for the croutons and tortilla strips. Best to avoid it all together.

Feeling a little ripped off

I stopped by Whole Foods to pick up some pizza crusts to make pizza for dinner. I knew they carried kinnikinnick, www.kinnikinnick.com and they are great. To my surprise they also carry Udi's pizza crusts,

which are my new favorite, www.udisfood.com.

Whole Foods sells the pizza crusts for $8.99. You can purchase them from Stella Lucy and

Udi's web site for $5.00. (I haven't checked the price at Mother's Market.) I still purchased the crusts,

but won't pick them up at Whole Foods again. : (

Mother's Market & Udi's Bread

http://www.mothersmarket.com

http://www.udisfood.com

We were near Mother's Market last Friday and on a whim, my husband suggested we run in and see if they carry Udi's Bread (I love him!). I had checked a couple of months ago and didn't find it. We hit the jackpot Friday! Mother's Market carries both Udi's bread and pizza crusts and the price is right! We paid just $4.39 for a loaf of bread. In the past, I've paid as much as $8 for GF bread that tasted less than great.

Udi's ships their bread frozen, but it wasn't in the freezer case at Mother's...just the regular bread section. I put my bread in the refrigerator, but next time will leave it on the shelf. It dried out within days and started to fall apart. I am going to use the remainder of this loaf for stuffing cubes.

Whole Foods stuffing cubes

I am a big fan of stuffing on Thanksgiving Day--the traditional kind with celery and raisins covered with gravy. For the past few Thanksgivings, I've learned to enjoy a cornbread stuffing with apples and sausage. It works, but it isn't the same.

I recently picked up Whole Foods stuffing cubes, found in the freezer section. I was determined to make traditional stuffing, but unsure of how it would turn out. I am no chef! I found this recipe on the Whole Foods web site and followed it to the letter.

http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipes/recipe.php?recipeId=1354

The stuffing tasted like a little bit of heaven! Just another thing to be thankful for this year!

Would you like to be interviewed by USA Today?

newscall@usatoday.com

USA Today is looking for readers with food allergies who are willing to share their unusual challenges with eating out at restaurants, friends' homes and/or parties.

If you would like to be interviewed for the upcoming story, please send an e-mail about how you make dining out fun, and not a chore, to newscall@usatoday.com and a reporter may contact you. Please include your name, city, state and phone number in the email!

Betty Crocker Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix

http://www.bettycrocker.com/products/gluten-free

Growing up, my mom was always baking. In an effort to be more like my mom and have homemade goodies for my little one, I decided to make gluten free chocolate chip cookies this weekend. Yes, you can chuckle a little, I didn't totally make them from scratch, I had a little help from Betty.

This was the first time I'd used Betty Crocker's GF Chocolate Chip cookie mix. I always reach for Bob's Red Mill GF Chocolate Chip mix, they are by far the most like "regular" Toll House cookies. http://www.bobsredmill.com/gf-chocolate-chip-cookie-mix.html. Bob's mix is absolutely perfect, except I throw in an extra handful of Nestle chocolate chips because the mix isn't chocolaty enough. I also throw in a handful of GF oats, to make them "healthy".

But, I digress, I picked up Betty's mix because it was in the local grocery store. Yay!!! I can honestly say this is a mix I will pick up again. It was easy to make and the cookies taste great. I have learned to follow instructions carefully when baking GF, so I tried to do so with this mix. On the package it says something like, stir the egg, vanilla, and butter together. So, I stirred. Next time, I will get out the mixer and mix them together. I've had other packages say not to use the mixer, which is why I didn't this time. I just think it will work better with the mixer and then I would blend in the flour.

Like I said, the cookies taste great. I think you could get away with using a little less vanilla and because the mix is a little sweet, I think adding oats is a good idea. The texture is a little grainy, but that wouldn't stop me from purchasing again.

Thanks Betty Crocker!

It's Friday! Let's go to the Yard House

http://www.yardhouse.com/nutrition.asp

You've made it to Friday, all you want to do is eat great food, have a little fun, listen to loud music, and chill with friends. Your friends are going to the Yard House and you can too!

Check out their huge gluten free menu: http://www.yardhouse.com/files/gluten_sensitive_menu_6.pdf

Spinach dip, salads, sandwiches, seafood, steaks, and even sushi! I was excited to see that they serve gluten-free Redbridge Beer. It is my favorite gf beer, classic and not as heavy as some, http://www.redbridgebeer.com. Make sure to mention to your server that you are gluten sensitive. It helps them understand how important it is to get the order correct.

The Yard House has locations in Brea, Chino Hills, Long Beach, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Newport Beach and LA and San Diego counties.

Get your Friday on!

Carl's Jr. Says "Gluten Free It!"

http://www.carlsjr.com/menu/indulge

Carl's Jr has a new campaign..."Lose the Gluten, Gain the salad". Order any burger lettuce wrapped and receive a free side salad. You can find the coupon on their web site. This is one of the first bold fast food GF promotions I've seen. I don't go to Carl's very often, but I'll have to start! Thanks for thinking of us Gluten Free peeps, Carl!

Is That Gluten Free? iphone/iPod App

http://midlifecrisisapps.com/Midlife_Crisis_Apps/iPhone_Apps.html

There is a new app available on iTunes that will rock your world. How many times are you out and about and want to purchase an item, but aren't totally sure if it's gluten free? Now, you can enter the product name into the "Is it Gluten Free" app and find out in an instant. The app contains over 14,800 verified GF products and is updated frequently. It allows you to search by category, brand, or product name. What could be easier?

Best part? It's just $5.99.

Check it out and let us know what you think!

Brownie Mix Taste Test

Brownies are a staple of any gluten free diet. Easy to make, easy to take, and oh so delicious. The great thing about GF brownies is that no one can really tell the difference between "regular" and GF brownies. They are easy to bring to a potluck, dinner at a friend's house, or for a co-worker's birthday treat. So, with so many choices on the market, which is the best brownie mix?

Bob's Red Mill

http://www.bobsredmill.com/gf-brownie-mix.html

Bob's brownie mix is our family's favorite! Rich and moist, these brownies are great right out of the oven or frozen and enjoyed later. My mom taught me this trick...freeze individually what you won't be eating right away. 15 seconds in the microwave and they are ready to go!

Betty Crocker

http://www.bettycrocker.com/products/gluten-free/

Betty's brownies are not quite as chocolaty as Bob's, but fantastic none-the-less. They are a little less dense, but make a tasty treat. I am eager to try some of the recipes on the Betty Crocker web site that can be used with this mix.

https://www.namastefoods.com

Namaste makes a yummy, fudgey brownie. Also a great value because it makes a bigger batch. A little gooier than I like, but still a mix everyone will enjoy!

For those who love TexMex

http://www.ztejas.com/

Z'Tejas

South Coast Plaza
3333 Bristol St. Suite 1876
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

If you crave flavorful food, Z'Tejas is a great gluten-free friendly restaurant. After a day of busy shopping, it's a fun place to sit down, enjoy a drink and rest for awhile! I think I've tried everything on their gluten free menu and the mushroom enchiladas are my favorite! The smoked chicken and black bean salad has an eclectic mix of red peppers, pumpkin seeds and goat cheese on a bed of green tossed greens...it is delicious! Make sure to ask for the dressing on the side, they tend to overdo it.

The only downside is I wish they served gluten-free cornbread. I'm always a little envious when my husband enjoys warm cornbread while we wait for our meals. Seems like an easy thing to add to the menu.

Newport Rib Company - Gluten free menu

http://www.ribcompany.com/

Has anyone tried the Newport Rib Company? Looks like they have an extensive GF menu including ribs, BBQ chicken, burgers with buns, and mouth-watering steaks.

ALL DINNERS SERVED with fresh fruit, corn bread muffins and your choice of two of the following: garden salad with GF/CF dressing, GF/CF rice pilaf, steamed vegetables, french fries, Kettle™ brand potato chips, or baked potato served with Smart Balance Omega™ margarine.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Company

http://www.bubbagump.com/

For the longest time, I hadn't tried Bubba Gump's. We just aren't really drawn to themed restaurants. Big mistake! Bubba Gump's has a gluten free menu with several choices. My favorites are the Pear & Berry Salad, Shrimp and Veggie Stir Fry, and the Salmon and Veggie Skillet.

Locations in Anaheim and Long Beach.

Bob's Red Mill Shortbread Cookie Mix

http://www.bobsredmill.com/gf-shortbread-cookie-mix.html

I am a big believer in GF baking mixes. Leave it up to the experts to find that perfect blend of flours that create the same taste and texture as "regular" baked goods. I was excited to get Bob's Red Mill's latest catalog in the mail yesterday. They now offer a gluten free shortbread cookie mix, just in time for holiday baking season. I've always wanted to decorate sugar cookies and am eager to try this new mix. Has anyone tried it?

Skosh Monahans in Costa Mesa - Pub with GF Menu

http://www.skoshmonahans.com/

Skosh Monahan's is one of the best restaurants I've found that has a GF menu. They serve burgers with gluten free buns, pizza, chicken tenders, chicken wings and even Clam Chowder...all gluten free. They also have a gluten free-casein free children's menu.

For me, I am always happy to find great GF choices for kids. I hate seeing my nieces and nephews eat a plain hamburger or piece of chicken, especially while others at the table have better choices. Just doesn't seem fair. Skosh's lets a kid be a kid, enjoying the hearty staples kid's love.

Skosh's is also a great place to catch a game, they have big screen TVs throughout the restaurant. You'll also find live entertainment on the weekends.

Gluten Free Pancakes at Original Pancake House in Orange

Yep, you read it right. Move over bacon and eggs, bring on the pancakes. The pancake mecca, Original Pancake House, serves gluten free pancakes and waffles (at select locations). They'll whip them up with blueberries, chocolate chips, or simply plain. They are light and fluffy and taste great. Portions are so big you can take home and eat for breakfast the next day.

3322 E Chapman Ave
Orange, CA 92869

(714) 221-8674

Great Eats at Disneyland and Disneyland Resort

Nobody does it like Disneyland.

Disneyland truly is the happiest place on Earth, especially for Celiacs. Whether you're eating breakfast at Goofy's Kitchen (yep, fresh made waffles and pancakes, too!), or enjoying a hamburger with a bun, the sky is the limit.

If you're visiting the park, stop by City Hall on Main Street for a list of gluten free dining options throughout the park. GF pizza and pasta are available in Tomorrowland, enchiladas in Frontierland, turkey legs and more...you won't go home hungry.

My family went to Disneyland on Christmas Day last year. For many reasons, we needed to break the mold and have a Christmas like no other. I have 3 nieces and nephews who require a GF diet, as well as my mom and sister. We all had hamburgers for lunch and it was so fun to see the look on my mom's face enjoying her sandwich! To see the kids holding the hamburger in their little hands and eating it like everyone else does was a wonderful treat. No one had to sit their sawing through their hamburger with a fork and knife, we just picked it up, devoured it and went on the next ride.

There are also three main hotel restaurants that offer gluten-free products: Storytellers Café at the Grand Californian Hotel, Disney’s PCH Grill at the Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, and Goofy’s Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel. I love the Storyteller's Cafe. For some reason the service is a little slow, but worth it if you have the time. When they bring dinner rolls to the table, they even bring GF rolls. So nice not to have to sit there enviously watching as others lather up a warm roll in delicious butter!

Z Pizza offers Gluten Free Pizza!

www.zpizza.com

Growing up, we often ate pizza on Friday night. The weekend was finally here and we would excitedly share stories from the week or talk about weekend plans all while eating cheesy, comforting pizza.

These last few years the closest I've come to eating pizza in a restaurant is requesting no dough--basically, a pizza bowl. Finally, I can enjoy eating pizza with my family again! Z pizza offers a gluten free crust and many toppings to choose from. They prepare the pizza in a special dish to avoid cross contamination. Woo hoo!

Instant Oatmeal!

http://www.glutenfreedafoods.com/oatmeal.html

I was thrilled to find Glutenfreeda's Instant Oatmeal at StellaLucy in San Clemente. I purchased the variety pack and they all taste great. It is a delicious hearty breakfast on the go--perfect for work and travel.

Great Resource from San Diego

http://glutenfreeinsd.com/

This is one of the most useful gluten free web site's I've seen. I use it regularly to find out about GF restaurants and new products on the market.

Stella Lucy - San Clemente

http://www.stellalucy.com/

Stella Lucy is a great little totally Gluten Free market in San Clemente. They have many unique products that can't be found in Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Sprouts, or Mother's Market.

A few of my favorites:

Namaste Gluten Free flour blend - This is a must for any cook. Great tasting flour that you can substitute one for one in your recipes.

Simply Organic Carrot Cake Mix - If you want a full size cake, you'll need two packages. One box turns out more like a bar. This mix tastes wonderful, is easy to make and offers three options, pumpkin cake, spice cake or carrot cake.

Udi's bread and frozen pizza crust - you will want to buy two of each and store them in your freezer. They are that good! If you haven't heard of Udi's bread it is phenomenal. Most gluten free breads require that you warm them to soften them up. No need with Udi's. You can make a sandwich and just eat it! Revolutionary!

Haven Gastropub - Old Town Orange

Haven is my new favorite restaurant in Orange County. They serve delicious gourmet comfort food. But the best part is they offer gluten free beer (Green's Endeavor Dubble Ale) and gluten free cider (Samuel Smiths Organic Cider). Although you still have to mention to your server that you require a gluten free meal, they are knowledgeable and helpful. I usually choose the Haven burger - no bun and served with a vegetable.

Sure, you can get a cider and a burger with no bun at most restaurants. So, why do I really love the Haven pub? It has great atmosphere and a warm and friendly staff. We've been back a few times and the second time, they remembered me and the waiter called me his gluten free friend. I know, sounds corny, but it was genuine. One of the owners or servers came by and suggested a dessert that could be made gluten free. They didn't make me feel like an oddball for needing to eat GF, they just made me feel welcome. You can't beat that.

The other great thing about Haven is they try to purchase locally grown, organic, sustainable, humanely raised food. Whether they do or not, I don't really know, but the food tastes fresher. I can get a hamburger anywhere, but this one just tastes better. It is flavorful! My husband tried the Roasted Jidori Chicken Breast and loved it.

Welcome

Welcome to Gluten Free OC! For those of you who follow a gluten free diet, this blog will help you learn about great gluten free products and accommodating restaurants in Orange County, CA. Gluten free products tend to be costly so I value all the recommendations I've received over the years. In this blog, I will share what I've learned and look forward to your comments as well. Enjoy!