Anna was a serious trooper when it came to trekking around the city to try famed gluten-free bakeries. Being a vegetarian she was quite empathetic to how restaurants were chosen, and was open to shopping in the Chelsea Market near our guest house (where we had a kitchenette) so that we could have some fresh foods at home and to pack for days of hiking the cityscape. A new adventurous food friend - this was sheer bliss!
First stop: Tulu's Bakery. I've linked all of the names of the establishments to their websites so that you can find out what you need.
First stop: Tulu's Bakery. I've linked all of the names of the establishments to their websites so that you can find out what you need.
Despite the late hour, Tu-lu's door was constantly swinging open with people coming in for an end of day cupcake fix.
We met a bloke named Benny here - who referred to himself as a "Glutard", much to Anna's amusement. When she asked if he'd been to La Risotteria he was quick to share he'd been picked up not once but twice, by girls who were looking for a gluten-free boy toy. When we left, Anna wondered aloud if this might be Benny's best selling point.
On
to the grub - I ordered the cinnamon coffee cake loaf, a brownie and a
chocolate cupcake. Anna opted for a selection of
mini cupcakes (image above). In an unusual state of self control we actually made it back to our hotel with our loot in tow. That loaf was gobbled up for breakfast the next morning with tea. We conferred that Tu-lu's had been worth the
trek.
Babycakes is probably the most famous of the gluten-free bakeries in NYC. The owner Erin, has been on many TV shows and has published a beautiful cookbook. On our last night we made this our pilgrimage.
Yowza.
I just didn't know where to start! While this bakery is known for their cupcakes - I thought I'd try a donut and a
madeleine as I'd never had either before. Worth. Every. Penny. Can't believe I showed such self control.. and a part of me is relieved that this place isn't too close or I'd be needing to run more often!
One of the best things about food - is how it bonds us. In our gleeful perusal of goodies we got to know Hanna, who sat in the window enjoying a cupcake. Hanna kindly offered up a couple of her favourite gluten-free restaurants in the city. As our NYC visit was winding down, we didn't get a chance to try them this time - but I've linked to Nizza and Fiorello so that you can check them out.
We ate at La Risotteria, which is without a doubt a "must
do". According to Benny - you might even get a date out of it! This was
my third visit to the establishment, and I can't imagine a trip to NYC
without a stop here. Even Anna commented that her risotto was the best
she'd ever eaten. I normally opt for pizza, but this round had the
spinach and sausage risotto. SO GOOD! 
There is something incredible about arriving at a restaurant where gluten-free bread sticks are greeting you! This place only seats 20 and doesn't take reservations, so unless you are willing to hang out for a bit - I recommend you go early. A special thanks to my Auntie Thea for treating us to this special night out on the town!
Finally, a shout out to Benny's Burritos (nope, not the same Benny)...where we had yummy Mexican food - notations on the menu clarified the gluten-free factor, and there was a huge selection. The place is packed in the evenings (a good sign) so we did lunch. Bill and I have eaten here on previous visits and I always have a hugely satisfying meal.
Looking forward to checking out Hanna's suggestions on our next visit to NYC.... but will miss having my dear cousin, the lovely Sunshine Anna by my side.
If you're heading to NYC anytime soon be sure to bookmark this post. If you have other great options to share - please do so in the comments or on this blog's Facebook fan page HERE. If you come from a place where gf treats are hard to find... I recommend that you bring an extra suitcase to cart home some goodies... and bring some stretchy pants for the ride home :)
No comments:
Post a Comment