As a nutritionist and food enthusiast, I have been asked countless times about the availability of gluten-free options at eateries in Western Washington. With the increasing popularity of gluten-free diets, it's no surprise that many restaurants and cafes are now offering these options to cater to their customers' needs. In this article, I will be sharing my expert perspective on the gluten-free options available at eateries in Western Washington.
The Rise of Gluten-Free Diets
Before we dive into the specific eateries in Western Washington, let's first understand why there is a demand for gluten-free options. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, and it can cause digestive issues for some individuals.This has led to the rise of gluten-free diets, which eliminate these grains from one's diet. According to a survey by the National Restaurant Association, 44% of adults in the United States are trying to include more gluten-free foods in their diet. This has prompted many eateries to expand their menus to include gluten-free options.
Eateries in Western Washington
Western Washington is known for its diverse food scene, with a wide range of cuisines available. From seafood to Asian fusion, there is something for everyone. But do these eateries also offer gluten-free options? The answer is yes!Many restaurants and cafes in Western Washington have recognized the demand for gluten-free options and have made an effort to include them on their menus.Some even have dedicated gluten-free menus or clearly label which dishes are gluten-free.
Seafood Restaurants
Being located near the coast, it's no surprise that seafood restaurants are popular in Western Washington. And for those following a gluten-free diet, there are plenty of options available. One of my favorite seafood restaurants, Anthony's Seafood Grill, offers a gluten-free menu with dishes such as grilled salmon and Dungeness crab cakes. They also have a gluten-free dessert option – flourless chocolate torte. Another popular seafood restaurant, Ivar's Seafood Bar, also has a gluten-free menu with options like grilled halibut and shrimp cocktail.They even have a gluten-free clam chowder, which is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Asian Fusion Restaurants
Asian fusion cuisine is also popular in Western Washington, and many of these restaurants have gluten-free options available.Wild Ginger
, known for its delicious Southeast Asian dishes, has a separate gluten-free menu with options like green curry and Vietnamese shaking beef. If you're in the mood for sushi, Umi Sake House has a gluten-free menu with sushi rolls made with gluten-free soy sauce. They also have gluten-free tempura and teriyaki dishes.Cafes and Bakeries
For those looking for gluten-free options for breakfast or a quick snack, there are also many cafes and bakeries in Western Washington that cater to this dietary restriction.Cafe Flora
, a vegetarian cafe, has an extensive gluten-free menu with options like quinoa pancakes and tofu scramble. If you have a sweet tooth, Flying Apron Bakery is a must-visit.This bakery specializes in gluten-free and vegan baked goods, including bread, pastries, and cakes. Their chocolate chip cookies are a personal favorite of mine.
The Importance of Cross-Contamination
While it's great to see so many eateries in Western Washington offering gluten-free options, it's important to note that cross-contamination can still occur. Cross-contamination happens when gluten-free food comes into contact with gluten-containing food, utensils, or surfaces. This can happen during preparation, cooking, or serving. It's crucial for eateries to have proper protocols in place to prevent cross-contamination.This includes having separate cooking utensils and surfaces for gluten-free dishes and training their staff on how to handle and prepare gluten-free food properly.
