I’ve now spent two years within the Nationwide Capital Area, with one yr in Aylmer in Quebec, and one yr in Ottawa. Whereas this gluten free information focuses totally on Ottawa, I’ve included a number of spots ‘throughout the river’ on the Quebec aspect, as there are some celiac-friendly treats there that aren’t to be missed.
As with the opposite celiac guides on this website, this record will likely be a dwelling tree the place I plan so as to add new spots as I stumble throughout them. With a yr in Ottawa below my belt, although, I used to be able to put collectively the perfect of the gluten free eats I’ve discovered to this point. In spite of everything, there are different spots on the town that I’ve but to attempt!
My gluten free eating adventures in my new residence
I’m dividing this put up into two most important sections: devoted gluten free amenities in Ottawa, after which the eating places and stalls that aren’t 100% GF however that may safely accommodate celiacs.
There are lots of eating places that provide gluten free choices, however not all defend in opposition to cross-contact. Some should not even conscious that these dangers should be addressed for celiac prospects. Whereas sure, generally you’ll see a celiac say “oh I’m not that delicate” and declare they’re pleased with utilizing shared fryers, the truth of this autoimmune illness is that even when asymptomatic ingesting gluten will hurt the physique ultimately. It’s not a threat celiacs can take.
Whereas Ottawa has far much less celiac-safe spots as Montreal, it does have a slew of great bakeries, meals vehicles, and extra for gluten free diners to take pleasure in. I do want that Canada was typically as accommodating as another nations like the UK, the place because of adjustments of their meals rules, allergens are virtually all the time clearly marked on menus and eating places can typically simply accomodate the wants of celiacs. Hopefully sooner or later.
Nonetheless, you gained’t go hungry right here and whereas our choice could also be slimmer than Toronto, Montreal, or New York, what you’ll get remains to be scrumptious.
Be aware: As I’ve acquired some emails since publishing this information asking about how individuals obtained on this record / asking why x or y spot isn’t on the record, I need to reiterate: every part on this information was paid for by me, none of it was sponsored, and the record was cobbled collectively from my very own analysis. For those who’re new to Authorized Nomads please see my About Web page for particulars about sponsorships and collabs; I don’t do both. Nothing flawed with those that do, in fact! However the website was began in 2008, and as an alternative of doing press journeys and sponsored content material, I made cash creating merchandise my readers requested for like celiac translation playing cards in a number of languages, and maps of meals. Now that I’m disabled, my Patreon can be what helps assist me.
Let’s get to it!
Devoted (100%) gluten-free eating places, stalls, and bakeries in Ottawa
Strawberry Blonde Bakery (most important location in Westboro, at 111 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K1Z 6V9 Canada). This vegan, nut-free, kosher, and gluten-free bakery now has two places in Ottawa, and loads of treats to select from. They do customized muffins as nicely; see beneath for the one my brother and his spouse obtained for me. They’ve additionally obtained a enjoyable seasonal menu that rotates based mostly on holidays, and year-round staples of various cookies, cupcakes and mini-cupcakes, brownies, nanaimo bars and extra. They ship nationwide, and ship throughout the Ottawa space. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Gutsies (2297 St Joseph Blvd, Orléans, ON K1C 1E7 Canada) This store and bakery has introduced in a few of the unimaginable gluten free items from Montreal and Toronto, and sells them alongside native fare and their very own scrumptious baked items and soups/meals at their retailer. They’ve contemporary bread, pastries, and muffins/treats, in addition to a comparatively massive dry items part and fairly a number of freezers that home onerous to search out objects in Ottawa. I’m a giant fan of their hen soup with basmati rice, freed from components that anger my mast cells. Natasha, who based Gutsies after her daughter Maya was recognized with celiac illness, was even variety sufficient to package deal the soups in smaller containers in order that it wasn’t heavy for me to elevate with my spinal CSF leak.
The frozen pizza dough that they promote is among the many greatest I’ve ever tried in 20 years of celiac-ing, and when you get there early sufficient they might even have some ache au chocolat and croissants left from La Marquise Sans Gluten in Montreal so that you can eat as you head residence. (If not, they’ve them frozen so that you can make at residence, as an alternative.) Oh, and don’t miss certainly one of their very own banana chocolate muffins, if that flavour is to your style. They’re decadent. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
2 Sprinkles (previously 5 Cupcakes) (On-line and at markets) Beforehand 5 Cupcakes, this family-owned gluten free bakery lately went by way of a rebrand and is now 2 Sprinkles. I’m a giant fan of their namesake sprinkle donuts, beneath, that are baked not fried. They’ve additionally obtained chocolate brownies, pizza buns, cookies, crispy calzones, and wonderful breads with flavours like herb garlic and onion cheese. Their menu will likely be increasing as the brand new iteration of the bakery unfolds, however search for their cupcakes once they do come again as they have been fab. For those who order on-line, you may decide up at no cost at Lansdowne farmers markets weekly, however in addition they supply supply throughout the Ottawa space. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Voila Gluten-Free Bakeree (4055 Carling Ave #2, Kanata, ON K2K 2A4 Canada) Pretty family-owned bakery that makes baked items not just for celiacs, but in addition for many who keep away from dairy, eggs, peanuts, nuts and tree nuts. They concentrate on utilizing pure sweeteners, and attempt to intention for low sodium and low sugar. Bagels, bread, savoury and candy pies, tarts, muffins, cupcakes, and way more on supply. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Spring Chips (55 Byward Market Sq., Ottawa, ON K1N 9C3 Canada) Superb “potato twister” spirals, just like those I might take pleasure in in Thailand again once I was dwelling there a decade in the past. Spring Chips is one other family-owned stall, and over the course of my potato-filled adventures, I’ve had an opportunity to satisfy each dad and son who run the stall in shifts. Actually scrumptious, a candy household, they usually make their very own seasoning (gluten free!) to prime their freshly fried potato spirals. They’re on the Christmas market at Lansdowne, but in addition at Byward market, and the CFL video games at TD stadium, in addition to some festivals. Yow will discover them on Fb right here, and Instagram right here.
Farang Thai (On-line and at markets) Because the identify suggests, this spot is run by a non-Thai particular person—farang means foreigner in Thai. Don’t let that cease you, although, as a result of their meals could be very tasty, the co-owner is celiac, and he and his companion has been to Thailand many occasions to maintain researching and bettering on his recipes. The satay hen is a favourite, however they’ve additionally obtained certainly one of my most popular drinks, a candy pandan leaf tea. They’re often at 613 Flea market in Lansdowne, however you may examine their occasions web page for once they’re attending and for another pop ups they’ve happening. In addition they do frozen meals when you’re right here for some time. All objects are 100% GF! Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Chicha Canada (Markets in and round Ottawa) Chicha, a naturally-gluten drink from South America, is available in many types. It may be constituted of corn, rice, quinoa, cassava, and extra—although corn is the commonest and well-known model. It may be fermented into alcohol, or loved as a creamy, scrumptious drink in the summertime warmth. Historically an indigenous drink, chicha has been consumed within the Andes for 1000’s of years. In some nations like Colombia, it was villainized following colonization, however is lastly making a comeback.
It’s the non-alcoholic rice-based model from Venezuela that Chicha Canada’s Fernando Gonzalez makes and serves in compostable cups or glass mason jars. He’s obtained rotating flavours, and the consistency is akin to a thicker horchata, a rice-based drink from Mexico. His stall is a newcomer on the markets, and all the menu is gluten free—even the Oreo model beneath (he makes use of gluten free Oreos!). Chicha can be dairy free. It’s fairly a deal with, and even the plain model is sugary sufficient to take pleasure in by itself. Add the maple syrup or Oreos and also you’ve obtained one thing to fulfill even the sweetest of candy tooths. Yow will discover CC on Instagram and Fb too, the place he shares which markets he’ll be at in Ottawa.
Gluten free eating places in Ottawa, by delicacies:
These are spots that aren’t 100% gluten free, however educated about celiac illness and cross-contact. With the case of The Souvlaki Shack, it’s 95% gluten free, and wonderful.
Mediterranean and Italian
The Greek Souvlaki Shack (258 Financial institution St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1X4, Canada). After I known as to verify what was gluten free right here, the lady I spoke with confirmed that the proprietor makes all of the gluten free pita himself, and that just about every part on the menu was protected for celiacs—together with the fried calamari. What a deal with! This spot has no web site or social media to talk of, however they’re on UberEats when you wished to examine the menu earlier than stopping in. The gyros with gluten free pita introduced me again to the numerous Saturdays I used to get Marathon souvlaki with my grandpa pre-celiac prognosis, and each single factor I’ve tried from there was scrumptious. A phrase of recommendation: get some further tzatziki on the aspect to dip your french fries in for further oomph. The spinach pie (spanakopita) is not gluten free, nor are the opposite objects made with phyllo. However every part else is, and with a devoted fryer you gained’t have hassle discovering one thing you like. Make sure to point out celiac while you order.
La Dolce Vita (180 Preston Avenue, Ottawa, ON, K1R 7P9, Canada). This restaurant is Gluten Free Licensed from the GFFP (The Gluten-Free Meals Program), that means all of their gluten free choices — AND THERE ARE SO MANY — are celiac-safe. In order for you Italian meals, it is a nice wager. I’ve additionally put it within the “pizza” part beneath, however along with pizzas you may go for pastas, entrees, lasagna, gnocchi and extra. Full GF menu so that you can drool over, right here. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Ottavio (56A Gréber, Gatineau, QC J8T 3P8, Canada) Ottavio is over in Gatineau on the Quebec aspect of the river, however its menu is clearly marked for a number of allergens and it’s among the many safer locations to seize a meal when you have a automotive and a choosy household who wants some selection to select from. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Aroma Meze (239 Nepean Avenue, Ottawa, ON, K2P 0B7, Canada) Many gluten-free choices, completely scrumptious, and a considerate menu divided by seasons, and celiac mates say it is a good spot for a sit-down meal. As talked about, I can’t sit down or go to eating places, so I’ve not but tried it. But it surely got here so closely advisable that I wished to incorporate it. There may be additionally gluten free poutine with a devoted fryer for the french fries, in addition to GF pitas. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Thai
Social Thai (399 Financial institution St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Y3, Canada) This spot is educated about celiac illness, can accommodate many dishes and make them gluten free, and is a favourite for native celiacs. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Siam Bistro (1268 Wellington Avenue West, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3A5, Canada) this was the primary Thai place I attempted in Ottawa, and it was scrumptious. They’re conscious of cross-contact, can clarify what’s gluten free for celiacs, and have loads of conventional Thai dishes to select from. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Talay Thai (511 Financial institution St. Ottawa, ON K2P 1Z5, Canada) Their menu objects are marked for gluten (utilizing a inexperienced coronary heart, a pleasant change!), and educated about cross contact. Make sure you point out celiac illness / gluten allergy, so that they know to take further precaution. Pad thai, fried rice, yellow curry, and a few appetizers: all gluten free. Pink curries / inexperienced curries should not. CLOSED
Inexperienced Papaya (256 Preston St Ottawa, ON, K1R 7R5 Canada). This Thai restaurant has a number of outposts to select from however I’ve solely eaten on the Preston avenue franchise. They have been in a position to accommodate my celiac wants, and conscious of CC dangers. Yow will discover them on Fb right here.
Vietnamese
Sadly, many Vietnamese spots at the moment are utilizing soy sauce of their meat marinades, and a few of my previous haunts are now not protected. Listed here are two I nonetheless dine at:
Genuine Vietnamese Pho Home (3 places, all exterior Ottawa metropolis middle) Don’t miss their bánh hỏi, a DIY platter with rice wrappers and grilled meat and herbs with pickled veggies, hủ tiếu, phở (the phở tái nạm sách is my fave as I like beef tripe!) NOTE: the is menu marked “gluten pleasant” so this isn’t a celiac-driven eating expertise, however many dishes from Vietnam are naturally gluten free (as I element in my Saigon meals information). It’s essential to inform them that you’re celiac, so that they prepare dinner the bánh phở noodles in separate water to the egg noodles, for the soups. Bun noodles are cooked prematurely individually, and protected. Additionally double examine the marinade for the meats. Yow will discover them on Fb right here.
La Maison Pho (Aylmer) (4 Rue Belmont Aylmer, QC J9H 6J5, Canada) educated about celiac, gluten free objects clearly marked on their take-out menu in retailer, together with their summer time rolls /gỏi cuốn (hen shouldn’t be marinated in any soy sauce), phở, rice vermicelli dishes (bún thịt nướng) and extra. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Poutine
T.F.T – that meals truck (2160 St. Joseph Blvd, Ottawa, ON, Canada). Coming from Montreal, I’ve some sturdy opinions about poutine. On the Ottawa aspect, That Meals Truck (T.F.T) is definitely the perfect poutine I’ve tried. They use St. Albert’s curds and have an awesome gravy, and the fries are completely crispy whereas nonetheless being tender inside. They’ve a devoted fryer, and most of their menu may be made gluten free so when you crave grilled hen sandwiches, burgers, or onion rings, all are doable right here. For those who’re in Ottawa with out wheels, they’re on Uber Eats too. For those who do have wheels, they’re throughout the road from Gutsies. You understand what to do. Yow will discover them on Fb right here.
Patate Lou Lou (29 Chemin Eardley Aylmer, QC J9H 4J9, Canada). Throughout the river is my favorite poutine within the space, at Patate Lou Lou. Sadly it’s not that accessible when you don’t have wheels, so it’s below # 2 right here on the information. You’ll must ask for his or her gluten free gravy, which additionally comes with St Albert’s curds. They’ve devoted fryers for the fries, and likewise a vegan sauce choice. Yow will discover them on Fb right here.
The Nice Canadian Poutinerie (a number of places) Folks in Ottawa additionally swear by The Nice Canadian Poutinerie, however I’m truthfully not the most important fan of the gravy. Nonetheless, when you’re not a poutine purist like me and need to attempt many alternative choices (like Philly cheesesteak poutine or candy Sriracha poutine), that is your greatest wager. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
African
YKO Hen BBQ (the placement at 263 Dalhousie Avenue Ottawa, ON K1N 7E3 Canada) There are two outposts of YKO hen, I’ve solely tried the one at 263 Dalhousie and whereas they might be related taste-wise, I’ve solely tried the .com one! The co-owner, Ramata, shouldn’t be solely aware of celiac illness, however trains her workers in cross-contact and was very responsive once I requested questions on preparation and contamination. The opposite outpost is run by her household.
The hen is improbable, smokey and tender and juicy inside, and the aspect dishes are all gluten free as nicely—and scrumptious. Just about every part is protected on the menu, besides the beignets. However for the reason that beignets are made on a stovetop, the opposite objects which might be fried like french fries are okay for us celiac to take pleasure in. I often go for a half-chicken with sides to have leftovers for the subsequent day. Don’t miss the plantains, please. They’re a superbly candy accompaniment to your hen. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Pizza
Pizza Nerds (2 places). For individuals who need to attempt pizza at a spot that isn’t devoted, it is a good choice. They’ve obtained creative flavours, a scrumptious cauliflower crust, and information of celiac illness. They preserve these pizzas in a separate space and prepare dinner them on a pan in order that the pizza doesn’t contact the floor of the oven. I attempted their Queen Elizabeth goat cheese and basil pizza, although I requested for no sauce as a result of my mast cell points. They have been in a position to accommodate, and very nice about it to. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
La Dolce Vita – (see above, below Italian)
Johnny Farina (216 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1L7 Canada). Regardless of the identify, Johnny Farina does have gluten free pizza (and pasta) choices, workers are educated about celiac and can prepare dinner and serve/minimize pizzas with separate utensils if knowledgeable of getting the situation. Not my favorite GF pizza on the town (that might be Pizza Nerds!) however tasty and many non-pizza choices for everybody else. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Pizza Keep Gold (360 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON, K2P 1M8, Canada—Google maps lists it as 380, however their very own website says in any other case) I’m a skinny crust sort of woman, but when deeper dish pizza piques your fancy, Pizza Keep Gold’s gluten free choices are decadent and scrumptious. This spot began up through the pandemic and has turn out to be widespread. It serves Detroit-style pizza, that means that it’s sq. and with a big excessive crust —not the pies we’re used to right here, however a enjoyable change if you would like it! Fryer is shared with the hen breaded objects so don’t go for something fried right here. However the GF pizzas are ready in a separate space, with their very own reducing boards, utensils, and pans, and cooked individually. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Döner
Wolf Down (380 Financial institution St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Y4 Canada). I’ve tried döner many occasions earlier than my celiac prognosis, together with a visit to Germany once I was 16. Döner — cooked on a vertical rotating spit that was invented by Iskender Efendi within the late nineteenth century — is the star of the Wolf Down menu. Its dishes are impressed by the döner kebab, popularized by Turkish migrants in Germany within the Nineteen Seventies who took conventional Turkish döner and put it into flatbreads for a straightforward meal on-the-go.
It’s because Wolf Down founder Joelle Parenteau tried Berlin döner whereas visiting her husband’s residence nation of Germany and located it to be so improbable that she wolfed it down — therefore the identify. She developed Wolf Down from her newfound obsession, and it opened in 2019. Their menu is sparse; they wished to do one factor very well and never dilute it. I’d learn in regards to the eating places from different celiacs, however tried it for the primary time solely in Sept 2024. Why did I wait!? It was fab. Under, my hen rice bowl (there are veggies beneath the hen, I promise), topped with their secret sauce.
Per the restaurant, they’re very cautious with cross-contact and pull veggies from the again when somebody mentions they’re celiac, in order to not have any points with contact from those that are getting their döner on flatbread. All of their sauces are gluten free, and so are the hen and tofu salads and rice bowls. (Allergen record on their website.) You may also discover them on IG right here.
Indian
Thali Ottawa (136 O’Connor St, Ottawa ON K2P 2G7 Canada). Thali serves actually wonderful meals, and although it’s not low-cost it stays among the finest Indian spots I’ve tried on the town. Gadgets which have gluten are clearly marked on the menu; the remaining is ours to take pleasure in. After I ate there the pappadum and pakora have been protected too, as nothing with gluten was fried of their fryer, but it surely’s all the time good to verify. Their sister restaurant Coconut Lagoon is an alternative choice when you desire the menu there, or need one thing further decadent like butter lobster masala. Each menus are the brainchild of Chef Joe Thottungal, who has achieved a beautiful job of bringing his visions to life. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Taj Indian Delicacies (3009 Carling Ave. Ottawa, ON K2B 7Y6). They serve vegan, halal, vegetarian and gluten free choices, and are a advice from the Ottawa Celiac Affiliation. When ordering, be sure to point out you’re celiac! They’ve a copious menu, however all the time affirm fried merchandise are gluten free too as shared fryer standing could change. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
East India Firm (210 Somerset Avenue West, Ottawa, ON, K2P 0J4 Canada). This restaurant has an intensive menu and beneficiant parts of biryani, a few of which have paneer (a rarity in that dish), in addition to their mains. In contrast to many Indian eating places within the metropolis nowadays, their mains include rice on the aspect. Their menu for his or her downtown Ottawa location clearly marks for gluten, however as with Coconut Lagoon and Thali, please notice that the wheat image denotes UNSAFE dishes—there’s no line by way of that wheat. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Sona Indian Kitchen (1183 Hunt Membership Rd Unit 104, Ottawa, ON K1V 8S4). A relative newcomer to Ottawa, this restaurant opened in 2023. The restaurant could be very conscious of cross-contact points, and might substitute as required. Be aware that whereas the menu could be very clearly marked for gluten free objects, their fryer is shared and not protected for celiacs. Sadly you’ll must skip these poppadoms. They’re on Fb right here.
Indian Punjabi Clay Oven (4055 Carling Ave, Kanata, ON, K2K 2A4 Canada). Additional afield, however an awesome choice when you have a automotive. This spot is one other one advisable by the native celiac affiliation, as they’re very aware of cross-contact and what it means to be strictly gluten free. I’ve had paneer dishes and hen biryani to nice success, however their menu has many extra choices so that you can take pleasure in. You ca discover them on Instagram right here.
Latin American and Mexican Meals
The Tortilla Maker of Canada (2003 St Joseph Blvd, Orléans, ON K1C 1E5) Based by Mexican-Canadian entrepreneur Miguel Angel Jiménez Reyes, Tortilla Maker serves freshly-made tortillas, their very own line of salsas from household recipes, and scrumptious tamales. Tamale flavours embody hen and pork choices with or with out rajas, in addition to a vegetarian mushroom-based tamale. One candy guava and cheese choice exists for dessert, too. After years of dwelling in Oaxaca, I used to be thrilled when this place opened in 2023, and have eaten their objects many a time — fortunate for me, they’re proper down the road from Gutsies, so I can get each treats without delay. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Casa Mexico (226 Preston St. Ottawa, ON K1R 7R2, Canada) La Casa Mexico’s new Preston avenue location has the identical gluten free menu choices as their different spots additional afield. There’s a purpose I liked dwelling in Oaxaca a lot: many dishes have been naturally gluten free, and wonderful. Corn tortillas abound right here, as do slow-cooked favorites like barbacoa and tacos al pastor. Lacking are the costs from Mexico, in fact, however that’s anticipated. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Gooneys Sandwichworks (360 Laurier Ave W, Ottawa, ON K1P 1C8, Canada) Scrumptious gluten free arepas with quite a lot of fillings on their menu, and freezers with gluten free empanadas. You possibly can select from all-day breakfast arepas, or the much less eggs extra meat and cheese choices on their lunch and dinner menus. They’re on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
La Cabana (848-B Merivale Highway, Ottawa, Ontario K1Z 5Z4, Canada). La Cabana’s speciality is pupusas, a savoury flatbread from El Salvador made with masa (corn) or rice flour that resembles the arepa. It’s El Salvador’s nationwide dish, and a scrumptious one at that—I used to eat this quite a bit in Montreal once I was first recognized a few years in the past since there have been much less GF choices again then. It’s naturally gluten free, and so tasty. La Cabana’s pupusas are GF as nicely, one thing clearly marked on their menu. You possibly can ask for a rice flour choice when you desire, although their major pupusa is the normal masa (corn) flour base. You may also discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
La Fiesta Latina (565 Somerset Avenue West, Ottawa, ON K1R 5K2) They grabbed an awesome area identify too! A lot of the menu is gluten-free, and tacos and tortillas are 100% masa harina and never flour. Educated about celiac illness. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Chamos Grill (511 Lacolle Approach, Orléans, ON K4A 5B6, Canada) is a Venezuelan restaurant that provides many alternative gluten free corn-based choices, from arepas, empanadas, and tacos to hearty most important dishes from a cross-section of Latin American nations. Very conscious of cross-contact/celiac wants; when you order supply your bag can have a gluten free sticker on it to point out that they handled your meal otherwise to the remaining. This spot was began by a Syrian-Venezuelan couple who supplied take out arepas and empanadas through the pandemic. In 2023, they expanded their menu and their house into one thing extra; it’s additionally a bar and occasion house.
Gluten free baked items (for 100% GF bakeries, see above)
Little Jo Berry’s (1305 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON, K1Y 3B1, Canada) LJB shouldn’t be a devoted facility, however their gluten free objects are baked in a separate a part of the kitchen, one that’s cleaned and verified for cross-contamination. As they’re not 100% GF, they will’t assure security, however I’m very delicate and haven’t had points at this bakery. Their gluten free donuts have been my birthday “cake” final yr, and wonderful. They generally make extravagant treats like this gluten free terrarium, with matcha and chocolate sponge cake, gummies, mint, chocolate mousse, and extra: Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Rocket Scone This scone firm is a giant hit for celiacs and non-celiacs alike. The majority of their choices are with gluten, however they do make a candy and a savoury gluten free choice every week. The proprietor’s husband is celiac and she or he makes the GF scones at residence, cautious to keep away from any cross-contact. And the GF scones are a unique form to the common ones to keep away from errors. Obtainable at totally different farmers markets within the metropolis in Carp, Westboro, Lansdowne, and Orleans; their Instagram feed is the place they put up the week’s scones and their present location. I’m a giant fan of their amaretto poached pear, however you actually can’t go flawed.
Kokoro Bake Store (Stall on the Fundamental St. Farmers’ market on the Grand Allée Park each Sat. 9-2pm) This baking duo makes some objects with gluten and a few with out, however they all the time wash utensils, pans, and work surfaces if baking gluten free. In addition they notice that they make the gluten free objects collectively earlier than shifting to the objects with gluten, in order to verify they preserve cross-contact to a minimal. They will’t assure it, however they’re cautious — and their meals scrumptious! Each Saturday they’ve a brand new mochi (rice flour) cupcake field with Asian-inspired flavours like black sesame or salted egg yolk, in addition to these constituted of the season (a number of strawberry objects throughout strawberry season). However my favorite of all is their Japanese cheesecake, a light-weight cloud of cheese and cornstarch. It’s nicely value a visit to Previous Ottawa East on a Saturday! They often share their menu Saturday AM earlier than the market opens.
Sushi and poké
Kiko Sushi (349B Preston st, Ottawa, ON, K1S 1V6 Canada) Information about cross contact abounds, they usually have a large gluten free choice as nicely. Their rice is completely seasoned and the fish is contemporary. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Sushi Haru Haru (181 Rue Principale, Gatineau, QC, J9H 6J9 Canada). Among the finest rated sushi spots within the space, this was my go-to when I lived in Aylmer, Quebec. Very contemporary fish, a beautiful Korean household who owns the spot and who have been joyful to accommodate my further meals restrictions over and above celiac. Gluten free soy sauce is obtainable, the rice vinegar they use is gluten free, they usually make their very own spicy sauce and it too is gluten free. The Korean meals choices are not gluten free, however when you’ve obtained some non-celiacs in your midst, they might take pleasure in these choices. I often obtained their salmon sashimi combo, beneath, however all of their sushi is improbable.
Ten Fish (1149-B Financial institution St., Ottawa, ON K1S 3X4 Canada) A really cute family-owned sushi store not removed from Lansdowne and the Entire Meals. Self pick-up menu on their web site right here that marks out which of the maki rolls are gluten free—see the hover over the rolls. They’ve gluten free soy sauce obtainable for many who want it, and their spicy sauce can be gluten free. I often keep on with their sashimi or nigiri.
J:Distinctive Kitchen (381 Cooper St, Ottawa, ON, K2P 0P8 Canada) Very educated about celiac and cross contact, and attractive sushi. Costly however their fish high quality exhibits you why. It’s billed as “Vancouver type sushi” in Ottawa, however you will discover your common faves right here both approach. They’re on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
GoGiYa Sushi n Poké (504 Financial institution St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Z4) poké bowls, that may be made gluten free with ease. Employees is educated in cross-contact issues — to alter gloves and utensils for celiac illness — and the sushi rice doesn’t have any gluten within the vinegar used to season it. My decide is a salmon poké bowl, as scrumptious as it’s fairly. They don’t have a completely GF kitchen, so there’s was some CC threat, however they’re educated of the way to put together meals for us. Be aware: I’ve solely eaten from the Financial institution st. location, so I can’t converse to Kanata.
Pubs and Diners
Little Mac’s (991 Wellington St W, Ottawa, ON, K1Y 2Y1, Canada). Fried /southern meals, from the titled mac and cheese, to fried hen, waffles, ribs, french fries, and extra. Additionally milkshakes! Whereas the menu doesn’t disclose that it’s gluten free, it’s virtually fully gluten free—a celiac’s ldl cholesterol paradise. The one factor not gluten free is that they’ve common buns, however you may ask for the GF bun while you order. They put together the wheat buns on a separate griddle to the remainder of the (GF) menu. Be sure you talk that you’re celiac while you go or reserve. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Wilf & Ada’s (510 Financial institution St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Z4 Canada) This was a breakfast-only spot, but it surely was revamped a decade in the past to supply a brunch menu that features favourites like avocado eggs, mariposa duck (below their “eggs benny” part, made with Hollandaise sauce), and typical breakfast staples. Most of their menu may be made gluten free, workers is educated about celiac restrictions and wishes, and their dishes are crafted with a concentrate on native farms for his or her substances. They’re on Instagram right here.
Ice Cream
Sure, in my household ice cream is a delicacies kind—and sometimes a meal.
The Merry Dairy (102 Fairmont Avenue -corner of Gladstone, Ottawa, ON, K1Y 1X6 Canada) They’re educated about celiac illness, and serve essentially the most wonderful ice cream. My brother is rightfully obsessive about this spot, and he made positive I used to be too once I moved to the world. After I’ve gone in particular person and point out that I’ve celiac, they open a brand new tub of ice cream and get a brand new clear scoop to make sure no cross contact. The gluten free housemade waffle cones are among the many greatest I’ve ever had, and their flavours rotate with the season. Honey lavender, contemporary mint (made by way of neighbourhood mint change, the place locals carry contemporary mint and get ice cream credit score) and salted caramel are amongst my picks However truthfully, there’s nothing unhealthy right here. The scooping menu and pint data are clearly marked for gluten free, soy free, and vegan choices. Be aware that their vibrant waffle cones are not housemade nor gluten free, so be sure to ask which one to get. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Moo Shu Ice Cream (477 Financial institution St. Ottawa, ON K2P 1Z2 Canada) One other unimaginable ice cream spot, with creative flavours and clearly-marked gluten free choices, in addition to gluten free waffle cones. Flavours change month-to-month. Don’t miss lime leaf and mint (I’m predictable I do know), or Hong Kong milk tea — each are wonderful. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Cassis House-Made Gelato and Sorbet (No official web page however it’s positioned at 68 Principale St, Gatineau, Quebec J9H 3M6, Canada) Open 12-9pm on weekends and 2pm-8pm on weekdays. No gluten free cones, however gelato itself is predominantly gluten free they usually have used a brand new scoop once I point out I’m celiac. Their mojito, black sesame, and yuza flavours are all improbable, in addition to all of the others.
Stalls and Meals Vans Outdoors of City: Stittsville
Jimmy’s Waffle World (5862 Hazeldean Highway, Stittsville, ON, Canada, K2S 0N9) – virtually fully gluten free, with savoury and candy waffles alike, and poutine and fries from a protected fryer. They actually have a waffle poutine. Comply with it up with a gentle ice cream dessert (with gluten free cone, besides). Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
The Authentic Souvlaki Meals Truck (1619 Stittsville Fundamental Avenue, Stittsville, ON, Canada; previously Greek Wagon Ottawa) There are lots of gluten free choices within the type of platters, salads, and fries—together with gluten free gravy for poutine and a protected fryer. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here.
Smokin R&Rs BBQ (1441 Stittsville Fundamental St. Stittsville, ON, ) slow-cooked meat, poutines, sandwiches, briskets, and extra. A lot of the menu is gluten free, with a protected fryer. The mac & cheese, sadly, shouldn’t be for celiacs. Yow will discover them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Even additional afield
A quick notice about spots which might be out of city however obtainable if timing permits:
The Bean Sprout GF is a beautiful family-owned enterprise in Toronto that makes gluten free, nut free Chinese language meals, together with stir fries, dumplings, spring rolls, egg rolls, steamed buns, and way more. In addition they supply menus for soy free, corn free, and egg free objects, when you want them. All objects are delivered frozen, with cooking instructions on their website. Whereas they’re based mostly out of city, they do pop ups right here in Ottawa each few months. You possibly can observe them on Instagram or examine their website for the subsequent pop up within the space. I’m a giant fan of their hen dumplings, that are nice steamed but in addition do nicely in an air fryer. For the soy free menu, they use coconut aminos instead. I replenish every time they’re on the town!
Riz Gluten Free can be Toronto-based, however often does Ottawa pop ups, and are additionally offered at quite a lot of outlets on the town (at Gutsies, Voila, and so on). They’ve wonton soups, dumplings, curries, and stir fries all gluten free and dairy free.
And eventually, not a pop up however a spot I extremely advocate when you journey to the Gatineau Hills: a B&B known as La Violette in Wakefield, Quebec that I stayed at for my brother’s wedding ceremony final yr. It’s such a reasonably space, the mattress and breakfast has two cozy and cozy rooms, and also you’d be remiss to not keep there for the breakfasts alone. Natalie, who runs the B&B and cooks the breakfasts, was in a position to make protected and scrumptious gluten free meals for me and tailor them to my further meals restrictions. It’s typically booked out, however when you’re within the space and need a evening someplace particular, I extremely advocate it.
Retailers in Ottawa with naturally GF merchandise or GF specialty objects
I assumed I’d add some element about the place I purchase merchandise as a celiac, for these sticking round just a little longer.
- The principle spots are chain grocery shops like Loblaws, IGA (on the Quebec aspect), Metro, Canada’s Superstore, Farm Boy, and FreshCo, which is able to all have gluten free merchandise and snacks so that you can replenish on.
- For center jap substances which might be naturally gluten free, I head to Adonis Grocery store. I get my Zaatar spice there, which I take advantage of in nearly every part. Additionally a very good choice: Al Raheem.
- For Asian substances, head to Lim Bangkok Grocery or for a much bigger retailer with extra choices (when you have a automotive), a number of banh pho and coconut milk and curries to select from at T&T Grocery store.
- For South Asian substances and spices, choices I’ve sampled embody Bombay Spices, Silk Highway Meals, and Vaishali’s Superstore.
- For excellent Italian-made gluten free pasta and gluten free flour choices, head to Nicastros Effective Meals.
- For pure meals / natural meals and spices, Entire Meals Market and Herb & Spice are my go-tos.
What to do in Ottawa
Most of my time right here has been spent in mattress, as my spinal leak persists. Whereas I’ve had an opportunity to see a few of the enjoyable festivals—Tulip pageant, poutine pageant, and extra—within the years earlier than I moved right here, my radius now could be fairly small. So I wished to share some posts from others who’ve skilled extra within the metropolis than I’ve, and sources for individuals who need to go to:
- Ottawa Tourism’s record of enjoyable free actions for every season, in addition to their occasion calendar for all of the goings on you gained’t need to miss.
- From The Planet D, 33 issues to do in Ottawa
- Ottawa Tourism’s “My Native” guides, the place residents voted for the perfect winter actions, museums and artwork galleries, mountain climbing trails, actions for households, and extra.
- With a automotive, you’ve obtained ample time to discover the Ottawa Valley. Right here’s an inventory of what to do on this lovely a part of the area.
- And when you desire a motorbike, Ottawa by Bike is a superb useful resource of pathways, exploration, and marvel on two wheels.
- The Nationwide Capital Fee additionally has a touchdown web page for all of the wonderful parks and heritage buildings within the space.
- Tourisme Outaouais from Quebec has an inventory of Gatineau sights and meals.
- Festivals Ottawa has occasions large and small so that you can select from, and you’ll peruse by way of their calendar in case your dates are agency.
- And when you’ve obtained non-celiacs amongst you and wished some meals for them, Eater has an inventory of the perfect meals round Gatineau and Ottawa right here.
As a lot of you understand, I’m disabled now with a spinal CSF Leak, a situation I’ve been affected by since 2017. In consequence, I can’t drive round stuffing my face as I used to once I traveled the world. Presently, I can also’t go to a neighborhood spot and eat exterior, as a result of my standing / sitting time could be very slim; most of my time is spent in mattress.
I need to give a giant because of Christopher and Elizabeth for being my meals angels. Elizabeth is a neighborhood celiac who introduced over treats, recommended new spots, and despatched over a few of the images beneath. Christopher patiently drove to celiac spots across the area with no grumbling in any respect, bringing over meals since I can’t go and get issues myself. I like dwelling in Ottawa, however not one of the Quebec spots ship right here.
So with out the generosity of my meals mates, I wouldn’t have been in a position to full this information.