Pop goes the gluten

A popular eatery in Collingswood has introduced its new gluten-free initiative and is holding a celiac awareness fund raiser today to kick things off.

Well known in South Jersey for its grilled cheese sandwiches, The Pop Shop on Haddon Avenue is now offering gluten-free bread for its sandwiches and French toast, as well as GF chicken fingers and fries. The family-friendly restaurant has installed a dedicated fryer for serving its customers with celiac disease and gluten-intolerance.

The Celiac Sprue Association of South Jersey had scheduled a breakfast meeting at the restaurant this morning to show their support. I have yet to sample the fare and have heard mixed reviews. Although some customers have dismissed the food as "greasy," the place has earned a legion of dedicated fans who enjoy the extensive menu of basic American fare. It includes breakfast, burgers and shakes.

The Pop Shop's grilled cheese sandwich was featured on the Food Network's "Throwdown with Bobby Flay" back in 2008. The celebrity chef visited the store for the show's taping, and lost a grilled cheese challenge to the shop's cooks. That's gotta say something, right?!