Crabfries surprise

Photo by Chickie's & Pete's

I had the good fortune of stumbling into a fine dinner a Chickie’s & Pete’s restaurant. It’s menu dedicated to gluten-free foods is not extensive, but it contains all of the regional chain’s signature foods. 

(Shout out to our server, Emily, who clued me in, after I ordered a GF beer.)

C&P’s is popular for its seafood selections, but mostly for its Crabfries. These are crinkle-cut French fries dusted with a blend of seasonings, including Old Bay, and served with small vats of melted American cheese on the side.

Hot tomato!

Photo/Gluten Free Garden State

Pizza shop owner Giulio Padalino didn't start serving gluten-free foods to appeal to his customers or to jump on a trendy bandwagon. He was instead looking to help his son, who was diagnosed with celiac disease as a child.

That was more than 25 years ago!

Palermo's Ristorante, which has locations in Bordentown, Roebling (aka Florence) and Ewing, has catered to celiac customers longer than most.Although Padalino began stocking celiac-friendly pastas and pizza shells for the family's personal use, he recognized its appeal to some customers early on and has been expanding the menu every since.