Just dessert

All celiacs have been disappointed when they encounter a restaurant or or office party or social gathering where there is absolutely NOTHING gluten-free to eat. On the flip side, we're also pleasantly surprised from time to time, and that's what happened this morning.

My daughter and I arrived at the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia about an hour before it opened, so we went across the street to Sister Cities Park. The Milk & Honey cafe had been recommended by academy staff for grabbing a coffee (for me) and a beverage for Bel. Unbeknownst to us, there were gluten-free cheesecake brownies for sale at the counter. (Happy dance!)

Gluten-free: It's what's for breakfast

I got my gluten-free breakfast fix this past weekend with a couple of bagels produced by Pennsylvania wholesaler Sweet Note Bakery. Mine were purchased at Mount Laurel Bagels & Bakery. The everything bagel with cream cheese was delicious! I also tried the plain version, which was good too. Both required toasting to soften them up a bit, which was recommended by the a staff member who lives gluten-free.

In the few days since my visit, Sweet Note announced they are now delivering to The Bagel Spot on Kings Highway in Cherry Hill. In addition to these spots and the two Bagel Talk locations previously mentioned on this blog, these gluten-free bagels are sold through The Kibitz Room in Cherry Hill, Maidenhead Bagel Co. in Lawrenceville and Blue Plate in Mullica Hill.

Where will they show up next?

Sunny days keeping hunger at bay

I fully expect to have a tough time finding suitable food options when I'm in a place like a theme park, where it's a great inconvenience to leave the premises for a meal. Therefore, it's so nice to find a family-friendly tourist attraction that caters to celiacs. On visits to Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pa., it certainly surprised me.

"Allergy-friendly" eateries are noted on maps of the park, which is a short drive from Trenton. In addition to gluten-free, they offer special items for visitors with peanut and dairy allergies. While the menu isn't new, it's expanding and its' good for parents with young children to know.