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 web site, this listing can be a dwelling tree the place I plan so as to add new spots as I stumble throughout them. With a yr in Ottawa underneath my belt, although, I used to be able to put collectively one of the best of the gluten free eats I’ve discovered thus far. In any case, there are different spots on the town that I’ve but to attempt!
My gluten free eating adventures in my new dwelling
I’m dividing this publish into two principal sections: devoted gluten free services in Ottawa, after which the eating places and stalls that aren’t 100% GF however that may safely accommodate celiacs.
There are a lot of eating places that supply gluten free choices, however not all defend in opposition to cross-contact. Some will not be even conscious that these dangers must be addressed for celiac prospects. Whereas sure, typically you’ll see a celiac say “oh I’m not that delicate” and declare they’re pleased with utilizing shared fryers, the fact of this autoimmune illness is that even when asymptomatic ingesting gluten will hurt the physique finally. 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 get pleasure from. I do want that Canada was usually as accommodating as another international locations like the UK, the place because of adjustments of their meals rules, allergens are nearly all the time clearly marked on menus and eating places can typically simply accomodate the wants of celiacs. Hopefully in the future.
Nonetheless, you received’t go hungry right here and whereas our choice could also be slimmer than Toronto, Montreal, or New York, what you’re going to get remains to be scrumptious.
Notice: As I’ve acquired some emails since publishing this information asking about how individuals received on this listing / asking why x or y spot isn’t on the listing, I wish to reiterate: the whole lot on this information was paid for by me, none of it was sponsored, and the listing was cobbled collectively from my very own analysis. In case you’re new to Authorized Nomads please see my About Web page for particulars about sponsorships and collabs; I don’t do both. Nothing mistaken with those that do, after all! However the web site was began in 2008, and as a substitute 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 also be what helps assist me.
Let’s get to it!
Devoted (100%) gluten-free eating places, stalls, and bakeries in Ottawa
Strawberry Blonde Bakery (principal location in Westboro, at 111 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K1Z 6V9 Canada). This vegan, nut-free, kosher, and gluten-free bakery now has two areas in Ottawa, and loads of treats to select from. They do customized truffles as nicely; see beneath for the one my brother and his spouse received for me. They’ve additionally received a enjoyable seasonal menu that rotates primarily based on holidays, and year-round staples of various cookies, cupcakes and mini-cupcakes, brownies, nanaimo bars and extra. They ship nationwide, and ship inside the Ottawa space. You could find 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 recent bread, pastries, and muffins/treats, in addition to a comparatively massive dry items part and fairly a number of freezers that home arduous to seek out gadgets in Ottawa. I’m an enormous 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 sort sufficient to bundle the soups in smaller containers in order that it wasn’t heavy for me to carry with my spinal CSF leak.
The frozen pizza dough that they promote is among the many finest I’ve ever tried in 20 years of celiac-ing, and for those who get there early sufficient they could even have some ache au chocolat and croissants left from La Marquise Sans Gluten in Montreal so that you can eat as you head dwelling. (If not, they’ve them frozen so that you can make at dwelling, as a substitute.) Oh, and don’t miss certainly one of their very own banana chocolate muffins, if that flavour is to your style. They’re decadent. You could find 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 just lately went by a rebrand and is now 2 Sprinkles. I’m an enormous fan of their namesake sprinkle donuts, beneath, that are baked not fried. They’ve additionally received chocolate brownies, pizza buns, cookies, crispy calzones, and wonderful breads with flavours like herb garlic and onion cheese. Their menu can 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. In case you order on-line, you’ll be able to decide up free of charge at Lansdowne farmers markets weekly, however in addition they supply supply inside the Ottawa space. You could find them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Voila Gluten-Free Bakeree (4055 Carling Ave #2, Kanata, ON K2K 2A4 Canada) Beautiful family-owned bakery that makes baked items not just for celiacs, but additionally for many who keep away from dairy, eggs, peanuts, nuts and tree nuts. They give attention to utilizing pure sweeteners, and attempt to goal for low sodium and low sugar. Bagels, bread, savoury and candy pies, tarts, muffins, cupcakes, and rather more on supply. You could find them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Spring Chips (55 Byward Market Sq., Ottawa, ON K1N 9C3 Canada) Superb “potato twister” spirals, much like those I might get pleasure from 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 fulfill each dad and son who run the stall in shifts. Actually scrumptious, a candy household, and so they make their very own seasoning (gluten free!) to high their freshly fried potato spirals. They’re on the Christmas market at Lansdowne, but additionally at Byward market, and the CFL video games at TD stadium, in addition to some festivals. You could find them on Fb right here, and Instagram right here.
Farang Thai (On-line and at markets) Because the title suggests, this spot is run by a non-Thai individual—farang means foreigner in Thai. Don’t let that cease you, although, as a result of their meals may be very tasty, the co-owner is celiac, and he and his associate has been to Thailand many instances to maintain researching and bettering on his recipes. The satay hen is a favourite, however they’ve additionally received certainly one of my most well-liked drinks, a candy pandan leaf tea. They’re often at 613 Flea market in Lansdowne, however you’ll be able to examine their occasions web page for once they’re attending and for another pop ups they’ve happening. In addition they do frozen meals for those who’re right here for some time. All gadgets are 100% GF! You could find 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 kinds. It may be created from 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 international locations 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 received 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 also be dairy free. It’s fairly a deal with, and even the plain model is sugary sufficient to get pleasure from by itself. Add the maple syrup or Oreos and also you’ve received one thing to fulfill even the sweetest of candy tooths. You could find 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 substantiate what was gluten free right here, the girl I spoke with confirmed that the proprietor makes all of the gluten free pita himself, and that nearly the whole lot on the menu was secure 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 for those who needed to examine the menu earlier than stopping in. The gyros with gluten free pita introduced me again to the various 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 gadgets made with phyllo. However the whole lot else is, and with a devoted fryer you received’t have bother discovering one thing you like. Make sure to point out celiac once you order.
La Dolce Vita (180 Preston Road, 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. If you need Italian meals, this can be a nice wager. I’ve additionally put it within the “pizza” part beneath, however along with pizzas you’ll be able to go for pastas, entrees, lasagna, gnocchi and extra. Full GF menu so that you can drool over, right here. You could find 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. You could find them on Instagram right here.
Aroma Meze (239 Nepean Road, Ottawa, ON, K2P 0B7, Canada) Many gluten-free choices, completely scrumptious, and a considerate menu divided by seasons, and celiac pals say this can be a good spot for a sit-down meal. As talked about, I can not sit down or go to eating places, so I’ve not but tried it. However it got here so closely really useful that I needed to incorporate it. There may be additionally gluten free poutine with a devoted fryer for the french fries, in addition to GF pitas. You could find 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. You could find them on Instagram right here.
Siam Bistro (1268 Wellington Road 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. You could find them on Instagram right here.
Talay Thai (511 Financial institution St. Ottawa, ON K2P 1Z5, Canada) Their menu gadgets 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, in order that they know to take further precaution. Pad thai, fried rice, yellow curry, and a few appetizers: all gluten free. Pink curries / inexperienced curries will not be. 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. You could find 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 outdated haunts are now not secure. Listed below are two I nonetheless dine at:
Genuine Vietnamese Pho Home (3 areas, all outdoors 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). You need to inform them that you’re celiac, in order that they prepare dinner the bánh phở noodles in separate water to the egg noodles, for the soups. Bun noodles are cooked upfront individually, and secure. Additionally double examine the marinade for the meats. You could find them on Fb right here.
La Maison Pho (Aylmer) (4 Rue Belmont Aylmer, QC J9H 6J5, Canada) educated about celiac, gluten free gadgets clearly marked on their take-out menu in retailer, together with their summer season rolls /gỏi cuốn (hen will not be marinated in any soy sauce), phở, rice vermicelli dishes (bún thịt nướng) and extra. You could find 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 robust opinions about poutine. On the Ottawa aspect, That Meals Truck (T.F.T) is well one of the best poutine I’ve tried. They use St. Albert’s curds and have an excellent gravy, and the fries are completely crispy whereas nonetheless being tender inside. They’ve a devoted fryer, and most of their menu will be made gluten free so for those who crave grilled hen sandwiches, burgers, or onion rings, all are doable right here. In case you’re in Ottawa with out wheels, they’re on Uber Eats too. In case you do have wheels, they’re throughout the road from Gutsies. You understand what to do. You could find 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 for those who don’t have wheels, so it’s underneath # 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 in addition a vegan sauce choice. You could find them on Fb right here.
The Nice Canadian Poutinerie (a number of areas) Individuals in Ottawa additionally swear by The Nice Canadian Poutinerie, however I’m truthfully not the most important fan of the gravy. Nonetheless, for those who’re not a poutine purist like me and wish to attempt many alternative choices (like Philly cheesesteak poutine or candy Sriracha poutine), that is your finest wager. You could find them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
African
YKO Hen BBQ (the situation at 263 Dalhousie Road Ottawa, ON K1N 7E3 Canada) There are two outposts of YKO hen, I’ve solely tried the one at 263 Dalhousie and whereas they could be related taste-wise, I’ve solely tried the .com one! The co-owner, Ramata, will not be solely acquainted with celiac illness, however trains her employees 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 the whole lot is secure on the menu, besides the beignets. However because the beignets are made on a stovetop, the opposite gadgets which are fried like french fries are okay for us celiac to get pleasure from. I often go for a half-chicken with sides to have leftovers for the following day. Don’t miss the plantains, please. They’re a wonderfully candy accompaniment to your hen. You could find them on Instagram right here.
Pizza
Pizza Nerds (2 areas). For individuals who wish to attempt pizza at a spot that isn’t devoted, this can be a good choice. They’ve received creative flavours, a scrumptious cauliflower crust, and information of celiac illness. They maintain 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 on account of my mast cell points. They have been in a position to accommodate, and very nice about it to. You could find them on Instagram right here.
La Dolce Vita – (see above, underneath Italian)
Johnny Farina (216 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1L7 Canada). Regardless of the title, Johnny Farina does have gluten free pizza (and pasta) choices, employees are educated about celiac and can prepare dinner and serve/lower 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 plenty of non-pizza choices for everybody else. You could find 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 web site 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 into common. 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 need it! Fryer is shared with the hen breaded gadgets 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. You could find them on Instagram right here.
Döner
Wolf Down (380 Financial institution St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Y4 Canada). I’ve tried döner many instances 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 Seventies who took conventional Turkish döner and put it into flatbreads for a simple meal on-the-go.
It’s because Wolf Down founder Joelle Parenteau tried Berlin döner whereas visiting her husband’s dwelling nation of Germany and located it to be so improbable that she wolfed it down — therefore the title. She developed Wolf Down from her newfound obsession, and it opened in 2019. Their menu is sparse; they needed 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. Beneath, 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 listing on their web site.) You may also discover them on IG right here.
Indian
Thali Ottawa (136 O’Connor St, Ottawa ON K2P 2G7 Canada). Thali serves really wonderful meals, and although it isn’t low cost it stays probably the greatest Indian spots I’ve tried on the town. Objects which have gluten are clearly marked on the menu; the remainder is ours to get pleasure from. After I ate there the pappadum and pakora have been secure too, as nothing with gluten was fried of their fryer, however it’s all the time good to substantiate. Their sister restaurant Coconut Lagoon is an alternative choice for those who 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 completed a beautiful job of bringing his visions to life. You could find 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 suggestion from the Ottawa Celiac Affiliation. When ordering, be sure you 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. You could find them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
East India Firm (210 Somerset Road 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 lately, 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 that wheat. You could find 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 may be very conscious of cross-contact points, and might substitute as required. Notice that whereas the menu may be very clearly marked for gluten free gadgets, their fryer is shared and not secure 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 excellent choice when you have a automotive. This spot is one other one really useful by the native celiac affiliation, as they’re very acquainted with 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 get pleasure from. 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 embrace 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 gadgets many a time — fortunate for me, they’re proper down the road from Gutsies, so I can get each treats directly. You could find 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 motive I cherished 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, after all, however that’s anticipated. You could find them on Instagram right here.
Gooneys Sandwichworks (360 Laurier Ave W, Ottawa, ON K1P 1C8, Canada) Scrumptious gluten free arepas with a wide range of fillings on their menu, and freezers with gluten free empanadas. You’ll be able to 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 Street, 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 lots 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’ll be able to ask for a rice flour choice for those who desire, although their main 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 Road West, Ottawa, ON K1R 5K2) They grabbed an excellent area title too! A lot of the menu is gluten-free, and tacos and tortillas are 100% masa harina and never flour. Educated about celiac illness. You could find them on Instagram right here.
Chamos Grill (511 Lacolle Manner, 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 principal dishes from a cross-section of Latin American international locations. Very conscious of cross-contact/celiac wants; for those who order supply your bag may have a gluten free sticker on it to indicate that they handled your meal otherwise to the remainder. 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 area into one thing extra; it’s additionally a bar and occasion area.
Gluten free baked items (for 100% GF bakeries, see above)
Little Jo Berry’s (1305 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON, K1Y 3B1, Canada) LJB will not be a devoted facility, however their gluten free gadgets 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’ll’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 often make extravagant treats like this gluten free terrarium, with matcha and chocolate sponge cake, gummies, mint, chocolate mousse, and extra: You could find them on Instagram right here.
Rocket Scone This scone firm is an enormous 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 he or she makes the GF scones at dwelling, cautious to keep away from any cross-contact. And the GF scones are a special form to the common ones to keep away from errors. Accessible at completely different farmers markets within the metropolis in Carp, Westboro, Lansdowne, and Orleans; their Instagram feed is the place they publish the week’s scones and their present location. I’m an enormous fan of their amaretto poached pear, however you really can’t go mistaken.
Kokoro Bake Store (Stall on the Essential St. Farmers’ market on the Grand Allée Park each Sat. 9-2pm) This baking duo makes some gadgets 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 gadgets collectively earlier than transferring to the gadgets with gluten, in order to verify they maintain cross-contact to a minimal. They’ll’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 created from the season (numerous strawberry gadgets 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) Data about cross contact abounds, and so they have a large gluten free choice as nicely. Their rice is completely seasoned and the fish is recent. You could find them on Instagram right here.
Sushi Haru Haru (181 Rue Principale, Gatineau, QC, J9H 6J9 Canada). Top-of-the-line rated sushi spots within the space, this was my go-to when I lived in Aylmer, Quebec. Very recent fish, a beautiful Korean household who owns the spot and who have been completely satisfied to accommodate my further meals restrictions over and above celiac. Gluten free soy sauce is obtainable, the rice vinegar they use is gluten free, and so they make their very own spicy sauce and it too is gluten free. The Korean meals choices are not gluten free, however for those who’ve received some non-celiacs in your midst, they could get pleasure from these choices. I often received 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 out there for many who want it, and their spicy sauce can also 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 engaging sushi. Costly however their fish high quality reveals you why. It’s billed as “Vancouver type sushi” in Ottawa, however you’ll find your ordinary faves right here both means. 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. Workers 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 methods to put together meals for us. Notice: I’ve solely eaten from the Financial institution st. location, so I can’t communicate 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 nearly totally gluten free—a celiac’s ldl cholesterol paradise. The one factor not gluten free is that they’ve common buns, however you’ll be able to ask for the GF bun once you order. They put together the wheat buns on a separate griddle to the remainder of the (GF) menu. Ensure you talk that you’re celiac once you go or reserve. You could find them on Instagram right here.
Wilf & Ada’s (510 Financial institution St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Z4 Canada) This was once a breakfast-only spot, however it was revamped a decade in the past to supply a brunch menu that features favourites like avocado eggs, mariposa duck (underneath their “eggs benny” part, made with Hollandaise sauce), and typical breakfast staples. Most of their menu will be made gluten free, employees is educated about celiac restrictions and wishes, and their dishes are crafted with a give attention to native farms for his or her elements. They’re on Instagram right here.
Ice Cream
Sure, in my household ice cream is a delicacies sort—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 certain I used to be too once I moved to the world. After I’ve gone in individual 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 finest I’ve ever had, and their flavours rotate with the season. Honey lavender, recent mint (made through neighbourhood mint alternate, the place locals deliver recent 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. Notice that their vibrant waffle cones are not housemade nor gluten free, so be sure you ask which one to get. You could find 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. You could find them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Cassis House-Made Gelato and Sorbet (No official web page however it’s situated 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 and so they 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 Vehicles Outdoors of City: Stittsville
Jimmy’s Waffle World (5862 Hazeldean Street, Stittsville, ON, Canada, K2S 0N9) – nearly totally gluten free, with savoury and candy waffles alike, and poutine and fries from a secure fryer. They also have a waffle poutine. Comply with it up with a gentle ice cream dessert (with gluten free cone, in addition). You could find them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
The Authentic Souvlaki Meals Truck (1619 Stittsville Essential Road, Stittsville, ON, Canada; previously Greek Wagon Ottawa) There are a lot of gluten free choices within the type of platters, salads, and fries—together with gluten free gravy for poutine and a secure fryer. You could find them on Instagram right here.
Smokin R&Rs BBQ (1441 Stittsville Essential St. Stittsville, ON, ) slow-cooked meat, poutines, sandwiches, briskets, and extra. A lot of the menu is gluten free, with a secure fryer. The mac & cheese, sadly, will not be for celiacs. You could find them on Instagram right here and Fb right here.
Even additional afield
A quick notice about spots which are out of city however out there 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 rather more. In addition they supply menus for soy free, corn free, and egg free gadgets, for those who want them. All gadgets are delivered frozen, with cooking instructions on their web site. Whereas they’re primarily based out of city, they do pop ups right here in Ottawa each few months. You’ll be able to observe them on Instagram or examine their web site for the following pop up within the space. I’m an enormous fan of their hen dumplings, that are nice steamed but additionally do nicely in an air fryer. For the soy free menu, they use coconut aminos in its place. I fill up each time they’re on the town!
Riz Gluten Free can also be Toronto-based, however often does Ottawa pop ups, and are additionally bought at a wide range of retailers on the town (at Gutsies, Voila, and so forth). 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 suggest for those who 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 comfy 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 secure and scrumptious gluten free meals for me and tailor them to my further meals restrictions. It’s typically booked out, however for those who’re within the space and need a evening someplace particular, I extremely suggest it.
Retailers in Ottawa with naturally GF merchandise or GF specialty gadgets
I believed I’d add some element about the place I purchase merchandise as a celiac, for these sticking round slightly longer.
- The primary 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 fill up on.
- For center jap elements which are naturally gluten free, I head to Adonis Grocery store. I get my Zaatar spice there, which I exploit in nearly the whole lot. Additionally a superb choice: Al Raheem.
- For Asian elements, head to Lim Bangkok Grocery or for an even bigger retailer with extra choices (when you have a automotive), numerous banh pho and coconut milk and curries to select from at T&T Grocery store.
- For South Asian elements and spices, choices I’ve sampled embrace Bombay Spices, Silk Street Meals, and Vaishali’s Superstore.
- For excellent Italian-made gluten free pasta and gluten free flour choices, head to Nicastros High-quality 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 competition, poutine competition, and extra—within the years earlier than I moved right here, my radius now could be fairly small. So I needed to share some posts from others who’ve skilled extra within the metropolis than I’ve, and assets for individuals who wish to go to:
- Ottawa Tourism’s listing of enjoyable free actions for every season, in addition to their occasion calendar for all of the goings on you received’t wish to miss.
- From The Planet D, 33 issues to do in Ottawa
- Ottawa Tourism’s “My Native” guides, the place residents voted for one of the best winter actions, museums and artwork galleries, climbing trails, actions for households, and extra.
- With a automotive, you’ve received ample time to discover the Ottawa Valley. Right here’s an inventory of what to do on this stunning a part of the area.
- And for those who desire a motorcycle, Ottawa by Bike is a wonderful useful resource of pathways, exploration, and surprise 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 through their calendar in case your dates are agency.
- And for those who’ve received non-celiacs amongst you and needed some meals for them, Eater has an inventory of one of the best meals round Gatineau and Ottawa right here.
As a lot of you realize, I’m disabled now with a spinal CSF Leak, a situation I’ve been affected by since 2017. In consequence, I can not drive round stuffing my face as I used to once I traveled the world. Presently, I can also’t go to an area spot and eat outdoors, as a result of my standing / sitting time may be very slim; most of my time is spent in mattress.
I wish to give an enormous because of Christopher and Elizabeth for being my meals angels. Elizabeth is an area celiac who introduced over treats, prompt 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 pals, I wouldn’t have been in a position to full this information.