Exploring gluten-free options in Berkeley
Introduction
Berkeley, California, a vibrant hub of culture and cuisine, recognizes the growing demand for gluten-free options, catering to the diverse dietary needs of its populace and visitors. With more people seeking gluten-free alternatives due to celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or personal preference, the city’s culinary landscape has evolved to offer a variety of delicious and safe options. This article spotlights several establishments in Berkeley that have earned accolades for their gluten-free offerings.
Gluten Free in Berkeley
While these establishments offer gluten-free options, it’s crucial for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to inquire directly about cross-contamination risks and the preparation practices to ensure their safety.
Berkeley boasts a plethora of eateries offering gluten-free delights.
Gluten Free Restaurants in Berkeley
There are many restaurants in Berkeley that offer gluten-free menus or dishes. Some of the most popular include:
- Third Culture Bakery: This bakery is known for its delicious gluten-free cakes, scones, and other baked goods.
- Mariposa Baking Company: This bakery offers a variety of gluten-free baked goods, including bread, cookies, and cakes.
- Los Cilantros: This Mexican restaurant offers a variety of gluten-free dishes, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
- Humbowl: This fast food restaurant offers a variety of gluten-free bowls, including acai bowls, poke bowls, and quinoa bowls.
Gluten Free Food Stores in Berkeley
Berkeley also has a large number of gluten-free food stores, where you can find a variety of gluten-free products, including packaged foods, fresh produce, and frozen products. Some of the most popular stores include:
- Berkeley Bowl: This large grocery store offers a wide selection of gluten-free products, including meats, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and baked goods.
- The Grocery Outlet: This discount grocery store offers a variety of gluten-free products at affordable prices.
- Whole Foods Market – This high-end grocery chain offers a wide selection of gluten-free products.
Below is a detailed table featuring establishments, their locations, and gluten-free menu options:
| No. | Name | Address | Type | GF Menu Options | Comments and Ratings |
| 1 | Third Culture Bakery | 2701 Eighth St, Berkeley, CA 94710 | Bakery, Cafe | Bread/Buns, Dessert, Donuts, Waffles | Dedicated gluten-free |
| 2 | Humbowl | 2975 College Ave, Berkeley, CA 94705 | Health Food Restaurant | – | Dedicated gluten-free |
| 3 | Corso | 1788 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94709 | Italian Restaurant | Pasta | 100% of 9 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 4 | Platano | 2042 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704 | Restaurant | – | 92% of 14 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 5 | Bobby G’s Pizzeria | 2072 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704 | Pizza Restaurant | Beer, Pizza | 100% of 5 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 6 | Kaffa Ethiopian Cuisine | 2987 Sacramento St, Berkeley, CA 94702 | Ethiopian Restaurant | – | 100% of 3 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 7 | Red Tomato Pizza House | 2017 University Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94704 | Pizza Restaurant | Pizza | 66% of 3 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 8 | Lucia’s | 2016 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704 | Italian Restaurant | Dessert, Pasta, Pizza | 84% of 13 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 9 | Funky Elephant | 1313 Ninth Street #120, Berkeley, CA 94710 | Thai Restaurant | Ice Cream, Pad Thai | 100% of 3 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 10 | Berkeley Bowl | 920 Heinz Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94710 | Grocery Store | – | 100% of 3 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 11 | Chipotle | 2311 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704 | Quick Service Restaurant | Rice Bowls, Tacos | 100% of 2 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 12 | La Mediterranee | 2936 College Ave, Berkeley, CA 94705 | Mediterranean Restaurant | – | 100% of 6 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 13 | Saysetha | 6230 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94609 | Thai Restaurant | – | 50% of 2 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 14 | Luca Cucina Italiana | 2057 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, CA 94702 | Italian Restaurant | Pasta | 100% of 2 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 15 | Tender Greens | 2071 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704 | Restaurant | Salad, Soup | 100% of 3 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 16 | Kiku Sushi | 1316 Gilman St, Berkeley, CA 94706 | Sushi Restaurant | Sushi | – |
| 17 | Spoon Korean Bistro | 933 Ashby Ave, Berkeley, CA 94710 | Korean Restaurant | – | 100% of 3 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 18 | CREAM | 2399 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704 | Ice Cream Shop | Dessert, Ice Cream | 33% of 3 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 19 | Masse’s Pastries | 1469 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94709 | Bakery | – | 50% of 2 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 20 | Easy Creole | 1761 Alcatraz Ave, Berkeley, CA 94703 | Restaurant | Beer, Bread/Buns | 100% of 4 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 21 | Gather | 2200 Oxford Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 | Restaurant | Appetizers, Burgers, Dessert | 100% of 5 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 22 | sweetgreen | 1890 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94709 | Quick Service Restaurant | Rice Bowls, Salad | 100% of 2 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 23 | Nikko Sushi | 2399 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704 | Sushi Restaurant | Sushi | 100% of 2 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 24 | Little Plearn Thai Kitchen | 2283 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704 | Thai Restaurant | Pad Thai | 100% of 3 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 25 | Cafe Clem | 2020 Kittredge St, Berkeley, CA 94704 | Cafe | – | 100% of 2 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 26 | Saturn Cafe | 2175 Allston Way, Berkeley, CA 94704 | Vegetarian Restaurant | Beer, Bread/Buns, Burgers | 66% of 15 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
| 27 | Plearn Thai Kitchen | 2050 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704 | Thai Restaurant | – | 100% of 3 votes say it’s celiac friendly |
Tips for Eating Gluten-Free in Berkeley
If you’re eating gluten-free in Berkeley, here are some tips to help you enjoy your meal:
- Call ahead: Before visiting a restaurant, call ahead to make sure they have gluten-free options available.
- Ask questions: When ordering at a restaurant, ask about the ingredients and preparation process of your dishes.
- Be patient: Restaurants may need a little more time to prepare their gluten-free dishes.
With a little planning, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free meal in Berkeley.
Conclusions
Berkeley offers an array of gluten-free culinary experiences, catering to varying preferences and needs. From bakeries and cafes to restaurants serving different cuisines, the options are abundant and diverse. For individuals with specific dietary restrictions, it is essential to communicate with the staff and verify the preparation practices to ensure a safe dining experience.
Berkeley warmly invites you to explore and savor the diverse gluten-free options it houses. Whether you are craving sushi, pasta, or a sweet treat, the city has something to satiate every palate. Always remember to verify the safety of the food for those with gluten sensitivities, and most importantly, enjoy the gastronomic journey in Gluten-Free Berkeley!
