BAY OF QUINTE GLUTEN-FREE GUIDE
DISCOVERING CELIAC-SAFE EATS IN THE REGION
Hi, my name is Madi, and I’m the Marketing Coordinator for the Bay of Quinte Regional Marketing Board! Three years ago, I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease, and after many days spent sick in bed, I had to quickly learn what my body could tolerate and how to best support my autoimmune disorder. This process has been challenging, especially when it comes to eating out, which is why I want to make it easier for you with the Bay of Quinte Gluten-Free Guide.
In my blog, I’ll cover breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even dessert. By the end, you’ll have seven new go-to spots with a range of quality gluten-free (GF) options. Here are some of my new favourite places to try. I hope you enjoy them!
Written by Madi Tracze
Read time: 13 min
Chicken pesto sandwich on St. Anne’s gluten-free five seed bread.
Ellena's Cafe & Pantry, Napanee
Ellena’s Cafe & Pantry is the perfect place for either a coffee and a pastry or a sit-down lunch. Located right on Dundas Street in downtown Napanee, its sign will invite you in through a turquoise door into a cozy shop with a cafe. And it will keep you around for its GF options!
While waiting for my coffee, I browsed the grocery and kitchen items throughout the pantry, then made my way to the back where several dining tables are set up beside a beautiful barn door and various works of art.
Their baked goods and grab-and-go options include marshmallow squares, coconut pie, energy balls, and fudge. They also sell grocery items in the store, including a variety of GF products.
For something more substantial, all of their sandwiches can be made GF. The GF bread of choice is from St. Anne’s Bakery in Grafton, ON, which is “dedicated to gluten-free excellence.”
While they don’t offer a GF wrap, you can put the ingredients on bread or a bed of lettuce.
I got the chicken pesto sandwich. It’s yummy, rich in flavour, and very cheesy! The bread is perfectly toasted and holds together beautifully.
Marshmallow square.
One thing to keep in mind if you are sensitive to cross-contamination is that all their sandwiches are made on the same grill. I am highly sensitive, and I had no reaction, but to stay on the safe side, I would recommend asking for the surface to be wiped down before making your sandwich.
They also have soups of the day, and there may be a GF option, as they often offer a GF vegetable soup!
For dessert, I picked their marshmallow square. I was curious to try it because GF marshmallows are nearly impossible to find. This is another one of those small things the cafe does to show its commitment to making GF customers feel included.
The bar is incredibly soft and perfectly chewy. The marshmallows and peanut butter combine to create a comforting snack that’s easy to take on the go. I wish I had tried their GF coconut pie as well—it looked absolutely delicious! It’s nice to have a variety of options available depending on my appetite.
To wash it all down, I had one of Ellena’s specialty drinks: the iced brown butter maple latte. They make their syrups in-house, and the brown butter inclusion is especially delicious.
With so many grab-and-go options, I’d recommend taking your lunch to the Napanee Conservation Park along the Napanee River. Or, enjoy your coffee and pastry while exploring the shops on Main Street for a perfect morning or afternoon outing!
The Rebel on a gluten-free bun, side fries.
Burger Revolution, Belleville
This burger joint in downtown Belleville is very accommodating to those with a gluten allergy, with multiple bun options, a separate fryer, GF sauces, and a careful staff that assures you there will be no cross-contamination.
Burger Revolution is filled with booths of bright red cushions, a picture wall featuring Canadian musicians, and cheeky nods to their burger “revolution” with framed drawings of Ronald McDonald. The atmosphere is unapologetically punk rock, highlighting its revolutionary theme.
When I asked my server about GF options, she went into a detailed script highlighting everything available to me and was super knowledgeable about any potential concerns. She even told me the gravy and BBQ sauces are GF (which can be difficult to find).
She said that all burgers can be made GF, apart from certain toppings like the deep-fried pickles, with THREE bun options to choose from. They have standard gluten-free, plantain, and lettuce buns. The plantain bun is made from smashed plantain that is fried down— and yes, they have a separate fryer for both the plantain and the fries!
I was told they cannot make fried chicken GF, and their hot dogs are not GF either. Despite this, there are still plenty of burger options.
I chose one of “The Legends” and the #1 crowd favourite, The Rebel, with the standard GF bun and a side of fries. Then I ordered The Revolution, their classic burger, with a plantain bun.
The Revolution on a plantain bun.
When I finished ordering, my server asked if I had a gluten allergy or if it was just a preference. When I told her I had Celiac, she said she would let the kitchen know so they could avoid cross-contamination. Content with my order, I took a seat in one of the red booths and waited for my food to arrive. It came out in good time, with both burgers arriving at once.
I decided to try The Rebel first, as the bun is a bit more of a familiar choice. I can definitely see why this burger is a crowd favourite, with an incredible blend of flavours—from the creamy avocado spread, which doesn’t make the bun soggy, to the crunch of the kettle chips and the freshness of the tomatoes, lettuce, and other vegetables.
The bread isn’t hard, and it is softly toasted. After several bites, it did start to come apart, but the burger is super tasty. If you’re worried about crumbling, there’s another option for you in the lettuce or plantain bun.
The plantain bun is such a cool innovation for a GF alternative. Built to last, the bun does not crumble, with a firm exterior that softens when you bite into it. The plantain has a mild taste with a texture that stands out from regular bread.
My server told me she isn’t Celiac but wanted to try the options herself to know what to recommend. She said the plantain bun is the one she recommends most because it does not fall apart.
This spot has definitely become my go-to for a safe and tasty meal. The service is excellent, the options are endless, and the quality is stellar!
Image supplied by Chilangos Mexican Restaurant.
Chilangos Mexican Restaurant, Belleville
Chilangos Mexican Restaurant in Belleville’s north end is another one of my favourites for a GF meal. It’s a local, family-owned restaurant that is almost completely naturally GF and serves authentic Mexican food. Try the tacos dorados for the perfect crunch or the quesabirria tacos for a rich and mouth-watering bite.
You don’t have to dig hard for GF options, as most dishes are marked with a wheat icon crossed out to indicate they are GF.
More than half of their brunch menu, served from 11 am – 3 pm, is GF. The only real limitations are in their dishes with breaded components.
All of the appetizers are GF. A standout is their homemade corn tortilla chips, served with a variety of salsa, pico, and guacamole options. You can go for the Tres Amigos Platter and enjoy the three dips without having to choose!
All of the soups and salads are GF, including their tortilla soup, which I highly recommend. It is a homemade tomato broth topped with corn tortilla chips, avocado, cheese, onions, and sour cream.
Straight from Abuela’s Kitchen, four of the six entrees are safe, including several varieties of enchiladas.
Tacos Dorados, add a side of rice.
I’ve been here enough times to recommend to you my absolute favourites: the tacos dorados and the quesabirria tacos.
Tacos dorados are my first love. Four crispy tacos are stuffed with poached chicken breast and topped with a mound of lettuce, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, and a drizzle of sour cream. The shell has the perfect crunch, while the lettuce adds freshness, and the feta brings a creamy finish. Drench them in salsa verde, and you’ll be wishing there were four more.
Four tacos stuffed with slow-cooked beef (birria style) and mozzarella cheese, then griddled until crispy, make up the mouthwatering quesabirria tacos. They offer a softer alternative to the dorados, especially once you dip your tacos into the rich birria broth.
There are also fajitas and a Fiesta Bowl for even more GF options, along with two GF desserts: flan napolitano (custard) and chipotle chocolate cake.
For an authentic Mexican meal from start to finish, the focus is on quality Mexican food that just happens to be gluten-free. Pair your meal with one of their famous margaritas, frozen or on the rocks. Just be sure to let your server know about your allergy, so you can enjoy a safe meal!
Gluten-free mini cherry cheesecake.
Sugar Mamas Bake Shoppe Inc., Belleville
Creamy, sugary, and soft: Sugar Mama’s Bake Shoppe in Belleville (located right next door to Chilangos!) has GF baked goods that will taste like the distant memory of the treats you’ve been missing since pre-celiac. Take your pick between a cupcake iced to perfection or a cheesecake with a delicate center. You can’t go wrong either way!
In through the bakery’s doors, up a turquoise ramp, and past a mural with the Sugar Mama’s logo, a painted cupcake, and butterfly wings (perfect for a photo op) are several tasty GF treats ready to eat!
In the display, there are various flavours of mini GF cheesecakes, including blueberry, lemon, cherry, salted caramel, and chocolate ganache! Behind the counter are GF vanilla and chocolate cupcakes, as they are kept in a freezer to preserve their freshness.
After the cashier told me my options, I was reassured that the GF treats are baked separately; I landed on a classic gluten-free mini cherry cheesecake and the gluten-free/dairy-free chocolate cupcake.
Gluten-free chocolate cupcake.
I sat on a yellow-cushioned bench, eager to bite into my mini cheesecake.
Straight from the display, this treat is ready to eat and incredibly soft, moist, and gooey, complemented by the sweet cherry topping. Nothing about this pastry is stiff or crumbly.
Pro tip: If you get the GF cupcake, wait thirty minutes before indulging in your fresh-out-of-the-freezer treat to let it thaw and watch the softness increase!
The chocolatey cupcake, topped with sweet whipped vanilla icing, is firm, perfectly balanced in texture, and holds its shape from start to finish.
I really loved my experience at this bakery. Not only are there more than one or two GF options, but the quality of the treats is remarkable.
Seafood “fettuccine,” swap gluten-free fusilli.
Tomasso's Italian Grille, Quinte West
Pasta and pizza—the two things you probably tell anyone who will listen that you miss the most. Carbs are essential and largely gluten-filled. If you are looking for fine Italian dining that’s GF, Tomasso’s Italian Grille in downtown Trenton is definitely the place to go.
The restaurant itself feels elevated, with dim lighting, red brick walls, and soft music playing. On a summer day, you might want to enjoy your meal by the water on Tomasso’s waterfront patio along the Trent-Severn Waterway. If you go on a Wednesday evening, you may even catch the Trenton Rowing and Paddling Club making waves past your dinner table!
Under a red umbrella, I sat down with three menus, all offering different options. To my surprise, there was a fourth. When I told my server I am Celiac, she brought me a laminated GF menu.
At the top of the menu, there is a small disclaimer: “This menu is only a guide. The kitchen must be informed if the customer has celiac.” Be sure to let your server know about any allergies or dietary restrictions you have! This is essential because they can make many dishes GF, but some of their sauces/dressings aren’t safe.
For appetizers, there are three choices, two of which are salads and the other an escargot dish. There are so many mains available, and refreshingly, it is more than simply chicken or a salad. I was able to indulge in Italian food, with both pizza and pasta options.
All pizzas can be made GF, and the toppings are safe apart from the meatballs. GF pasta can be substituted for every dish, apart from the tortellini and lasagna.
Peanut butter brownie cheesecake (gluten-free).
I chose the seafood “fettuccine,” which was actually served with GF fusilli. Their GF pasta shell varies, so if you care, be sure to check which they have available for the day.
The pasta is amazing: well-cooked, not too soft, and it doesn’t fall apart. The sauce is super creamy, buttery, and wheat-free! And the seafood adds to the elevated vibe of this nice Italian restaurant.
For dessert, there are three options: the peanut butter brownie cheesecake (a flourless brownie), the chocolate raspberry tartufo (an Italian gelato), and a GF carrot cake that isn’t on the menu but is available if you ask.
I had the peanut butter brownie cheesecake. It is super light, with creamy cheesecake and a gooey flourless brownie, a tasty peanut butter flavour throughout, topped with a rich chocolate drizzle and almond slivers that provide a slight crunch. The dessert comes from a box and is clearly labelled “gluten-free.”
Fun fact: I spoke to one of the managers about their GF options, and she told me that she is celiac as well! She said that since she and her husband bought the restaurant, they have spent the past four years making it gluten-friendly. A non-negotiable for her was creating a separate GF menu, and a highlight is that all the sauces are prepared in-house by thickening with cornstarch rather than flour.
Peppermint tea, turkey “focaccia” on gluten-free bread, tomato fennel soup.
The Counter, Quinte West
The Counter is a great spot for a quick lunch by the water, with plenty of GF options, from soups and sandwiches to wraps on beds of lettuce. They use healthy, local ingredients and offer excellent GF bread from St. Anne’s Bakery.
Inside, the open kitchen sits behind a bar, where you can catch the cooking as it happens. Along the far wall is a row of wooden seating and a booth near the back marked by a church pew. Outside, guests can enjoy a meal under fairy lights on the deck overlooking the water.
Upon entering, I was ushered to a seat by my server. I ordered a peppermint tea and then began my onslaught of gluten-related questions.
He told me that all of their sandwiches can be made GF. Their GF bread also comes from St. Anne’s Bakery, the same five seed that I discovered earlier. It’s a darker bread with seeds, and after having it twice, I can say it is one of the best I’ve ever had.
The only GF soup on the menu is the tomato fennel, but you can always ask if their soup of the day is GF. For wraps, many customers choose to have the ingredients served on a bed of lettuce instead. GF or not, it’s a popular option!
I asked my server if there were separate stations for preparing GF meals. He said that if a customer tells him they are Celiac, they will use a separate pan, cutting board, and knife. It is important to tell them if you have celiac disease or a severe intolerance; otherwise, they may assume you’re avoiding gluten by choice.
I was also assured that all sauces, dressings, and jams are celiac-safe.
Grilled cheese, make it B’s.
With the questions out of the way, I ordered a half Tomato Fennel soup and a half grilled cheese—make it B’s (which means adding bacon and red pepper jelly) on GF bread, along with their most popular option, the turkey “focaccia” (also with GF bread).
The soup came in hot; it is creamy, smooth, rich in flavour, and garnished with basil oil.
The grilled cheese is phenomenal; I devoured the cheesy, jammy sandwich. The bread is grilled to perfection, with a satisfying crunch and no crumbling. Red pepper jelly adds a nice bit of flavour and doesn’t make the bread soggy.
The turkey sandwich is a really solid option that will leave you full. It features a blend of fresh, local ingredients, with excellent flavouring provided by the basil aioli. This delicious vinaigrette softens the lightly toasted bread, so I would recommend asking for it to be grilled/toasted.
The vibes at The Counter are incredible, with plenty of solid options, and a staff that made me feel confident I could eat there safely.
Vegan/gluten-free date square, iced vanilla matcha.
Lola's Cafe, Brighton
Lola’s Cafe in Brighton has many GF options, including soups, salads, sandwiches, and pastries. I had to try Dave’s chilli because GF soups are so hard to come by! This one is incredibly rich in flavour, and the GF toast is both crunchy and stays intact.
An Instagram-worthy coffee shop and patio right on Main Street in Brighton, Lola’s is naturally lit and decorated with plants and artwork, making it feel homey. There’s a trendy seasonal drink menu, plenty of tables to enjoy the space, and most importantly, a vast selection of GF foods.
The staff are incredibly friendly and answered my questions confidently. They assured me they clean their stations between preparing GF meals. Additionally, the GF treats are wrapped separately in plastic, which helps to minimize cross-contamination.
Lola’s has four GF pastries to choose from, and I decided on the vegan/gluten-free date square. It tastes wonderful, with a crumble top decorated with almond slivers, a gooey, sweet date center, and a chewy bottom. The pastry is incredibly soft, and apart from the crumble, it doesn’t taste grainy or tough.
Dave’s chilli, gluten-free toast.
For my main, I chose Dave’s chilli with GF toast. It can be difficult to find a soup dish that isn’t thickened with wheat or barley. This comforting bowl is super rich in flavour, with a cheesy topping and crunchy toast. My mom said it is the best chilli she’s ever tried, and she isn’t even celiac!
My sister had the roasted chicken club with GF bread. This sandwich is highly appetizing, and the bread stays together, even until the final bite. You can make all their sandwiches GF by substituting sourdough bread for GF toast for an extra $1.50. This meal also comes with a side—take your pick between coleslaw and kettle chips (both GF).
If you are looking for a green option, no need to worry about salad dressing limitations, as all of their salads are labelled GF!
Overall, my experience here was exceptional. I didn’t worry about cross-contamination or being left out of lunch; I simply got to enjoy a wonderful meal. My sister and I are both Celiac, and neither of us had a reaction to the food.
Pro tip: Steal your sister’s kettle chips and dip them into the chili for an added crunch!
Roasted chicken club on gluten-free bread.
Trusting a restaurant to not “gluten” you can be incredibly difficult, with so much capability to go wrong and cross-contamination feeling seemingly unavoidable. These spots have done a wonderful job of affirming my safety and providing me with some of the best gluten-free eats I’ve ever had. Hopefully, my experience has given you some peace of mind and encouragement to try new places.
If you’re looking for more, here’s a list of some other places in the BoQ with gluten-free options…
- Benji’s Coffee Bar, Belleville
- Eggsquis, Belleville
- Pho Blue Basil Restaurant, Belleville
- Poke A Bowl, Belleville
- The Dugout, Belleville (has their own GF menu + separate air fryer!)
- The Loaf N’Ale Pub, Napanee
- The Parlour Ice Cream Shop, Quinte West
- The Waterfront River Pub & Terrace, Napanee
- The Whistling Duck Restaurant, Brighton
Disclaimer: I have not tried all of these spots, so make sure to double-check with staff before ordering gluten-free items.
