It seems that more and more people are growing intolerant of gluten. In fact, according to the Celiac Sprue Association, 1 in 133 people have an intolerance to gluten that can result in chronic pain, infertility and even death. Whether it's because of celiac disease, or simply a conscious preventive decision to avoid foods with gluten, finding a restaurant with gluten-free menu items can be a headache. If you're traveling to the Dallas, Texas area, you'll find several restaurants that provide gluten-free menus for their patrons.
Bliss Raw Cafe
Bliss serves nothing but vegan foods that are completely free from preservatives, unprocessed and raw, meaning that nothing is heated to over 115 degrees. Keeping temperatures low keeps the enzymes in these foods alive, making them healthier. Proponents of living foods agree that a diet free from processed foods, meats, refined flours and sugars results in more energy and better health. Everything on the menu is organic and gluten-free, including its vegan pizzas, burgers, salads, soups, sandwiches, smoothies, elixirs and tonics.
Bliss Cafe
6855 Greenville Ave.
Dallas, TX 75231-6403
(214) 987-0204
blissrawcafe.com
Asian Mint
The Asian Mint restaurant is very conscious of its guests' allergies and preferences. Every menu item that is gluten-free is indicated clearly, and the staff is also trained to make sure guests are aware of potential allergens. Gluten-free menu items include curry dishes, sushi, pad thai, soups, salads, fried rice and even chocolate cake. This restaurant has become so popular that owners have opened a second, smaller location called The Mint in Highland Park, with a similar menu, in which most items are gluten-free.
Asian Mint
11617 N. Central Expressway, Suite 135
Dallas, TX 75243
(214) 363-6655
asianmint.com
The Mint
4246 Oak Lawn Ave.
Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 219-6468
themintdallas.com
Fogo de Chao Churrascaria
A Churrascaria is a Brazilian steakhouse, and in traditional Brazilian cooking, refined flours aren't a common ingredient. Bread and muffins (chebe) are made with Yucca flour, which is gluten-free. The smoked fish should be avoided, as should the tabouli salad (wheat) and the beer-marinated chicken. Food at a Churrascaria is served in a buffet-style salad bar with a variety of fruit and vegetable dishes. If you choose to eat meat, servers come around and slice roasted and grilled meats right before your eyes, in true Brazilian style. It's a dining experience that's unlike European or Anglo traditions. Beer, wine and desserts are also available.
Fogo de Chao Churrascaria
4300 Beltline Road
Dallas, TX 75001
(972) 503-7300
fogodechao.com
About The Author
Lisa Russell has been a freelance writer since 1998. She's been published in "Rethinking Everything Magazine," "Playdate" and "Home Educator's Family Times." She has a professional background in education, cosmetology and the restaurant industry. Russell studied early childhood education at Antelope Valley College, and is pursuing a degree in law.