Gluten-free food is here to stay. Though some still scoff at the gluten-sensitive, the option of eating sans gluten is increasingly popular for both health and diet reasons. Heck, Domino's is even getting into the game (though we'd recommend trying the gluten-free pie at Pala or L'asso first). But the biggest growth area in the gluten-free game is in baking. To that end, Pip's Place ("a Gluten Free Cakery") has just opened its doors on the Upper East Side. Meanwhile, here are five other bakeries whose food tastes good even if you can eat gluten.
As one gluten-free diner told us, this bakery with locations in NYC and Dallas is "the REAL DEAL. So much better than any other baked goods I've had in NYC." Cakes, cupcakes, gluten-free paninis—they serve them and they serve them well.
338 East 11th Street // 212-777-2227
This unassuming diner/bakery in Williamsburg serves a full menu of tasty veggie fare (though we wish it was a bit less dependent on fake meats on the menu) in addition to seriously good baked goods. Another plus? The staff is very friendly and accommodating. Just be warned, things get a little hectic around weekend brunch.
176 Ainslie Street, Brooklyn // 718-599-2743
Not everything at this decade-old NoLita rice pudding/dessert spot is gluten-free, but lots of it is, and the staff is more than happy to help you out figuring out what is what. It isn't always cheap, but their small servings go a long way.
37 Spring Street // 212-274-0008
With locations in NYC, LA, and Orlando this "refined sugar-free, gluten-free, wheat-free, soy-free, casein-free, egg-free, vegan and kosher" bakery sounds to the uninitiated like a twee foodie nightmare. And then you try their food and that worry goes right out the window. Sure, the fare ain't cheap and gets a lot of hype, but the cupcakes in particular really are good (and are available in Rockaway!).
248 Broome Street // 212-677-5047
This new Clinton Hill bakery calls itself "your neighborhood cake dealer" and means it—they make some addictive treats. Everything in the joint is vegan and they also have a nice selection of gluten-free options, which the staff is happy to help you find.
299 Greene Avenue, Brooklyn // 718-483-8788
And that is really just the tip of the iceberg, there is a surprisingly large amount of gluten-free food available in NYC if you know where to look. What're your favorites sweet spots?
