We stopped in to a new “gourmet foods & fine drink store” tonight and were happy to find Chopin potato vodka on sale. Vrai Amour, on Webster and Sheffield, just under the el tracks in Depaul’s campus area, specializes in upscale sausages and truly fine liquors and wines.
We inquired about the beer selection, which was solid (Unibroue, Sam Adams and Goose Island). Currently no gluten-free beer options, but the owner, Matt Somsky was happy to take suggestions on expanding the beer options. He knew three gluten-free options off the top of his head (encouraging), mentioning New Grist, Redbridge and Green’s. He plans on inquiring with his distributor next week to see what he can get for the shop. If he succeeds in getting any gluten-free beers, you’ll find out here first. If you stop in, tell him Celiac Snack sent you.
We’ve recently heard about a new restaurant/store concept on Chicago’s north side, called Balanced Kitchen. Anticipation seems to be just as high around the architecture, as for its food. Designed by 2 point perspective, the space is LEED certified to be “green,” and they claim the same about the menu. Both vegan and gluten-free, the restaurant is an outgrowth of G-Free-V LLC, a company deeply committed to gluten-free foods. Under the mantra “Food Without Limits, for People Living Without,” the company conducts gluten testing and certification as well.
A restaurant willing to go completely gluten-free is a refreshing idea. When you walk in the door, you know that everything is safe. Peace of mind for sure.
Have you been to the Balanced Kitchen? If so, let us know. We’ll be posting a formal review soon, and we’d love to know what others thing as well. Please comment by clicking on the link above…
