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GLUTEN-FREE EATING IN THE CITY
Gluten intolerance seems to be increasing, and as a result more gluten-free alternatives to popular, wheat-based foods are becoming available. Many restaurants in San Francisco will cater to dietary needs, including gluten-free diets. When making a reservation, simply ask the host if they can accommodate you, and chances are the answer will be yes.
However, most places will creatively avoid gluten ingredients, but few stock alternative products, such as breads and other baked goods. If you have a craving for brownies or a roll, you will likely have to stock up at a specialty shop.
Mariposa Bakery, headquartered in Oakland, offers an impressive assortment of gluten-free baked goods including cupcakes, french bread, bagels and even ravioli. If you’re in Oakland, you can grab a hot slice of pizza and a brownie in the bakery shop (5427 Telegraph Ave) for a quick and satisfying lunch. You can also pick up some sandwich bread or cinnamon rolls to take with you while you’re there. If you won’t make it across the bay, Mariposa also has a small kiosk in the San Francisco Ferry Building. You can buy a variety of baked good there, including brownies, cupcakes, rolls, bagels and loaves of bread.
Another great spot to pick up gluten-free treats is Rainbow Grocery (1745 Folsom St), a worker-owned cooperative located in the Mission District of San Francisco. Rainbow offers a wide selection of healthy, sustainable foods including products from Mariposa and other gluten-free bakeries. You can buy cheesecakes, crackers, pretzels and even beer.
Another grocery store with a surprising number of gluten-free treats is Trader Joe’s. If you aren’t familiar with the chain, Trader Joe’s offers specialty food at bargain prices. Ask for a list of gluten-free foods at the customer service counter, and go exploring. A few of the highlights include chocolate walnut cookies, flourless chocolate cake, and sliced rice bread. They also have a selection of sliced meat, cheeses, prepared salads, and trail mix, making it the perfect spot to stock up before an expedition to Muir Woods or Big Sur.
Mariposa Bakery
5427 Telegraph Ave (55th & Telegraph), Oakland
Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM
Sat-Sun 10AM-4PM
Mariposa’s SF Kiosk:
One Ferry Building
San Francisco
Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM, Sat 8AM-6PM, Sun 10AM-5PM
Rainbow Grocery
1745 Folsom Street (cross street 13th Street)
415-863-0620
Daily 9AM-9PM
Trader Joe’s—North Beach
401 Bay Street, San Francisco
415-351-1013
9AM-9PM