My Gluten Free Glasgow

Whether you’re on the gluten-free hunt out of medical necessity, life style choice or because your best pal is gluten-free, Glasgow is a great place to be. Three years ago I was diagnosed with coeliac disease and even in that short space of time I’ve seen an explosion in the number of Glaswegian cafes, bars, and restaurants catering for the gluten-free diet.

In no particular order, my picks are:

The Butterfly & The Pig has been one of Glasgow’s gluten-free big hitters for years. They’ve nailed the gluten-free comfort food; burgers, fish pie, mac and cheese, even sticky toffee pudding! For those opting for the afternoon tea they also have some great gluten-free cakes and sandwiches.

We’re spoiled for choice when it comes to Indian restaurants in Glasgow, and most of them are naturally pretty good shouts for the gluten-free diner. For me though, Dhakin takes the crown. As Glasgow’s only 100% gluten free restaurant, it’s off the Richter scale for gluten-free peace of mind. Their thali plates are outstanding and their gigantic, light dosa pancakes are pretty magical by anyone’s book.

Brunch can be hit and miss for gluten free folk. Even the basics are sometimes off limits; toast, tattie scones, sausages and let’s not get carried away with the possibility of pancakes, waffles or pastries… Enter Singlend to the Glasgow brunch scene. Homemade gluten free bread, gluten free cakes galore, and some of the most knowledgeable and lovely staff in the city. The labelling on their menu doesn’t really do their gluten-free offer justice so, if there’s something you fancy but think it isn’t gluten free just ask and it probably can be adapted for you (tattie scones being a primeexample).

Bungo has one of my favourite gluten-free menus in the city. It’s an eclectic mix of gluten free falafel burgers (with some of the best gluten free buns going), Goan curries, fish tacos, and the biggest selection of gluten-free desserts I’ve seen anywhere. They also have gluten free Pilsner on draught: the coeliac holy grail.

Chinese is probably the least gluten-free friendly cuisine and I’ve met many a coeliac who’ve given up completely on the idea since being diagnosed. Lychee Oriental breaks the mould though and go the extra mile to serve up some gluten free Chinese favourites; beef and black bean sauce, sweet and sour chicken, prawn crackers, and fried rice with gluten free soy sauce. Another great contender if it’s Asian flavours you’re craving is Julie’s Kopitiam – a great wee place in Glasgow’s southside serving some delicious Malaysian food. Their lovely staff will talk you through their menu and specials, many of the dishes are always naturally gluten-free and others will be adapted for you.

My favourite gluten free pizza in the city, and believe me I’ve been around the block on this one. Plus they are buy one get one free. Really enough said!