Seems like everywhere I turn these days, new gluten-free dining options are popping up; certainly dining while avoiding gluten in Lake County today is much different than even just a few short years ago!
So many places are now offering gluten-free items that it would be difficult to make a comprehensive list, so I turned to my gluten-free and celiac disease-navigating friends to help me compile a list of can’t-miss places, many of them unique to Lake County.
Importantly, if you have celiac disease, you will definitely want to talk to the manager and the chef at any restaurant you choose before indulging. I’ve also asterisked the chain restaurants friends have mentioned to be celiac disease-friendly at the end of this article.
Pizzeria DeVille
404 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville | (847) 367-4992
This relatively new pizza joint that popped up in downtown Libertyville is on our radar because not only does it boast gluten-free pizza crust but it also boasts dairy-free cheese options, which makes this mama of two gluten-free and dairy-free kiddos quite thankful! We checked it out after myriad friends’ claims of greatness, and we were absolutely not disappointed. The night we ate at Pizzeria Deville, we tried out a test gluten-free crust that was different than the one the restaurant had been serving, and I sincerely hope the owners stick with it because it was excellent!
The Shanty*
38985 N. Route 41, Wadsworth | (847) 336-0262
The Shanty is one of my favorite date-night restaurants because it features wonderful gluten-free options and delicious food combinations. The pulled pork on a gluten-free bun is a delicious comfort food and the apple brandy pork shanks on a bed of kale make my mouth water. As an added bonus I just love the Kallianis {owners of The Shanty} brand of olive oil, Lonely Olive Tree Organics, that’s grown in their family groves. Honestly, if you’re following a gluten-free diet–or ever if you’re not–and you live in Lake County, you cannot miss this Wadsworth gem!
Shakou
625 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville | (224) 443- 6675
Shakou features a desirable gluten-free menu, and the entree I ordered was definitely delicious as were the avocado sushi rolls. Although it’s a little pricey, Shakou has great food and ambiance, which makes it a solid date-night destination when you’re craving Asian cuisine. Be sure to try the white miso soup if you’ve been wishing for a gluten-free miso in which to safely indulge!
Momcorn
5101 Washington St., Gurnee | (224) 610-0407
With an easy to navigate gluten-free menu posted on the wall of the restaurant, Momcorn features many gluten-free Mexican meals for diners to choose. Most of my friends have raved about Momcorn, but admittedly I’ve only been there once and tried one dish. This restaurant features so many options for gluten-free diners that it’s a must-mention.
AREA General Store in Mundelein
18 E. Park St., Mundelein | (847) 393-7519
My boys and I recently discovered AREA General Store in Mundelein, and we have fallen head-over-heals in love with going there because not only does it boast Holcomb Hollow’s amazingly delicious gluten-free, vegan muffins but it also features fresh-roasted coffee and dairy-free “milk” options like almond and soy milks. Now that’s a delicious combination!
Wildberry
1783 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville | (847) 247-7777
Gluten-free honey cakes and other breakfast delights like omelets and skillets make gluten-free diners frequenting at Wildberry feel like gluten-free dining is rich with choices and taste! This cute breakfast and lunch cafe gets quite busy, so plan to take the family during off-peak dining times in order to truly enjoy your breakfast, brunch or lunch.
Chains:
- Red Robin*: My kids are huge fans of Red Robin, and now that Red Robin has gluten-free buns for the burgers, I’m pretty sure this would be their requested burger joint every single time.
- Maggianos*: When first diagnosed with gluten sensitivity, I was scared to eat anywhere; Maggianos was my first adventure in eating out without eating gluten. A chef came to our table to speak with me and prepared my food in a dedicated gluten-free space. It was such a relief to have somewhere I knew I could go with my family for celebrations!
- Biaggis*: Biaggis is another Italian restaurant that consistently goes the extra mile to make sure your meal is gluten-free! Don’t miss it if you’re looking for a safe place with great food.
- Roti: By far my favorite chain for gluten-free meals, Roti Mediteranean Grill even boasts gluten-free pita bread for your hummus-dipping pleasure. Don’t miss it!
- Egg Harbor Cafe: By far, the most amazing part of visiting Egg Harbor while gluten-free is delighting in the baked goods and breakfast foods of Celiac-friendly Sweet Ali’s Bakery. Located in Hinsdale, Sweet Ali’s delivers pancake mix, cinnamon rolls and more to Egg Harbor to serve its gluten-free customers with sweet treats. My dairy-free son wants you to know Egg Harbor carries goat cheese and putting it in your eggs is delish.
- Lou Malnatis: Lou’s has the best gluten-free pizza crust I’ve tasted yet. Only downside–it only comes in a personal size and that gets pretty expensive when two or more of your family needs gluten-free options.
What is your favorite place in Lake County to dine gluten-free? Let us know about it in the comments section.
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