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Things are looking up in the world, my friends! The days are getting longer, the rain and wind have stopped (at least they have as I type this) and I just recently discovered that two of my favourite haunts — pre gluten-free life — cater for gluten intolerant people like me!
If I was Rocky, I would do a fist pump right now.
First up was Le Braye. I was pleasantly surprised to see how well common allergens are listed on their menu, making it so much easier to order something that is suitable for you, without having to ask the team a thousand questions.
Admittedly, there weren’t many options without gluten, but they do have gluten-free bread, so I am guessing most of them could be adapted — I didn’t ask, as I saw ‘nacho bowl’ as soon as I glanced at the menu and knew I didn’t need to investigate any further!
Pictured: The 'nacho bowl' from Le Braye.
What was served was a very generous portion of tortillas covered in cheese and sour cream, with lavish helpings of guacamole, tomato salsa and black beans, all of which were delicious. The salsa was probably one of the best ones I have had – packed with flavourful punch and just the right amount of kick.
I’ve never been a fan of black beans – or any beans for that matter, unless they are in a cassoulet – but these ones were perfectly seasoned and filling. It struck me as a nice alternative to a chili that might have overshadowed the taste of the guacamole and salsa.
In addition to serving utterly delicious food, the Le Braye team were utterly lovely. They were cheery, cracked jokes and made the whole table feel right at home. I’ve always loved Le Braye and its bloody gorgeous view, and am so happy to be able to continue enjoying it, gluten-free style.
On the other side of the island, we have the Breakwater Café — another old favourite with an amazing view. Last time I went (admittedly, maybe about three years ago), I was disappointed to be unable to get my hands on a gluten-free sandwich.
Pictured: "Imagine my joy to find that they now had gluten-free bread!"
Fortunately, there were other options in the form of cheesy chips, jacket potatoes, omelettes and salads – all of which I was happy to munch on.
However, it was a salmon sandwich I was craving on my most recent visit – so imagine my joy to find that they now had gluten-free bread! Yes, there was a charge of £1.50 for the GF bread, which I did find a bit steep, but the slices were of such quality that I’ll let it slide.
Pictured: "On the other side of the island, we have the Breakwater Café..."
Moving beyond the bread… if you’ve ever ordered a dish with smoked salmon, you’ll know how stingy the portions tend to be. Not the case for the Breakwater Café – the salmon portion was almost as thick as the slice of bread! Accompanied by deliciously cheesy chips, it was the perfect Sunday lunch.
It may have been freezing cold outside on the terrace, but with a spot of sunshine tickling my face as I looked out to sea, it felt like it was Spring already… and I definitely left with a salmony spring in my step.
Is East or West best? After putting both sides of the island to the test… both have smashed it.
All in all, this has been a successful month of gluten-free excursions. I can’t wait to find more places to explore – North v South this time. Send your recommendations, pals!
This article first appeared in Connect Magazine, which you can read in full HERE.
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