Coeliac Disease is an autoimmune condition, where the body’s defence against infection mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. The immune system mistakes substances found inside gluten as a threat to the body and attacks them. This then damages the surface of the intestines, disrupting the body’s ability to take in nutrients from food. There’s no cure for Coeliac Disease, apart from following a gluten-free diet which helps to control symptoms and prevent long-term complications of the condition. Potential long term conditions include, weakening of the bones, anaemia, vitamin B12 and folate deficiency, increased risk of some types of cancer growths and problems affecting pregnancy. 

Towards the end of 2019 I was diagnosed with Coeliac Disease. After months of discomfort, blood tests, and an ​​endoscopy, the doctor told me I had tested positive for antibodies. They discussed with me that not only did I have Coeliac Disease but I had internal bleeding in my stomach. This was due to how irritated my stomach had been from eating gluten and that I would need to eat completely free from foods to heal my gut. It’s still a journey I am on as I find now my stomach is so much more sensitive than it was before. Certain foods and even alcohol can cause the same discomfort as eating gluten does. I have also found my immune system is a lot weaker than it was before. It was frustrating at the beginning because I couldn’t understand why this had all happened. I see it now as my body’s way of asking for that little bit of extra kindness and has in the long run helped me to look at all the ways I can better my physical and mental health.

I know how daunting it can be to find restaurants that cater for gluten free eaters. I therefore wanted to write this post and highlight some of the amazing places I have been to since being diagnosed. So whether you are Coeliac too, gluten intolerant or just fancy eating free from gluten I’ve got you covered. Just like Vegan, Lactose intolerant and Veggie options are becoming much more widely available, so are gluten free options! 

Pho

I wanted to start out with one of my favourite go-tos. Pho is a group of restaurants dotted around the country, serving great value, healthy Vietnamese food that’s cooked fresh in each kitchen daily. They not only cater for those who are gluten free with a specific menu, but practically everything else on the menu is. They are even accredited by Coeliac UK. From their delicious curries, crispy spring rolls to the flavoursome rice noodle bowls, there are so many different options up for grabs. Their dedication to providing Gluten free options down to the little notes left in my delivery bags saying ‘Have a wonderful day :)’ Pho has become my absolute go to in London. With locations dotted up and down the country definitely stop in and give Pho a try. 

Niche Dining

In March 2022 I went to Niche, which was the first gluten free restaurant in London. I can’t believe it has taken me so long to try it as all I have heard are amazing things. Back in the summer of 2013, Marc Warde the owner was diagnosed with Coeliac Disease and in turn opened up Niche. Looking at the menu I was taken aback with all the amazing options, so of course I ordered a little bit of everything. I started off with the Roast Dinner, which was incredible as it is hard to find good quality gluten free roasts in London. I then tried the Mac n Cheese/Onion Rings, finishing with the Chocolate Brownie for dessert. It is one of the best places I have eaten at and is amazing for anyone suffering with anxiety around cross contamination of Gluten free food. Located in Islington this is a must try for my fellow Celiacs: https://www.nichefoodanddrink.com/

Clos Maggiore 

Early last year me and my girlfriend celebrated our one year anniversary with dinner at Clos Maggiore. It is definitely one of the most magical and romantic places I have ever been. The scenery, delicious menu, even down to the service, everything was perfect. For my main I had the Cornish Stone Bass, Chorizo, Bell pepper, Courgette, Beurre Blanc. Which was absolutely exceptional. One of the problems with eating out with Celiac Disease I have found is that a lot of sauces use Gluten to pad out the mixture. So it was wonderful how many gluten free options they had at Clos Maggiore, also how willing they were to change a recipe for me if needed. It was easily one of the best dishes I had in 2022 and I already can’t wait to go back. This Modern French restaurant is a must for a special occasion: https://www.closmaggiore.com/ 

Bella Vita 

In the heart of Broadway market sits the sweet restaurant Bella Vita. Since becoming Gluten free I have found that Italian restaurants are some of the most accommodating. Bella Vita is no exception. I originally tried them out as I had heard amazing things about the pasta. Being able to eat my favourites Carbonana, Arrabbiata, Penne Al Salmone – all with the security of knowing my order was free from gluten. They have not also expanded their menu to include gluten free bases for their pizzas. The ambiance of this restaurant definitely makes it one of my favourites. During the summer months we used to sit out on the little terrace area watching Broadway Market. I always love walking past in the evenings and seeing people sharing a bite to eat and a drink, with the red lights of Bella Vita shining down. If you are ever in East London make sure to stop by: https://bellavitabroadway.com/ 

Mandarin Oriental

At the beginning of 2022 I took my family to the Mandarin Oriental hotel for afternoon tea. I had heard amazing things about The Rosebery Tea House, and was definitely not disappointed. We were treated to several courses of finger sandwiches and desserts, along with a wide range of teas. The Chef was able to provide all Gluten free options for both the pastries and the sandwiches. They were not only accommodating but went above and beyond to make sure my experience was enjoyable there. Once we were ready to leave the wonderful staff brought over a goodie bag filled with lots of gluten free food for us to take home. From the peaceful atmosphere, delicious food and lovely staff, it was an amazing experience. I would definitely recommend making the trip to Hyde Park, it is worth the money and travel time: https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/london/hyde-park/dine/the-rosebery 

Longrain

For my girlfriend’s birthday in 2021 I took her to Brighton for the day, where we checked out a local restaurant called Longrain. They provide a modern take on Pan-Asian cuisine with dishes aiming to balance the four flavours of hot, sour, sweet and salt. For mains we had Pad Thai and tried some of their delicious sides. The food was amazing, authentic and you could really tell how much care they put into each dish. As I had stated on my booking that it was my girlfriend’s birthday, they set up confetti and a birthday sign on the table. It was small touches like this along with the personalities of the lady and man who own the restaurant that had us longing to come back. It is so important to support local businesses like Longrain and Brighton is thankfully full of them. So make sure you check out this wonderful gem in the heart of Kemptown. https://www.facebook.com/people/Longrain-Thai-Brighton/100052807765057/

Osteria Du Amici 

Near my family home is the Italian Restaurant of Osteria Du Amici (also Oda Bar). Not only do they have Gluten Free options but they are able to cater for almost every single dish on the menu. I have been here several times and loved the food. From the smoked salmon tagliatelle, cheesy pizzas to their spiced quinoa and creamy risotto, there are options for everyone. Recently I went to their bottomless brunch and loved how accommodating they were. I am not drinking at the moment and they provided Non-Alcoholic Prosecco and Mocktails. Not only this but they were able to advise on good gluten free options from the brunch menu. I love supporting local restaurants in my area and Osteria always has a wonderful vibe thanks to how lovely the staff are. So if you are ever in Essex definitely stop in a give them a try: https://www.odaessex.co.uk/ 

The Bach 

Just down the road from Bella Vita is the quaint little cafe called The Bach. Serving everything from Pancakes, Sandwiches, Mac n Cheese to Full Course English breakfasts, they have everything you could ask for. Tucked away into the heart of Broadway Market this little gem has a homey interior and some of the best Gluten Free options available. Catering for so many food allergens I always feel I can rely on The Bach to take my condition seriously. Whether I fancy a quick snack (the banana bread is my favourite) or want to sit down to enjoy some creamy soup, I know I am always well taken care of. So if you are ever in E8 stop by the Bach for not only yummy food and tasty drinks, but a cosy atmosphere served with a smile. http://www.wearethebach.com/aboutus 

Sticks n Sushi 

Sticks’n’Sushi is a restaurant with the unique combination of traditional sushi and yakitori sticks from the grill. With a menu spanning 17 pages, there is something for everyone’s taste buds. One of the foods I’ve really missed since being diagnosed is Sushi. Unfortunately there is normally always wheat flour and other gluten containing sauces used. Sticks’n’Sushi don’t just have gluten free choices, they are so accommodating and willing to change most of the menu. I was able to order lots of different dishes and the lovely chefs adapted so many options for me to have. From the gluten free sauces, gorgeous selection of traditional sushi all served with exceptional presentation, Sticks’n’Sushi is a must. With restaurants dotted all around and just outside of London, there’s lots of options to stop in for a bite to eat. https://sticksnsushi.com/ 

Pasta Remoli 

Recently I went to Wembley and was googling for any good Gluten Free spots when I came across Pasta Remoli. All I saw in the reviews was ‘Good Gluten Free options & Creamy Pasta’ and I was sold. Due to its popularity we sat outside with blankets, under cosy heaters. Raising a glass to the weekend we enjoyed gorgeous pasta and delicious drinks, with the chatter of Wembley walkway just beside us. They make all their pasta by scratch and inside the kitchen is displayed so you can see the Chef’s hard at work, churning freshly made pasta. For Desert we tucked into a creamy Gluten Free Cannoli. It is often harder to find deserts than mains that are Coeliac friendly, so Pasta Remoli really exceeded all our expectations. Make sure you stop in for homemade food and the loveliest service around, it is worth the journey. https://pastaremoli.co.uk/portfolio/wembley-park/ 

It’s not just in person restaurants that are branching out and providing gluten free options. If you fancy ordering online there are also some amazing chains I have found on Deliveroo. Honest Burger has been my go to for a while now it is cheap and cheerful, with the options for takeaway or eating in. Providing Gluten free options across their whole menu. Joe & the Juice although slightly pricey, has the alternative for gluten free bread. So you can enjoy your toastie without the worry. Vurger is something I only just discovered this year. They do Mac N Cheese, Burgers, Chicken strips – all without the worry of contamination, as their menu is 85% gluten free. Franco Manco and Pizza Union are wonderful pizza options for anyone looking for a gluten-free base, with all the toppings. There is always a worry with Coeliac disease that cross contamination could cause a flare up. So if you are feeling unsure, I would recommend ordering directly with the restaurants. So many places are willing to accommodate and those are just a few of my favourites.

With Coeliac Disease I have always taken it one day at a time and it is a learning process I am still going through. I’ve found the sensitivity that my body has gained since being diagnosed quite hard. Although I am healthier in lots of ways, my immune system is definitely weaker and I have to take better care of myself. As my body still struggles to fully absorb nutrients it can lead to lots of deficiencies. Coeliac disease causes your digestive system to work less effectively, severe cases can sometimes lead to a critical lack of nutrients in your body. So for all my fellow Coeliacs I can’t recommend enough how important taking supplements is. Unfortunately the NHS has been under such a strain so I haven’t been able to book my dietician appointment that got cancelled due to COVID. So this journey has consisted of lots of my own trial and error. I want to also acknowledge that things could be so much worse. I have a disease that is managed through diet (which does sound easier than it is.) I don’t have Heart Disease. I don’t have Cancer. I don’t have Diabetes, although these diseases can be caused by undiagnosed Coeliac Disease. My condition feels manageable, my health is better, and I am so thankful for this.

Living with a chronic disease is hard but over time it does get easier. Those tough moments make you stronger and you feel better equipped for the future. I have found that surrounding myself with people who take me seriously is so important. Dating someone who understands and has empathy for what you are going through. In the past I had people in my life who would call me dramatic and downgrade my feelings. I’m super lucky to be in a partnership and surrounded by loved ones who value how I’m feeling and always make me feel heard. Our health is the most important thing we have, and we often don’t realise it until it’s gone. Each day I lean into gratitude for my health and focus on prioritising it. For me that started with one Gluten-free meal at a time. 

*Images have been found on Google and are not my own I do not take credit for their creation*