Gluten-free Paris

Paris isn't exactly the easiest place to live for anyone with specific dietary requirements, whether vegetarian, vegan, or allergic to dairy or gluten. Even health food stores have a pretty meager selection. So last night when I was browsing the aisles at my local supermarket I was surprised to see a whole section just for gluten-free products, branded by Carrefour (I was in a Champion).

There were pastas, breads, and even chocolate cake make with cornstarch. And who doesn't like chocolate cake? So I popped it in the cart. Personally, I found it a tad on the dry side, so perhaps next time I'll put some buttermilk frosting, melted caramel, or crème anglaise on it. It's not going to get on any "best of Paris pastries" list, but overall, thumbs up on moving in the right direction!

Comments

[Jessica Fielding]

I'm heading to Paris Monday with my family...both me and my 3 YO daughter are gluten free. What are your top 5 places to eat gfree that I should try?

[Heather]

Top five?! I don't think there are any! You can always look on menus for gluten-free items, but as far as I know only Disneyland Paris has guaranteed gluten-free meals. Anyone else know of any places?

[Anonymous]

I can't eat gluten, either, and I live in Paris -- the good news is that there's an entire gluten-free restaurant in Montmartre, called Des Si et Des Mets. It's a short hike up the hill from Abbesses metro stop, and believe me, it's become a mecca for GF types from all over the place who have heard about it on blogs. Some items on the menu are GF and dairy-free, as well.

Also, if you're looking for a sweet treat but pastries are off-limits, remember that macarons are gluten-free -- they're made with only almond flour. If you're very, very sensitive, however, keep in mind that cross contamination can occur in the boulangeries, because the macarons may or may not be made on equipment that's shared with wheat products.

Most middle-price-range restaurants I've eaten in will work with you to accommodate the gluten issue, but be aware that this can mean eating meats without sauces, etc. If you don't speak French, I'd advise bringing a stack of explanatory cards (available online) in French that you can give to the server to explain the issue.

Bonne chance!

[Anne]

Some good suggestions on eating gluten free in Paris can be found here: http://postedinparis.wordpress.com/2010/08/25/coping-with-food-intolerances-in-france/

[Jessica Fielding]

Thanks everyone! Luckily I speak French, so I cna at least discuss menu items with the staff. I spent a summer in Paris before I had Celiac so it will be bittersweet to go back without indulging the way I did pre diagnosis. :)