On my first trip to London since being diagnosed with coeliac disease I was excited to explore of London’s plentiful options when it comes to gluten-free problem. The only problem was finding the time for them all in just one weekend. I’ve included the places I’ve visited plus some eateries that are very much on my list for next time.
Ugly Dumpling
My first gluten-free dumplings did not disappoint! Complete with gluten-free soy sauce, gluten-free tempura aubergine and a delicious dessert of assorted mochi, at no point of the meal did I feel I was missing out, far from it. Set in a cozy corner of Soho, the restaurant is decorated with quirky hand-decorated dumpling coasters from its many satisfied customers. I already can’t wait to return.
Ceviche
With most of ceviche’s menu being gluten-free, it felt a safe bet for a coeliac like myself. The menu is largely sharing plates, making it a great option to go with a group to try plenty of the menu. I ordered the aubergine tacu tacu, cassava fries, crispy squid jalea and Yana tuna ceviche.
Sarava
Gluten-free crepe anyone?! Located in Brixton Village Market, Sarava offers a wide range of buckwheat crepes including ample selection of both sweet and savoury options. I opted for the picante.
Where the pancakes are
I didn’t make it here, but Where the pacakes are offer a dairy-free, wheat-free and vegan batter option for pancakes, with plenty of sweet and savoury options on their all-day menu.
Bubala
Another one on my gluten-free London bucket list, full of Middle Eastern dishes. Bubala have two restaurants, one in Soho and another in Spitalfields. Gluten-free options are clearly marked on the menu and they boast plenty of good reviews from fellow gluten-free diners.
Fully gluten-free
Station 26
Located just around the corner from Sarava in Brixton Village Market, Station 26 is fully gluten-free with plenty of rave reviews for brunch, lunch and dinner.
Near and Far
I haven’t tried this one yet, but Near and Far looks like a great spot for fully gluten-free food plus yummy cocktails.
Niche
Located in Angel, I haven’t personally tried this gluten, nut and sesame-free restaurant yet but the food on their Instagram looks delicious – I’m talking gluten-free fried chicken, focaccia and chicken schnitzel.
Gluten-free bakeries
Libby’s
I was spoilt for choice when it came to gluten-free bakeries, but with limited time and so many to try, I only had the time to visit just the one on this trip. I opted for Libby’s at Belsize Park, which offered plenty of gluten-free delights. I sampled the pan au chocolate, cookies, danish, sourdough bread and bagel (not all in one sitting – thankfully I was told the bread and bagel freeze well). They also offered plenty of other cakes and croissants, with some vegan options too.
Cookies and Scream
On my list for my next visit, Cookies and Scream is a fully gluten-free AND vegan bakery located near Holloway Road tub station. Based on their website and Instagram it looks like they offer plenty of cookies, brownies, doughnuts, pies and shakes. I look forward to giving this a try.
Vida Bakery
Another fully gluten-free and vegan bakery located in Shoreditch, offering cakes, brownies, cookies and cookie dough. Their website also offers plenty of options to buy online for nationwide UK delivery.
Cream Dream
Offering gluten-free, vegan and refined sugar-free delights near Charing Cross, I didn’t make it here, but Cream Dream’s Instagram suggests lots of yummy eclairs, dumplings and cakes.
Chain restaurants
Leon
Travelling from King’s Cross station made Leon a handy place to grab a gluten-free bite whilst on my travels. I tried the squash salad, waffle fries, and dahl. Perfect for a gluten-free bite on the go.
Honest Burgers
Scattered across the city, Honest Burgers has plenty of positive reviews from coeliacs, offering gluten-free burger buns.
There were a few other restaurants which I wanted to try but after contacting and explaining that I am coeliac they said that unfortunately they would not be able to accommodate. These included Banh Banh in Brixton, Oka and Imad’s Syrian Kitchen – a shame as they all looked delicious. It may be worth contacting yourself if you’re keen to try as restaurants may change their procedures.
Gluten Free Me 