www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.comBritish Pie Awards and Melton Mowbray<p><img src="/uploads/British%20pie%20awards%20March%202023/LR%20judging%20pic.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>“Look out for soggy bottoms”. That was the advice I was given when judging the ‘free from’ category of the <a href="http://www.britishpieawards.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">British Pie Awards</a>. I was tasting 21 different pies, but fortunately not many of them had soggy bottoms. I was judging with industry expert Colin Rich from The Pastry Room, specialists in gluten free products for restaurant and manufacturers.</p>
<p>The judging was held in St Mary’s Church in Melton Mowbray, famous for the Melton Mowbray pork pie and as the centre of stilton cheese production. I only just made it after a difficult journey in snowy conditions. Unfortunately the heating in the church wasn’t working so I kept my coat on throughout! As you looked round, the church was full of long tables with pies lined up along them.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/British%20pie%20awards%20March%202023/LR%20pie%20line%20up%20pic.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>The pies were judged “blind” which means we didn’t know the manufacturer. Each pie was rated as to whether it had a perfect even glaze, an even bake all over and whether the pastry was in harmony with the filling. Sometimes the description of the pie filling didn’t follow through in the tasting of it. For example, one pie was described as “ham hock”, but this wasn’t evident in the taste. In some instances, the top was thicker than the bottom and had “boil out” – this means the filling has oozed out of the pie case. Some pies were poorly filled with a gap at the top.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/British%20pie%20awards%20March%202023/LR%20pie%20pic%201.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="/uploads/British%20pie%20awards%20March%202023/LR%20pie%20pic%202.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="/uploads/British%20pie%20awards%20March%202023/LR%20pie%20pic%203.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="/uploads/British%20pie%20awards%20March%202023/LR%20pie%20pic%204.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>We tasted some unusual varieties of pie such as roast beef dinner, lamb samosa and cauliflower cheese. I didn’t come across many pies which were both gluten free and dairy free, which was a shame. For the first time, a pasty had been entered into the category – sweet potato and mushroom.</p>
<p><strong>Winner of ‘Free From’ Category</strong></p>
<p>The overall winner of the ‘free from’ category was Gluten Free Chicken, Ham and Leek Pie by<a href="http://www.mudfoods.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Mud Foods</a>. This is made from British free range chicken and ham in a white wine and double cream sauce with buttered leeks, a hint of mustard and fresh herbs, encased in a luxury butter rich gluten free pastry. As the tasting was “blind”, I don’t know if I tasted it. It sounds delicious!</p>
<p><strong>Supreme Champion</strong></p>
<p>The overall winner of the British Pie Awards – the Supreme Champion was Moo and Blue Pie – a steak and ale pie with stilton cheese melted through the sauce by Brockleby’s of Asfordby. As I am gluten free, there’s no way I can eat that, although it does sounds sumptuous.</p>
<p><strong>Dining out in Melton Mowbray</strong></p>
<p>We were staying at <a href="http://www.sysonby.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Synsonby Knoll hotel</a>, just outside Melton Mowbray which provided a friendly welcome and a comfortable two night stay. The hotel provided an excellent breakfast with gluten free cereal and bread for me and a cooked breakfast for Ray. We ate in the restaurant on both evenings and were impressed by the service and attention to detail, checking our dietary requirements and making sure we were happy with our choices.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/British%20pie%20awards%20March%202023/LR%20Synsonby%20dinner%201.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="/uploads/British%20pie%20awards%20March%202023/LR%20Sysonby%20dinner%202.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="/uploads/British%20pie%20awards%20March%202023/LR%20Synsonby%20dinner%203.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>The food was appetising, well presented with generous portions.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/British%20pie%20awards%20March%202023/LR%20snow%20scene.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>On the morning of our last day, it was snowing and there were no taxis or buses available. The hotel went beyond the call of duty when Gavin, the owner’s husband drove us to the rail station.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/British%20pie%20awards%20March%202023/LR%20JD%20Weatherspoon%20Ray%20meal.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="/uploads/LR%20Weatherspoon%20allergen%20guide.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>Pub lunch at J.D.Wetherspoon</strong></p>
<p>As it was snowing on our one day off in Melton Mowbray, we took refuge for lunch at J<a href="http://www.jdwetherspoon.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">.D.Wetherspoon Kettleby Cross</a>. A member of staff showed us the touch screen allergen guide which means you can pick the menu item you’d like to eat and see whether you can eat it by applying various filters. Excellent! Ray had gammon and chips, while I had baked potato with tuna mayonnaise. We will be trying out other pubs in the chain now we know about the allergen guide!</p>
<p> </p>2023 Eating out with Food Allergies in Malta<p><img src="/uploads/LR%20Malta%20opening%20pic.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>It’s been a while. Believe it or not we last visited Malta in 2019 so we were keen to return and discover what’s new. Overall, eating out with gluten and dairy intolerances wasn’t too difficult, but you always have to be on your guard and forever vigilant when travelling. For example, we forgot to mention Ray’s daily free intolerance at one restaurant where we had dined previously with the same waiting staff, so were surprised when he was given tzatziki, which contains yogurt. When we handed it back to them, saying he was unable to eat dairy, our server was horrified and removed the entire dish because it had dairy in it. It was our slip up and their response was spot on. So you can never relax and be complacent. You have to keep reiterating your dietary requirements with staff.</p>
<p><strong>Breakfast at the airport</strong></p>
<p>After an early start, we were delighted to chance upon The Commission <span><a href="https://www.drakeandmorgan.co.uk/the-commission/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.drakeandmorgan.co.uk/the-commission/</a></span> at London’s Heathrow Airport where we indulged in breakfast. The menu usefully has symbols for gluten free and vegan (meaning the dish is dairy free as well) which helped us navigate our way round. Ray explained his dairy intolerance and that he was unable to eat tomatoes, so he was able to have bacon and beans on toast – without butter. Our server understood straight away and was able to advise him accordingly. I had avocado on gluten free toast with salad and edible flowers. The food was well presented – Ray’s sandwich was filled generously with bacon and the beans were on the side in a saucepan-like dish. We wonder if there are any other branches as we would definitely eat here again.</p>
<p>It was our first flight for three years so that in itself was a novelty. Apart from the popping of ears and a screaming child, the<a href="http://www.airmalta.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Air Malta</a> flight was smooth and staff attentive when we asked for the temperature to be lowered. On board, there wasn’t much to eat, not that we needed anything! We’ve learnt to either eat beforehand or take food with us. There was a vegan lasagne available, as well as Real Eat hummus chips – tomato and basil (dairy free and gluten free) and Kinnie, Malta’s signature soft drink, which Ray enjoys.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR%20Grand%20Excelsior%20hotel%20view.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>Hotel buffet</strong></p>
<p>We normally go self-catering, but on this occasion we returned to the <a href="http://www.excelsior.com.mt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Grand Excelsior Hotel</a>. By about day three or four, the staff start to recognise us and our dietary needs. Soya milk wasn’t a problem. When I asked for gluten free bread it arrived on a plate with a bowl of cereal and a pack of four digestive biscuits. On my last day, the chef delivered it!</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR%20gluten%20free%20breakfast%20Grand%20Excelsior.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>The gluten free bread was doughy and pappy with no flavour like damp cotton wool, but it was transformed when toasted and spread with orange marmalade. This wouldn’t work for everyone as there isn’t a separate toaster on the buffet for gluten free bread.</p>
<p>Ray, who is dairy free, chatted with the chef who happened to be attending the buffet, about what he could eat. Although the food was labelled, the ingredients were not listed so it was impossible to tell if there was dairy in it. Unfortunately the chef was unable to tell Ray about some of the food such as sausages. He was told “I buy them in but I don’t know what the ingredients are”.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/Malta%202023/LR%20Maltese%20bread.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Happily he was able to produce packaging for Maltese bread and confirmed it had no dairy in it. A member of staff checked cereal packets and we concluded that Ray could have cornflakes or bran flakes.</p>
<p>Intolerances aside, the bacon was impossible to cut and inedible so I gave up on that. Ray’s theory was if the bacon was left on the hot plate too long, it went hard, so on some days he was able to eat the bacon if he lucked upon a fresh batch.</p>
<p>One of our favourite hang outs in Valletta was Costa Coffee in the Embassy Complex. It’s very popular with digital nomads as it’s a very relaxed space, with plenty of tables and power sockets. The complex also houses the stylish Embassy Hotel with panoramic views of Valletta from its 7<sup>th</sup> floor bar and restaurant. There’s also the Embassy Cinema with six screens and comfortable sofas.</p>
<p><strong>Strolling round Sliema</strong></p>
<p>In Sliema we perused M&S and Matalan and was surprised that prices were so high – 40 euros for a swimsuit in the sale. We were disappointed that Café Cuba has disappeared on the front, but it has been replaced with all manner of eateries.</p>
<p>I had forgotten my swimsuit so we walked to The Point shopping complex, but alas the shops here are posh upmarket brands such as Max Mara and Tommy Hilfiger and not a swimsuit in sight. Note to self – always pack a swimsuit.</p>
<p>Through the doors on the ground floor, we came upon<a href="http://www.rossopomodoro.com.mt" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Rosso Pomodoro</a>, with its outside chairs and tables. The wind was blowing and anyway the smell of cigarette smoke sent us indoors. The restaurant looked small from the outside, but inside it was roomy with an upstairs area and constantly busy.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR%20Rosso%20Pomodoro%20salad.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>I chose a Prosciutinna Parma salad with feta cheese, sprinkled with almonds (I gave Ray the bread) and Ray ordered a pizza. He told our server he had a dairy intolerance and was advised to have the Marinara with garlic and oregano with various add ons – prosciutto, mushrooms and olives.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/Malta%202023/LR%20Rosso%20pomodoro%20pizza.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>The pizza was a huge oval shaped offering. I was rather jealous. They had followed his instructions – no mozzarella and not too much tomato sauce (as he can’t eat tomatoes) He said it was scrumptious. We’d definitely return here.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.costamalta.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Costa Coffee</a> has a wide presence in Malta and there is one on the lower level on the Point offering a vegan, gluten free flapjack – nothing else we could eat. I noticed a couple of gluten free cakes by Handmade Cakes, but they have milk in them. Hurrah – Liptons tea is no longer served. The preferred brand island-wide seems to be <a href="http://www.etsteas.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">English Tea Shop. </a></p>
<p>At The Point you can find M&S food with a Made Without Wheat selection. There’s also the Euro Spar supermarket in the basement with a wide choice of “free from” foods including milks.</p>
<p><strong>Valletta Food Market</strong></p>
<p>That evening we headed for<a href="http://www.issuqtalbelt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Valletta Food Market</a> in Merchant Street. This is good news for people like us as we can view the vendors’ stalls and see exactly what food is on offer. Menus are well displayed with ingredients listed, but we always doublecheck with the vendors.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR%20chicken%20karathi%20valetta%20food%20market.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>One of our favourites was The Everest serving Nepalese and Indian cuisine. I ordered Chicken Karathi (12 euros) cooked with onions, tomatoes and green peppers in a traditional thick sauce. Yummy!</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR%20Valetta%20Food%20Market%20lamb%20biryani.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Ray had Lamb Biryani (14 euros) - a huge amount of yellow rice with large chunks of meat. The portions are huge (we could easily have had one meal between two, so we made that the rule for the rest of our holiday). We asked for mild dishes and they followed our request.</p>
<p>We dined out at a different stall most nights and they all seemed to be well aware of allergies and intolerances. Another plus is that the food is inexpensive compared to a traditional sit down restaurant. When you order, most vendors give you a device which lights up and vibrates when the meal is ready for collection. Apart from anything, it’s a fun way to eat! You then collect it and enjoy. Members of staff clear away the trays.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR%20Konak%20stall%2020230127_202544.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>The Konak stall serves a selection of grilled meats and kebabs. One evening we opted for grilled chicken breast and an impressive spread of salad accompaniments, which we ate between us because the portions were huge (13.35 euros)</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/Malta%202023/LR%20Chinese%20stall%2020230128_201114.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Another night, at The Dragon Stall at Valletta Food Market, we ordered half a duck, mixed sautéed veg and spring rolls (I didn’t eat the pancakes). Truly delicious. The duck, plum sauce and cucumber was a flavoursome combination, the crispiness of the cucumber merging with the rich flavour of duck. Altogether 28 Euros. Again a huge portion so we know not to order the spring rolls next time. No wonder so many people ask for doggy bags!</p>
<p>We gave up on the pasta stall as we were told gluten free pasta takes 30 minutes to cook. Curious when you think the gluten free pasta I cook takes 12 minutes!</p>
<p>The bar is split into two – one side hot beverages and soft drinks; the other alcohol. I opted for La Torre Chardonnay white wine and Ray had Kinnie of course!</p>
<p>The only “down” side to Valletta Food Market are the toilets which are too small, inadequate and unloved.</p>
<p><strong>Supermarkets in Valletta</strong></p>
<p>Valletta is poorly served for supermarkets, but Valletta Food Market does have one downstairs where you can find “free from” food including alternative milks. In addition, there’s The Wembley Store, Republic Street, Valletta which sells a limited amount of free from foods.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/Malta%202023/LR%20PIc%201%20Three%20Cities.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>Three Cities</strong></p>
<p>We took the ferry from Valletta to The Three Cities, which was a great experience (cost 1.50 euros?). Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, in the heart of Malta's historic centre, directly across the Grand Harbour from <span>Valletta</span>. The term “cities” is misleading as none of the three is much bigger than a village. The golden stone buildings of Vittoriosa’s waterfront are spectacular and it’s no wonder that many movies have been filmed here such as “Cut Throat Island”. We wanted to visit the Maritime museum, but unfortunately it was closed!</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/CORRECT%20LR%203%20Cities%20smoked%20salmon%20salad.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="/uploads/Malta%202023/LR%20Ray%20sarnie%20three%20cities.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>We walked up the back streets until we reached the square. After looking at several restaurants, we dined at <a href="http://www.ilgirbi.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Il-Girbi Bar & Restaurant</a>, La Vallette Street. I had a smoked salmon salad and Ray a baguette of chicken and bacon with coleslaw, so he had to check with staff that the coleslaw didn’t contain dairy (some home-made ones do). The waitress assured him it was just mayonnaise – her daughter is lactose-intolerant so she knows how important this is. It is interesting how often we come across staff who have direct experience of allergies.</p>
<p>On the way back, we took the “Barrakka Lift” from Three Cities Ferry to Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta. For only 1 euro, we enjoyed panoramic views of the city.</p>
<p><strong>Mdina – the Silent City</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="/uploads/LR%20Mdina%2020230129_142131.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>Our original plan was to go to Ta’Qali Crafts Village, but surprisingly it was shut on Sundays (more of that later) so we took bus (52 or 55, C2 zone) from Valletta to Mdina.</p>
<p>Mdina, known as the Silent City, dates back 4,000 years. It’s one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city with its mix of medieval and baroque architecture. We heard that part of the new “Napoleon” film was filmed here. Directed by Ridley Scott, the movie stars Joaquim Phoenix and is due to be released on Apple TV.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR%20Palazzo%20Biforna20230129_143451.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Many of the attractions were closed on Sunday but we enjoyed exploring the narrow streets and by chance spotted an elegant building “<a href="http://www.palazzobiforna.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Palazzo Biforna</a>” where a man and woman were seated in a stylish peppermint green lounge with Lloyd Loom furniture. As I entered I asked “Is this a hotel?” to which they said “Yes it’s a new six room boutique hotel”. We were shown a couple of rooms beautifully decorated with every little detail taken care of such as hand-made toiletries. On the roof is a heated swimming pool and a view of Mdina across the roof-tops. The restaurant will open in a few weeks’ time. This is good news as eateries are in short supply in Mdina.</p>
<p>We did find <a href="http://www.fontanelloteagarden.com.mt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fontanello Tea Garden</a> which is built into the city walls. It was full with people queuing for the upper level with panoramic views. We didn’t try for a view as there was a table in the sunshine – yes it did briefly shine! After explaining his dairy intolerance, Ray was reduced to ordering a ham and lettuce sandwich but it wasn’t easy for him to find anything he could eat. I stuck to chicken salad with freshly cooked chicken breasts, avocadoes, tomatoes and feta cheese.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/Malta%202023/LR%20Fonatello%20salad%2020230129_134337.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="/uploads/LR%20Foantnello%20Ray%20sarnie%2020230129_134350.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>Ta’Qali Crafts Village</strong></p>
<p>We took the 56 (A6 bus zone -only one an hour0 from Valletta to Ta’Qali Crafts Village (getting off at the Villagg stop) as we wanted to visit Malta Aviation Museum. We had visited the crafts village before, but hardly recognised it as all the Nissan huts had vanished and in their place were smart shops. We visited Valletta Glass and watched glass blowers at work. We admired the array of items made out of olive wood at <a href="http://www.theolivewoodshop.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“The Olivewood”</a> shop – cutting boards, sculptures, spoons and so on.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR%20olivewood%20shop%2020230130_120740.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p><a href="http://www.maltaaviationmuseum.com">Malta Aviation Museum</a> isn’t publicised enough as whenever we visit there are no visitors! Mind you the entire crafts village was deserted due to the redevelopment project. A sign announced a massive complex of food and drink, ceramics and objects d’art is under construction. They have a long way to go. The huge area adjacent to the museum is a giant building site so it made it difficult to get to the museum, as there were huge lorries driving in and out. According to the Aviation Museum, this will be a car park for the Football Stadium.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/Malta%202023/LR%20aviation%20museum%2020230130_122734.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>The aircraft collection was smaller than we recalled but didn’t fail to disappoint. The museum has several hangars, one of which was going to be a venue for a party as a team of people were putting up screens and various other effects as the floor was covered with cables, which we had to step over. Just hope the aircraft aren’t damaged.</p>
<p>The only refreshments available were vending machines, but we were guided to the national stadium home for <a href="http://www.mfa.com.mt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Malta FA</a> to “Trophies” café on the second floor, where we had parma ham, salad and chips. Looking out at the impressive stadium and its enormous pitch, we watched one solitary man mowing the grass walking up and down. Wonder how long it will take him to mow the entire area?</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR%20Tropies%20Lounge.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="/uploads/LR%20parma%20ham%20salad%2020230130_134452.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Getting the bus back was problematic as we weren’t sure where the stop was. We checked with a guy who assured us we were at the right one, but then the 56 approached and drove right past despite our waving at it! The guy said “Don’t worry, he’ll turn round and come back”. Not sure where he turned round, but the bus did return in several minutes and actually stopped!</p>
<p><strong>Marsaxlokk</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="/uploads/LR%20luzzu%20boat%2020230131_130302.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>We’ve always loved visiting this fishing village, with its colourful Luzzu fishing boats, but it was disappointing to find the picturesque bay is being ruined by the encroaching industry. First to spoil the view was the power station, then LPG and Jetty tankers and now an array of giant cranes (The adjacent Pretty Bay lost its shine in the same way).</p>
<p>If you turn your back, you can take pictures across the bay towards the town, giving an effect of “unspoiled beauty”. Even so, the buildings, the colourful fishing boats, the markets and restaurants still make it a worthwhile visit.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t great when we visited, but we did manage to enjoy a delicious fish lunch at <a href="http://www.piscesrestaurantmalta.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pisces Restaurant</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Vegan and gluten free scones</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="/uploads/LR%20Phoenician%20gf%20veganscones%2020230201_150613.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>The highlight on our last day was the discovery of vegan and gluten free scones at the <a href="http://www.phoeniciamalta.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Phoenician Hotel</a>, Valletta. These were beautifully served with strawberry preserve and coconut whipped cream. Heavenly! The hotel also offers vegan and gluten free afternoon teas consisting of several courses. We will be back!</p>
<p>Visit <a href="http://www.visitmalta.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Malta Tourist Board</a> for more information.</p>
<p> </p>"Virtual" Free From Awards<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20clothing.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>What do you wear to a “virtual” Awards ceremony? When we received the delightful invitation to the first ever “virtual” Free From Awards <span><a href="http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk</a></span> ceremony, we decided to pull out all the stops and wear evening dress. Why not? It was great fun dressing up and making an effort after weeks of wearing our usual lockdown attire of T-shirts and jeans! Applying makeup was problematic – well, you forget how to do it, don’t you? Ray didn’t have such issues.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20what%20eat%20at%20Awards.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>We also needed to decide what to eat and drink while watching the Awards ceremony on video on the Free From Awards web site. We opted for home-made gluten free and dairy free Lockdown Fish Pate with gluten free bread from The Box Bakery <u><a href="https://theboxbakery.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://theboxbakery.co.uk/</a></u>. This was accompanied by gluten free beer from Free From Beer Co <u><a href="https://freefrombeerco.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://freefrombeerco.com/</a></u> and Seedlip <span><a href="http://www.seedlipdrinks.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.seedlipdrinks.com</a></span> non-alcoholic spirit with tonic water. That’s right, we were keeping clear heads so we could concentrate on the results of the Awards.</p>
<p><strong>Zooming up</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Zoom.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>Congratulations to Cressida Langlands and Michelle Berriedale-Johnson for organising such a slick, entertaining evening. First up at 7pm I joined the Zoom meeting and it was marvellous to see everyone at a glance in gallery view. Cressida then arranged for everyone to enter “break out” rooms where we could chat with three or four other people. It was great to “virtually” meet Nigel Singh from Free From Italy <span><a href="http://www.freefromitaly.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.freefromitaly.co.uk</a></span> , Colin and Shamtin from Booja Booja <span><a href="http://www.boojabooja.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.boojabooja.com</a></span> who won last year’s overall winner. I also got chatting to Stewart Russell from The Meatless Farm <span><a href="http://www.themeatlessfarm.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.themeatlessfarm.com</a></span> and Maria Jenowyck from Planet Kuku <u><a href="https://planetkuku.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://planetkuku.com/</a></u>, all of whom were up for Awards. After the presentation, we then returned to Zoom <span><a href="http://www.zoom.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.zoom.us</a></span> .</p>
<p><strong>The Presentation – who won?</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Cressida.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Michelle.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>At 7.30pm Cressida ushered us to the video of the Awards ceremony which took place on the Free From Awards web site. Michelle greeted us from her sitting room wearing her beautiful ‘trademark’ ear-rings.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Asda%20overall%20winner.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Out of the 553 products which were entered into the Awards (up by 10% compared to last year), supermarket chain Asda <span><a href="http://www.asda.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.asda.com</a></span> won the overall Product of the Year for its gluten free and vegan “Plant Based Sweet Potato Falafel Burgers”. Can’t wait to try them! They are described as “blended with spinach, red onions and tingling kick of jalapeno peppers”. This was the first time a supermarket scooped the “Marble Mo” Free From Food Awards trophy.</p>
<p>The judges commented “Great ingredients, nutritional profile and fibre levels. Lovely, moist, full of flavour, really hearty, and fantastic range of vegetables.” The product also won “Gold” in the Vegan Snacks and Meal Ideas category.</p>
<p>This year a total of seven supermarkets entered the Awards, which shows a greater engagement in the free from sector by the major retailers. As Michelle said “A vibrant independent sector is crucial to drive innovation in free from. But, the last month has shown us that we really are a nation of supermarket shoppers and if we want to get free from foods to the greatest number of people, we have to do it through the supermarkets.’</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20sponsors.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Michelle paid tribute to the wide variety of sponsors of the Awards which include Delamere Dairy <span><a href="http://www.delameredairy.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.delameredairy.co.uk</a></span> , Tesco Free From <span><a href="http://www.tesco.com">www.tesco.com</a></span> , Asda Free From, The Allergy and Free From Show <span><a href="http://www.allergyshow.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.allergyshow.co.uk</a></span> and Warburtons Gluten Free <span><a href="http://www.warburtonsglutenfree.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.warburtonsglutenfree.com</a></span></p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Tesco%20Retailer%20of%20the%20Year.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Free%20from%20Hero%20of%20the%20Year.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Tesco once again won Retailer of the Year and the FreeFrom Heroes for 2020 were the Ednan-Laperouse family and Natasha's Allergy Research Foundation <span><a href="https://www.narf.org.uk/"></a></span> <u><a href="https://www.narf.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.narf.org.uk/</a></u> for their tireless campaigning on behalf of those with serious food allergies.</p>
<p>Although entrants included 143 medium and large companies, there were also 57 micro companies employing under three people. Out of these, 35% were new to the Awards.</p>
<p><strong>Gold Winners</strong></p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Gold%20logo.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Asda were among over 40 gold award winners this year which included The Venice Bakery, The Box Bakery, Liberate and Creative Nature.</p>
<p>For the full list of winners, visit the web site <span><a href="http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk</a></span> Here are some of the highlights:</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Box%20Bakery.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>In the Innovation category, it was rewarding to find out that The Box Bakery <u><a href="https://theboxbakery.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://theboxbakery.co.uk/</a></u> scooped one of the Gold Awards for its gluten free and dairy free Wholegrain Bread Mix with Linseeds, Sunflower and Pumpkin Seeds & Quinoa – the very bread we ate with our pate! Generally gluten free bread needs to be toasted to make it palatable, but this isn’t the case with The Box Bakery bread. It’s great fun too as you bake it yourself! The ingredients come in a cardboard box. All you do is just add water, shake, mix the dough and bake in the box. I’m so pleased I stocked up before the lockdown; it also means I don’t have to worry about bread going stale.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Paula's%20Garlic%20Butter.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Our Paula’s Garlic Butta <u><a href="http://www.my-testserver.co.uk/veganbutta/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.my-testserver.co.uk/veganbutta/</a></u>also won a Gold Award in this category. This is a herby plant based vegan garlic butta, which can also be used for melting on mushrooms or new potatoes or for spreading on toasted ciabatta. Packaged in a small, recyclable glass pots with no plastic in sight. The judges described it “<em>as</em><em> good as a commercial dairy-full garlic butter.” O</em>ne of the judges I spoke with on Zoom after the presentation raved about it, so I must definitely give this a try! I’d love to know who Paula is – I guess she must have created it.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Liberate%20Crumpets.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Glitterbug%20Bakery.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20Asda%20custard%20creams.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>A new entrant in the Awards was Australian company Liberate Crumpets <u><a href="https://liberatefoods.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://liberatefoods.com.au/</a></u> with its unusual square-shaped crumpets, which are gluten free and dairy free. These picked up a Gold Award in the Tea Time category. The judges said "Yummy! Moist, light lovely flavour. Quite the nicest crumpet I have tried. Like it being square to differentiate. And no Top 14 allergents so definitely fills a market for allergies." <em> </em>Can’t wait to try these either. Other Gold winners in this category was the Glitterbug Bakery Battenburg Cake <u><a href="https://glitterbugbakery.co.uk/product/battenburg-cake/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://glitterbugbakery.co.uk/product/battenburg-cake/</a></u><em> </em>and Asda Free From Custard Creams. They sound delicious too.</p>
<p><em><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Virtaul%20free%20from%20awards%202020/LR%20The%20Venice%20Bakery.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/LR%20Creative%20Nature.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></em></p>
<p>I’ve always been a fan of The Venice Bakery <span><a href="http://www.venicebakery.co" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.venicebakery.co </a></span>delicious gluten free and vegan pizza bases, discovering them at The Allergy Free From Show. I had given up eating pizza until I tasted the samples they were offering on their exhibition stand. I was pleased that the company won a Gold Award in the No Top 14, for its Large Free From & Vegan Cauliflower Pizza Base. This is something I will have to try and soon! This “No Top 14” category is for products that don’t contain the top 14 allergens. The other Gold winner was Creative Nature <u><a href="https://www.creativenaturesuperfoods.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.creativenaturesuperfoods.co.uk/</a></u> Indulgent Chocolate Cake Mix. I have actually baked this cake and it was yummy!</p>
<p>Booja-Booja <span><a href="http://www.boojabooja.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.boojabooja.com</a></span><em> s</em>cooped Gold in the Free From Gifts for its “The Award-Winning Selection” a box of 16 dairy free, gluten free, soya free and vegan chocolates such as Rhubarb and Vanilla Fool. The judges said "Fabulous. Rich and creamy smooth. Obviously a quality product! The hazelnut truffle particularly stands out. Absolutely delicious - pure." Another product to try though I won’t wait for someone to give it to me as a gift.</p>
<p>The other Gold winner in this category was M&S<em> </em><span><a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.marksandspencer.com</a></span><em> </em>with its "Made Without Dairy Chocolate Box." I was surprised by this as when I go in their stories (before lockdown) I could never find any dairy free items, especially in the sandwich department, but perhaps things are changing!</p>
<p>Congratulations to all the winners of this year’s Free From Awards, the sponsors and of course Michelle and Cressida, who organised them.</p>
<p><strong>Where to Buy</strong></p>
<p>If you fancy buying any of the products, the web site has a link to show you where. Just visit <span><a href="http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk</a></span></p>
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<p> </p>Gluten Free Cooking Course at Cookery School, Little Portland Street, London, W1<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20cooked%20fishcakes.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20cookery%20kitchen.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20cupcakes%20out%20of%20oven.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p> </p>
<p>As we all know, gluten free cooking is challenging, so it’s always great to find new methods and recipes. The gluten free cookery course at the Cookery School <span><a href="http://www.cookeryschool.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.cookeryschool.co.uk</a></span> at Little Portland Street, London, offers an opportunity to not only learn about new recipes, but also to hone your cookery skills. The course, held from 10am to 3pm, teaches you to learn a whole spectrum of dishes from chickpea gnocchi, fish cakes, macaroni cheese to upside down cherry cupcake and chestnut cake. In addition you also learn “basics” and pick up top tips.</p>
<p>Conveniently located near Oxford Circus tube, the class takes place in a light, airy kitchen with all the latest gadgets such as the Kitchen Aid food processor and a large TV monitor so students can watch dishes being created.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20breakfast.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>On the morning of the course, I was offered a cup of tea (with soya milk) as well as home-made muesli – gluten free of course! I’d explained that I would like to adjust the recipes so they were dairy free so Ray my husband could eat them. It was commendable that they were able to do this – so I was given coconut yogurt with my muesli.</p>
<p>Altogether we were a group of 12 including several “couples” including a gluten free mother and son; a mother and daughter where the mother wasn’t gluten free and a couple where the wife was gluten free, but not the husband. The non-gluten free people said they had come not only for support, but also to learn how to cater for their gluten free family member. The group included some dairy free individuals, as well as one person who couldn’t eat chilli or garlic, so the school ensured that this person cooked their portion without these ingredients. Several people had been given the course as a Christmas or birthday present. What a great idea!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20Jane%20chef.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Our tutors were Jane and Aga, who talked us through the recipes and then divided us into groups to carry out various tasks. Jane said The Cookery School has a policy of being as sustainable as possible since it started in 2003. For example, the school uses recycled foil instead of cling film; only cooking with sustainable fish, uses energy-saving induction hobs and has a small roof-top allotment in Regent Street, WI where herbs and vegetables are grown. I would love to visit and see how that works.</p>
<p><strong>MAKING GLUTEN FREE CAKES</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20chestnut%20cake%20raw.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20cooked%20chestnut%20cake.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>My first task was to make Chestnut Flour Cake or “Castagnaccio” with other members of my group. Chestnut flour, made from chestnuts, is a great gluten free alternative. You can buy it from Shipton Mill <span><a href="https://www.shipton-mill.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.shipton-mill.com/</a></span>, as well as larger branches of Wholefoods <span><a href="https://www.wholefoodsmarket.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.wholefoodsmarket.co.uk/</a></span> or Waitrose <span><a href="http://www.waitrose.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.waitrose.com</a></span> . Or just try online for other stockists. We mixed together chestnut flour, water, oil, soaked raisins and pinenuts. Crucially this recipe doesn’t have any sugar. It cooks in just 20 minutes. It tasted yummy – a blend of sweet and savoury - and I will certainly try this at home.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20cupcakes%20ribbon.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Meanwhile, my colleagues were whipping up the cake mixture for the Gluten Free Upside Down Cherry Cupcakes in the Kitchen Aid. When whisking, you must make sure it’s ready, said Jane, so you need to look for a “ribbon” – a trail of liquid that lasts at least four seconds – see my picture. For the cupcakes, the fresh cherries were heated in a saucepan until they boiled into a syrup. Pineapples could also be used in this way, but Jane didn’t think apples were suitable (although I’m going to give it a try!)</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20cherries%20in%20cupcakes.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20cupcakes%20out%20of%20oven.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20upside%20down%20cupcakes.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>The fun part was assembling the cupcakes – firstly a portion of cherries in the cupcake cases, which are then topped with the cake mixture. When the come out of the oven, the cherries aren’t visible. After cooling, turn out the cakes onto a plate upside down to reveal the cherries on top – as per the name.</p>
<p><strong>HOW TO CUT AN ONION</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20cutting%20onions.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>I always thought I knew how to cut onion and garlic, but it appears not to be the case. Ana showed us the method – seems I’ve been doing it wrong all these years. Cut the onion in half, leave the root intact, cut downward incisions and then across, ending up with miniscule pieces of onion. Of course you must make sure you have the right knife for the job such as Wusthof Knives (although pricey!). Ana said it was important to find a knife which you felt comfortable with.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20cooking%20onions.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>The tomato sauce, a mainstay for several dishes, is dependent on caramelised onions. One of the most important things I took away from this course is that onions need to be cooked for a long period of time – in this case 30 minutes until they are caramelised. This means we were constantly stirring the onions so they wouldn’t burn. This sauce uses passata and sun dried tomato paste which certainly gave it depth of flavour. When the onions were cooked, we added the herbs and garlic. We were taught the importance of seasoning and how a pinch of seasalt can make all the difference, but you have to constantly taste it to make sure you‘re not overdoing it. It’s important to use the right condiments such as Kirkland Black Pepper Grinder and Geo Atlantic sea salt.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20tomato%20sauce.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Jane said the tomato sauce can be frozen. It was used for the gnocchi and macaroni cheese.</p>
<p><strong>COOKING WITH POLENTA</strong></p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20cooking%20polenta.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20laying%20polenta%20out.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20polenta%20pizza.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Polenta has always been one of those ingredients I’ve shunned because I don’t know how to cook it (apart from in a cake). Jane showed us how to make it – interestingly to mix the polenta and water in a bowl before you put it in a saucepan and continue to stir it until the polenta has thickened, then cook slowly for ten minutes. We used it to make a pizza base. I poured the polenta onto a greased tray in a circle shape. It was refrigerated until it was firm, then we covered it with a tomato sauce and various toppings such as parsley, olives and anchovies. For the dairy-free people we used Violife’s <span><a href="https://violifefoods.com/">https://violifefoods.com/</a></span> vegan grated mozzarella.</p>
<p><strong>GNOCCHI USING CHICKPEA FLOUR</strong></p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20gnocchi.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>It must have been years since I ate gnocchi so the prospect of eating some was tantalising. Again the chickpea flour and water was mixed thoroughly before placing in the saucepan on the hob and cooked until the mixture had thickened. In a similar way to the polenta, the thickened chickpea was poured into a greased pan, allowed to set and cooled before using a circular cutter to cut it into “discs”. Tomato sauce was spread on the bottom of a dish and then the “discs” were arranged, overlapped in neat rows with grated cheese sprinkled on the top (again vegan cheese was used for the dairy free people).</p>
<p><strong>GLUTEN FREE FISH CAKES</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20fishcakes%20mixture.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20raw%20fishcakes.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20cooked%20fishcakes.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>What a treat to learn how to cook gluten free and dairy free fish cakes. Firstly a Pollock fillet was covered with water, parsley stalks and bay leaves and poached for about 20 minutes at 150 degrees C, so it can be flaked later. The cooked potato had been prepared earlier. Make sure the fish is drained before flaking it. The fish, cooked potato, egg yolks and parsley are mixed together and well-seasoned into a sort of “dough”. It was great fun taking a ball of “dough” and then moulding it into a little “cake” on greaseproof paper. These were then fried in rapeseed oil. Jane advised “When frying, keep them still so they form a skin.” </p>
<p>We were also taught how to make gluten free Bechamel sauce using gluten free plain flour. For dairy free diets, substitute the milk for Oatly <span><a href="http://www.oatly.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.oatly.com</a></span> or soya milk.</p>
<p><strong>THE BIG FEAST</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20macaroni%20cheese.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cookery%20school%20portland%20st/LR%20tsating%20plate.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>At the end of the cooking marathon, we all sat down together to enjoy the fruits of our labour accompanied by wine or soft drinks. What a treat! We all took a portion of each dish on one plate. All the dishes were delicious but my particular favourites were Macaroni Cheese, Chickpea Gnoccki, the fishcakes and the Polenta Based Pizza. For dessert, the Gluten Free Upside Down Cherry Cupcakes were delicious, the bitter taste of the cherries combining perfectly with the moist sponge.</p>
<p>Ray my husband was disappointed that I didn’t bring anything home for him, so I will certainly be trying some of these dishes at home so he can enjoy them.</p>
<p>For further information, visit <span><a href="http://www.cookeryschool.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.cookeryschool.co.uk</a></span></p>
<p><strong>TOP TIPS</strong></p>
<ul><li>Taste everything as you go along using a teaspoon, never fingers!</li>
<li>The gluten free sponge only lasts one or two days, but you can freeze it</li>
<li>If you flatten a clove of garlic with your hand or a knife, peeling it is much easier</li>
<li>When doing the skewer test to see if a cake has cooked, keep it in for 10 seconds before extracting it</li>
<li>When cooking fish, use a teaspoon to check the thickest part is cooked</li>
</ul>Eating Out with Food Allergies in Madeira<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20intro%201.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20A%20view%20from%20pestano%20hotel.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20into%202.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p></p>
<p>Madeira is a vibrant colourful island, full of idyllic scenery, wildlife and exhilarating views. Ray and I holidayed here some years ago, so we had no idea how easy it would be to eat out with our intolerances. I am gluten free and Ray is dairy free, although he can’t eat many other foods including tomatoes and oranges – in fact anything that contains pips! Overall, we found waiting staff helpful in dealing with our dietary requirements. Eating out in Madeira is expensive, but of course it does depend on what you choose to eat. Special tourist menus may be an affordable option (depending on whether you can eat the dishes).</p>
<p><strong>AIRPORT/AIRLINE NOSH</strong></p>
<p>On board the easyJet <span><a href="http://www.easyjet.com/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.easyjet.com/en</a></span> flight to Funchal, Madeira, we were pleased to see a few vegan and gluten free dishes on the menu. Although vegan items were available, soya milk was not on offer, which seemed contradictory. For the outward flight, we’d brought our own food, so didn’t have to worry.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Ray%20beetroot%20wrap.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Mr%20Lee%20noodles.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>It was a different story on the flight back – at Funchal Airport, we were unable to find anything we could eat. Virtually all food was a sandwich or pastry-based (no good for me) or all had cheese as a main ingredient (no good for Ray). Veganism and gluten free eating hasn’t arrived at Funchal Airport then. There was a grotty looking salad and bags of crisps if you were desperate. So remembering easyJet’s offerings, we decided to try them. Ray enjoyed the vegan Falafel & Houmous Wrap (£4.50) from Supplair UK in a beetroot tortilla wrap. I tasted for the first time Mr Lee’s Chicken Laksa Noodles <span><a href="http://www.mrleesnoodles.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.mrleesnoodles.com</a></span> which is gluten free. It was delicious so I’ll look out for it in supermarkets. Looking at the ingredients, it is also dairy free. We shared Corkers Sea Salt Crisps <span><a href="http://www.corkerscrisps.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.corkerscrisps.co.uk</a></span> Heineken <span><a href="http://www.heineken.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.heineken.co.uk</a></span> zero alcohol beer was on offer which Ray enjoyed.</p>
<p><strong>USEFUL PHRASES</strong></p>
<p>It’s always useful to write down these phrases and show them to the waiting staff before ordering.</p>
<p><em>Eu tenho alergia gluten</em></p>
<p>I have an allergy to gluten</p>
<p><em>Eu tenho alergia leite, manteiga, queijo</em></p>
<p>I have allergies to milk, butter and cheese</p>
<p><strong>TAKING POT LUCK</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Ray%20pizza%20marina%20shopping%20centre.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20fish%20marina%20shopping%20centre.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>On our first night, exhausted and hungry, we walked into Funchal town centre in search of a suitable restaurant. We also needed to buy soya milk so were looking out for a supermarket. We saw a “Spar” sign in the Marina Shopping Centre and although we followed the signs, we couldn’t locate the supermarket but by chance, we found La Carbonara restaurant <span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/la-carbonara-Infante" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.facebook.com/la-carbonara-Infante</a></span> , full of locals. This is primarily a pizzeria (no gluten free pizzas) so I opted for the one of Madeira’s specialities – scabbard fish with banana with French fries and salad. I showed the staff the piece of paper detailing our intolerances. He immediately said the fish is fried in breadcrumbs, so they would grill it. As it turned out, this was one of my favourite dishes and I ate it a lot (as you will discover). Ray ordered a pizza (after checking the base didn’t contain milk) and they tailored the topping for him – mushrooms, garlic, ham and oregano (no mozzarella). My fish was delicious, but Ray was disappointed with his pizza. At the end of the meal we were served complimentary passionfruit liqueur, a refreshing drink with a kick to it. As it turned out, several restaurants presented us with free liqueurs – one wondered what the criteria were – some did, some didn’t.</p>
<p><strong>ACCOMMODATION AND BREAKFAST</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Madeira%20foliage.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20bird%20of%20prey.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>We were staying at the Pestana Casino Park hotel, <a href="https://www.pestana.com/uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pestana.com/uk</a> only a short walk away from Funchal town centre. This is a vast, sumptuous hotel with beautiful grounds and lots of exotic plants – clivia, strelizas (birds of paradise), hibiscus growing everywhere. A bird handler patrols the grounds everyday with a Harris’s hawk in tow to keep away seagulls in the swimming pool and to stop pigeons from worrying guests dining alfresco. It certainly worked.</p>
<p>On arrival at the breakfast buffet, we told Beatrice, the catering manager that I was gluten free and Ray was dairy free. She walked us round the buffet showing us what we could eat. The buffet was extensive will all manner of bread, salad and fruit and a line-up of cooked items.</p>
<p>I couldn’t have the bacon as it was cooked with bread underneath to stop it sticking, but she offered to bring fresh bacon if needed. The fried potatoes weren’t suitable as they were fried in the same oil as breaded items. She said she would bring me some gluten free items.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20A%20view%20from%20pestano%20hotel.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Having breakfast outside was a real treat in the sunshine with the view of the infinity pool. Absolutely breathtaking.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20breakfast%20buffet%201.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/LR%20breakfast%20buffet.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Ray%20breakfast.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Pestano%20gf%20breakfast.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>A list of allergens was displayed at the buffet and each dish was labelled accordingly with symbols. I was presented with a plate of gluten free cereal, bread and a muffin. I followed this up with a plate of fresh fruit and lactose free yogurt. The bread was inedible (even coated with strawberry jam) but the cereal and muffin delicious. When Ray asked which cereals were dairy free, Beatrice checked and returned letting him know that corn flakes and bran flakes were ok. Ray’s breakfast consisted of bacon, mushrooms, baked beans and potatoes followed up by artisan style toasted bread with honey. Yummy!</p>
<p><strong>SUPERMARKETS</strong></p>
<p>Funchal has several supermarkets if you know where to find them.</p>
<p>Best idea is to google the one nearest you, although as you wander round the town, you will see them signposted. We finally found the Spar supermarket in the Marina Centre – three floors down and not very well stocked.</p>
<p><strong>BEST RESTAURANT</strong></p>
<p>When researching restaurants in Funchal which offer vegan and gluten free options, it was surprising how many failed to include the menus on their web sites. We dismissed several as we couldn’t work out their allergies’ policy.</p>
<p>Happily this wasn’t the case for Cris’ Place <u><a href="https://crissrestaurant.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://crissrestaurant.com/</a></u> in Rua da Casa Branca, a short cab ride away from our hotel by taxi. We all agreed that this was the best restaurant by far in Funchal in terms of ambience, atmosphere, service, quality of food and the way they dealt with our dietary requirements. By this time we were joined by our friends, one of whom – Do - is gluten free and dairy free.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Kris%20place%201.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20kris%20place%202.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20kris%20place%20gf%20bread.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Do%20fish%20stew.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20kris%20place%20grilled%20salmon.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Ray%20lamb%20shank%20Kris%20place.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>The décor of the restaurant is striking with gilt mirrors, striped wallpaper and chandeliers. A huge aquarium with multi-coloured fish is the focal point. On arrival we were given complimentary glasses of sparkling white wine. Crucially there was no background music which was wonderful. All of the dishes were beautifully presented on dark plates which offset the food. I enjoyed grilled salmon, while Ray ordered the lamb shank. They took on board our dietary requirements and Ray was served mashed potato without butter or milk. Do’s Fish Stew looked very appetising. We were too full for dessert – the only gluten free items were pannacotta and crème brûlé. Nothing dairy free. We would certainly return here.</p>
<p><strong>AFTERNOON TEA</strong></p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/LR%20Golden%20Gate.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Alan%20cake.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Jackie%20gf%20cake%20golden%20gate.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Do%20gf%20cake.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Another treat was the elegant Golden Gate café in Funchal <span><a href="http://www.goldengate.pt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.goldengate.pt</a></span> for afternoon tea, although there is a restaurant on the first floor. Here we enjoyed tea, beautifully presented. The cafe has a wonderful display of luscious cakes, one of which our friend Alan ordered – chocolate and coconut cake beautifully decorated. In sharp contrast, Do and I had a gluten free muffin each – you can see the difference in appearance! At least we were able to have a cake unlike Ray who ended up with mango sorbet. Mind you it was delicious!</p>
<p><strong>MUSEUMS</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20statue%20Ronaldo.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Ronaldo%20cups%202.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Ronaldo%20footballs%203.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Ronaldo%20museum%201.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>We paid a visit to the newly opened Cristiano Ronaldo CR7 museum <u><a href="https://museucr7.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://museucr7.com/</a></u> dedicated to the Portuguese footballer and captain. You can’t miss it as there is a massive statue of him outside, polished to a shine by enthusiastic followers! Inside there is a whole array of cups, accolades, footballs and life-size models of the footballer where you can pose for pictures.</p>
<p><strong>FUNCHAL MARKET</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Funchal%20market%201.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> </strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Funchal%20market%202.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/LR%20Funchal%20market%203.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Funchal%20market%204.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>This is a colourful spectable with vast displays of fruit, vegetables, chillies and flowers. Several years ago we bought the roots of strelizas here (or birds of paradise as they are known), planted them and they have flowered ever since. Maybe we were lucky. This time we bought the root of a cymbidium orchid, so we'll see how that pans out.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20lunch%20at%20Almirante.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20lunch%20at%20Almirante%202.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Near the market we found Restaurant O Almirante <u><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/O-Almirante/317898698883332" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.facebook.com/pages/O-Almirante/317898698883332</a></u> where we enjoyed lunch al fresco. I enjoyed a tuna salad while Ray ordered a ham sandwich with no butter.</p>
<p><strong>NEIGHBOURHOOD RESTAURANTS</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Aprils%20Cod.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20spag%20bol%20aprils.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>One evening, we decided to investigate the line of restaurants opposite the hotel. At April Restaurant, Avenida do Infante <u><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aprilrestaurant18" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.facebook.com/aprilrestaurant18</a></u> a woman (whom we later found out was called Jessica) showed us pictures of all the dishes. Her manner was friendly and instead of telling me what I couldn’t eat, she showed me what I could. I chose April’s Cod which was tender and served in an appetising sauce. Ray fancied spaghetti Bolognese and decided to order it, after checking there wasn’t too much tomato in the sauce. A huge portion arrived and although tasty, he couldn’t manage it. The waiters here are chatty and have a great repartee and offered us banana liqueur at the end of the meal. Scrumptious! We took our friends here another night.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20scabbard%20fish%20velha.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Ray%20chicken%20velha.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>We also discovered another restaurant literally round the corner from our hotel Restaurante Casa Velha <span><a href="http://www.casavelharestaurant.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.casavelharestaurant.com</a></span> Here I ate scabbard fish – I just can’t get enough of it! Ray opted for grilled chicken. A very pretty restaurant with excellent service.</p>
<p><strong>STUNNING GARDENS</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20restaurante%20o%20dragoeiro.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20dragoeiero%20scabbard%20fish.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Ray%20lamp%20chops%20veg%20dragoeiro.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>On another night, we dined at Restaurante O Dragoeiro <span><a href="http://www.dragoeiro.pt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.dragoeiro.pt</a></span> – this has stunning gardens with the trees illuminated with fairy lights. It must be wonderful to dine al fresco here in warmer weather, but unfortunately it was too cold for that! So we decided to eat in. The food was delicious – I had my usual grilled scabbard fish, this time served with passionfruit sauce which was yummy. Ray chose lamb chops and vegetables.</p>
<p><strong>EXPLORING MADEIRA</strong></p>
<p><strong>Cable car, Monte and Botanical Gardens</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20cable%20car%201.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20cable%20car%202.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20cable%20car%204.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>A trip by cable car <span><a href="http://www.madeiracablecar.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.madeiracablecar.com</a></span> to Monte, a village at the top of the island is an exhilarating way to view Madeira. There are various combination tickets available depending on what you want to do. Tickets can be purchased on the quayside either from the Botanical Garden ticket kiosk or walk to the cable car terminal where you can buy tickets for 11 euros or combined tickets which include the botanical gardens as well.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20monte%20church.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>The cable car journey gives a birds’ eye view of vegetation, the pan tiled rooves of houses, farmland, masses of palm trees and even sheep in the fields. It goes slowly, enabling you to see everything as it gradually climbs. On arrival, you can visit the Tropical Gardens and Monte Palace Museum (note this is different to the Botanical Gardens) and the village of Monte with its panoramic views. Don’t forget to visit the 18<sup>th</sup> century Church of Nossa Senhora Do Monte.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20Babosas%20gf%20pasta%20with%20tom%20sauce.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20do%20lamb%20polenta%20babosas.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20chicken%20salad%20babosas.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>We had lunch at the Babosas Village Hotel <u><a href="http://babosas-village-funchal.hotels-funchal.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://babosas-village-funchal.hotels-funchal.com/en/</a></u> The service was excellent and they served gluten free pasta, so of course I had to try it! I wanted Bolognese sauce, but was told this contained gluten so I simply had the pasta with a tomato sauce which was delicious. Ray chose a chicken salad with a spicy sauce (without dairy) and our friend Do enjoyed lamb with chips and cooked polenta.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20wicker%20cart.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>So the question is how do you get down again? The more adventurous choose to go on wicker carts or “toboggans” which are pushed down manually by two guys dtressed in boaters, looking very English. There are no safety belts. I guess you cling on and hope for the best. I know many people have enjoyed this, but we decided to play it safe and returned by cable car again – a magical experience.</p>
<p>To reach the Botanical Gardens from Monte, you take another nine minute cable car journey which descends to the gardens.</p>
<p><strong>FISHING VILLAGE – Camara De Lobos</strong></p>
<p>One of the best ways of getting around Madeira is the “hop on, hop off” bus. There are various options and routes to choose from. Our friend Alan wanted to visit a fishing village – Camara De Lobos, so we took a bus tour there. We were given earphones which were plugged into the seat in front and then could hear the running commentary. Sitting on top of the bus, it was a fabulous way of viewing the island. Our tour was run by Yellow Bus <span><a href="http://www.yellowbustours.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.yellowbustours.com</a></span></p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20camara%20de%20lobos%202.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20camara%20de%20lobos.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/LR%20Churchill.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Camara De Lobos is a picturesque fishing village 5 kilometres from Funchal, which inspired Sir Winston Churchill to paint its beautiful surroundings. In front of the Hotel Pestana Churchill Bay Hotel, there is a statue of him and a plaque.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20steak%20sarnie%20espadeiro.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20tuna%20salad%20espadeiro.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Madeira/LR%20nikita.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>We discovered Espadeiro restaurant <u><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Espadeiro/602076373571545" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Espadeiro/602076373571545</a></u>, where we were given a friendly welcome and sat outside in the sunshine. The location of the restaurant provides impressive views of the beach and fishing village. We’d enjoyed such lavish meals during our holiday, we opted for smaller dishes. I enjoyed a tuna salad, while Ray ate a steak sandwich, after checking there was no butter or cheese in it. For dessert, we were offered a Portuguese custard tart, but unfortunately none of us could eat it. Alan did partake in “Nikita” a luscious drink of pineapple ice cream, beer, white wine and pieces of passionfruit. A heavenly combination (and I only had a sip!)</p>
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Eating Out with Food Allergies in Liverpool<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20liver%20building%20intro.jpg" width="283" height="503" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20umbrella%20pic%20intro.jpg" width="283" height="503" alt=""></p>
<p>Ray and I arrived in Liverpool on the weekend of the Liverpool v Arsenal match and the Beatles Festival, s o the city was buzzing – even more so when Liverpool won! To mark the Beatles Festival, on the Euston to Liverpool train journey, Virgin Trains <a href="http://www.virgintrains.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.virgintrains.co.uk</a> played Beatles music in the refreshment car, handed out free ‘Beatles’ cakes (which we couldn’t eat unfortunately) and Beatles’ quizzes.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20cake%20handed%20out%20on%20train.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>We were unable to answer many questions, but found out the answers from one of our friends later on.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20Beatles%20car%20intro.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>We didn’t see much evidence of the Beatles Festival – apart from this car – although we were told there was a programme of events at The Cavern.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20fun%20musicians.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>On our first day we chanced upon a wedding party dancing in the Exchange Flags square of Liverpool Town Hall to this colourful jazz band. It was such fun, so exuberant and lively – really summing up the Liverpudlian scouse ambience! Passersby filmed and took pictures of the event without anyone minding!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20lunch%20friday.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20new%20offering%20Pret.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>For a quick lunch, we found Pret <u><a href="http://www.pret.co.uk/en-gb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.pret.co.uk</a></u> near the Victoria monument, near Liverpool One <u><a href="https://www.liverpool-one.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.liverpool-one.com/</a></u> the vast shopping and leisure complex. Ray ate his usual pole and line caught tuna baguette, removing all the cucumber slices as he can’t eat them. I opted for the colourful Cali-Style Salmon Salad, a mix of brown rice and red quinoa, mango, mint and chilli, as well as smashed avocado and edamame soya beans topped with salon. Delicious.</p>
<p>We noticed a new offering at this branch of Pret – Smashed Avocado on Pret’s gluten free bread. It looked appetising and I will try this another time – although it does say it contains oats. Other varieties include Chicken Caesar and Smashed Avo. Good to see Pret introducing gluten free bread options.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20pianos%20dotted%20around.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>Exploring the Liverpool One complex, with its incredible range of shops, we noticed several random pianos positioned at various locations. What a great idea as it encourages talented members of the public to entertain us all by tinkling the ivories – we didn’t hear one bad note! If you’re a budding piano player, you can pre-book your slot on the Liverpool One web site.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20hair%20curlers.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>Another observation was seeing several women wearing their rollers while shopping, in the street, in restaurants and so on. We found this very strange indeed and wondered what the reason for this was. Perhaps they are trying to start a new trend.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20lamb%20chops%20Kasbah.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20buttersquash%20tagine%20Kasbah.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>That evening we returned to one of our favourite restaurants in Liverpool - Kasbah <u><a href="http://www.kasbahcafebazaar.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.kasbahcafebazaar.co.uk/</a></u> a Moroccan restaurant in Bold Street, where you can wear a fez if you want! Here I enjoyed Tagine Lala Moulati, a gluten free and vegan tagine with butternut squash, aubergines, chickpeas and apricots – truly scrumptious! Ray wasn’t in the mood for a tagine, so instead opted for the lamb chops, which were succulent and tender – and an astonishingly large portion!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20Liverpool%20town%20hall.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>This time we stayed at Hotel Indigo <u><a href="https://www.hotelindigo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.hotelindigo.com</a></u> It is a stone’s throw from Liverpool Town Hall <span><a href="http://www.liverpooltownhall.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.liverpooltownhall.co.uk</a></span> (pictured above) and a short walk from Liverpool One. It is a smart looking hotel with excellent facilities, as well as the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar and Grill, although we didn’t dine there this trip. The hotel also offers a regular supply of free water and soft drinks in the guest room mini bar.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20hotel%20breakfast%20buffet.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20breakfast.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>At breakfast, the staff looked after our dietary requirements well, especially Sue, who is a coeliac and so understood our situation. I had contacted the hotel in advance and asked for gluten free bread and soya milk. Happily Ray was able to enjoy a full English breakfast after Sue had checked there was no dairy in the sausage or black pudding. I was able to have bacon, mushrooms and tomato (I can’t eat eggs). I was impressed by the gluten free bread, which is baked on the premises. It’s moist, doughy, flavoursome and crucially it didn’t crumble or collapse when spread with marmalade. It was provided already toasted. The buffet was well stocked with juices, cold meat, a wide array of fruit, chopped dates, maple syrup, nuts, seeds, jams and preserves. Ray particularly liked the sourdough bread, which he toasted.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20kebab%20meal%20othellos.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>That evening, we met with friends at Othello’s Greek restaurant in Gateacre Park Drive <span><a href="http://www.othellos.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.othellos.co.uk</a></span> a fun, friendly place, where we enjoyed platters of hummus (they supplied crudites for me as I couldn’t eat the bread) and kebabs – I chose the chicken kebab, while Ray had the lamb kebab – both served with rice and salad.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20Bold%20Street.jpg" width="283" height="503" alt=""></p>
<p>Bold Street in Liverpool is almost like “Restaurant Row” because there’s such a choice of eateries. One of the best discoveries during this trip was Maray <u><a href="https://www.maray.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.maray.co.uk/</a></u> in Bold Street (although there are also branches in Allerton and Albert Dock).</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20ipad%20maray.jpg" width="283" height="503" alt=""></p>
<p>Maray is innovative in its approach to food intolerances and allergies because it provided us with a small iPad where you can filter the menu for allergens (for all 14 allergens not just gluten and milk) and see which of the dishes on the menu you can eat. It’s a very clever idea and every restaurant should have one. The ethos of the restaurant is serving small plates of food, inspired by the flavours of the Middle East alongside cocktails, beer and wine. The hummus is presented in an unusual (and delicious) way, topped with pinenuts and cranberries. For our main course, Ray ordered the Lamb Kofta, meatballs accompanied by tahini and pinenuts, while I had the Rainbow Trout with purple potatoes and cranberry vinegar. The cauliflower arrived beautifully decorated with tahini, harissa and almonds – the spices really enhanced the flavour of the cauliflower. The handcut chips were served with hummus and zhug – a hot sauce originating in Yemen, which added a real kick to the taste of the chips.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20hummus%20Maray.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20cauliflower%20maray.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20meat%20balls.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>We were too full to have dessert, which was a shame because for once there was a dairy free option available (which wasn’t the usual sorbet) – salt chocolate and Bergamot tart. Next time we’ll remember not to have a starter! Gluten free options also available.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20gf%20cake%20waterstones.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>For a tea time treat, Waterstone’s Cafe in Liverpool One <u><a href="https://www.waterstones.com/bookshops/liverpool-one" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.waterstones.com/bookshops/liverpool-one</a></u> serves wonderful Suki tea with soya milk, as well as a choice of vegan and dairy free cakes. This was like an oasis away from the busyness of Liverpool One.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20Italian%20Club%20bold%20st.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20Aug%202019/LR%20spag%20bol%20italian%20club.jpg" width="283" height="159" alt=""></p>
<p>On our last night, we wandered further up Bold Street to number 128 and found The Italian Club <u><a href="http://www.theitalianclubfamily.com/the-italian-club/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.theitalianclubfamily.com/the-italian-club/</a></u> a friendly family-run restaurant where Ray indulged in Spaghetti Bolognese (without cheese) and I chose the gluten free Pasta Puttanesca. The problem with gluten free pasta is that sometimes it isn’t cooked long enough so it is tough to eat. Not so this gluten free pasta which was cooked al dente and tasted delicious.</p>
Product Review: The Box Bakery gluten free bread<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Box%20Bakery/LR%20intro%20shot.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>It is a constant struggle to find gluten free bread which not only tastes delicious, but also holds up well when toasted or made into sandwiches. Generally gluten free bread needs to be toasted to make it palatable which is difficult as it tends to crumble and fall apart. Even when toasted, most of it tastes like cardboard. This isn’t the case with bread mixes from The Box Bakery <a href="http://www.theboxbakery.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.theboxbakery.co.uk</a> which you bake yourself! The breads are also dairy free and have been accredited by Coeliac UK <span><a href="http://www.coeliac.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.coeliac.org.uk</a></span> . There are two varieties – white bread mix with sunflower and linseeds and wholegrain bread mix with sunflower and linseeds.</p>
<p>The concept is simple – just add water, shake, mix the dough and bake in the box. I tried this at home. Here are a few tips: shake the box very well before you add the lukewarm water. When you mix the dough with a fork, make sure you mix thoroughly so that no white powder is visible – so right to the edges of the box, then brush with olive oil. I also added some chopped olives to the mix for a Mediterranean style bread, but this is optional. Otherwise just follow the instructions.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Box%20Bakery/LR%20raw%20mixture.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>If the finished loaf comes out a bit pale, brush with olive oil and put in the oven for a few more minutes. Remove the bread from the box and place on a wire rack to cool down before enjoying!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Box%20Bakery/LR%20coming%20out%20of%20the%20oven.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>The bread has a wonderful texture and is absolutely delicious. It’s moist and flavoursome, cuts well, holds together and can easily be toasted. Even Ray who normally won’t eat gluten free bread, found it delicious.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Box%20Bakery/LR%20finished%20loaf.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>When toasted, the bread holds together and doesn’t crumble in the toaster. It’s a real treat to make a sandwich where the bread remains firm and doesn’t fall apart. When some friends visited (who weren’t gluten free) I gave them a choice between The Box Bakery bread and ordinary bread, but once they had tasted the gluten free bread, they preferred it!</p>
<p>Don’t take my word for it. I asked two friends to try out the product:</p>
<p>Yasmine G doesn’t have a gluten allergy and prefers gluten free bread. This is what she said “It’s head and shoulders above all the other gluten free breads we’ve eaten and excellent value for money. It’s easy and novel to make. The prevalence of the seeds and quinoa totally offsets the common blandness of most gluten free breads, also making the loaf highly nutritious. It tasted delicious, particularly good with my preferred topping of peanut butter on breakfast toast!”</p>
<p>Patrick Phelps, who is a coeliac, thought it was great to make a quick tasty loaf in the box without getting one’s hands mucky – just a bit of vigorous fork activity needed. “The loaf turned out beautifully and the taste is very artisan – slightly nutty with just the right amount of seeds. It’s a great idea, great taste with simple instructions and no mess,” he says.</p>
<p><strong>Classic Chocolate Cake Mix</strong></p>
<p>I asked Patrick to review The Box Bakery’s Classic Chocolate Cake, which is gluten free, but not dairy free as it contains whey powder and milk protein. (Ray hopes the company develops a dairy free version!)</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Box%20Bakery/LR%20Paddy%20chocolate%20cake%20coming%20out%20of%20oven.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>Similar to the bread mix, the cake mix was easy to make and no other ingredients apart from milk or water were needed. The instructions were clear and simple and the oven temperature and timings spot on. “You could make it without getting your hands dirty and the only item of equipment needed was a fork!” says Patrick. “Crucially no washing up either! A neat idea and I would recommend gluten freebies to have a box in the cupboard at all times so you could whip up a cake at short notice. Personally I would have liked the cake to taste more chocolatey – this may be because I used a 50% milk/water mix. Perhaps there could be some guidance on the box as to the taste implications of milk versus water. The box does suggest icing on the top which is an option, but then you would need extra ingredients/bowls etc.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Box%20Bakery/GF%20Paddy%20chocolate%20cake.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>“Overall, this is a fabulous product which should do well.”</p>
<p><strong>How To Buy</strong></p>
<p>You can buy a mixed case direct from the web site at £21.55 comprising five products – two bread mixes of each variety and one gluten free chocolate cake mix (this isn’t dairy free).</p>
<p>Alternatively five gluten free Wholegrain Bread Mixes or five gluten free White Bread Mixes, at £21.55 each.</p>
<p>For more information, visit <span><a href="http://www.theboxbakery.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.theboxbakery.co.uk</a></span></p>
<p><em>Chocolate cake pictures by Patrick Phelps</em></p>
Review: Park's Edge Bar and Kitchen, Herne Hill<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Parks%20Edge/LR%20Parks%20Edge%20exterior%20intro.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Parks%20Edge/LR%20Park's%20Edge%20interior.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>Cuisine with a Caribbean twist sums up the menu at Park’s Edge Bar and Kitchen, <a href="https://parksedgebarandkitchen.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://parksedgebarandkitchen.com</a> in Norwood Road, Herne Hill, opposite Brockwell Park and conveniently located near Herne Hill station.</p>
<p>A welcoming cocktail bar greets you on arrival, offering an extensive cocktail list, as well as a rum collection, a gin and vodka menu and beers, cider and soft drinks. Ray & I chose non-alcoholic mocktails – well, it was a week night.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Parks%20Edge/LR%20mocktails.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>Ray’s Energiser mocktail, as the name suggests, is an uplifting experience – a mixture of fresh mint, elderflower, thyme, honey, green apple juice and soda. My cocktail “Melonocious” was a creamy, cooling concoction of mango puree, watermelon juice, coconut syrup, lime juice and home-made pear puree. Both drinks were beautifully served in tall glasses with paper straws and fruit decoration.</p>
<p>The decor is eclectic with a variety of seating from turquoise sofas to wooden chair, but it all blends in. The open kitchen is a nice touch, enabling you to watch the chefs behind the scenes, but it’s not too intrusive. Laid back music contributes to the relaxed atmosphere – again the music collection is varied from crooners, South American to pop. It’s not too loud so you can enjoy a conversation, which is great news.</p>
<p>The menu carries a VG symbol for the vegan dishes on the menu, although Haiki Berhane, the front of house manager, talks us through which dishes will be suitable for me (gluten free) and for Ray (dairy free). For my sea bass dish, the bulgur wheat will be replaced by spiced wild rice and for Ray’s lamb dish, the mint yogurt will be omitted. Happily we can both eat the Sweet Potato Fries as a side.</p>
<p>Usefully the chef has given English wine pairing recommendations at the top of the menu, but we’re enjoying our mocktails too much to order any wine!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Parks%20Edge/LR%20olives%20and%20chicken%20satay.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>To start with, we order some mixed marinated olives, garlic and herbs (£2.50) which are yummy and share the Grilled Spicy Chicken, Caribbean Peanut Satay Sauce, Lime and Coriander (£7.50). The satay is succulent, not too highly spiced and combines well with the crunchy green salad and the sauce, which isn’t too hot in flavour. You may have guessed we don’t like our food too spicy – Ray has already asked for the chef to go easy on the harissa!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Parks%20Edge/LR%20fish.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>Our main courses are beautifully presented. My choice is Torched Tandoori Sea Bass with spiced wild rice and pomegranate ‘Grenade” and Apple Cardamom sauce (£17.95). Normally fish can be bland, but not this dish as the flavour is greatly enhanced by the spicy coating and the crunchiness of the pomegranates add to the texture of the rice. The apple cardamom sauce is fruity with a kick to it and works well with the fish.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Parks%20Edge/LR%20lamb.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>Ray’s meal is Slow Roasted shoulder of Lamb and Marissa Spiced Wild Rice (£19.50). The lamb melts in your mouth as it’s so tender (he invited me to try some!) and the harissa spiced wild rice is an explosion of flavours. We were impressed by Tommy Rakoczi’s (the chef) creative way of serving rice by adding herbs and spiced, chopped coriander and pomegranate seeds.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Parks%20Edge/LR%20sweet%20potato%20fries.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>The sweet potato fries (£4.40) are tasty and moreish – they are so moist, unlike some I have tasted which can be overcooked.</p>
<p>We generally don’t bother ordering desserts because there is usually nothing we can eat – if Ray is lucky, there may be a frozen tasteless sorbet available, but at Park’s Edge Bar & Kitchen we had a choice of gluten free and dairy free desserts! The Caramelised Banana and Pineapple Crumble is both dairy and gluten free, while the Eton Mess is gluten free.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Parks%20Edge/LR%20choc%20cake.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>We opted to share a slice of the gluten free, dairy free chocolate and lime cake (£6) (it does contain eggs). As Ray said “It’s so rare there is any cake I can eat.” Again, this was creatively presented on a plate with pieces of strawberry, cinder toffee, meringue, mint leaves and a sprinkling of icing sugar – almost too good to eat! Gluten free cakes tend to be dry and crumbly, but not this cake. It was moist with a real chocolatey taste.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Parks%20Edge/LR%20sorrel%20sorbet.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>One of the highlights was the Sorrel Sorbet rolled in home-made granola (£3 per scoop) (gluten free) and served with strawberry pieces. The sorbet has an amazing rich red colour, made from Baldwin’s Hibiscus (Jamaican sorrel). It is refreshing and minty with a hint of sorrel. The granola adds to the texture and gives it a crunchy mouthfeel. Very delicious.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Parks%20Edge/LR%20mint%20tea.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>Finally we enjoyed a fresh mint tea, served in cheerful, colourful cups and saucers. It was a treat to visit Park’s Edge Bar & Kitchen, where the staff were so friendly and eager to accommodate our dietary requirements.</p>
<p><strong>The low down</strong></p>
<p>Park’s Edge Bar & Kitchen, 51 Norwood Road, Herne Hill, London SE24 9AA <span><a href="https://parksedgebarandkitchen.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://parksedgebarandkitchen.com/</a></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Review: The Allergy & Free From Show 2019<p>Gluten free bread baked in a box, vegan bacon, dairy free milk made from yellow peas, popped chickpea crisps (gluten free, egg free, peanut free). These were just some of the ‘free from’ discoveries I found at this year’s Allergy & Free From Show at London’s Olympia <span><a href="https://www.allergyshow.co.uk/london/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.allergyshow.co.uk/london/</a></span></p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20box%20bakery%201.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20The%20Box%20Bakery%202.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>Finding gluten free bread that is moist, tasty and holds together is a real challenge. Generally gluten free bread needs to be toasted to make it palatable which is difficult as it tends to crumble and fall apart. Even when toasted, most of it tastes like cardboard. This isn’t the case with bread mixes from The Box Bakery <span><a href="http://www.theboxbakery.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.theboxbakery.co.uk</a></span> which you bake yourself! The breads are also dairy free and have been accredited by Coeliac UK <span><a href="http://www.coeliac.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.coeliac.org.uk</a></span> . There are two varieties – white bread mix with sunflower and linseeds and wholegrain bread mix with sunflower and linseeds. The concept is simple – just add water, shake and bake in the box. I tried this at home, the bread has a wonderful texture and is absolutely delicious. It’s moist and flavoursome, cuts well, holds together and can easily be toasted. Even Ray who normally won’t eat gluten free bread, found it delicious. You can buy a mixed case at £21.55 comprising five products – two bread mixes of each variety and one gluten free chocolate cake mix (this isn’t dairy free).</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20Sproud%20milk.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>Sproud <a href="http://www.sproud.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.sproud.co.uk</a> is a new plant-based vegan milk made of protein from dry yellow peas. Made in Sweden, it’s dairy free, gluten free and soy free. I found it refreshing and creamy. There’s also a barista version, which makes a more robust foam for speciality coffees. Available from Waitrose <span><a href="https://www.waitrose.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.waitrose.com/</a></span> Planet Organic <span><a href="http://www.planetorganic.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.planetorganic.com</a></span> and Amazon <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.amazon.co.uk</a> </p>
<p><span><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20Princess%20Prosecco.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></span></p>
<p>It was good to see Corine Sellers, founder of Princess Prosecco <u><a href="http://www.princessprosecco.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.princessprosecco.co.uk</a></u> at the show; I’ve interviewed her on the business programme on Brooklands Radio <span><a href="http://www.brooklandsradio.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.brooklandsradio.co.uk</a></span> The complete range of Princess P vegan prosecco was on display including vegan black premium prosecco from Treviso, Italy. The bouquet is delicately fruity and floral with notes of apple, wisteria and acacia flowers.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20vegan%20marshmallow.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>Corine was also exhibiting other “free from” goodies such as vegan marshmallows by Ananda <span><a href="http://www.anandafoods.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.anandafoods.co.uk</a></span> , as her company also supplies gift boxes.</p>
<p>As you can imagine, the stand attracted visitors eager to sample the vegan prosecco!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20coconut%20whipping%20cream.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>Finding a dairy free cream which can be whisked into a proper whipping cream, which holds up, is a big challenge. We’ve never managed to find one, so it was great to discover condensed coconut whipping cream from Nature’s Charm <span><a href="http://www.naturecharmveganproducts.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.naturecharmveganproducts.com</a></span> confusingly on the Wing Yip <span><a href="http://www.wingyip.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.wingyip.com</a></span> stand. Unfortunately I was unable to try the product, so I hope I can buy one and test it. Watch this space. Another discovery by the same supplier is Sweetened Condensed Coconut Milk, which they claim is the first commercially introduced coconut milk. I was able to try a tiny amount of this and it was delicious. Both products are available from Wholefoods <u><a href="https://www.wholefoodsmarket.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.wholefoodsmarket.co.uk</a>/</u> - I also found them on Amazon <span><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.amazon.co.uk</a></span></p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20vegan%20bacon%201.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20vegan%20bacon%202.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""><span></span></p>
<p>And now for something completely different – vegan bacon from Naturinni <span><a href="http://www.naturrini.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.naturrini.com</a></span> made from “edoes” a Brazilian potato-like vegetable, salted (using Himalayan salt) and then smoked. I found it tasty and moreish. The company is looking for distribution outlets in the UK.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20Ms%20Cupcake.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20Ms%20Cupcake%202.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>“Free from” cakes were very much in evidence throughout the exhibition. Ms Cupcake <span><a href="http://www.mscupcake.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.mscupcake.co.uk</a></span> displayed a fabulous range of vegan goodies, some of which were gluten free. Her luscious cupcakes included Red Velvet and Strawberry n’ Cream – very Wimbledon. Stacks of inviting Vegan Cookie Sandwiches were also on offer.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20Bad%20Ass%20Cakes.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>The array of ‘free from’ Bad Ass Cakes <span><a href="http://www.badasscakes.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.badasscakes.co.uk</a></span> included the vegan and gluten free Jamaican Rum Cake – it looked divine!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy%20show%202019/LR%20The%20Real%20Coconut.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>The Free From Awards logo <a href="https://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><u>https://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk/</u></a> could be seen on stands all over the show indicating that the companies were Award winners. It was good to see this accolade on The Real Coconut stand <u><a href="https://www.therealcoconut.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.therealcoconut.com/</a></u> which produces gluten free, dairy free, and refined sugar free snacks. The stand was very busy, but I managed to sample the coconut flour tortilla chips – delicious!</p>
<p>It was good to catch up with Cressida from the Free From Awards on their stand showcasing the UK's only industry awards for free from food. These were started in 2008 by FoodsMatter and FreeFrom Foods Matter to encourage innovation and celebrate excellence in the free from food industry. The Awards are entirely independent, supported by sponsorship and entry fees only. Watch out for the logo on free from items. The logo or mark is awarded for excellence in the creation of 'free from' food e.g. food that is free of gluten, dairy, nuts or any other of the 14 major food allergens. For more information, visit <span><a href="http://www.freefromawards.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.freefromawards.co.uk</a></span></p>
<p>There was masses to see and do at the show including seminars and cookery demonstrations. I’m already looking forward to the next Allergy & Free From Show in Liverpool on Saturday 2<sup>nd</sup> and Sunday 3<sup>rd</sup> November. <u><a href="https://www.allergyshow.co.uk/liverpool/welcome" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.allergyshow.co.uk/liverpool</a></u></p>
<p>See you there!</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Interview with Marnie Searchwell Award winning 'free from' cake maker<p><strong>Jackie Mitchell talks to Award winning cake maker Marnie Searchwell, winner of the Gold Award of the Tea Time category in the Free From Awards</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Marnie%20Searchwell/LR%201080-reine.jpg" width="283" height="393" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Marnie%20Searchwell/LR%201080-wedding-damian.jpg" width="283" height="416" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>Reine de Saba, Chocolate & Olive Oil, Jamaica Fruit Cake, a three tier wedding cake beautifully iced and decorated with flowers. These are just some of the cakes from Award-winning baker Marnie Searchwell <u><a href="http://www.marniesearchwell.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.marniesearchwell.com</a></u>. Incredibly they are all gluten free and in many cases, dairy free and Marnie also adapts recipes to accommodate other intolerances.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Marnie%20Searchwell/LR%20Marnie%20Searchwell%201.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>Most recently, her Vegan Mocha Chocolate Cake won Gold in the Tea Time category at the Free From Awards <span><a href="https://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk/</a> </span>The cake has a soft, moist sponge, made with Fairtrade organic cocoa powder and gluten free flours. It is filled and frosted with a vegan ‘cream cheese’ chocolate frosting made with organic dark chocolate and a spoonful of coffee. I sampled it at the Free From Awards presentation and it was truly scrumptious – so moist and flavoursome. As the judges said “<em>Lovely gloss on the icing – fab to look at and super rich. Amazing for a vegan, egg free, milk free and gluten free cake. Great mocha flavour - a real treat.”</em></p>
<p><em><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Marnie%20Searchwell/LR%201080-mochachoc.jpg" width="283" height="424" alt=""></em></p>
<p>“I thought I was never going to win Gold,” Marnie says modestly. “I was totally stunned.”</p>
<p>Over the years, Marnie’s cakes have won several Awards and when I visit her, I can see a wall with framed certificates. For example, six cakes have won a Great Taste Award <u><a href="https://greattasteawards.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://greattasteawards.co.uk/</a></u> from the Guild of Fine Food <u><a href="https://gff.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://gff.co.uk/ </a></u></p>
<p><u><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Marnie%20Searchwell/LR%201080-wedding-louisa.jpg" width="283" height="424" alt=""></u></p>
<p>Marnie has created an array of ‘free from’ mouth-watering cakes made to order from the web site, but also makes bespoke cakes for special events including weddings. Today she is preparing for a wedding cake “tasting”. This is part of the full wedding service when the couple visit Marnie to taste four or five different cakes and to decide on the design and decoration. It also includes delivery and assembly at the London venue.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Marnie%20Searchwell/LR%201080-wedding-horniman-jc.jpg" width="283" height="424" alt=""></p>
<p>Couples can choose from gluten free, dairy free, vegan although Marnie caters for other allergies and intolerances. Customers telephone her with specific dietary requirements. “They’ll ring up and say I can’t eat this and this, so I find a recipe and adjust it,” she says. “For example one customer’s daughter had severe allergies – she couldn’t have sugar, flour, dairy or baking powder but she could have ground almonds and bicarbonate of soda, so I spent time experimenting and testing and eventually made her a honey and orange birthday cake. I received a lovely letter thanking me and that makes my work very rewarding.”</p>
<p>She also receives special requests – for example one vegan customer wanted bananas and peanut butter in their wedding cake and so Marnie obliged. One of the most unusual wedding cakes was a Pandan Chiffon Cake for a bride from Singapore, which was green in the middle, made using liquidised pandan leaves.</p>
<p>A major part of Marnie’s success is her ability to experiment and develop recipes for people with allergies. For example, it took her ages to develop the right blend of gluten free flours. “I tried all sorts – hemp, quinoa, you name it – until I found a blend that works. I find a recipe, then adapt it and use a gluten free flour blend instead of wheat flour.” One of her latest projects is experimenting with aquafaba – the liquid of chick peas. “I’m playing around with it – whipping it up to make meringues.”</p>
<p>Icing is critical for Marnie’s cakes. For Christmas cakes and iced wedding cakes, she uses Lübecker organic marzipan. This is lightly sweetened made with 52% organic almonds. For other cakes she may use Swiss meringue buttercream made with dairy free margarine.</p>
<p>For the fabulous floral cake decorations, Marnie uses organic edible flowers from Maddox Farm Organics <u><a href="https://maddocksfarmorganics.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://maddocksfarmorganics.co.uk/</a></u></p>
<p>Delivery of the cakes is vitally important. “We can deliver within the M25, sometimes we have a rendezvous at a station or a customer collects the cake,” Marnie says. “Some cakes with sugar paste can be posted. They are like my babies. I take lots of pictures of each cake I create. I can’t bear saying goodbye to them and it’s my job to ensure they arrive safely.”</p>
<p>Trained as a graphic designer, Marnie worked in publishing and only baked in her spare time. Every March she had a birthday cake ‘marathon’ as her husband and two sons all have birthdays that month. She professes to be ‘self-taught’, although her mother was a baker and her father grew vegetables after retirement. “So there would always be a glut of something such as pumpkins so Mum would devise a recipe using the vegetables.”</p>
<p>After the birth of her first son, she became a freelance graphic artist working for books and glossy women’s and lifestyle magazines, continuing to bake in her spare time. After her second son was born in 1997, she started making Christmas cakes and selling them to friends, but never thought it would develop into a business. She doesn’t have any food allergies herself, but for many years her husband was suffering from digestion problems. “When he omitted wheat and gluten, he noticed an improvement,” she says, “so in 2000 I started making my first Christmas cakes without gluten or wheat, we became a gluten free and wheat free household and I started specialising in ‘free from’ cakes.”</p>
<p>At that time, Marnie used to pick up her youngest son from primary school and cycle to Borough Market <a href="http://boroughmarket.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://boroughmarket.org.uk</a> to buy organic vegetables from a stallholder. They got chatting and she was offered a corner of the stall to sell ‘free from’ cakes on Saturdays for six weeks in the run up to Christmas. “This was a brilliant way to talk to people and get feedback,” she says,” and I sold enough to make it worthwhile.”</p>
<p>It gave her all the encouragement she needed to have a professional web site designed “so I could do proper selling. Every time I created a new cake I put it on the web site and it just grew and grew.”</p>
<p>Despite her success, Marnie has no desire to expand her business at the moment. “I want to stay a micro business. There’s just me and my youngest son who does the deliveries,” she says.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Marnie%20Searchwell/LR%20Chocolate%20&%20Olive%20Oil%20Cake%20Marnie.jpg" width="283" height="370" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Marnie%20Searchwell/LR%20Reine%20de%20Saba%20truffles.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>During my visit, I was lucky enough to taste some of Marnie’s cakes, which were deliciously moist. This included the Jamaica fruit cake, the Luxury Ginger Cake and the Chocolate and Olive Oil cake. One of her newest creations are the yummy Reine de Saba truffles – inside each truffle is a piece of cake! I’m sure they will be available on the web site soon!</p>
<p>For orders and more information visit <span><a href="http://www.marniesearchwell.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.marniesearchwell.com</a></span></p>
<p>Picture credits: Marnie Searchwell, Hugh Kindred, Jamie Clark, Jackie Mitchell</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Eating out with food allergies in the Isle of Wight<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20intro%201.jpg" width="326" height="245" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20intro%202.jpg" width="326" height="245" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20intro%203.jpg" width="326" height="245" alt=""></p>
<p>Boarding the Wightlink ferry <span><a href="http://www.wightlink.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.wightlink.co.uk</a></span> at Portsmouth Harbour en route for Fishbourne, Isle of Wight <span><a href="http://www.visitisleofwight.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.visitisleofwight.co.uk</a></span> , we were pleased to find a Costa Coffee <span>www.costa.co.uk</span> outlet where we enjoyed a cup of English breakfast tea, as well as Costa’s vegan, dairy free and gluten free Flapjack with cranberries, sultanas and apricots. This was a pleasant surprise as we didn’t expect to find anything we could eat so had brought our own sandwiches - dairy free for Ray and gluten free for me.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Costa%20flapjack.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""></p>
<p>We were staying at the West Bay Club & Spa in Yarmouth <span><a href="http://www.westbayclub.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.westbayclub.co.uk</a></span> Set in 15 acres of landscaped grounds and pathways, a wide variety of accommodation is on offer from single storey cottages to two storey houses. In addition, there is a country club with a heated indoor swimming pool, a choice of exercise classes, as well as a spa with beauty treatments.</p>
<p>Our cottage for two was beautifully decorated, complete with fridge, microwave and cooker. Whenever we can we opt for self-catering as it means you’re not reliant on eating out all the time, which is problematic if you have food allergies.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20shopping%20at%20asda.jpg" width="326" height="245" alt=""></p>
<p>We don’t normally shop at Asda <span>www.asda.com</span> (there isn’t one near us) so we were pleased to find a comprehensive range of “free from” foods at the bumper store in St Georges Way just outside Newport. Here we also found Don Simon Cloudy apple juice <span><a href="http://www.donsimonuk.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.donsimonuk.com</a></span> – a discovery we made at one of the cafes.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Thatched%20Church.jpg" width="326" height="245" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20piano%20bay.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""></p>
<p>On our way to St Catherine’s Lighthouse, we chanced upon The Piano Café in Freshwater Bay <span><a href="http://www.thepianocafe.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.thepianocafe.co.uk</a></span>, located near St Agnes Church, dating back to 1908 and the only thatched church on the Isle of Wight.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20piano%20cafe%20burger.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20piano%20cafe%20salad.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""></p>
<p>The café is so-called as there’s an old-fashioned upright piano inside. We chose to sit outside to make the most of the weather. On a quiet day, the café is perfect for relaxing and reading the papers as it has a club-like atmosphere. The menu doesn’t have any symbols for gluten free or vegan, but when ordering at the counter, I was offered gluten free bread and there was no problem with Ray’s burger, they simply put “dairy free” on the order. My Caprese salad, visually attractive served on a wooden board comprised Isle of Wight (IOW) tomatoes, mozzarella, basil and dressing. Ray’s burger was served with a salad, omitting the feta as stated on the menu. One of the house specialities are the fresh juices so I tried the Multivitamin (orange, kiwi, carrot, pear and apple) a truly refreshing drink. Ray imbibed Folkington’s apple juice <span><a href="http://www.folkingtons.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.folkingtons.com</a></span> which he said was invigorating, so much so he ordered it at other venues.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20St%20Catherine's%20Lighthouse.jpg" width="326" height="245" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20the%20light%20at%20St%20Catherine's%20Lighthouse.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""></p>
<p>At St Catherine’s Lighthouse, located on the southernmost tip of the island <u>https://www.trinityhouse.co.uk/lighthouse-visitor-centres/st-catherines-lighthouse-visitor-centre</u> we participated in a fascinating tour of the lighthouse, built by Trinity House in 1838 to guide shipping in the Channel as well as vessels approaching the Solent. A highlight was ascending the stairs to the very top of the building for panoramic views of the island, as well as a close up of the light inside. This light is dazzling so you have to avert your eyes. This is truly a fascinating experience, well recommended.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Mrs%20Middletons%20bookshop.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20The%20Rabbit%20Hole.jpg" width="326" height="245" alt=""></p>
<p>One of our passions is discovering independent bookshops and the Isle of Wight didn’t disappoint. As we drove through Freshwater, we spotted The Rabbit Hole and Mrs Middleton’s Shop <u><a href="https://mrsmiddleton.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://mrsmiddleton.com/</a></u> both owned by Gail Middleton, author of “The Freshwater Circle through the Looking Glass – and what Lewis Carroll found there”. Dedicated to Gail’s grand-daughter, the book is about Lewis Carroll, the characters he wove into his story and how they link up with her home. We started browsing in Mrs Middleton’s Shop, a cornucopia of second-hand books of all genres when Gail offered to show us round The Rabbit Hole.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Lewis%20Carroll%20timeline.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20The%20Rabbit%20Hole%20display.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""></p>
<p>The window displays are enchanting and inside you’ll find all sorts of treasures such as a Lewis Carroll timeline and a beautiful display of Beatrix Potter books. Upstairs is a comfy sitting room decorated with Mrs Middleton’s paintings, where you can sit and look through more books. A fabulous experience. It’s so rewarding to find such interesting and individual bookshops. We look forward to our return trip there.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Off%20teh%20Rails%20exterior.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Off%20The%20Rails%20signage.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""></p>
<p>One of our biggest discoveries was Off The Rails restaurant in Yarmouth <u>https://www.offtherailsyarmouth.co.uk/</u> This restaurant is a converted railway station, as the name implies, down to every little details. Even the cushion covers are made of fabric with railway tickets printed on it and the walls are decorated with old-fashioned railway posters. Set along the old railway line, the venue offers fabulous views of Yarmouth Marshes and Mill Cope. You can also watch ducks and the occasional swan. Bird feed is available for £1 if you fancy feeding them.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Off%20Teh%20RAils%20soup.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Schar%20bread.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""></p>
<p>It was such an enjoyable experience dining in a former railway station sitting on what was the platform! The menu usefully has symbols for gluten free, vegan and vegetarian. On our first visit, we enjoyed spiced carrot soup which was both dairy free and gluten free and very tasty. Mine was accompanied by gluten free bread which, unusually, tasted delicious and not at all like blotting paper. I raved about it to our waiter who reveals it was Schar’s gluten free deli style sourdough <u><a href="https://www.schaer.com/en-uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.schaer.com/en-uk</a></u> – so I’ll be trying that back home.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Off%20The%20Rails%20choc%20cake.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Off%20the%20Rails%20capuccino%20cake.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""></p>
<p>We also indulged in some cakes – gluten free cappuccino cake which smells and tastes like butterscotch and melts in your mouth, while Ray had the vegan light chocolate cake which he found irresistible.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20The%20Luggage%20Off%20The%20Rails.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Furnace%20Off%20The%20Rails.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""></p>
<p>On our return visit, Ray opted for “The Luggage” burger, so-called because it was served in a tiny suitcase. Talk about the ‘wow’ factor. The burger was in a dairy-free bun with scrumptious bacon jam, lettuce, pink onions and Off The Rails burger sauce. He said it was a delicious combination.</p>
<p>My choice was the gluten free version of the “Furnace” – smoked mackerel on gluten free bread with pink onions and pine nuts and whiskey smoked sultanas. Yummy – the savoury smoked taste of the fish worked well with the sweetness of the red onion and sultanas and the crunchiness of the pinenuts. Do check the web site for opening hours. The restaurant also holds special events such as a murder mystery show. There is also an option to upgrade to “first class” service which means the kitchen will prioritise your table to minimise waiting time for quick service in return for a donation of £5 per person (50% of this goes to charity). I think this is the first time I’ve ever seen this on a menu!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20garlic%20farm.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20wild%20garlic%20growing.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20pear%20and%20date%20chutney.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""></p>
<p>Foodies will enjoy a visit to The Garlic Farm <span><a href="http://www.thegarlicfarm.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.thegarlicfarm.co.uk</a></span> a family run business which has been growing garlic for 60 years. There’s plenty to see and do at the farm such as farm walks, tractor tours, special activities and workshops. There’s an opportunity to taste all The Garlic Farm’s products – we particularly liked the Garlic Mayonnaise, the Pear and Date Chutney and Fig, Apple and Garlic chutney. We also purchased some black garlic which adds a sweet and balsamicky taste to dishes.</p>
<p>The Isle of Wight is well-known for its Garlic Festival <u><a href="https://www.garlicfestival.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.garlicfestival.co.uk/</a></u> which is held 17 to 18 August.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20gf%20crepe%20So%20Yummy.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""></p>
<p>Out exploring in Ryde, we were searching the town for somewhere we could eat and by chance we found “So Yummy” in the High Street <u>https://www.facebook.com/Rydecafe.IOW/</u> The sign outside said it was the best gluten free café in Ryde, so in we went! Unbelievably it offered gluten free crepes so I enjoyed a savoury ham crepe.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20The%20Blue%20Crab%20Yarmouth.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""></p>
<p>Back in Yarmouth, the attraction of gluten free fish and chips was too much so we headed for Blue Crab Restaurant <u>http://www.thebluecrab.co.uk/</u>. Ray ordered the beer battered cod fillet which was dairy free, while I had the gluten free version, both served with chips and peas. This was the first time I’d eaten fish and chips for over ten years and it was an incredible experience – a total taste sensation! We took the precaution of ordering the small portion, which was ample – so much so we couldn’t manage any pudding. Pity as they had a gluten free home-made sticky toffee pudding.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20vegan%20brownie%20Julia's%20Tearoom.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20gf%20cake%20Julia's%20Tearoom.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""></p>
<p>A rainy morning was well spent at Dimbola Museum & Galleries, <u>http://www.dimbola.co.uk/</u> the home and workplace of Julia Margaret Cameron, the pioneering Victorian photographer. It is a museum and gallery dedicated to her work, as well as showcasing contemporary exhibitions from photographers from around the world. It also has an excellent café Julia’s Tearoom where we enjoyed a couple of cakes – vegan brownie and a gluten free courgette and avocado cake, as well as tea with soya milk.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20Carisbrooke%20Castle.jpg" width="326" height="435" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20donkey%20in%20the%20wheel%20Carisbrooke%20Castle.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""></p>
<p>Carisbrooke Castle <u><a href="https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.english-heritage.org.uk</a></u> is well worth a visit as there are so many different things to experience. For starters, meet the castle’s resident donkeys. Donkeys have been drawing up water in the well-house for hundreds of years and you can watch their daily demonstrations working the 16<sup>th</sup> century tread wheel to raise the water from the bottom of the castle well. When we saw a demonstration, our donkey was having a slow day so the tour guide stepped in to roate the wheel. She said the donkeys work, on average, six minutes a day! They all have names beginning with “J” such as Jill and Jack. This tradition was started when Charles I was a prisoner at Carisbrooke. When he wrote letters or was planning his escape route, he always signed his letters with a ‘J’.</p>
<p>You can explore Princess Beatrice’s garden (Queen Victoria’s daughter) and visit the Chapel of St Nicholas a memorial to Charles I and to the island’s dead of the Great War. We also looked round the museum to see objects from the castle’s past. These include a Turner watercolour painting of the Castle’s gatehouse from 1827 and a nightcap said to have been worn by Charles I on the eve of his execution. You can also view Charles I’s bedroom during his imprisonment at the castle.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Isle%20of%20Wight/LR%20view%20from%20The%20Keep.jpg" width="326" height="244" alt=""></p>
<p>For a panoramic view of the island, climb the steps of the Norman Keep, which dates back to 1100.</p>
<p>For more information about the Isle of Wight, visit <u><a href="https://www.visitisleofwight.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.visitisleofwight.co.uk/</a></u></p>
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Free From Awards 2019<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Awards%202019/LR%20Boonja%20Booja%20chocs%20the%20overall%20winning%20product.jpg" width="266" height="355" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Awards%202019/LR%20Free%20From%20AWards%20overall%20winner.jpg" width="272" height="219" alt=""></p>
<p>Congratulations to all 30 winners of this year’s Free From Food Awards <span><a href="http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk</a></span> . The winners were unveiled at a glittering Awards presentation in front of an audience of 300 guests at London’s Royal College of Surgeons <span><a href="http://www.rcplondon.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.rcplondon.ac.uk</a></span> , presided by Michelle Berriedale-Johnson and Cressida Langlands, organisers of the Awards.</p>
<p><strong>Overall winner</strong></p>
<p>The overall winner was Booja Booja <span><a href="http://www.boojabooja.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.boojabooja.com</a></span> with its “Wonder Box” of truffles which are free from dairy, gluten and soya. The company also won gold in the Free From Gifts category. It was highlighted by judges as being “<em>an amazing selection of unusual and distinctive flavoured truffles – fabulous quality and a lovely creamy texture</em>.” The box comprises eight different truffle varieties such as Toffee Strudel, Rhubarb & Vanilla Fool, Cherry Cognac, Fine Champagne and Honeycom Caramel. This triumph is timely as the company celebrates its 20<sup>th</sup> anniversary this year. The FAIR trophy (a sculpted torso of a Greek god, also known as ‘Marble Mo’), was presented to Colin and Sithabile Mace of Booja Booja by Michelle, director of the Awards. It has been awarded to the overall winner of the Free From Awards since the first ceremony in 2008, when Booja Booja won Gold for Hunky Punky Chocolate Dairy Free Ice Cream.</p>
<p>This year the company also won a gold Award for its new chocolate truffle flavour Honeycomb Caramel, while its Dairy Free Hazelnut Chocolate Truffle ice cream scooped a silver Award in the Milk Alternative category.</p>
<p>For a complete list of winners, visit <span><a href="http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk</a></span></p>
<p><strong>Buffet of Winning Free from Products</strong></p>
<p>After the announcements, a buffet was served comprising all the winning products, which was a real treat. It was a fantastic experience to not only see the products first-hand, but also to have the opportunity to taste them. I can say that Booja Booja’s truffles were truly delicious and mouth-watering.</p>
<p>Newcomer Bellygoodness <span><a href="http://www.bellygoodness.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.bellygoodness.com</a></span> was joint Gold winner in two categories for its Nomato Sauce - in the “Best Product from a Start Up” and in the ‘No Top 14’ category. This means the product doesn’t contain any of the 14 allergens (see footnote at the end of the blog). The company was created by two mums and daughters (Francesca Griffin, Gail Robertson, Pauline and Charlotte Lea) combining their skills as nutritionists and creative cooks. Nomato Sauce doesn’t contain onion, garlic, tomatoes, dairy, gluten, yeast or added sugar. Other sauces in the range include curry, chilli and white sauces.</p>
<p>Chef Akila Ltd <span><a href="http://www.chefakila.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.chefakila.com</a></span> scooped several awards for its gluten free home-made Indian meals, some of which are vegan and all made from organic ingredients in Yorkshire. It was joint Gold Winner not only for its Vegan Tikka Masala in “Best Product from a Start Up”, but also its Mum’s Chicken Biriyani in “Meaty and Fishy Ready Meals” and for Lentil and Vegetable Curry in the “Veggie Ready Meals”.</p>
<p>Among the supermarkets, Tesco <span><a href="http://www.tesco.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.tesco.com</a></span> won Retailer of the Year for the fifth successive year. Asda <span>www.asda.com</span> , Marks and Spencer <span><a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.marksandspencer.com</a></span> and Aldi <span><a href="http://www.aldi.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.aldi.co.uk</a></span> were all represented.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Awards%202019/LR%20ASda%20dairy%20free%20mature%20cheddar%20cheese.jpg" width="266" height="355" alt=""></p>
<p>I was impressed by Asda’s dairy free mature cheddar cheese – absolutely delicious. This was just one of the gold winners from the “Milk Alternatives” category – Asda also won gold for its Long Life Oat Drink in the same category.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Awards%202019/LR%20luscious%20vegan%20cheesecake%20from%20The%20Conscientious%20Cook.jpg" width="266" height="355" alt=""></p>
<p>Other discoveries included the luscious Baked Vegan Cheesecake from The Conscientious Cook, <u>http://www.theconscientiouscook.co.uk/</u> one of the Gold winners in the “Desserts and puddings” category.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Awards%202019/LR%20raw%20minc%20pie%20from%20Liberty%20Loves.jpg" width="266" height="355" alt=""></p>
<p>Other tantalising dishes included the Raw Mince Pie from Liberty Loves <span><a href="http://www.liberty-loves.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.liberty-loves.co.uk</a></span> . This is gluten free, dairy free and contains no salt or sugar. Another outstanding cake is Marnie Searchwell’s gluten free Vegan Mocha Chocolate Cake <span><a href="http://www.marniesearchwell.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.marniesearchwell.com</a></span> , with its soft, moist sponge filled and frosted with vegan cream cheese and chocolate. Both products won Gold in the “Tea Time” category.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Awards%202019/LR%20Retro%20Corn%20rhubarb%20and%20custard%20pop%20corn.jpg" width="266" height="355" alt=""></p>
<p>A more unusual product was Retrocorn’s Rhubarb and Custard Popcorn <span><a href="http://www.retrocorn.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.retrocorn.com</a></span> – very moreish. This was one of the Gold winners in the “Confectionery and Chocolate” category.</p>
<p>As Michelle Berriedale-Johnson, director of the Awards, said at the presentation ‘The Free from category continues to grow and to surprise us each year as free from manufacturers adventure further and further into the realms of ‘normal’ foods and explore the huge opportunities offered by naturally free from foods. Meanwhile, the quality just keeps on getting better.’ </p>
<p><strong>Free From Canapés</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Awards%202019/LR%20Canapes.jpg" width="272" height="204" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>It was a delight to indulge in the free from canapes served during the presentation, especially as they were all labelled so you knew exactly what was in them. Out of habit, I found myself automatically asking whether there was any gluten in them and loved the reply “There isn’t gluten in anything”.</p>
<p>For more information and how to enter the 2020 Free From Awards, visit<strong> </strong> <span><a href="http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk</a></span></p>
<p><span><strong>Footnote</strong></span></p>
<p>There are 14 allergens that must be listed in ingredients or indicated as being present in foods:</p>
<ul><li>Cereals containing gluten, namely: wheat (such as spelt and khorasan wheat), rye, barley, oats</li>
<li>Crustaceans for example prawns, crabs, lobster, crayfish</li>
<li>Eggs</li>
<li>Fish</li>
<li>Peanuts</li>
<li>Soybeans</li>
<li>Milk (including lactose)</li>
<li>Nuts; namely almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, cashews, pecan nuts, Brazil nuts, pistachio nuts, macadamia (or Queensland) nuts</li>
<li>Celery (including celeriac)</li>
<li>Mustard</li>
<li>Sesame</li>
<li>Sulphur dioxide/sulphites, where added and at a level above 10mg/kg or 10mg/L in the finished product. This can be used as a preservative in dried fruit</li>
<li>Lupin, which includes lupin seeds and flour and can be found in types of bread, pastries and pasta</li>
<li>Molluscs like, mussels, whelks, oysters, snails and squid</li>
</ul><p> </p>
<p><strong>For more information, visit the Food Standards Agency </strong><u><a href="https://allergytraining.food.gov.uk/english/rules-and-legislation/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://allergytraining.food.gov.uk/english/rules-and-legislation/</a></u></p>
Eating Out at Niche London - gluten free restaurant<p>Steak Dianne pie, Roasted pumpkin and spinach gnocchi, sausage and mash. As I scan the menu at Niche <span><a href="http://www.nichefoodanddrink.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.nichefoodanddrink.com</a></span> , it’s hard to believe that all these are gluten free and in some cases, dairy free too. So I can pick literally anything from the menu and know it’s safe to eat.</p>
<p>Niche, conveniently located a few minutes’ walk from Angel tube in London and next door to Sadler’s Wells Theatre <span><a href="http://www.sadlerswells.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.sadlerswells.com</a></span> , is a 100% gluten free restaurant with the strapline “gluten free but you wouldn’t know it”!</p>
<p>Chef Marc Warde owns the restaurant with his business partner Adrian Morgan. In 2013, they set out to serve British food with a modern twist, but early on Marc was diagnosed as coeliac so that changed the direction of the business and Niche was born. At the time it was London’s first 100% gluten free restaurant and over the next six to 12 months it developed into creating dishes without dairy and other dietary options. It is London’s first restaurant to be accredited by Coeliac UK, awarded Grade A for the third year in a row. Since it opened, the restaurant has won many Awards including a Gold in last year’s Free from Eating out Awards <span><a href="https://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk/</a></span></p>
<p>I had to keep reminding myself that every dish was gluten free. Usefully the menu carries symbols V for vegetarian, VE for Vegan and DF for dairy free. All allergens are listed clearly on every dish on the menu. As the restaurant uses nuts extensively, it can’t ensure that any dish will be completely nut free. A low FODMAP menu is available.</p>
<p>When I visited, I met a couple who had travelled 80 miles to visit the restaurant, but this isn’t unusual, says Marc.</p>
<p>Once Marc and Adrian decided to change and adapt the menu to gluten free, it wasn’t an easy process. The aim was to create gluten free food which is so tasty that existing customers wouldn’t be able to tell the difference. Marc says “We have created a bank of recipes to call our own. The best thing is that people who visit us are often oblivious that we are gluten free at all!”</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Niche/LR%20angel%20pate.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>First up is a variety of starters to try. I opt for the Angel Pate (VE) a delicious combination of herb pate, toasted sourdough and whipped dairy free herb spread. The bread is outstanding – worlds away from the standard crumbling, cardboard-tasting gluten free bread.</p>
<p>The smoked ham hock and pea terrine (DF) served with homemade piccalilli, toasted sourdough and whipped herb spread, is tasty, while the Parmesan and Cheddar doughnuts are moist and flavoursome.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Niche/LR%20gf%20burger.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>The restaurant’s top seller is the Smokey Burger so I order this. Usually when you order a gluten free burger it arrives minus the bun, but not on this occasion. The burger is served in a sesame seed crispy gluten free bun so it is a real treat to enjoy the burger in a bun, with a side dish of skinny skin-on fries.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Niche/LR%20square%20shaped%20pie.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Niche’s signature dish is the square-shaped Steak Dianne pie, made on the premises filled with beef, mushrooms and shallots in a rich red wine, brandy and cream sauce. This dish is exceptional, enhanced by the all butter and onion shortcrust pastry. Traditionally gluten free pastry is dry and falls apart. This pastry is moist and combines perfectly with the filling.</p>
<p>Marc says it took virtually two years to create a specific blend of gluten free flour which could be used to make the pie.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Niche/LR%20sausage%20and%20mash.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Gluten free and dairy free sausages are generally bland, but not the ones I tasted in Sausage & Mash (DF). “The Smokey” variety are made from oak smoked beef and pork, paprika, black treacle, garlic and herbs. They are succulent, spicy and have a real meaty flavour. They are served with a dairy free roasted garlic, parsley, olive and truffle oil mash, beer battered onion rings and onion gravy. Marc adds “Our sausages are made specially for us in a gluten free factory. We have to make sure all our suppliers operate in a gluten free environment.”</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Niche/LR%20beef%20df%20yorkshire%20pud.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Another popular dish is the Beer Braised beef short rib (DF) served with Niche’s own gluten free and dairy free Yorkshire Pudding.</p>
<p>As regular readers know, if you’re dining out with a food allergy, desserts are always a luxury. So to see such an extensive list of choices at Niche was a real surprise.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Niche/LR%20vegan%20queen.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>The Vegan Queen pudding is luscious with layers of bread, custard, raspberry compute and meringue.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Niche/LR%20blondie.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Another heavenly dessert is White Chocolate and Peanut Butter Blondie, a delicious sponge pudding topped off with vanilla ice cream.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Niche/LR%20pecan%20pie.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>My favourite was the Pecan Pie - the pastry is mouth-watering and crisp - Marc’s development work has really paid off!</p>
<p>Brunch is served at the weekend. Green's gluten free beer <a href="http://www.greensglutenfreebeers.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.glutenfreebeers.co.uk</a> is available, as well as several vegan wines.</p>
<p>Not surprisingly, the restaurant is very busy from Thursday to Sunday nights, so it’s fantastic news that Marc and Adrian plan to open more restaurants.</p>
<p>They are currently looking for investors so if you or anyone you know is interested, please visit <span><a href="https://www.crowdcube.com/companies/niche-gluten-free-dining/pitches/qY9emq" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.crowdcube.com/companies/niche-gluten-free-dining/pitches/qY9emq</a></span></p>
<p>For reservations <span><a href="http://www.nichefoodanddrink.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.nichefoodanddrink.com</a></span></p>
Eating out with Food Allergies in Malta Jan 2019<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20intro%201.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20intro%203.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20view%20from%20Mdina%20-%20intro.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Friends always ask us why we visit Malta so often. There are several reasons. It’s easy to get around the island by bus or car (they drive on the left hand side of the road). The climate in January is comfortable although it could have been a little warmer this year. Most people use English so communication isn’t a problem. Above all, it’s a beautiful environment and you often have a feeling of being in a time warp from the silent city of Mdina to the bustling hub of Valletta the capital city (European City of Culture 2018) built by the Knights of Malta in the 16<sup>th</sup> century.</p>
<p><strong>Getting There</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20pret%20porridge.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>Heathrow’s Terminal 4 was a new experience for us. Casual eating places were in short supply but we found Pret <span><a href="https://www.pret.co.uk/en-gb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pret.co.uk/en-gb</a></span> where we had the gluten free, dairy free coconut porridge – delicious and filling accompanied by a cup of English breakfast tea and soya milk. For the flight, we bought a salad for me and a tuna baguette for Ray (crucially it uses mayo instead of butter, although he has to pick out cucumber as he can’t eat it).</p>
<p>If you have more time, other outlets include Carluccio’s <span><a href="https://www.carluccios.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.carluccios.com</a></span> (which has a gluten free and dairy free menu) as well as the Lebanese Comptoir Libanais <span><a href="https://www.comptoirlibanais.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.comptoirlibanais.com/</a></span> which has gluten free and dairy free choices. There’s also a Costa Coffee <span><a href="https://www.costa.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.costa.co.uk/ </a></span>which offer gluten free or dairy free choices such as the vegan and gluten free mince tart, but it’s always unpredictable as to whether they will have it in stock.</p>
<p><strong>On board the plane</strong></p>
<p>Once inside the aircraft on Air Malta <a href="http://www.airmalta.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.airmalta.com</a>, it was good to see some gluten free and dairy free options in the menu brochure such as Nak’d <a href="http://www.eatnakd.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.eatnakd.com</a> strawberry and cream nibbles (2.50 euros) – both dairy free and gluten free. Ray’s favourite Eat Real hummus chips <a href="http://www.eatreal.co.uk">www.eatreal.co.uk</a> or Tyrrells sea salted crisps <a href="http://www.tyrrellscrisps.co.uk">www.tyrrellscrisps.co.uk</a> were on offer. There’s also itsu <a href="http://www.itsu.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.itsu.com</a> satay noodle pot – gluten free rice noodles with a satay flavoured miso based broth and a sachet of dried spring onions. Or there’s Real Olive Co’s <a href="http://www.therealolivecompany.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.therealolivecompany.co.uk</a> basil and garlic olives. We were surprised to see a vegan option created by Neil the chef with an article in the brochure on how he created it. The dish is Rosemary Vegetable Focaccia bread with olive spread, grilled vegetables and tomato salsa.</p>
<p><strong>On arrival in Malta</strong></p>
<p>Since Valletta was European City of Culture in 2018, there has been extensive redevelopment and modernisation of areas of the city since our last visit two years ago. For example, the approach to the centre through the city walls has been completely renovated with dramatic bastions.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Triton%20fountain.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>The iconic Triton Fountain has been totally restored to its former glory with the three bronze Tritons holding a huge basin. At night, the fountain appears translucent as it is illuminated with coloured lights.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Valleta%20parliament%20building.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Once inside the city, don’t miss Malta’s new parliament building by Renzo Piano, the architect of London’s Shard.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Papannis%20spag%20bol.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Papannis%20meal.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>On our first night in Malta, we returned to Papanni’s <span><a href="http://www.papannis.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.papannis.com</a></span> in Strait Street, which offers gluten free pasta. Ray chose Spaghetti Bolognese but it was made with fresh tomatoes. He has a problem with tomato pips so asked if it could be made with passata (sieved tomatoes). After checking with the chef, our waiter confirmed that the dish was dairy free and it could be made with passata. I ordered grilled salmon and salad. We were presented with rice cakes for me, bread for Ray and a tomato dip which we were informed didn’t contain dairy or gluten. Our meal was yummy, which is why this is one of our favourite restaurants.</p>
<p><strong>The Big Breakfast</strong></p>
<p>Breakfast at The Grand Excelsior Hotel, <span><a href="http://www.excelsior.com.mt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.excelsior.com.mt</a></span> where we were staying was a vast hot and cold buffet. Hot food included boiled eggs, scrambled eggs, grilled tomatoes (lovely rich flavour), mushrooms and bacon. There was also a station where a chef cooks omelettes in front of you. Ray managed to find out from the staff which cereal was dairy-free.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Jackie%20breakfast.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Excelsior%20gf%20bread%20cereal.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>My selection from the buffet included bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes and sautéed potatoes. The impressive array of fruit included melon, pink grapefruit, watermelon, but strangely no bananas unless you asked for them. It was a real treat sitting by the window looking at the views of Sliema across the creek and the luxury yachts moored at Msida Marina. Ahead of our stay, I had asked for gluten free bread and soya milk which was provided. I was presented with a bowl of gluten free cereal, bread and digestive biscuits.</p>
<p><strong>Valletta’s Food Market</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Valletta%20food%20market.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>Our biggest discovery food-wise in Valletta was the Food Market in Merchant Street <span><a href="http://www.issuqtalbelt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.issuqtalbelt.com</a></span> which has been open for a year. This is a converted 19<sup>th</sup> century market hall. It’s notable for being the first building in Malta to have been built predominantly of iron.</p>
<p>Today it’s a vast emporium on three levels. On ground level, there is an array of food stalls offering freshly cooked local produce such as fish, chocolate, kebabs, steak, pizzas, pasta and so on, with an extensive seating area in the middle of the hall.</p>
<p>So you can walk round browsing the various vendors until you make your choice. You need to be vigilant, of course, and ask questions about food allergies before making your selection. For example, there is no gluten free pizza or pasta available.</p>
<p>In the basement, you’ll find a supermarket where there’s a host of dairy free milk on sale, as well as other free from options. This is a welcome addition to Valletta, which doesn’t have many food shops. This is open from 7am to 10pm seven days a week.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20food%20market%20supermarket%201.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20food%20market%20supermarket%202.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Further seating can be found on the third level. This is also where events are held. Over the weekend, there was a book fair here, selling a wide range of English books at 2.99 euros each including cookery, children’s factual and fiction titles.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20food%20market%20fish%20and%20veg.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Food%20Market%20alarm.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Ray%20kebab%20food%20market.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>We were so impressed by the Food Market that we dined there most nights. The stalls are open from 11am to 11pm most evenings, but on Fridays and Saturdays until 12.30am. One evening, I ordered salmon and vegetables (17.80 euros) from the T’Anna Mari fish grill and was given a radio alarm to alert me as to when the meal was ready. Ray opted for lamb kofte with salad and chips (9.75 euros) from the Konak stand. Both meals were presented on a tray on china plates with real cutlery and serviettes.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Indonesian%20beef%20rendang.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>During our stay in Malta, one of our favourite meals was Indonesian Beef Rendang (12 euros) from the Asian Zest stall – succulent pieces of beef cooked in a sumptuous spicy sauce (but not too spicy).</p>
<p>Drinks and hot beverages are available from two large bars in the centre of the hall.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20mango%20sorbet.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Sadly there were no dairy free or gluten free cakes on offer but hopefully that may change. Still we consoled ourselves with a mouth-watering mango sorbet (3.50 euros a cup) from the Venchi stall, which also sells exquisite Italian chocolate.</p>
<p>Early Saturday evening when we were dining at the Food Market, the animated movie “Madagascar” was shown on a large central screen. Great for families with young children, although we enjoyed it as well.</p>
<p>The advantage of the Food Market is you can eat as much or little as you like. You can see right inside each stall and watch your meal being prepared and cooked. It’s amazing how clean and well equipped some of the kitchens are. We were impressed by the friendly staff who keep the tables clear and customer ready – a difficult job in a busy environment. Trays were cleared away immediately and tablecloths wiped so you could always find a clear, clean table.</p>
<p><strong>Café Society in Valletta</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Caffe%20Cordina.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>No visit to Valletta is complete without visiting Caffe Cordina <span><a href="http://www.caffecordina.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.caffecordina.com</a></span> dating back to 1837, reminiscent of a Viennese coffee shop. It’s always busy so you just have to be patient to find a seat. We ordered our usual English breakfast tea with soya milk, but the milk curdled (4 euros). Our waiter was so concerned, she brought us fresh tea with more soya milk. Her supervisor also came to check all was well and offered to open a new packet of soya. Happily there was no need as we left the tea for a few minutes before adding the milk. We’ve often find soya milk curdles if it’s added to hot water too quickly.</p>
<p><strong>Getting Around</strong></p>
<p>We hired a car for a few days which is a great way to see the island although driving in Malta is challenging due to old road lay-outs and unclear signage. Otherwise the island has excellent bus services with the terminus outside Valletta’s city walls. Fares are 1.50 euros per ride, but there are special offers available, depending on how long you’re staying.</p>
<p><strong>Fishing village of Marsaxlokk</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Marsaxlokk%201.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Marsaxlokk%202.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>We drove to one of our favourite destinations in Malta – the tranquil fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Avoid Sundays when the tiny village is over-crowded with people visiting the market and you’ll be lucky if you can find anywhere for lunch. Stroll along the harbour and watch the fishermen repairing their boats or folding the nets. A smaller market is there most days selling lace tablecloths, Maltese food and general tourist merchandise. The highlight of the day, apart from sitting in the sunshine, is a fish lunch. We dined at Ta Mattew <span><a href="https://m.facebook.com/tamattewmarsaxlokk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://m.facebook.com/tamattewmarsaxlokk</a></span> where I enjoyed a smoked salmon salad and Ray had a tuna salad. A vast choice of fresh fish was available including swordfish, as well as other dishes such as octopus and calamari.</p>
<p>For a reviving cup of tea (4 euros for two cups) we stopped at Costa Coffee <span><a href="http://www.costamalta.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.costamalta.com</a></span> just near where the bus drops you off.</p>
<p><strong>At Golden Sands</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Golden%20Sands%20beach.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>On another occasion, while out exploring the island, we stopped off at the Radisson Blu Golden Sands resort <span><a href="http://www.radissonblu.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.radissonblu.com</a></span> near Mellieha in Malta. This hotel is so huge, it’s easy to get lost. We dined at Agliolio, one of the hotel’s restaurants, which serves pasta, risotto, salads, pizza, fish and meat dishes, but crucially all pasta and pizza is gluten free. The menu carries symbols for vegetarian and vegan, but the only vegan option is tofu salad. It’s adjacent to the private beach, so as soon as we ordered I went for a stroll, but it was cold with a gusty wind, although there were people sunbathing – in their coats!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Radisson%20Golden%20Sands%20salmon.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20Radisson%20Golden%20Sands%20pizza.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>I decided on Insalata Di Salmone – grilled salmon fillet served on quinoa and millet, with avocado, pumpkin seeds and apple puree. Very tasty. Ray ordered Capisioni pizza with no mozzarella and a topping of onions, mushrooms, artichokes and a thin layer of passata.</p>
<p><strong>Mdina – the Silent City</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20entrance%20to%20Mdina.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></strong></p>
<p>Don’t miss a visit to Mdina, known as the Silent City, which dates back 4,000 years. It is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city with its mix of medieval and baroque architecture. Wander through its narrow streets and discover museums, shops and alleys. There’s a shortage of places to eat, but we asked at the local newsagents and was directed to Rosmarino <span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/rosmarinobistro/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.facebook.com/rosmarinobistro/</a></span> , a friendly tiny café where the staff went to so much trouble to make sure there was something we could eat. They made a special tuna salad for me, while Ray had the tuna and onion sandwich with no butter.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Malta%20Jan%202019/LR%20kinnie.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>During our trip, he also developed a taste for “Kinnie” <span><a href="http://www.kinnie.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.kinnie.com</a></span> the Maltese fizzy drink, brewed from bitter oranges and extracts of wormwood. Don’t let that put you off, it has a very refreshing taste. Ray says the taste is similar to Irn-Bru.</p>
<p>The bill was 16.85 euros including a mineral water and Kinnie.</p>
<p><strong>Events in Malta</strong></p>
<p>The island hosts many events throughout the year. Coming up on 10<sup>th</sup> February is the celebration of Malta’s patron saint St Paul and his shipwreck on the island in AD60 and from 28 February to 5 March will be Malta’s annual carnival when people in colourful costumes take to the streets.</p>
<p>For more information <span><a href="http://www.visitmalta.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.visitmalta.com</a></span> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Fearless in the Kitchen: Cooking Vegan Food<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Fearless%20in%20the%20kitchen/LR%20into%20pic.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Fearless%20in%20the%20kitchen/LR%20intro%20pic.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Fearless%20in%20the%20kitchen/LR%20intro%20pic%20outside%20lunch.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The location for the “Fearless in the Kitchen” <a href="http://www.fearlessinthekitchen.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.fearlessinthekitchen.co.uk</a> cooking courses is a cottage kitchen set in beautiful farmland in Berkshire. Jen Roach, who runs the cookery courses, is an avid gardener and grows fresh produce in her vegetable garden, which she uses in cooking. The setting is perfect for learning how to prepare healthy recipes. I’m here for the “Vegan Cooking” course, although Jen offers a range of other courses including “Healthy Baking” and “Healthy Main Meals”. This is a half day course from 10am to 2pm.</p>
<p>After several careers including teaching, journalism, marketing and communications for the technology industry, she decided to start a new career teaching cooking and sharing ideas about healthy approaches to eating. “Throughout my corporate career I used cooking as a way to relax. My ethos is to teach people how to eat healthily,” she says.</p>
<p>Prior to the course, I was asked to complete a questionnaire about my favourite foods and dietary requirements so Jen knows I am gluten free and my husband is dairy free. She adapts courses to suit people’s dietary needs.</p>
<p>You learn so much more besides how to create vegan food. Jen gives invaluable tips, shares unusual ingredients and most importantly, where to get them, as well as snazzy gadgets she’s picked up along the way which really help.</p>
<p>My fellow students include Abigail whose son is vegan, Sue, a vegetarian and her husband Dave, who is a meat eater. We are given comprehensive notes about each dish we’re going to prepare.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Fearless%20in%20the%20kitchen/LR%20apple%20cinnomon%20breakfasts.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>First up are breakfast ideas – Jen has already prepared <em>Apple Cinnamon Caramel Breakfasts</em> – a nutritious meal served in a glass, which include chia seeds, coconut milk, Medjool dates, almond butter and coconut. Jen says “I aim to keep sugar as low as possible – dates are good for sweetening.” She suggests soaking the Medjool dates for ten minutes in warm water before putting in a food processor to stop them from sticking. This dish is delicious – the combination of apple, dates and chia seeds works well.</p>
<p>Jen demonstrated how to make <em>Green Banana Flour Pancakes</em>, using gluten free banana flour from <span><a href="http://www.naturalevolutionfoods.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.naturalevolutionfoods.uk</a></span> This unusual flour from Australia can be used to substitute other flours in baking and cooking and as Jen points out “You use a third of the quantity of this flour that you would wheat flour.”</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Fearless%20in%20the%20kitchen/LR%20pancake%20batter.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>She quickly made up the batter and then we watched her make pancakes on the hob. I explained one of the issues with making gluten free pancakes is the batter breaks apart in the pan as it cooks. Jen showed us that the secret is to get the pan very hot so the coconut oil is smoking before putting in a small amount of batter, cook for a few minutes then flip over and cook for a minute. You can add all sorts of toppings, whether you want savoury or sweet pancakes. Another major discovery is Oatly dairy free crème fraiche <a href="http://www.oatly.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.oatly.com</a> so a dollop of this was placed on the cooked pancake as well as chopped banana and maple syrup.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Fearless%20in%20the%20kitchen/LR%20green%20banana%20pancakes.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Fearless%20in%20the%20kitchen/LR%20dairy%20free%20creme%20friache.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>An alternative flour, she said, is the gluten free Yellow Pea Flour from Hodmedod’s <span><a href="http://www.hodmedods.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.hodmedods.co.uk</a></span> which can be used for pancakes, batters as well as thickening sources. Pancakes made with this flour can be converted into tortilla chips by baking in the oven for 30 minutes.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Fearless%20in%20the%20kitchen/LR%20yellow%20pea%20flour.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>As Jen said “My philosophy is to make vegetables taste fantastic” as she so aptly demonstrated with several recipes such as <em>Saffron Cauliflower with Balsamic Fruit</em>. I would never have thought about roasting cauliflower, but this recipe proves it is a great idea. I also learnt about mincing garlic using a nifty miniature grater Jen had sourced. The cauliflower and broccoli florets were cooked in a mixture of garlic, saffron, lemon zest and chilli flakes. Apricots cooked in a balsamic mixture and quinoa were added to this dish. The burst of flavours is incredible with the contrast of the sweetness from the apricots. Jen’s secret for preparing quinoa is to ensure you rinse it thoroughly for at least two minutes before cooking.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Fearless%20in%20the%20kitchen/LR%20saffon%20caulifalower%20with%20balsamic%20fruit.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>Jen also covered how to make a flaxseed “egg” from whisking ground flaxseed with water. The idea is to use this instead of a regular egg. For example, we used it in the <em>Butternut Squash and Red Lentil Kofte</em> recipe as it helps to bind the mixture together. Another tip – you can buy butternut squash already sliced, which saves a lot of preparation time. The butternut squash was mixed with other ingredients such as cooked red lentil and tomato puree to form a mash. It was great fun making the koftes from this mixture by taking a small handful and squeezing it into the required oblong shape. Jen also demonstrated how to make a scrumptious tomato sauce to accompany this dish.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Fearless%20in%20the%20kitchen/LR%20koftes.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>My husband Ray and I have tried to make a dairy free and gluten free cheesecake on many occasions without success. Jen’s <em>Vanilla Lemon & Lime Vegan Cheesecake </em>uses raw almonds, desiccated coconut, dates, gluten free oats and melted coconut oil for the base, while the filling includes ingredients such as unsalted cashews, coconut cream, maple syrup and vanilla essence. Another tip – chill a can of coconut milk overnight and scoop the cream from the top. The result is a heavenly cheesecake with a crunchy base. It can be made as a whole cheesecake or individually.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Fearless%20in%20the%20kitchen/LR%20vegan%20cheesecake.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>The best part is that we were able to take home what we made for dinner that night!</p>
<p>This course is well recommended and covered a vast array of different recipes to suit all tastes. I’m looking forward to replicating the recipes at home – especially the vegan cheesecake.</p>
<p>The vegan cooking course costs £90 per person. Gift vouchers are available. For more information, visit <span><a href="http://www.fearlessinthekitchen.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.fearlessinthekitchen.co.uk</a></span></p>
Eating Out at Saffron Summer, Surrey<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Saffron%20Summer/LR%20second%20intro%20pic.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>It’s National Curry Week <a href="http://www.nationalcurryweek.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.nationalcurryweek.co.uk</a> until Sunday 28 October, so what better time to visit your local Indian restaurant?</p>
<p>When you have food allergies, dining at an Indian restaurant can be problematic, especially if, like Ray, you can’t eat dairy. This is because Indian restaurants usually use ghee butter.</p>
<p>At Saffron Summer <span><a href="http://www.saffronsummer.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.saffronsummer.co.uk/</a></span> in Surrey, the menu usefully carries symbols – (G) for items containing gluten and (N) for items containing nuts, with the usual (V) for vegetarian food. A vegan menu is also available.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Saffron%20Summer/LR%20presentation%20picture.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>We were at the restaurant to celebrate the presentation of a Certificate of Excellence to chef Awanish Roy from Pat Chapman, who is the Cobra Good Curry Guide editor. The restaurant has also been shortlisted for a prestigious Asian Curry Award, of which Pat Chapman is chairman of judges. The winners will be revealed at a gala dinner on Sunday 18 November. Awanish Roy trained at Oberoi Hotels in India before moving to London to work at the Cinnamon Club. Pat Chapman is a well-known expert on Indian food. He has written 34 books including the first Balti cookbook which became a Sunday Times number one best seller. <em>Pictured above from left to right is Nacita Diniz, manager; Awanish Roy and Pat Chapman.</em></p>
<p><em><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Saffron%20Summer/LR%20wild%20boar%20vindaloo.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Saffron%20Summer/LR%20lamb%20biriayi.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></em></p>
<p>During the lunch, Nacito Diniz, manager, ensured that Ray and I enjoyed a range of Indian dishes that catered for our dietary requirements. I enjoyed the potato fritters (gluten free) while Ray sampled “bhelphri” – rice and vegetable snacks. For our main course there was wild boar vindaloo curry (dairy free) with steamed rice for Ray and lamb biryani (gluten free) for me. Delicious and presented in attractive bowls. <em>Above pictured from left to right wild boar vindaloo and lamb biryani.</em></p>
<p>As Pat Chapman says “The wild boar vindaloo had an authentic flavour of Goan vinegar and a slight piquancy – not the searingly hot vindaloo curry swilled down with pints of lager at the curry house. Saffron Summer is as far removed from such establishments as it possible. Awanish’s Biryani was fragranced with saffron, the lamb was tender and they had been cooked together to assimilate flavours. You won’t find better Indian food anywhere.”</p>
<p>The restaurant has launched a Kebab, Biryani and Street Food Fest every Wednesday from 6pm to 10pm. A whole range of kebabs are served which are prepared in one of five cooking styles – roasted on a tandoor or a sigri, shallow fried in a tawa or a mahi tawa or deep fried in a kadhai.</p>
<p>We are already arranging a return visit with friends.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Eating Out With Food Allergies in Margate<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Margate%20sunset%201.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20margate%20intro%203.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>During our drive to Margate, we stopped off at the M2 services <span><a href="https://moto-way.com/location/medway-westbound/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://moto-way.com/location/medway-westbound/</a></span> at Costa Coffee <span>https://www.costa.co.uk/</span> Ray asked whether there was anything dairy free and was shown a vegan cookie, although there was no label on it. It’s a large soft biscuit with a chocolate toffee filling.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Costa%20Coffee%20vegan%20cookie.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>Margate is a great base to explore not only Ramsgate but also nearby Broadstairs. On arrival at Margate, we were swept along the pavement by gusts of wind and rain, so took refuge at the Margate Coffee Shed, 12/13 The Parade, Margate CT9 1EY (They have a Facebook page). After a warm welcome by the friendly staff, we were informed they did serve tea with soya milk, as well as other dairy free milks (although the soya milk cost 60p extra) Astonishingly, as we sat in the café the sun came out, which warmed us up through the window.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Margate%20Coffee%20Shed.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Master%20Foody%20Moody%20Budge%20Frownie.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>A choice of gluten free, wheat free and dairy free cakes were on offer, which was great news. Ray chose the pecan tart from <span><a href="http://www.we-love-cake.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.we-love-cake.co.uk</a></span> The packaging says it is made in a gluten, wheat and milk free bakery. I indulged in the Master Foody Moody Budge Frownie (yes that is the correct spelling) which is vegan and gluten free. This was delicious and moist without being oversweet.</p>
<p>Despite the gusty winds, we saw people kite surfing. Apparently Ramsgate is the best place to learn kitesurfing <span><a href="http://www.ramsgatetown.org/activeramsgate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.ramsgatetown.org/activeramsgate</a></span> . It played host to the 2018 National Freestyle Kitesurfing Championships in August.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20buoy%20and%20oyster.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20band%20at%20buoy%20and%20oyster.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>That evening, we chanced upon Buoy & Oyster restaurant <span><a href="https://www.buoyandoyster.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.buoyandoyster.com/</a></span> in Margate and enjoyed some live music. The menu has gf (gluten free) symbols against certain dishes, while a vegan menu is also available. As I love fish, I chose seabream in pepper with skinny fries. This was one of the rare occasions that Ray can eat fish and chips because the batter is home-made with beer and crucially without milk.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20fish%20&%20chips.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20seabream%20in%20paper.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>If you have room for dessert there are several gluten free ones available such as Margate Mess – summer berries, crushed meringue and cream with candy floss and rock. There’s also a vegan dessert – grilled peaches with pistachio granola and vanilla soy ice cream. Unusual to see soy ice cream on a menu. Plus a range of sorbets.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20view%20from%20Sands%20Hotelo.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>In contrast, the next day it was glorious sunshine with no wind at all! We were staying at the stylish Sands Hotel <span><a href="https://sandshotelmargate.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://sandshotelmargate.co.uk/</a></span> with stunning views of the seafront from the dining room. Every morning for breakfast, we would feast our eyes on this amazing panorama, always moving our chairs to make the most of it.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Ray%20breakfast.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Jackie%20breakfast%20avocado%20on%20toast.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>As usual, we had informed the hotel of our dietary requirements and they had really taken it on board. Soya milk was available, as well as flavoursome gluten free bread. Ray chose grilled bacon, mushrooms fried in oil, baked beans and sourdough bread, avoiding the sausages as we were informed they contained milk products. I enjoyed the kippers, as well as avocado on gluten free bread. There was a selection of pressed fruit juices as well as fresh fruit and coconut yogurt.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Turner%20gallery.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Margate%20intro%205.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>One of the main reasons for coming to Margate was to visit the well-known Turner Contemporary art gallery <span>https://www.turnercontemporary.org/</span> This futuristic building is situated on the same site where Turner stayed when he came to the town. It presents a rolling programme of temporary exhibitions and events. As you would expect, there are a few Tuner paintings on display. When we visited, the “Animals & Us” exhibition was on, where artists, scientist historians, pet owners and others shared their perspectives on animals and us. For example there was a collection of pictures of elderly dogs, dated 2011, but these were no ordinary dogs. They had all served as search dogs following the 9/11 terrorist attacks on New York’s twin towers. Photographer Charlotte Dumas had tracked down the 15 surviving dogs, ten years later, retired and living with their handlers.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20dog%20in%20exhibition.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20monkey%20sculptures.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20on%20being%20blue.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>Other exhibits included monkey sculptures by Stephanie Quayle; Andy Holden’s “Into The Blue” dark mule willow and collected objects depicting the bower bird’s nest and George Stubbs’ “Hunter By A Lake”.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20horse%20painting.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>Taking refreshments at the gallery’s café, it was great news that soya milk was served as well as a vegan chocolate cake for Ray. “It’s moist, holds well, moreish and not oversweet, a real treat,” he said.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20vegan%20choc%20cake.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20vegan%20meringues.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>On display was a vegan meringue and next to it clotted cream and a berry compute, I guess, to make an Eton mess. When Ray asked about the cream, he was told it was dairy cream – so why was it so invitingly next to the vegan meringue? Odd.</p>
<p>I asked whether there were any gluten free cakes, but there was none so I watched Ray indulge in his cake!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20The%20Old%20Bank%20Book%20Shop%20Margate.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>On our wanders in Margate we came across The Old Bank Bookshop, 17-18 The Parade, CT9 1EY <span><a href="https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/local-shops/margate-books/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/local-shops/margate-books/</a></span> Finding independent bookshops is one of our hobbies and it is gradually becoming more difficult to find any, so this was a pleasant surprise. In aid of Pilgrims Hospice, it is a vast bookshop with art books and paintings upstairs. Well worth a visit.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Cafe%20Rouge%20tuna%20nicoise%20salad.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20steak%20frite%20cafe%20rouge.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>If you fancy going shopping, the Westwood Cross Shopping Centre <span><a href="https://westwoodx.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://westwoodx.co.uk/</a></span> is well recommended, where you’ll find most well-known chains such as TK Maxx, Debenhams, M&S and Monsoon. This is where we rediscovered Café Rouge <span><a href="https://www.caferouge.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.caferouge.com/</a></span> We had stopped coming to this chain because it was so difficult to find anything to eat. So we were delightfully surprised to find that the menu now carries symbols VE for vegan and GO meaning “can be made gluten free on request”. An allergen menu is also available on request listing all 15 allergens. I asked for this and double-checked the ingredients for each dish. I opted for salad nicoise, which was a generously sized meal with a huge tuna steak. I’d certainly order this again. Ray chose steak frites (after checking there was no butter on the steak), which he said was very tasty.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Botany%20Bay.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>En route to Broadstairs, we stopped off at Botany Bay and as the weather was so beautiful it was as though we were somewhere exotic in the Med.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Broadstairs%201.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20Broadstairs%202.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>Broadstairs <span>www.visitbroadstairs.co.uk</span> is like a throwback to a 1950s seaside town. It is charming, elegant and old-fashioned with its own bandstand and a traditional high street. To take advantage of the sunny weather we dined in the garden at the Royal Albion hotel <span>https://www.albionbroadstairs.co.uk/</span> with views of the beach.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20ham%20and%20chips%20broadstairs.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Margate/LR%20chicken%20caesar%20salad%20broadstairs.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>When I explained our dietary requirements, I was handed their allergen guide to I could look up the allergens for all dishes. I had Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with no croutons, while Ray enjoyed Ham and Chips with Tomato Chutney. The chips was hand cut and crispy and the ham was succulent and juicy. It was idyllic to sit there soaking up the Autumn sunshine and in fact we returned here later for a cup of tea.</p>
<p> </p>
Eating Out With Food Allergies in Liverpool<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20intro%20pic%201.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20into%20pic%202.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""> </p>
<p>We started our journey at Leon<a href="https://leon.co/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <span>https://leon.co/</span></a> at Euston station, where I enjoyed gluten free porridge with bananas and cinnamon. Unfortunately Ray was unable to have the dairy free version as there was no cashew milk, so instead he opted for the dairy free “Full English Pot” – baked beans, egg, sausage and bacon – after double-checking that the sausage didn’t contain milk. Even if a dish is dairy free, we always check – as you never know. For the onward train journey, we bought the dairy free Paleon Bar (also wheat free, gluten free) and the wheat free lemon, courgette and polenta cake.</p>
<p>On board Virgin Trains <span><a href="http://www.virgintrains.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.virgintrains.co.uk</a></span> , it is rewarding to see a variety of gluten free cakes from The Handmade Cake Company <span><a href="https://www.handmadecake.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.handmadecake.co.uk/</a></span> , although virtually no dairy free items except for a packet of crisps. But individual soya milk portion packs are available, which is good news.</p>
<p>That evening, we returned to one of our favourite restaurants Kasbah Café Bazaar <span><a href="http://www.kasbahcafebazaar.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.kasbahcafebazaar.co.uk/</a></span> which serves Moroccan dishes and crucially several vegan choices. We both chose Tagine Tafraout, made from slow-cooked lamb.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20cat%20cafe.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20liv%20food%20market.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20liv%20food%20market%202.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>Bold Street is full of quirky and interesting shops and cafes. A new arrival is the Cat Café <span><a href="https://catcafe.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://catcafe.co.uk/</a></span> and we saw several cats lolling around on cushions in the window – unfortunately we didn’t have time to visit, but maybe next time. We also noticed Liv Organic & Natural Market and Eatery <span><a href="http://www.livfoodmarket.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.livfoodmarket.com/</a></span> , another new arrival in Bold Street, where you can find a wealth of ‘free from’ food to buy. In the Eatery there’s a wide range of vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. Well worth a visit next time.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20Leaf%20porridge.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>One of our favourite cafes in this street is Leaf <a href="https://thisisleaf.co.uk/">https://thisisleaf.co.uk/</a> we went there for breakfast one morning and enjoyed gluten free and dairy free porridge with flaked almonds aprinkled on the top. The tea is beautifully served in a transparent 'pyrex' teapot.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20Pret%20porridge.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20Pret%20chocolate%20vegan%20cookie.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""></p>
<p>We were staying at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, <span><a href="https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/liverpool/lpluk/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=GoogleMaps-_-CP-_-GB-_-LPLUK" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels</a></span> but we consider their breakfast is so expensive, so every morning we would seek out a suitable cafe. In the past, we’ve found most chain cafes haven’t had gluten and dairy free breakfasts. But this time we did really well at Pret <span><a href="https://www.pret.co.uk/en-gb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pret.co.uk/en-gb</a></span> The staff were cheerful, friendly and helpful on advising what we could eat. We ended up with porridge – gluten free oats and red quinoa simmered in coconut milk so it’s dairy free as well and delicious. Staff pointed out the new vegan dark chocolate and almond butter cookie in the display cabinet so of course Ray had to try it and pronounced it as “rather nice”. You’ll also find gluten free lemon drizzle cake in the chiller cabinet.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20terracotta%20warriors%201.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20terracotta%20warriors%202.jpg" width="283" height="377" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20terracotta%20warriors%203.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>One of our main reasons for visiting Liverpool, apart from visiting friends and family, was to see the exhibition “China’s First Emperor and the Terracotta Warriors” at the World Museum <a href="http://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/wml/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span>http://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/wml/</span> </a> - the exhibition is on until 28 October.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20terracotta%20warriors%204.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>This is truly a spectacular exhibition with the terracotta warriors beautifully presented in front of back drops of scenes from China which really bring them to life. For over 2,000 years an underground army of life-size terracotta warriors guarded the tomb of China’s First Emperor, Qin Shi Huang until a chance discovery in 1974 unlocked the secrets of a vanished empire. The exhibition isn’t just about the warriors as it includes objects spanning 1,000 years of Chinese history. The exhibition illustrates the Emperor’s quest for immortality and how he prepared for the after life 2,000 years ago.</p>
<p>At the museum café, we had tea with soya milk – gluten free brownies and muffins were available, but Ray was hard pressed to find anything dairy free he could eat.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20Old%20Stables%20restaurant%20exterior.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>For lunch our friends took us to the Old Stables restaurant at Allerton Manor Golf Club <span><a href="https://allertonmanorgolfclub.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://allertonmanorgolfclub.com/</a></span> complete with an outdoor patio area. The golf club is set in beautiful woodlands and it’s easy to see why the club’s Hay Loft is a popular wedding venue as it forms the perfect setting for photographs. As we arrived, a bride and groom drew up in a vintage car.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/LR%20Ols%20STables%20fish%20and%20chips.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Liverpool%20aug%202018/LR%20Old%20Stables%20hake.jpg" width="283" height="212" alt=""></p>
<p>At the Old Stables restaurant, the menu had symbols VG for Vegan and GF for gluten free. It said for any other intolerances or allergies, diners were advised to ask the staff. Ray opted for the fish and chips – Penny Lane beer batter, hand-cut chips and mushy peas without the tartare sauce – after checking there was no milk in the batter. I enjoyed Poached Hake with roasted fennel – delicious. We were too full for dessert, although there were a couple of gluten free choices on offer – Eton Mess and Pannacotta. There was nothing Ray could have except a range of sorbets.</p>
<p>The restaurant is renowned for its afternoon tea – a gluten free version is available and they can prepare a dairy free tea provided you let them know in advance. Maybe next time?</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
The Allergy & Free From Show 2018<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy/LR%20general%20exhibition%20shot.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>One of the great discoveries Ray & I made at this year’s Allergy & Free From Show <a href="http://www.allergyshow.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.allergyshow.co.uk/</a> was the launch of Allergy Diner <a href="http://www.allergydiner.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.allergydiner.com</a> a new web site which gives you allergy friendly restaurants at a click.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy/LR%20Allergy%20finder.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>You select the allergens you suffer from, the geographical area and a list of suggested restaurants will come up. The concept is the brainwave of Dave and CJ Elliott, a husband and wife team whose 10-year-old son Calum suffers from several allergies including wheat, dairy, egg, banana, fish and almonds. “It’s a free service we’ve only just started so we’re busy adding restaurants to the service. I want to encourage users to rate the restaurant they visit and to write reviews. Together we can capture the best allergy friendly restaurants in the UK,” says CJ.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy/LR%20portobell%20attic.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy/LR%20portobello%20attic.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Another fabulous discovery was Portobello Attic <a href="http://www.portobelloattic.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.portobelloattic.com</a> a new dairy free cheesecake company started up Shauna McClure who is dairy free herself. She was disappointed by the availability of yummy dairy free desserts when dining out. The good news is that there gluten free options as well. Made from soya, tofu and coconut flavourings with a soft biscuit base, they are absolutely delicious, moreish and creamy! Smart new packaging for the cheesecakes has just been introduced. They can be found at delis in the Portobello Road area (hence the name) and at “The Grocer on Elgin” <a href="https://www.thegroceron.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.thegroceron.com/</a> Shauna does do deliveries to selected parts of London. I’m sure it won’t be long before the cheesecakes are stocked by other retailers.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy/LR%20Oumph.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Another discovery (for us anyway) was the unusually named Oumph! <a href="http://www.oumph.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.oumph.se/en</a> stand where people crowded round to sample the food. Oumph! part of Swedish company Food for Progress, are chunks, made from soya beans and organic herb and spice mixes. It’s plant based, gluten free and dairy free and can be cooked in a variety of ways. We tasted Oumph! chunks in a barbecue sauce on tortilla chips – very moreish. Available from Tesco <a href="http://www.tesco.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.tesco.com</a> and Wholefoods <a href="http://www.wholefoods.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.wholefoods.com</a></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy/LR%20greedy%20goat%20ice%20cream.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>I chanced upon Greedy Goat www.greedygoat.co.uk goats’ milk ice cream in Borough Market <a href="http://www.boroughmarket.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.boroughmarket.org.uk</a> earlier this year when I was judging the Great Taste Awards <a href="http://www.greattasteawards.co.uk">www.greattasteawards.co.uk</a> The ice cream is mouth-wateringly creamy and in several varieties including the Royal wedding special Harry’s Remarkleble Banana – a banana and pecan flavoured ice cream, Billy Vanilly and Nanny’s Rhubarb & Custard. Available in 500ml glass jars – deliveries available in London. They are looking for retailers, so come on supermarkets!</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy/LR%20Vegan%20Treaterie.jpg" width="281" height="158" alt=""></p>
<p>Another new company for us is The Vegan Treaterie <a href="http://www.vegantreaterie.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.vegantreaterie.com</a> dairy free and gluten free biscuits, started up by Madi Walter. They are made from brown rice flour, tapioca and potato flour, almond butter, coconut butter and tahini paste. I tried the ginger and walnut cookies – they were yummy and crucially they are not oversweet. Available in a variety of flavours, you can buy online and they will be stocked at Fortnum & Mason www.fortnumandmason.com soon.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy/LR%20Freaks%20of%20Nature.jpg" width="281" height="158" alt=""></p>
<p>Freaks of Nature <a href="http://www.freaksofnature.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.freaksofnature.co.uk</a> produce mouth-watering yogurts, desserts and hot puddings which are dairy free, gluten free, egg free, soya free and low in sugar. As you would imagine, the stand was rammed with people sampling. A top favourite was Mango Fandango vanilla posset with mango and passionfruit. I tried the hot sticky toffee pudding – moreish and not too sweet. Available in major supermarkets – visit web site for your nearest stockist.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy/LR%20menu%20at%20free%20from%20cafe.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy/LR%20dairyfree%20baguette.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="https://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/Allergy/LR%20salad.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>We visited the Free From Café at the show and was impressed to see the menus with symbols for various allergens. Ray opted for a dairy free chicken baguette. Although there were no gluten free sandwiches, I enjoyed a smoked salmon salad. Soya milk was available, as well as gluten free cakes from The Handmade Cake Company https://www.handmadecake.co.uk/</p>
<p> </p>
Eating out With Food Allergies in The Cotswolds<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20Glos%20intro.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20intro%20toy%20bunnines.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20intro%20gloucester.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p></p>
<p>Eating out with food allergies at UK motorway services is always a hit and miss affair. We never know if there’s going to be anything we can eat, so we often make do with a packet of crisps or take our own food.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20Costa%20motorway.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20Costa%20Rhythm%20108%20biscuit.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>Costa Coffee’s <a href="https://www.costa.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.costa.co.uk/</a> ‘free from’ options are improving. The coffee chain has always claimed to offer ‘free from’ choices, but I’ve often not been able to find them in high street branches. We were lucky this time – in the Costa Coffee shop at the Reading M4 Moto services <a href="https://motorwayservicesonline.co.uk/M4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://motorwayservicesonline.co.uk/M4</a> I found a gluten free British chicken Caesar wrap. This consisted of chicken in Caesar mayonnaise with Parmesan and mixed salad leaves in a gluten free wrap, which was very tasty. Unfortunately they didn’t have anything equivalent for Ray which was dairy free, so he made do with the crisps. We tried out some new chocolate hazelnut biscuits Rhythem 108 <a href="http://www.rhythm108.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.rhythm108.com</a> Its packaging says it is gluten free, vegan, organic and a source of fibre. The two small dry biscuits were not to my taste. They also contains 20% saturated fat. Other alternatives would be the Nine cereal bar <a href="http://www.9brand.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.9brand.com</a> or Costa’s Belgian dark chocolate brownie. I looked for the gluten free dairy free miniature Bakewell tarts without success – wonder if they’ve discontinued them?</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/LR%20Beatrix%20Potter%20shop.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>We arrived at Gloucester, where we headed for Beatrix Potter’s The Tailor of Gloucester Museum and Shop <a href="http://www.tailor-of-gloucester.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.tailor-of-gloucester.org.uk/</a> in College Court which stands within the shadow of Gloucester Cathedral. For Beatrix Potter lovers, it is a treasure trove full of memorabilia, historical background and of course lots of fluffy bunnies to purchase. Well worth a visit.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20Glos%20Cathedral.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20Glos%20Cathedral%20cloisters.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>We explored Gloucester Cathedral <a href="http://www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk">http://www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk</a> which has been a place of Christian worship for over 1,300 years. Highlights include the New Tribune Gallery, the Whispering Gallery and Lady Chapel. The Cloister is famous for its breath-taking fan vaulting and the filming of Harry Potter.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20sticky%20toffee%20pudding.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>The highlight of our trip (for me anyway) was the mouth-watering Sticky Toffee Pudding served at The Bell in Shurdington <a href="http://www.thebellshurdington.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.thebellshurdington.com</a> I haven’t tasted sticky toffee pudding for years, although I have attempted to make a gluten free and dairy free version. This made up for it. The sponge was light and airy and crucially, was moist even without any sauce. This is highly commendable as gluten free sponges tend to be dry and crumbly. The overall taste of the sponge, the caramel sauce and vanilla sponge was truly tantalising and very moreish. Ray sadly had to watch me enjoy myself. He could have had the sticky toffee pudding without sauce and ice cream so it was dairy free, but didn’t like the idea. Or the crumble of the day without custard – so he told The Bell about Alpro’s ambient soya milk custard <a href="http://www.alpro.com/uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.alpro.com/uk</a> for future reference</p>
<p>Another bonus at The Bell is that all desserts are gluten free!</p>
<p>The a la carte menu indicates which dishes are gluten free by means of a “GF” symbol, although the daily specials menu doesn’t and there are no symbols for any other allergens. We found the staff helpful and knowledgeable about the content of the dishes. When we asked if there was milk in the batter of the fish and chips dish, they said they would check with the chef.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20bell%20fish%20&%20chips.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/LR%20bell%20roasted%20cod%20and%20mushroom.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Happily there wasn’t any so Ray enjoyed Hand Bell ale beer battered cod and chips served with garden peas. I opted for Roasted Cod with mushrooms, spinach, green beans and sautéed new potatoes, without the creamy wine sauce. The Bell is a friendly, informal pub with a conservatory restaurant attached to it, as well as an extensive outdoor seating area.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20Greenway%20Hotel%20&%20Spa.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>We had alerted our hotel The Greenway Hotel & Spa in Shurdington, Cheltenham <a href="https://www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com/</a> about our allergies in advance, so were hopeful that they would at least have soya milk and gluten free bread for breakfast.</p>
<p>The hotel is a 21 room 16<sup>th</sup> century Elizabethan manor house hotel, set in beautiful grounds, equipped with a spa. We sampled the pool which is equipped with power jets – great for melting away aches and pains. The spa offers the full range of treatments, as well as an outdoor hot tub where some guests were enjoying a glass of champagne.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20Ray%20breakfast.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/LR%20gluten%20free%20toast.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>At breakfast, we were impressed to find that soya milk and gluten free bread was available. The staff were attentive and helpful and even brought Ray the packet of Dorset Cereals so he could read the ingredients to see if there was any milk in it. He decided against eating it as it contained berries, which he can’t eat. He ate Kellogg’s cornflakes after having checked there was no milk in the ingredients listed on the packet. Neither of us can eat eggs (unless they are part of a recipe such as a cake). Ray chose the full English breakfast without dairy and eggs consisting of bacon, mushrooms and a circular piece of fried bread. Both the vegetarian and meat sausage contained milk so he couldn’t eat them. I enjoyed the kipper without butter with gluten free toast and marmalade.</p>
<p>Ray asked for a banana but was told the hotel didn’t serve them “as so many people are allergic to them.” That’s news to us.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20teriyaki%20almon%20sushi.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""> <img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/cotswolds%20april%2018/LR%20falfal%20smashed%20beets.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>In Cheltenham, we played it safe and had lunch at Pret <a href="https://www.pret.co.uk/en-gb/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pret.co.uk/en-gb/</a> The benefit here is that Pret lists all the allergens clearly on labels in the chiller cabinet so you can see exactly what’s in the dish before buying. This is such a simple idea; it’s a pity more food outlets don’t do the same. It’s great that they have extended the range of vegan options, which is good news for Ray as there aren’t any dairy ingredients in them. I enjoyed the vegan Sweet Potato Falafal & Smashed Beets Veggie Box, while Ray opted for Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Salad.</p>
Fes-Tea-Val - National Tea Day - 21 April 2018<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/national%20tea%20day/LR%20intro%20pic.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""> <img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/national%20tea%20day/LR%20Chiswick%20House%20opening.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>The sun was shining on the Fes-Tea-Val British lifestyle festival to celebrate National Tea Day <a href="http://www.nationalteaday.co.uk">www.nationalteaday.co.uk</a> on April 21<sup>st</sup>. Chiswick House and Gardens <a href="http://chiswickhouseandgardens.org.uk">http://chiswickhouseandgardens.org.uk</a> was the ideal venue for the event with its landscaped gardens. This house, built between 1726 and 1729, is one of the earliest and most important neo-Palladian villas in England. </p>
<p>Although tea was the main focus, we were delighted to find a wide range of ‘free from’ food available from waffles, vegan burgers to gluten free and dairy free cakes.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/national%20tea%20day/LR%20Nemi%20Tea.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>We made a beeline for Nemi Teas <a href="http://www.nemiteas.com">www.nemiteas.com</a> where we sampled an excellent English breakfast Assam tea grown in the Borengajuli Estate in India. We enjoyed the robust and full-bodied taste. All the teas are available in teabags or loose leaf, but we opted for the loose leaf. Nemi Teas describes itself as a social purpose business because it helps to rebuild refugees’ lives by creating employment opportunities. Tea varieties include Spicy Chai, Cardamom Chai, Peppermint and Green Tea. You can find the tea in Oxfam shops <a href="http://www.oxfam.org.uk">www.oxfam.org.uk</a> as well as various cafes and food events or buy online.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/national%20tea%20day/LR%20Britain%20Street.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Looking for unusual tea sets? Britain Street <a href="http://www.britainstreet.co.uk">www.britainstreet.co.uk</a> was showcasing its iconic union jack themes tea sets. Just the thing for garden parties!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/national%20tea%20day/LR%20The%20Tea%20Palace.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Next up was The Tea Palace <a href="http://www.teapalace.co.uk">www.teapalace.co.uk</a> which was launching organic versions of its classic blends. We sampled Oriental Berry which was refreshing. The company offers over 120 loose leaf and infusions as well as bespoke blends. It created a special Chiswick Blend for the weekend containing nuts.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/national%20tea%20day/LR%20Tea%20Sticks.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>A more unusual tea application was T-Sticks <a href="http://www.t-sticks.co.uk">www.t-sticks.co.uk</a> where the T-stick is placed into a cup or mug of freshly boiled water, stirred for a few minutes depending on how strong you like your tea. You then shake out the excess water and discard. What a clever idea especially if you’re on the move. Flavours vary from The Earl’s Favourite, Breakfast Brew, Moroccan Minty Green to Rockin’ Rooibos. You can order online.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/national%20tea%20day/LR%20A%20Waffleland%20gf%20df%20waffle.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>By now we were feeling peckish and were delighted to find so many ‘free from’ foods available. Our first choice was a vegan dairy free and gluten free waffle from Waffleland <a href="http://www.waffleland.co">www.waffleland.co</a> The dough is made from sweet potato and was available with several different toppings, depending if you want a sweet or savoury waffle. We opted for banana and maple syrup. This was a real treat – I can’t remember the last time I ate a waffle. You can get a chance to have one as Waffleland will be at many foodie events coming up including the Free From Festival on Monday 28<sup>th</sup> May <a href="http://www.freefromfestival.co.uk">www.freefromfestival.co.uk</a> at Old Spitalfields Market, London. If you have a waffle machine, you can make your own as the vegan gluten free dough is available to purchase online.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/national%20tea%20day/LR%20Green%20Monster%20vegan%20burger.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Looking for a more substantial meal, we found The Green Grill <a href="http://www.thegreengrill.com">www.thegreengrill.com</a> offering a range of vegan burgers with unusual coloured buns. As I am gluten free, I was unable to eat the buns, but they offered me a salad instead. I opted for the Green Monster burger made from sundried tomatoes, spinach, peas, red bell peppers, broccoli and onion – it was yummy and accompanied by tortilla chips with hummus and salsa sauces. The buns are dyed using dehydrated products such as matcha, beetroot, charcoal and turmeric. Ray tried the bun which he found very flavoursome. This business is only three months old and, judging by the number of people crowding round the stall, is doing well. The Green Grill will be attending events all summer and plan to launch online sales in September.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/national%20tea%20day/LR%20mushroom%20vegan%20roll%20with%20kidney%20bean%20red%20cabbage%20salad.jpg" width="281" height="211" alt=""></p>
<p>Meanwhile, Ray enjoyed a vegan mushroom sausage roll from the Hush Hush Chefs stall <a href="http://www.hushhushchefs.co.uk">www.hushhushchefs.co.uk</a> – he said the pastry was crispy and flavoursome – a real treat.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.eatingoutwithfoodallergies.com/uploads/national%20tea%20day/LR%20vegan%20gf%20cake.jpg" width="281" height="375" alt=""></p>
<p>To round off the afternoon, we found Great Bakes <a href="http://www.greatbakes.co.uk">www.greatbakes.co.uk</a> which served a vegan, gluten free and sugar free fruit loaf. This loaf was packed full of fruit such as apricots, raisins, dates. It was delicious, not over sweet and the cake was moist, which is commendable because often vegan and gluten free cakes can be too dry and crumbly.</p>
Eating Out at Pure Nest Cafe Muswell Hill's first 'free from' cafe<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20exterior%20general%20shot.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="319"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Pure%20Nest%20Cafe/LR%20gen%20shot%201.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="319"></p>
<p></p>
<p>Visiting the light, airy, friendly Pure Nest Café in Muswell Hill <a href="http://www.purenestcafe.com">www.purenestcafe.com</a> , it is very reassuring to know that everything on the menu is dairy free and gluten free. Ray & I couldn’t quite grasp this, so we had to keep double-checking just to make sure. What a treat to be able to choose absolutely anything from the menu that offers breakfast and lunch items, as well as desserts! As regular readers know, finding desserts that are dairy free and gluten free is a real challenge. Normally Ray & I never have desserts and it has been known for Ray to be given a banana at a restaurant while everyone else had a ‘proper’ dessert! So we couldn’t believe our luck. The menu also asks for anyone with special dietary requirements to inform a member of staff before placing the order.</p>
<p>Pure Nest Café is Muswell Hill’s first ‘free from’ café. Owner Josie Peterson, a naturopathic nutritional therapist, opened the café 18 months ago with her business partner Mohamed Yousef.</p>
<p>The inspiration for the café comes from Josie who has food allergies herself (she is dairy free and wheat intolerant) so she knows only too well the difficulties we face when dining out.</p>
<p>The menu is vegan, gluten free, egg free and doesn’t have unrefined sugar. Josie says she never uses peanuts or soy, but does use almonds, cashews, pecans, flaxseeds, hemp or chia seeds. “I never use refined sugar. Instead I use coconut palm sugar or raw cane sugar,” she says. “I don’t stock soya – it inhibits the digestion.”</p>
<p>The café offers a great selection of dairy free milks – coconut, rice milk, hemp and oat. Josie recommended Ray should have oat milk in his tea “as it has the right components to keep together when mixed in tea.”</p>
<p>Pure Nest Café has an impressive drinks menu offering all manner of hot drinks, bottled juices and smoothies. This includes naturally caffeine free coffee alternatives and “Cold Brew”. This is a 16<sup>th</sup> century Japanese method, brewing the coffee for 24 hours “which reduces the coffee tummy burn by 69%,” she adds.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Pure%20Nest%20Cafe/LR%20hot%20choc.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="567"></p>
<p>A house speciality is Josie’s Signature Hot Chocolate (regular £3.75; large £5.57) Once I tasted it, I could see why. This is a rich, creamy hot chocolate blended with coconut milk, coconut oil, cayenne pepper (for blood circulation) and cinnamon (for regulating blood sugar levels). It is delicious and well recommended!</p>
<p>The café is popular with families with young children and is well equipped with special chairs, a play area as well as a kiddies menu.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Pure%20Nest%20Cafe/LR%20banana%20pancakes.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="319"></p>
<p>A customer on the next table ordered the Fluffy Banana Oat Pancakes (£7.50) (vegan and gluten free) with fresh fruit, maple syrup and coconut cream. It looked scrumptious and apparently tasted great too. Must have that next time!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Pure%20Nest%20Cafe/LR%20Buddha%20Bowl.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="319"></p>
<p>Her companion enjoyed the Vegan Buddha Bowel (bowl £3.50; plate £7.50) a black bean stew with wholegrain basmati rice and sautéed vegetables. It looked yummy!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Pure%20Nest%20Cafe/LR%20spicy%20chickpea%20and%20avocado%20vegan%20burger.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="319"></p>
<p>And what did we have? Ray opted for the Spicy Chickpea and Avocado Vegan Burger (£8.50) in a gluten free bun, served with sweet potato chips and a side salad. The burger was moist, crumbly and flavoursome; the bun was crisp unlike most gluten free bread, while the sweet potato fries were finely cut, not chunky, and delicious.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20veg%20pasta.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="319"></p>
<p>Gluten free pasta is always problematic – it can taste brittle if undercooked, so when you order it in a restaurant, you’re never too sure how it’s going to turn out. Pure Nest Café offers three types gluten free pasta in its vegan Vegetable Pasta (£7.50) dish – buckwheat spirals, chickpea fusilli and seaweed Tagliatelle. I chose the seaweed Tagliatelle as I’d never tried it before. The sauce was made with courgettes, mushrooms, carrots, red pepper, spring onion, garlic, broccoli in a tomato sauce finished off with vegan cheese. The seawood Tagliatelle was crunchy, with a great texture, while the sauce is delicious with a bit of a kick to it, but not too spicy. The vegan cheese was finely grated and tasted great, unlike other vegan cheese I’ve tried in the past which had a synthetic taste.</p>
<p>The dishes were filling, but we were determined to try the desserts. We sampled a selection of Josie’s cakes. It was a real treat to be able to eat the same desserts – normally Ray & I have to order different desserts or nothing at all!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Pure%20Nest%20Cafe/LR%20roasted%20cream%20of%20coconut.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="567"></p>
<p>My favourite was Roasted Cream of Coconut cupcake (£2.95), a moist light cake with coconut and jam, but they were all good. The dairy free whipped cream was impressive - other similar creams I've tasted have been very watery and bland, but not this one! Other varieties included Velvety Vanilla Cupcake (£2.95) and Chocoholics Cream Brownie (£2.95).</p>
<p>Josie also makes celebration cakes for special occasions.</p>
<p>Another house speciality is the Chocoholics Dream Brownie Pot (£5) – chocolate brownie crumble layered with chocolate ganache and caramel and topped with coconut whipped cream. This is truly scrumptious!</p>
<p>Josie is about to launch her own range of gluten free and vegan cake mixes - £10 for a mix for 12 cupcakes. What a good idea.</p>
<p>She also offers an outside catering service and provides canapes for local events. Josie has been working with Food Allergy Aware <a href="http://www.fatc.co.uk">www.fatc.co.uk</a> a leading national supplier of free from training, auditing and consultancy.</p>
<p>A great experience and we will return.</p>
<p><strong>Need To Know</strong></p>
<p>Address : Pure Nest Café, 176-178 Fortis Green Road, London N10 3DU (nearest tube Highgate northern line)</p>
<p>Tel: 020 3774 4269</p>
<p>Web site <a href="http://www.purenestcafe.com">www.purenestcafe.com</a></p>
<p>Opening hours: 10am to 4.30pm (closed on Tuesdays)</p>
Eating Out with Food Allergies in Amsterdam<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20into%20pic.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20amsterdam%20xmas%20lights%20intro.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="499"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20tulips%20intto.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="501"></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Even at 7am at Gatwick Airport North Terminal, the only thing I can find for breakfast is a tuna nicoise salad at Eat <a href="https://www.eat.co.uk">https://www.eat.co.uk</a> . Don’t get me wrong, it was great to find something I could eat, but don’t you think Eat could offer a gluten free baguette or toast or something with a slight breakfast feel about it?</p>
<p>Ray has his usual – a tuna baguette with mayonnaise and cucumber, (although he has to remove the cucumber since he can’t eat it). At least we were able to have tea with soya milk.</p>
<p>On board the EasyJet <a href="http://www.easyjet.com/">http://www.easyjet.com/</a> flight, there was little on offer in its boutique “menu” that anyone with a food allergy could eat. The only symbols on the menu are “gf” (gluten free) and “v” (vegetarian). Gluten free food, on the other hand, was available and included Corkers sea salt crisps, real olives, 9Nine Carob raspberry and chia seed bar; Moma porridge with golden syrup; Kabuto rice noodles vegetable laksa and Joe & Seph’s Double Salted Caramel Popcorn. We ordered a cup of tea, but they looked at us strangely when we asked for soya milk. Fortunately we’d brought our own in 100ml bottles from Muji <a href="http://www.muji.com/uk/">www.muji.com/uk/</a> As always, best to take your own food and drink for the flight.</p>
<p>Getting from the airport to Amsterdam city centre is straight-forward – simply take the train to Central Station. There are plenty of self-service ticket machines so no need to queue – it’s around 10 euros one way – and trains run frequently. We then got a taxi from the station to the hotel which cost 20 euros, although you could get a tram.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20general%20shot%20American%20hotel.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>We stayed at the centrally-located Amsterdam American Hotel <a href="http://www.hampshire-hotels.com">www.hampshire-hotels.com</a> . This is one of Ray’s favourite hotels, dating back to 1880 when the first building stood on the same site. The original hotel, demolished to make way for the new one, derived its name from being designed in the fashionable American Grandeur style. When Ray was working in Amsterdam, he enjoyed dining in the well-known Café American because of its wonderful Art Deco style.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20renovation%20american%20hotel.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>Unfortunately it was being renovated when we stayed there, although we were allowed to take a peak at the renovations. The art deco style lamps are still there – Ray hopes the new look café will be as stylish as before. The hotel has a fascinating history displayed in the hotel lobby; it’s a pity the owners don’t publish a book about it.</p>
<p>In Amsterdam, most people speak excellent English so you can explain your allergies without having information a translation. But that doesn’t help you reading the labels of food products in shops. Here are some useful words – milk is melk; gluten free is glutenvrij and dairy free is zuivel vrij.</p>
<p>We needed to buy some soya milk so we were advised to visit the Albert Heijn supermarket <a href="https://www.ah.nl/">https://www.ah.nl/</a> at the Flower Market, a short walk from the hotel down the main drag Leidsestraat. After asking where the ‘free from’ section was, we were shown to a shelf with very few ‘free from’ items – no bread, for example, although we bought some Nak’d bars <a href="https://www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk">https://www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk</a> to keep us going, although there was soya milk.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20Holland%20&%20Barrett.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>The best source of ‘free from’ food was Holland & Barrett in Leidsestraat, <a href="https://www.hollandandbarrett.com">https://www.hollandandbarrett.com</a> which stocks a wide range of Schar ‘free from’ products <a href="http://www.schaer.com">www.schaer.com</a> including biscuits and cereals. This was by far the best selection we found.</p>
<p>Before our trip, I’d researched gluten free and dairy free restaurants in Amsterdam, but I had no way of knowing whether they would be near our hotel. We consulted the concierge who indicated the nearest restaurants to the hotel, as well as giving a couple of recommendations. When we explained we were looking for restaurants that served gluten free and dairy free dishes, his reaction was “It’s not easy”.</p>
<p>Our first choice of restaurant was Haesje Claes <a href="http://www.haesjeclaes.nl/">http://www.haesjeclaes.nl/</a> as I’d been told they have a gluten free menu, but they were full, so I booked a table for the following evening which was Ray’s birthday. We then trawled the streets for a good hour looking for somewhere we could eat; usually the menus on display showed that the restaurant was unsuitable for us. We tried Café Luden but were told that everything in the menu has “milk sugar” in it. “Have you got an allergy to lactose or milk sugar? Milk sugar is in an ordinary stock cube and everything served at the restaurant has it.” We discovered that “milk sugar” is another word for lactose.</p>
<p>So we moved on – and so it went on until I suggested trying one of the concierge’s recommendations.</p>
<p>Our best discovery on this trip was Campo de Fiori <a href="http://www.campodefiori.nl/?lang=en">http://www.campodefiori.nl/?lang=en</a> Despite it being busy, we were welcomed into the restaurant and they managed to fit us in.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20gf%20pasta%20bolognese.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20Ray%20pasta%20ariabiatya.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>I started the conversation by saying “I’ve been sent here because you have a gluten free menu”. This was well received (unlike some of the other restaurants we tried) and the waiter took me through the menu showing me what I could have. He did the same for Ray with the dairy free dishes. Unlike many restaurants, we weren’t made to feel “different” and “awkward” as is often the case. Without prompting, they brought me gluten free bread.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20fruit%20salad.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>My gluten free pasta with Bolognese sauce was delicious. The pasta was perfectly cooked al dente – a pleasant surprise because sometimes gluten free pasta can be under-cooked. The chef made a special sauce for Ray “amatriciana” – a pork sauce similar to carbonara but without the egg, which he enjoyed. For dessert I asked for a fruit salad which they made specially as it wasn’t on the menu.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20bikes%20general.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>Wandering round Amsterdam, we couldn’t believe how many cyclists there were and the huge number of parked bikes on the street. Apparently there are some 881,000 bikes in Amsterdam, with each household owning at least one. </p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20pedalls%20in%20Amsterdam.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="501"></p>
<p>On one occasion we saw pedallos on the canal. Pedallos in Amsterdam. Really?</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20vegbond%20exterior.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>Vegabond <a href="http://vegabond.nl/">http://vegabond.nl/</a> vegan store and lunchroom was recommended so next day we decided to visit for lunch (it closes 7pm most days). Ray couldn’t believe that everything on the menu was dairy free and had to keep checking that this was really the case whereas I had to be vigilant because not everything is gluten free. A wide range of ‘free from’ groceries is on sale. We both ordered “Reviving Red” – beetroot, apple, carrot and ginger juice (4.5 euros), which was very refreshing as the name suggests.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20vegabond%203.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20vegbond%202.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>Ray’s choice was a spelt sandwich with artisan almond “brie”, fig jam, rocket, lettuce and walnuts (7.5 euros). He was very impressed with the wonderful cream “brie” cheese made of almonds. I ordered Summer rolls made of gluten free rice paper with avocado, raw vegetables, cucumber and sesame served with spicy peanut sauce (7.5 euros) – delicious.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20vegabond%201.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>Vegabond has an excellent choice of ‘free from’ desserts but when we saw the raw carrot cake, we just had to order it (3.5 euros a slice) – it truly does melt in your mouth.</p>
<p>(Oddly, there is no toilet, but you can use the loo at the hotel next door for 50 cents).</p>
<p>Getting about in the city by tram is the best way. It’s not only convenient and fast, but a great way to see the city. From our hotel we had the choice of tram 1, 2, 5 (handy for the railway station). You can buy tickets on board the tram and change is given. For a single trip it’s 2 euros 90 cents (the ticket lasts an hour) or a one day ticket is 7.50 euros. Tickets much be checked in and out on the machines inside the tram.</p>
<p>We enjoyed exploring the quirky individual shops although there seemed to be fewer than previous occasions, although there were plenty of “cannabis” shops selling all manner of items such as cannabis chocolate! The high street seems to be dominated by chains as is the case in most major cities these days. We were disappointed by the Flower Market, which mostly sells pre-packed items for tourists rather than a vast array of flowers which we saw on previous visits.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20red%20chili%20cheese.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>It’s great fun browsing cheese shops such as Henri Willig <a href="http://www.henriwillig.com/en/">http://www.henriwillig.com/en/</a> (unless you’re dairy free of course) and trying out all the various types of cheeses, mixed with herbs and spices – great to take back as a present.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20friends%20of%20art.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="499"></p>
<p>Friends of Art <a href="http://www.artnl.com">www.artnl.com</a> sells a vast collection of unusual postcards, posters and gifts – well worth a visit.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20american%20bookshop.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>One of our favourite shops is The American Bookshop <a href="https://www.abc.nl/">https://www.abc.nl/</a> which is a cornucopia of books (all in English!) on several floors so you can easily while away hours here. It’s open late - an added bonus. Ray discovered this some years ago during a work trip.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20hause%20claes.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20haujes%20class.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>Just near this shop is Haesje Claes <a href="http://www.haesjeclaes.nl">www.haesjeclaes.nl</a> , where we dined on Ray’s birthday. Housed in a 16<sup>th</sup> century building, this restaurant offers a gluten free menu. Whenever restaurants offer a special menu, we always hope this is a good indication that they understand about food allergies. It has several dining rooms, connected with small halls, stairs and corridors so it can be easy to get lost if you slip away to the bathroom. The interior consists of oak wooden panelling, glass lead windows, Delft tiles and gold leather wallpaper. A main course, on average, costs 17.50 euros. I received a gluten free menu and ordered the seabass, while Ray had the famous meatballs, sausage and bacon. He checked whether the dish had any milk in it and was told there was no milk in the sausages, just soya. So that was good news.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20sunflowers%20van%20gogh.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="499"></p>
<p>The Van Gogh Museum <a href="https://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/en">https://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/en</a> houses the largest collection of art by Vincent van Gogh in the world. This includes 200 paintings, 500 drawings and over 700 letters. The collection is beautifully presented in the museum, which has been renovated since our last visit. The museum also holds special exhibitions such as “The Dutch in Paris 1789-1914” which we visited.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20symbols%20at%20van%20gogh.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>At the museum’s Tambourin Cafe we had to ask someone to explain the symbols displayed on the labels accompanying the food and tell us what was gluten free and dairy free, as it wasn’t obvious.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20cake%20at%20van%20gogh.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20soup%20at%20van%20gogh%20museum.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>Incredibly I was presented with a gluten free brownie made by UK firm The Handmade Cake Company <a href="https://www.handmadecake.co.uk/">https://www.handmadecake.co.uk/</a> so at least I knew the cake would taste ok. The tomato soup was gluten free and dairy free, so Ray ordered a bowl. He checked whether the bread and croutons contained milk. They didn’t. Ray also sprinkled dried fried onions in the soup, which was very tasty. Getting a cup of tea was problematic. The café’s espresso machine had broken and they only served soya milk downstairs in the “to go” area where you had to stand up. So I went downstairs, fetched two teas with soya milk, to bring upstairs on the escalator only to be stopped by security. I had to explain it was for the café as the espresso machine was broken, so he agreed to let me enter!</p>
<p>When we travel overseas, our aim is to try out local restaurants, but if we are having difficulty finding anywhere, we will opt for a chain. As it was freezing and we were starving, when we saw the Wagamama <a href="https://www.wagamama.nl/en">https://www.wagamama.nl/en</a> sign, we went inside – there are four in Amsterdam. When we explained about our allergies, we were presented with an allergen chart in Dutch. As we knew the words gluten free is glutenvrij and milk is melk, we could identify which dishes we could eat. I waded through the entire chart to find out that there were only about four dishes without gluten. You’d think the staff would have been able to show me straightaway which dishes didn’t have gluten as there were so few. Note to Wagamama – tell us what we <em>can</em> eat not all the things we can’t. A menu with symbols would be simpler. It wasn’t very reassuring when they said they would “try” to keep everything separate. At the same time, we waited for a long time for our food and when we asked, we were told because of the allergies the chef had to prepare the food in special pots and pans. Full marks to the waiter explaining this to us.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20wagamama%201.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20wagamama%202.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>I ordered Yasai Itame which is not only gluten free but also vegan – rice noodles in a spicy green coconut and lemongrass soup topped with tofu and vegetables. I was unable to have the chicken variety because there was gluten in the marination process. Ray’s choice was chicken katsu curry which was milk free on the allergen chart, although he double-checked. The food was just the job on such a cold day – so at least I know what to order next time.</p>
<p>A visit to the Rijksmuseum <a href="https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en">https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en</a> was must, as our hotel was so close. This museum is dedicated to the history of the Netherlands with over 8,000 paintings, statues and artefacts in its collection. This includes works by Rembrandt, Frans Hals and Johannes Vermeer including Rembrandt’s Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Milkmaid. Another highlight is The Cuypers Library, the biggest and oldest historical art library in The Netherlands.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20dollshouse%20pic%20rijiksmuseum.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>I particularly liked a collection of early dollshouse interiors by Petronella Oortman (1686-1712). All the contents were made using authentic materials.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20rijiksmsueum%20eye%20pic.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>We also found a modern art exhibition with this intriguing exhibit - untitled 1965 by JCJ Vanderheyden which looks like black and white cells until you look at it from a distance and see an eye.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20cafe%20at%20rijiksmuseum.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>The museum café is open plan, located upstairs at the entrance of the museum. Curiously it is table service and apart from a very crowded tiny coffee bar inside the museum, is the only place to get refreshments. The good news is that they served soya milk! When I asked if there were any gluten free cakes, I was told there was a coconut and lemon cake. Ray was told there was nothing he could eat as everything had dairy. He joked that at least he could enjoy watching me eat my cake. As he said this, the waiter said he could eat it as there was no dairy in it! Very confusing, but we ordered a second cake.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20cake%20at%20rijiksmuseum.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="501"></p>
<p>Sometimes something simple can become very complicated. Our tea was served with little biscuits which weren’t gluten or dairy free, so why were we given them?</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Amsterdam%20Dec%2017/LR%20leon.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="159"></p>
<p>On our way home, as we walked from the railway station into the Amsterdam airport terminal, we were pleased to see Leon <a href="http://leonrestaurants.co.uk/">http://leonrestaurants.co.uk/</a> , one of our favourite UK chains, has an outlet. What a pity it isn’t inside the departures lounge or better still, in the city centre!</p>
<p>Have a great Christmas and see you in 2018!</p>
<p> </p>
Free From Eating Out Awards 2017<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Eating%20Out%20Awards/LR%20%20Gold%20Winners%20Group%20Photo.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="157"></p>
<p> Mommi Raw Bar & Grill <a href="https://www.wearemommi.com/">https://www.wearemommi.com/</a> was the overall winner in this year’s Free From Eating Out Awards <a href="http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk/">http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk/</a> announced at the Food Matters Live event <a href="https://www.foodmatterslive.com/">https://www.foodmatterslive.com/</a></p>
<p>The two year old restaurant, which specialises in Peruvian Japanese food, in Clapham High Street, London, is 100% gluten free and accredited by Coeliac UK <a href="https://www.coeliac.org.uk/home/">https://www.coeliac.org.uk/home/</a> with vegan and dairy free menus. It also won a Gold Award in the “Focus on Gluten” category.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Eating%20Out%20Awards/LR.%20Bethany%20Swain%20and%20Karolina%20Obrzut%20of%20Mommi%20being%20pesented%20with%20FFEOA%20trophy%20by%20FFEOA%20director%20Michelle%20Berriedale-Johnson%20.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="189"></p>
<p>Karolina Obrzut, general manager (who is gluten free and dairy free herself) said “We’re absolutely delighted to receive this Award. We have a 100% gluten free kitchen and a comprehensive in-house training programme for staff.” I can’t wait to visit.</p>
<p>Pictured above from left to right are Bethany Swain and Karolina Obrzut from Mommi with their Award with Michelle Berriedale-Johnson from the Awards.</p>
<p>Anyone who suffers with a food allergy will tell you that eating out is a lottery. Ray is dairy free and I am gluten free so dining out is always problematic – even if you alert the outlet in advance. So that’s why these Awards are such a fantastic idea – they recognise the outlets which cater for people with food allergies. Now in their fourth year, these Awards are judged by people with food allergies and I’m lucky enough to be a judge. There is a wide range of Award categories including restaurants, cafes, pub restaurant, fish and chip shops and B&Bs.</p>
<p>Michelle Berriedale-Johnson from the Awards, said “This isn’t a competition – we reward excellent examples of people who do their job very well and we award them appropriately, whether it’s Gold, Silver or Bronze.”</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Eating%20Out%20Awards/LR%20Indigo%20at%20One%20Aldwych.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="159"></p>
<p>At the Awards, Indigo at One Aldwych <a href="http://www.onealdwych.com/food-drink/indigo">http://www.onealdwych.com/food-drink/indigo</a> in London scooped not only Gold in the “Focus on Gluten” category, but also Gold in the “Crème de la Crème” category. It was also a runner-up in the overall winner Awards category. Dominic Teague, executive chef and his team have created an entirely gluten free and dairy free menu. It’s well worth a visit and I agree with the judge who says “The food is fantastic – each dish sampled offered something special: flavours and textures a delight to experience. The homemade gluten free bread is to die for!” Let’s hope more restaurants follow Indigo’s example.</p>
<p>It was good to see Pizza Express <a href="https://www.pizzaexpress.com/">https://www.pizzaexpress.com/</a> presented with a Gold Award in the Restaurant Chains category. This chain was probably the first to serve gluten free pizzas and has just introduced a vegan variety with vegan cheese. Ray and I are regular visitors to our local Pizza Express chain.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Eating%20Out%20Awards/LR%20Clink%20restaurants.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="159"></p>
<p>Another Gold Award in this category was The Clink restaurants <a href="http://theclinkcharity.org/the-clink-restaurants/">http://theclinkcharity.org/the-clink-restaurants/</a> . The Clink charity works with Her Majesty’s Prison Service to provide hospitality training to prisoners to aid their rehabilitation. It operates at prisons in Brixton, Cardiff, High Down (Sutton) and Styal in Cheshire. A couple of years ago, I went with a group of friends to High Down in Sutton and was pleasantly surprised how well they catered for me.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Eating%20Out%20Awards/LR%20Farmstead.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="159"></p>
<p>I was pleased that Farmstead <a href="https://farmstand.co.uk/">https://farmstand.co.uk/</a> was presented with a Gold Award in the cafes and teashops category, as I visited and judged this outlet incognito with Ray and was very impressed. Watch for a review soon. Steven Novick, owner opened the outlet in January 2016. “It’s exciting to receive a Gold Award,” he said. “When I started the business, my aim was to offer healthy food, sustainably sourced and reasonably priced.”</p>
<p>The British Motor Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire <a href="https://www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/">https://www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/</a> received a Gold Award in the Focus on Gluten category as well as Silver in the cafes and teashops category. “We’re over the moon” said Paul Kelly, head chef. “It’s been a team effort and a journey.” The venue became the first museum and conference centre to gain Coeliac UK accreditation in 2015 and visitors can enjoy a wide range of gluten free options. There is detailed ingredient and allergen information on all food products. Tom O’Reilly, general manager, added “We’ve invested in a gluten free preparation area in the kitchen. My advice to other outlets is to get advice from Coeliac UK, talk to people in the free from sector and visit other restaurants to see how they do it.”</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Eating%20Out%20Awards/LR%20Curry%20Leaf%20Cafe.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="159"></p>
<p>Curry Leaf Café <a href="https://www.curryleafcafe.com/">https://www.curryleafcafe.com/</a> in Brighton, which offers Indian street food, gained a Gold Award in the Independent Restaurants category. The company owns two restaurants as well as a kiosk at Brighton station. Euan Sey, co-owner says “The food is 80% gluten free and 50% vegan. We make sure that kitchen staff are well educated about allergies. We’re the only kiosk selling Indian food in a kiosk in a UK transport hub. I’m delighted to have this Award and it will help us raise awareness on a national level.”</p>
<p>For a complete list of all the winners, visit <a href="http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk/">http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk/</a></p>
<p>Interactive Map</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Eating%20Out%20Awards/LR%20interactive%20map.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="159"></p>
<p>A new online interactive map was announced at the Awards presentation, which pinpoints where all the past and present Award winners are located. All you do is click on relevant icon for the outlet’s details and the judges’ comments. How very useful – see it here <a href="http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk/">http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk/</a></p>
<p>Booklet – Food Allergy Awareness Induction</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Free%20From%20Eating%20Out%20Awards/LR%20foodservice%20induction%20booklet.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="501"></p>
<p>Michelle mentioned the new booklet from Food Allergy Aware <a href="http://www.fatc.co.uk">www.fatc.co.uk</a> an invaluable handbook for restaurant staff on how to cater for customers with food allergies. Contact Food Allergy Award for copies. It was produced in memory of Cameron Wahid, who passed away on 30 October 2015 aged 7. He suffered an anaphylactic reaction to dairy products. For more information about supporting his family’s charity visit <a href="http://www.cwaafundraising.com/donate">www.cwaafundraising.com/donate</a></p>
Eating out with Food Allergies in Croatia<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20Croatia%20blog%20intro.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="175"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20Croatia%20intro%202.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="175"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20Croatia%20intro%203.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"></p>
<p>Early morning flights are never a good idea, but often you have no choice. Such was our experience when we arrived at Gatwick Airport at 5am bleary-eyed. In the departure lounge, we headed for Eat <a href="http://www.eat.co.uk">www.eat.co.uk</a> to buy something to take on the plane. Although it was rammed, Ray managed to find a seat. I was surprised to see a wider choice of vegetarian and vegan options than on previous occasions, although there was nothing specifically labelled gluten free or dairy free, but at least all the ingredients are listed so you can see at a glance whether you can eat it. We bought takeaway food and enjoyed a reviving cup of tea with soya milk.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20Eat%20food.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="175"></p>
<p>Ray opted for his usual at Eat – duck hoi sin wrap (from which he removed the spinach as he can’t eat it.) My choice was the vegan Indian Mezze Salad, delicious.</p>
<p>On board the Thomson Airways <a href="http://www.thomson.co.uk">www.thomson.co.uk</a> flight, we were pleased we had bought food to eat as there is nothing we could have eaten except chips, Proper Corn <a href="http://www.propercorn.com">www.propercorn.com</a> popcorn or Tyrrells crisps <a href="http://www.tyrrellscrisps.co.uk">www.tyrrellscrisps.co.uk</a> .</p>
<p>Other possibilities for Ray, who is dairy free, were the Mediterranean Snack Box, comprising hummus, green pitted olives and crackers, but he couldn’t have had baklava (included in the box) as it contains butter.</p>
<p>There were no ‘free from’ choices marked on the menu and only two vegetarian offerings – Egg and Slow Roasted Tomato Roll or Mornflake Top Porridge, marked with Vegetarian Society logos. Not much use to us as it doesn’t indicate the presence of gluten or dairy products.</p>
<p>We were returning to the Valamar Crystal Hotel <a href="http://www.valamar.com/Porec/Hotel-Crystal">www.valamar.com/Porec/Hotel-Crystal</a> in Porec, Croatia – a short distance from Pula Airport. We’d stayed there last April when I was on tour with Elmbridge Ladies Choir <a href="http://www.surreymusic.org">www.surreymusic.org</a> and Ray joined me with all the other spouses and other groupies. We liked it so much we returned with Thomson Holidays <a href="http://www.thomson.co.uk">www.thomson.co.uk</a> (we did look at travelling independently but it was cheaper with a tour operator).</p>
<p>On our last visit, the hotel’s ability to cater for our dietary requirements (gluten free and dairy free) was exceptional, so this time we opted for half board (breakfast and dinner).</p>
<p>Although Croatia is part of the EU, the currency is “kuna”, about 7 to £1 at the time of writing.</p>
<p>What we hadn’t bargained for was the high temperatures – on average it was 32 degrees C – too hot for us, so this is something to bear in mind should you be planning a trip there.</p>
<p>Our room wasn’t ready when we arrived, so we enjoyed lunch at the Pool Bar, well shaded from the intense heat. Curiously house martins flew in and out of the restaurant into alcoves. From our last visit, we had the following typed out in Croatian which we showed waiting staff: ‎ “<em>Molim Vas Bez Glutena</em>” (I am gluten intolerant) and “<em>Ja sam netolerantan na mliječne proizvode</em>” (I am intolerant to dairy products. )</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20tuna%20salad%20pool%20bar.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20spag%20bol%20pool%20bar.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="555"></p>
<p>The menu at the Pool Bar offered a good choice of food we could both eat; we enjoyed the experience so much that we ate here most days. I chose the salads such as Tuna & Vegetable or Caesar Salad (minus the croutons). Ray’s favourites were spaghetti Bolognese (no cheese on the top) and grilled chicken fillets and chips.</p>
<p>As you can imagine, we were still shell-shocked from our early morning flight, so as soon as the room was ready, we had an afternoon siesta.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20hotel%20buffet%20dinner.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"></p>
<p>Dinner was served buffet-style in a vast dining room. As you enter, there was a notice from Pamela Pavietić, executive chef, asking people with food allergies to consult staff.</p>
<p>I have to say the staff went out of their way to accommodate our dietary requirements. Vesna, one of the dining room supervisors, ensured that we were able to find food we could eat.</p>
<p>The buffet was vast offering an extensive array of different foods – meat, fish, salads, pasta, pizza, as well as an Istrian corner with local produce such as parma ham and melon.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20Istrian%20section%20buffet.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"></p>
<p>When Ray gave a member of the serving staff his piece of paper, he was served tender beef slices and shown which vegetables he could eat (that didn’t have butter in them). Every night he would ask the staff what he could eat that didn’t contain dairy. They got to know him so well that when he pitched up, they immediately pointed to what he could have. This included roast chicken, turkey, Wiener Schnitzel and crucially they indicated which vegetables and accompaniments didn’t have any butter in them. Unfortunately the potatoes usually had butter in them, but not the chips!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20tender%20beef%20slices%20ray.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20fish%20dinner%20hotel.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"></p>
<p>As I love fish, I always chose the freshly cooked fish on one of the stations. It was a wonderful way of discovering new types of fish I hadn’t tried. Every night it was something different such as John Dory, trout, grouper, tuna, swordfish, sea bass and sea bream. The fish was always so beautifully tender and tasted more succulent than UK supermarket fish. So I made the most of it.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20dairy%20free%20ice%20cream%20in%20glasses.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20dairy%20free%20ice%20cream%20lid.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"></p>
<p>As you would expect, there was a vast selection of cakes – all manner of strudels, cupcakes, eclairs, sponges, cheesecakes and ice cream. We gazed longingly at them and to our surprise, Pamela, the executive chef came over and asked if we would like soya ice cream, gluten free and dairy free cakes. Well I think you can imagine the response “Yes please!” The soya ice cream, served in knickerbocker glory-style glasses, was totally awesome – it was so creamy, it literally melted in your mouth. To our astonishment when we asked where it came from, we were shown the lid and it comes from Spar Supermarket. If only UK Spar stores sell it – or maybe they do? I will look into it.</p>
<p> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20gluten%20free%20cupcakes.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20apple%20crumble%20cakes.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>The gluten free chocolate muffin was moist and chewy while the gluten free and dairy free warmed apple crumble cake was sheer bliss! We couldn’t believe it and ordered the ice cream most nights. (We occasionally enjoyed the cakes, but we were conscious of our waistlines!)</p>
<p>Every evening when the heat dropped we walked into Porec and revisited the places we saw with the choir such as the main square where we sang in the rain.</p>
<p>For those who don’t wish to walk, there’s a tourist “noddy” train, a shuttle that transports you from the hotel to Porec town centre.</p>
<p>In Porec, the Spar supermarket <a href="http://www.spar.hr">www.spar.hr</a> has a good selection of “free from” food and this is where we bought Alpro <a href="http://www.alpro.com/uk">www.alpro.com/uk</a> soya milk. Next door at Müller, <a href="http://www.mueller.hr/pocetna-stranica.html">http://www.mueller.hr/pocetna-stranica.html</a> there’s also ‘free from’ foods as well as cosmetics, toiletries and toys.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20guitarists.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="175"></p>
<p>We enjoyed wandering through the Old Town and one evening chanced upon a guitar playing duo singing English jazz songs. Very entertaining.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20Porec%20stalls.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="175"></p>
<p>As you first enter the Old Town, there is a wealth of market stalls, all selling similar products as such belts, handbags, sunglasses and so on.</p>
<p>For breakfast at the Valamar Crystal Hotel, another sumptuous buffet was spread out in front of us serving all manner of food such as omelettes, cereals, salads, cold meats, bacon, beans and son on.</p>
<p>It was difficult to choose from. We both started off with Schar gluten free and dairy free muesli, sprinkled with seeds. We noticed later in the week, a whole selection of dairy free milks were on the buffet including rice, soya, almond and lactose free.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20dairy%20free%20milks.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"></p>
<p>As we had asked the hotel beforehand, soya milk and gluten free bread was supplied. Vesna checked we had everything we needed. We were touched by their attention, as we’re used to being ignored in many restaurants, left to take pot luck or fend for ourselves.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20gluten%20free%20bread%20breakfast.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"></p>
<p>The fresh fruit counter comprised a wide range of fruit – for example, water melon, peaches, pineapple, pears, plums and apples.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20fresh%20fruit%20counter.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"></p>
<p>Ray enjoyed bacons and beans and made an interesting discovery - a vegan dairy free Mediterranean gourmet tuna pate. He chose rye bread from the extensive choice, which he toasted in their machine. I also toasted the gluten free bread; sheets of paper were available to put either side of the bread to avoid contamination.</p>
<p>Another highlight was the collection of jams – everything from apple marmalade, sour cherry preserve to mixed fruit. Ray avoided the jams and opted for honey. This was dispensed from an unusual pumping machine we hadn’t seen before.</p>
<p>One evening there was a storm but it was a relief as it cooled down the environment. Our English blue plastic ponchos came into their own, although we attracted a few astonished glances. In Porec, one waiter standing outside the restaurant greeted Ray in English. Ray said “How did you know I was English?” to which he replied “You’re well prepared for the rain.”</p>
<p>One of the locals was so impressed with our stylish attire, she asked us where we got them and where she should buy them. We believe we’re carrying British haute couture abroad.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20rainbow.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="555"></p>
<p>We sheltered in a café and as we drank our cup of tea, we saw a beautiful rainbow. After the rain came some stunning sunsets.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20stunning%20sunset%201.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="175"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Croatia%20July%202017/LR%20stunning%20sunset%202.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="176"></p>
<p>Most mornings we would go for a long walk about 6ish before the heat became unbearable. The Valamar Crystal offers a cornucopia of activities – everything from Pilates, dancing, tabletennis, tennis, badminton as well as children’s activities. These include trampolining and a daredevil activity involving a grand trampoline aided by bungee cords that enabled the trampolinist to jump very high indeed. We thought it was rather dangerous, but seemed popular among young children, watched by their mothers.</p>
Eating Out at The Free From Festival<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20general%20shot%201.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20general%20shot%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>As we arrived, a long queue snaked out of London’s Spitalfields Market, waiting to enter the UK’s first ever gluten, dairy and refined sugar free Food Festival <a href="http://www.freefromfestival.co.uk">www.freefromfestival.co.uk</a> on the second May Bank Holiday Monday.</p>
<p>We were on our usual quest to find products that were not only gluten free but also dairy free so Ray and I could both eat them. There were plenty on display at the Festival. It was such a treat to wander round and discover that we could try items without having to ask if they were gluten free or dairy free, although we did check on a couple of occasions as we couldn’t quite believe it.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Vegana%20pizza%20White%20Rabbit.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>First up was The White Rabbit Pizza Co <a href="http://www.whiterabbitpizza.co.uk">www.whiterabbitpizza.co.uk</a> All the pizzas are gluten free and the “Vegana” is both gluten free and vegan. It tasted delicious with vegan cheese. Most importantly, the bases was thin and crispy in true Italian style. The problem with gluten free pastry is that it can often taste cardboard-like, but not this pizza. No wonder the stand was crowded. The pizzas are available from Abel & Cole, Planet Organic and As Nature Intended.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Yorica%20df%20ice%20cream%20and%20gf%20waffle.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Yorica%20df%20mango%20ice%20cream.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>Fancy an ice cream? A van labelled Yorica <a href="http://www.yorica.com">www.yorica.com</a> with 1960s style curly designs all over it was selling gluten free and dairy free ice cream made with coconut and rice milk. The ice cream is vegan and free from eggs, nuts and peanuts. In addition, it was selling gluten free dairy free waffles to go with the ice cream. Yummy! We tried the mango ice cream – it was delicious. Other varieties include rainbow candy, chocolate and orange and “peanot” butter (as opposed to peanut butter) as it’s made from soy.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Crepes%20Nojo.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>One of the highlights was the Nojo <a href="http://www.nojolondon.co.uk">www.nojolondon.co.uk</a> stand selling gluten free and dairy free crepes, made with rice milk and a mix of gluten free flours such as tapioca, rice and potato. You could not only have a savoury crepe such as Chicken Terayaki or Veggie Vegan, but also sweet pancakes such as chocolate banana. This was sensational; the crepes were succulent, moist and the combination of flavours wonderful. They have a unit in Camden Town so we’ll definitely be visiting there soon and they do deliveries in London.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Green%20Sisters.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Green Sisters <a href="http://www.greensisters.co.uk">www.greensisters.co.uk</a> was selling its range of gluten free and dairy free samosas, not only savoury, but also sweet. The company is run by two sisters Reena and Geeta. They are all vegan except the sweet varieties as they contain honey. Ray was taken with the Summer Fruit Samosa with apples – “It tastes just like apple strudel,” he said. You can order their products frozen online for delivery in the UK.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Troo%201.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Troo%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>TrooFoods <a href="http://www.troogranola.com">www.troogranola.com</a> was exhibiting its range of hand-made gluten free granola kits, which don’t contain refined sugar. They are free from dairy, wheat, egg, sesame, as well as being vegan and vegetarian friendly. Founder Helenor Rogers says people are very inventive about the ingredients they add to the granola. “One of the most unusual has been mashed up sweet potato,” she says. At the show packets of ready-made granola were launched, which were selling well. “We add chicory root fibre to sweeten it,” she said. It tasted great. You can order online.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Enough.Snacklab%20snack%20bites.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>Raw natural snack bites were being snapped up on the Enough.Snacklab stand <a href="http://www.enough-snacklab.com">www.enough-snacklab.com</a> . They look like mini cakes and taste delicious, as well as looking very appetising. All the ingredients used are gluten, dairy, soya and refined sugar free.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Thirsty%20House%20Kombucha.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>We tasted Turmeric and Ginger Kombucha drink on the Thirsty House Kombucha <a href="http://www.thirstyhousekombucha.co.uk">www.thirstyhousekombucha.co.uk</a> , very refreshing. It is a fantastic alternative to fizzy, high sugar drinks. What started out as a home based cottage industry for founders Elizabeth and Shirley has developed into a dedicated kombucha brewery based in south west London. See the web site for where to buy.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Leggero%20fresh%20gf%20df%20pasta.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>Leggero <a href="http://www.leggero-london.com">www.leggero-london.com</a> , the restaurant in Soho, with a 100% gluten free kitchen, was selling its freshly made gluten free dairy free pasta. We have visited the restaurant several times as it not only offers gluten free cuisine, but dairy free choices as well. The fresh pasta only takes a minute to cook or two minutes from frozen.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20La%20Cremerie%20rice%20yogurt%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>La Cremerie <a href="http://www.la-cremerie.co.uk">www.la-cremerie.co.uk</a> was showcasing the UK’s first rice-based yoghurt alternative made with rice and selected ferments. They are vegan and free from gluten, soy, nuts and added sugar. We did enjoy the vanilla variety. You can buy it from Farm Drop <a href="http://www.farmdrop.com">www.farmdrop.com</a> and East London shops (see their web site). It will only be a matter of time before it’s freely available.</p>
<p>We also had a demonstration of a new “Eat Safe” App <a href="http://www.eatsafeapp.co.uk">www.eatsafeapp.co.uk</a> a mobile restaurant directory that helps people with allergies find restaurants. They work with restaurants to gather menu information and double check it. Then you enter your requirements and the system shows you which restaurants offer the most choice. The App is currently being trialled and will be launched soon.</p>
<p>Congratulations to the organisers of the Free From Festival. We found it a well-organised event with lots of discoveries and choice for people with food allergies. We are already looking forward to next year’s event!</p>
Eating Out With Food Allergies in Whitstable<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20general%20shots%20whitstable.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>We recently visited Whitstable, the popular seaside town in Kent. En route, we stopped off at Clacket Lane motorway services on the M25 <a href="http://motorwayservicesonline.co.uk/Clacket_Lane">http://motorwayservicesonline.co.uk/Clacket_Lane</a></p>
<p>There wasn’t much in the way of gluten free or dairy free food, although we were lucky in Costa Coffee <a href="http://www.costa.co.uk">www.costa.co.uk</a> where we enjoyed our usual gluten free and dairy free bakewell tarts with our cup of tea. Fortunately they were serving soya milk, although we had taken the precaution of filling two 100ml plastic bottles from Muji <a href="http://www.muji.eu">www.muji.eu</a> with Alpro soya milk <a href="http://www.alpro.com">www.alpro.com</a></p>
<p>We always travel with food just in case – our staples are Nairns gluten free oatcakes <a href="http://www.nairns-oatcakes.com">www.nairns-oatcakes.com</a> and Nak’d bars <a href="http://www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk">www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk</a> (both dairy free and gluten free)</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20view%20of%20Kent%20countryside.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Unable to find a room in central Whitstable, we stayed at The Crescent Turner Hotel <a href="http://crescentturner.co.uk/">http://crescentturner.co.uk/</a> in Wraik Hill, Whitstable, about a ten minute drive outside the town, an idyllic spot with beautiful views of the Kent coastline. We had contacted them in advance to tell them I was gluten free and Ray was dairy free. They did show us the dinner menu for that evening, but we felt it would be very challenging to find gluten free and dairy free choices, so decided to eat in the town.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20harbour%20marketplace.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Having parked the car in the long stay car park by the Harbour Market, Whitstable <a href="http://harbourmarketwhitstable.co.uk/">http://harbourmarketwhitstable.co.uk/</a> we wandered round the food stalls to see if we could find anything to eat, as well as browsing the arts and crafts stalls and listening to a busker playing hotclub guitar. The stalls were a disappointment, but we chanced upon a vegan and gluten free food stand, run by Jane Chubb from Compassion Cakes <a href="http://compassioncakes.wixsite.com/vegan">http://compassioncakes.wixsite.com/vegan</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Compassion%20Cakes%20pie%20and%20chips.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20compassion%20cakes%20baked%20sweet%20potato.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Ray opted for the gluten free and vegan Cornish pie made of soya mice, potatoes and carrots while I had the gluten free baked sweet potato with spiced roasted chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, red onion and parsley with hummus dressing. Both dishes were scrumptious, especially the Cornish pie – the pastry was crisp and melted in THE mouth. Gluten free pastry can be very dry and flaky, but this pastry was moist. We will be checking her web site to see where she will be next.</p>
<p>We spent the afternoon exploring the eclectic, quirky Whitstable high street, full of interesting independent shops including our favourite bookshop. This is Oxford Street Bookshop <a href="http://www.oxfordstreetbooks.com/">http://www.oxfordstreetbooks.com/</a> on two levels, with all sorts of books from popular fiction, historical, children’s to collectibles. Downstairs there’s an art deco style sitting room where you can sit on the sofa, while browsing the books. Long may they continue. We returned here a couple of times during our stay.</p>
<p>That evening, we dined at the Continental Hotel <a href="http://www.hotelcontinental.co.uk/">http://www.hotelcontinental.co.uk/</a> with its fabulous views of the beach. This is a good place for oyster fans as they serve Whitstable oysters from their own beds either rock oysters all year round or the family native oysters when they’re in season, fished wild from their boat “Melissa E” the last wooden boat to be built in Whitstable.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20fishfinger%20sarnie.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20continental%20hotel%20plaice.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Sadly we don’t eat oysters, so instead I chose fish of the day – plaice, accompanied by new potatoes and cabbage. After checking that there was no milk in the batter, Ray opted for the more unusual Local Cod Fishfinger Sandwich. They told us the batter is made from only beer and flour and the focaccia contained no dairy.</p>
<p>Breakfast was at our hotel The Crescent Turner Hotel where they served soya milk and gluten free toast. On the first morning, the gluten free toast was in its own rack, but on the second day it shared a rack with Ray’s toast – this could be a problem for other gluten free diners and needs to be pointed out. Not being able to eat cooked eggs, I opted for smoked salmon on gluten free toast followed by fresh fruit salad from the buffet. Ray explained to them what he was able to eat; they said they would check with the chef as to whether the beans were Heinz (other brands may contain milk) and if the sausage contained dairy. Happily both were ok, so he was served with bacon, sausage and baked beans with toast.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20ray%20hotel%20breakfast.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20hotel%20gf%20toast.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20smoked%20salmon%20breakfast.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>The next day we visited Canterbury and spent some time at The Works <a href="http://www.theworks.co.uk">www.theworks.co.uk</a> bookshop, which seems to be selling fewer books and more crafts, games and toys than previously. We did try to go inside the Cathedral, but the queue was rather too lengthy. Next time perhaps.</p>
<p>For lunch, we decided to try Eat <a href="http://www.eat.co.uk">www.eat.co.uk</a> where Ray bought a Turkey Slaw sandwich in malted granary bread – turkey, spinach and mayonnaise, but crucially no butter. All the ingredients are prominently labelled for each product and you can see at a glance what allergens they contain. Not much choice for the gluten free diner so I chose a Tuna Nicoise Salad.</p>
<p>On our last night in Whitstable, we wanted to try somewhere new so I googled for a restaurant serving gluten free and dairy free options and came up with Samphire, High Street, Whitstable <a href="http://www.samphirewhitstable.co.uk">www.samphirewhitstable.co.uk</a> and decided to book a table, which is a good idea as it was virtually full when we arrived. It won the Kent Dining Pub/Bistro of the Year in the Taste of Kent Awards. The menu is written on a blackboard and didn’t mark any dishes as vegan or gluten free. This didn’t matter as the staff were very understanding because as soon as we told them what our allergies were, they immediately made suggestions. It was impressive that the waiting staff could make recommendations without having to go and check with the chef, which is what usually happens. Ray opted for the Rump of Kentish Lamb with smoked potatoes, vegetables and wild garlic and nettle pesto. I enjoyed halibut with onion and potato hash – delicious, accompanied by a glass of locally produced Chapel Down white wine. We were too full for dessert, which was just as well as there wasn’t anything we could eat! We did enjoy the whole dining experience here and will return.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Samphire%20rump%20steak%202017-05-01%2018.57.38.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20halibut%20samphire%202017-05-01%2018.57.20.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>On the journey home, we decided to have a break at Clacket Services on the M25 as before. At Costa Coffee, apart from the gluten free bakewell tarts, there was nothing we could eat. Ray decided to try his luck at the Chozen Noodle concession <a href="http://www.chozen.co.uk">www.chozen.co.uk</a> with his dairy free chicken katsu curry with rice, which he said was very tasty. I went to the stall called “Fresh Food Taste” and ordered a jacket potato with tuna, which was inedible. To be avoided at all costs.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Eating Out with Food Allergies at Leggero, Soho, London<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Leggoer%20exterior%20intro.jpg" alt="" width="340" height="191"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20opening%20pic%20at%20start.jpg" alt="" width="337" height="600"></p>
<p></p>
<p>I was delighted to be invited to the opening of Leggero in London <a href="http://www.leggero-london.com">http://www.leggero-london.com</a> at 64 Old Compton Street, Soho, which is probably the only entirely gluten free Italian restaurant in the UK.</p>
<p>Ray and I had dined here before when the restaurant was La Polenteria. We were impressed that it was not only a 100% gluten free kitchen, but also that there were dairy free options on the menu as well. We also found the service excellent. The staff were able to answer Ray’s queries about the ingredients of certain dishes without having to ask the chef. A rare thing these days. As it was a 100% gluten free kitchen, I felt like a ‘normal’ diner not having to worry about whether there was gluten in the dishes.</p>
<p>Now the restaurant has been totally revamped with more tables and of course the new name, which means “light” in Italian. The kitchen is still 100% gluten free and it has broadened its menu to include more dairy free and vegan choices, some of which we were lucky enough to sample.</p>
<p>In his speech, Gabriele Vitali, founder and CEO said it wasn’t just about the food, but also about the lifestyle. “Our customers can freely choose from our menu without worrying about diet requirements, allergies and digestibility,” he said. “We have a gluten free kitchen focusing on Italian homemade recipes. Italy is full of gluten – pasta, pizza and so on. So it was a huge challenge of us to open a gluten free restaurant – it took months of research and development. I saw a gap in the market – there were no gluten free Italian restaurants and took a chance. I am now happy to say that it was the right decision – it’s a pleasure to make customers happy. For many gluten free people eating out is not easy. We realise being gluten free isn’t enough, we want to raise awareness for the other allergies. It’s not just about gluten free but also ‘free from’ so our menu shows what allergens are contained in every dish. It’s not just about the food, we want to create a community, an ‘oasis’ for people with allergies to enjoy their food.”</p>
<p>Listening to jazz, bossa nova and Italian music from the Marta Capponi Duo, we were treated to canape-style dishes from the menu.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/WXLR%20foccacia.jpg" alt="" width="337" height="600"></p>
<p>The focaccia looked very appetising, so much so I had to remind myself it was not only gluten free, but also vegan. It contained artichokes, tomatoes and olives and it was delicious!</p>
<p>The lamb meatballs with mint and grilled butternut squash were gluten free and dairy free (contains celery nuts) were tender and yummy. This was one of Ray’s favourites. “Wonderful – I’ll definitely have this next time we come here.”</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20lamb%20meatballs.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>Next up was the courgette burger with mixed vegetable and home made hemp bread muffin, gluten free and vegan. Again I had to remind myself that this was gluten free because normally I can’t touch anything with a crispy coating, so this was a real treat!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20courgette%20burger.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20tagliatelle.jpg" alt="" width="337" height="600"></p>
<p>One of my favourites was the handmade sorghum and hemp vegan Tagliatelle pasta served with baba ganoush (aubergine) and grilled courgettes. The texture and taste of the pasta was perfect and the flavour of the aubergine and courgettes really came through.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20sorghum%20ravioli.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>Another winner was the handmade sorghum large ravioli. I can’t remember the last time I tasted ravioli so this was rather special, especially as it was stuffed with prawns and asparagus topped with saffron cream, dairy free (contained egg and crustacean).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20tiramisu.jpg" alt="" width="337" height="600"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20almond%20and%20orange%20cake.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="239"></p>
<p>Normally when Ray and I dine out, we miss out the desserts because there’s rarely anything we can eat, but not at Leggero. I sampled the first tiramisu I’ve eaten in years (contains milk, egg, sulphites) while Ray enjoyed the dairy free Almond and Orange Cake served with caramelised orange (contains egg and nuts).</p>
<p>Needless to say we will be back!</p>
<p>Leggero, 64 Old Compton Street W10 4UQ 020 7434 3617</p>
<p><a href="http://www.leggero-london.com">http://www.leggero-london.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
Eating Out with Food Allergies in Liverpool<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20intro%20picture.jpg" alt="" width="283" height="503"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Chung%20Ku%20cat.jpg" alt="" width="283" height="504"> </p>
<p></p>
<p>At London’s Euston station we bought some food for the train journey to Liverpool from Pret A Manger <a href="http://www.pret.co.uk">http://www.pret.co.uk</a> – a chef’s special salad with chicken, parmesan cheese and pecan nuts for me, while Ray enjoyed a pole line caught tuna baguette with mayonnaise, (with no butter) and slices of cucumber, although he had to pick out the cucumber as he can’t eat it.</p>
<p>Whenever we go travelling, Ray and I always take soya milk with us in small 100ml bottles from Muji <a href="http://www.muji.eu">www.muji.eu</a> – so we were amazed to find it on board the train to Liverpool on Virgin Trains <a href="http://www.virgintrains.co.uk">www.virgintrains.co.uk</a> in the shop one portion cartons of soya milk. Amazing – a real breakthrough.</p>
<p>We were staying in one of our favourite hotels Hope Street Hotel <a href="http://www.hopestreehotel.co.uk">www.hopestreethotel.co.uk</a> but our special deal didn’t include breakfast. So we returned to Leaf in Bold Street <a href="http://www.thisisleaf.co.uk">www.thisisleaf.co.uk</a> We noticed that their menu has helpful symbols – (N) contains nuts, (V) vegetarian, (VV) vegan, (G) gluten. It now has a gluten free menu. On one occasion Ray had Maple Syrup Porridge with blueberry compote and toasted pumpkin seeds. He requested for it to be made with soya milk rather than ordinary milk. On another day he had toast (with no butter), bacon and baked beans. Gluten free choices included Gluten Free Vegan Breakfast – falafel sausages, roast vine tomatoes, gluten free toast and pureed avocado. Yum!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20porridge.jpg" alt="" width="283" height="159"></p>
<p>On one evening we dined at the Moroccan-style Kasbah Café Bazaar in Bold Street <a href="http://www.kasbahcafebazaar.co.uk/">http://www.kasbahcafebazaar.co.uk/</a> where most of the staff wear red fez hats. The décor is reminiscent of Marrakesh. We noticed there was no longer a retail section, but staff told us you could buy any of the merchandise displayed such as lamps, rugs and indeed fez hats! There were symbols on the menu indicating vegetarian, gluten free, vegan as well as a small “Vegetarian and Vegan” section on the menu offering dishes such as Tagine Lala Meulah – a butternut squash tagine.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20lamb%20tagine.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>We both ordered the lamb tagine, having been reassured by our waiter that it didn’t contain gluten or dairy. Very tasty.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20central%20library.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20picton%20reading%20room%20liverpool%20library.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Our friends took us to see Central Library in William Brown Street <a href="https://liverpool.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/central-library/">https://liverpool.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/central-library/</a> , a very impressive building especially the Picton Reading Room, one of the most extensive libraries in the world.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Victorian%20treasures.jpg" alt="" width="283" height="503"></p>
<p>We then visited The Walker Gallery <a href="http://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/walker/">http://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/walker/</a> where we attended the “Victorian Treasures” exhibition.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20met%20quarter%20flowers.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20met%20quarter%20flowers%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Afterwards, we enjoyed lunch at Carluccio’s <a href="http://www.carluccios.com">www.carluccios.com</a> at the Met Quarter <a href="http://www.metquarter.com">www.metquarter.com</a> shopping mall, where there was a colourful array of flowers to buy from MQ Flowers <a href="http://www.metquarter.com/shops/mq-flowers/">http://www.metquarter.com/shops/mq-flowers/</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20carluccios%20beef%20ragu.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20carluccios%20salad.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>At Carluccio’s, we asked for the gluten free and dairy free menu. This is a great improvement as they only used to have a gluten free menu. I chose Beetroot and Goat’s Cheese Salad, while Ray enjoyed Spaghetti Beef Ragu (from the dairy free menu).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20lambanana.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>I was pleased to see that Liverpool’s colourful Super Lambananas (a cross between a lamb and a banana!) were much in evidence around Liverpool. Designed by Taro Chiezo, The Super Lambanana was originally created for the 1998 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=ArtTransPennine_Exhibition&action=edit&redlink=1">ArtTransPennine Exhibition</a>. It reflects the history of Liverpool, as both sheep and bananas were common cargos in the city's docks.</p>
<p>In 2008, when Liverpool was designated <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Capital_of_Culture">European Capital of Culture</a>, 125 replicas were created, each with a different design. There aren’t that many now but if you’re lucky you’ll find some as you walk round the city.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Marmalade%20Skies%201.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Marmalade%20Skies%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>The next day we popped in to see Marmalade Skies for morning coffee in Allerton Road <a href="http://www.marmaladeskiestearooms.co.uk/">http://www.marmaladeskiestearooms.co.uk/</a> , number 5 in the Liverpool Echo’s top best afternoon teas for kids. We tasted delicious gluten free and dairy free peanut butter cookies, as well as cherry scones. Both were deliciously moist, which is difficult to achieve in gluten free baking. This was accompanied by tea and soya milk. The café is well equipped for kids with a pram park at the back, a kids’ reading area, a playroom with toys. The lunch menu has a “pick and mix” section for kids comprising a list of items such as carrot sticks, grapes, strawberries, melon, breadsticks, pasta spirals and natural yogurt, from which kids can choose three, four or five items at different prices. These are all served in a silicon cup case.</p>
<p>On Saturday night we met friends at Chung Ku Chinese restaurant <a href="http://www.chungku.co">www.chungku.co</a> on the waterfront, where we could see the lights of Birkenhead and an illuminated oil tanker passed by.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Chinese%20food%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Chinese%20food.jpg" alt="" width="283" height="159"></p>
<p>As we were a big group, we chose the banquet menu at £22 per person. It was completely dairy free, but there were some items that contained gluten so I was brought a gluten free menu where I chose chicken delight with iceberg lettuce and plum sauce instead of hoi sin sauce. When the others wrapped their aromatic crispy duck in pancakes, I smeared the iceberg lettuce with plum sauce, put some duck on it and rolled it up. Very tasty. I couldn’t eat the breaded chicken or the sweet and sour pork, but there were plenty of alternatives to choose from such as sliced beef in satay sauce or chicken with cashew nuts. The chicken and sweetcorn soup was delicious.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20chaba%20chaba%20pad%20thai.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Our last meal in Liverpool was at Thai restaurant ChaBa ChaBa in Allerton Road <a href="http://www.chabachaba.co.uk">www.chabachaba.co.uk</a> We do like Thai restaurants as they generally don’t use dairy but we always check. You can never be complacent or assume a dish won’t contain certain ingredients. We ordered Phad Thai and was told the dish contained rice noodles, with no gluten or dairy. I had the chicken version, while Ray had the duck.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20M&S%20sarnie.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>For the train journey home, we visited the Marks & Spencer <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com">www.marksandspencer.com</a> shop at Liverpool station. I bought a roast chicken and avocado sandwich “made without wheat or gluten” while Ray finally found a chicken and sweetcorn sandwich with mayonnaise, but no butter or milk. We’d heard about the M&S vegan sandwich but couldn’t find it and a member of staff couldn’t track it on the computer. One to watch out for.</p>
Eating Out With Food Allergies in Malta<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20INTRO%20Malta.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20INTRO%20Malta%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20INTRO%20Malta%203.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>It was another early morning flight, so bleary-eyed, we scanned the shelves at Eat <a href="http://www.eat.co.uk">www.eat.co.uk</a> at Gatwick Airport North Terminal. I didn’t fancy a salad at 5am so the only option was a fruit salad – at least it’s healthy. Ray fared better with a turkey and cranberry sandwich, selected because it didn’t have milk in it. I also had a gluten free cereal bar which was labelled “may contain milk, soya and peanuts”.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Ray%20eat%20sandwich.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Eat%20cereal%20bar.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>On board the busy EasyJet <a href="http://www.easyjet.com">www.easyjet.com</a> flight, the menu carried symbols ‘gf’ (gluten free) and v (vegetarian) but there was nothing for dairy free or vegan. There was Moma Porridge with gf and v symbols next to it. Ray asked to see the product so he could check the ingredients and was disappointed to discover it contained skimmed milk powder so he couldn’t have it. The Food Doctor <a href="http://www.thefooddoctor.com">www.thefooddoctor.com</a> has a section offering couscous and lentil wholesome pot and Thai style noodle pot, but there were no symbols indicating whether it was gluten free or dairy free. So you would need to ask to see the packaging to check the ingredients. We noted there was a gluten free 9 Bar Chia and Berry. So best to take your own food. We did have a cup of tea using our own Alpro <a href="http://www.alpro.com/uk">www.alpro.com/uk</a> soya milk which we carried in 100ml bottles from Muji <a href="http://www.muji.eu">www.muji.eu</a></p>
<p>Shell-shocked after the early start, we decided to have lunch at our hotel the Grand Excelsior Hotel, Valletta <a href="http://www.excelsior.com.mt">www.excelsior.com.mt</a> I’d emailed them in advance and they said they would provide soya milk and gluten free bread at breakfast.</p>
<p>The lunch menu usefully carried symbols – v – vegetarian; vg – vegan; gf – gluten free; l – lactose free and r – recommended dishes.</p>
<p>Gluten free pasta and bread was available, but I indulged in silver bream with tomatoes.</p>
<p>As Ray said as he scanned the menu. “They’re a bit light on lactose free and vegan dishes.” He is allergic to dairy products and his first two preferences contained dairy – home-made butternut squash tortelloni had ricotta cheese in it; chicken and carrots sous-vide was prepared with butter. He opted for local pork in pancetta and stuffed with parsnips, croquet, legume and peanut ragout (21.50 Euros) He double-checked that the vegetables didn’t have butter on them and the kitchen prepared some without.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20pork%20in%20pancetta.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20sea%20bream%20with%20tomatoes.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p><strong>Quest for Soya Milk</strong></p>
<p>We had a constant quest for soya milk. Although the hotel provided some, it tasted bitter in tea, although it could be used on cereal. We purchased the only remaining packet of Alprosoya milk from Wembley Stores, Republic Street <a href="http://www.thewembleystore.com">www.thewembleystore.com</a> On another occasion, we bought Koko dairy free milk, but found it also tasted bitter in tea. All the others were nut milks – almond, cashew which can be used in tea, but have a distinctive unpleasant taste. From experience, Alpro soya milk is one of the the best for tea – at home we use Tesco own label soya milk.</p>
<p>At the local Holland & Barrett store in Merchant Street, Valletta <a href="http://hollandandbarrettmalta.com/">http://hollandandbarrettmalta.com/</a> a great source of dairy free and gluten free foods, we bought a packet of their own label soya milk which tasted fine in tea. Success!</p>
<p><strong>Dining in Valletta</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20welcome%20to%20valletta.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></strong></p>
<p>As Valletta will become the European City of Culture in 2018 <a href="http://www.valletta2018.org">www.valletta2018.org</a> , it’s not surprising that there is so much construction work going on. The iconic Phoenician Hotel in Valletta is being refurbished with two enormous cranes towering above the 1930s building.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20phoenician%20building%20work.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>We look forward to seeing the new look hotel which will include new rooftop suites, an overhaul of the façade, new garden landscaping and a new health club. The aim is to have the hotel completed for Malta’s presidency of the European Union this year.</p>
<p>The entrance to Valletta has been transformed with new parliament buildings, as well as a new opera house. Further building work is planned including the restoration of the covered market (is-Suq l-Antok tal-Belt)</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20mdina%20glass%20xmas%20tree.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>The colourful distinctive Christmas tree made out of Mdina glass is one of the major attractions. It is made up of over 2,000 handmade glass baubles created by Mdina glass artisans at the glassmaker’s workshop at Ta’Qali.</p>
<p>For lunch we found Cafe Caravaggio in St John’s Square where I had a smoked salmon salad and Ray a plain grilled chicken breast and chips.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20cafe%20caravaggio%201.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20cafe%20caravaggio%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>On our first night, we chanced upon Papanni’s in Strait Street, Valletta <a href="http://www.papannis.com">www.papannis.com</a> a welcoming restaurant which offers gluten free pasta.</p>
<p>Ray ordered Penne Bolognese (11.50 euros). He was assured it was dairy free, but it was made with fresh tomatoes. He has a problem with tomato pips, so asked if it could be made with passata (sieved tomatoes). The waiter checked with the chef and returned to the table to say it would be possible. I chose grilled salmon and salad – a huge portion of salmon. As a starter, we were presented with a delicious pate of white beans, garlic and potatoes. As our waiter said “No milk, butter or dairy at all.” It was delicious. The service was excellent and we returned another evening.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20papannis%20salmon.jpg" alt="" width="264" height="148"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20penne%20bol%20papannis.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>A must in Valletta is having a cup of tea at Caffe Cordina <a href="http://www.caffecordina.com">www.caffecordina.com</a> dating back to 1837, reminiscent of a Viennese coffee shop. There are no gluten free or dairy free cakes, but there is soya milk and a complimentary gluten free and dairy free macaroon with each drink. They also serve gluten free pasta and salads, as well as Maltese specialities such as pastini made from almonds.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Cafe%20Cordina.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Breakfast at The Grand Excelsior Hotel was a vast hot and cold buffet. Hot food included boiled eggs, scrambled eggs, grilled tomatoes (lovely rich flavour), mushrooms and bacon. There was also a station where a chef cooks omelettes in front of you. I did pick out from the buffet smoked salmon, bacon, raw carrot sticks and goats’ cheese. The impressive array of fruit included melon, pink grapefruit, watermelon, but strangely no bananas unless you asked for them specially. It was a real treat sitting by the window looking at the views of Sliema across the creek and the luxury yachts moored at Msida Marina.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20breakfast%20buffet.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20excelsior%20breakfast.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>When I asked for gluten free bread, I was presented with a bowl of gluten free cereal, bread (already toasted) and digestive biscuits. Ray asked whether any of the cereals on display contained milk. They said they all contained milk except the gluten free cereal, but he didn’t take any chances as they couldn’t produce the packaging which he could check.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20gf%20breakfast.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>One evening we thought about having room service. The menu had symbols – l – lactose free and gf – gluten free. Ray wanted the beans and pork Minestrone style soup, but it wasn’t marked lactose free. We decided to try the lobby bar menu, which had the identical dish. When Ray asked if there was any dairy in it, the staff member checked with the chef and returned to say there wasn’t any. So he enjoyed the soup with cannelloni beans and local ham hocks (9.50 Euros). He said “In other words, I could eat it in the lobby bar, but not in the room!” I had chicken Caesar salad without the croutons.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20excelsior%20beans%20and%20pork.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"> </p>
<p>We used Malta’s excellent bus service to get round the island – 1.50 euros per journey or you can buy “tallinja” cards of various denominations – for example, 15 euros for 12 single day journeys. There’s also a “hop on, hop off” tour bus as well which would be excellent for a first time visitor.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Malta%20Aviation%20Museum.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Malta%20Aviation%20Museum%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>The no. 56 bus from Valletta goes to Ta’Qali crafts village and the Malta Aviation Museum <a href="http://www.maltaaviationmuseum.com">www.maltaaviationmuseum.com</a> This is one of the island’s best kept secrets. It’s well worth a visit even if you’re not an aircraft fan and boasts a collection of aircraft relating to Malta’s aviation history. This includes World War 2 aircraft such as a Spitfire and Hurricane. Incredibly, the museum is entirely run by volunteers who not only run the museum, but also carry out restoration work on the aircraft.</p>
<p>The museum is in the Ta’Qali area where you’ll also find a host of arts, crafts and jewellery shops. The only café there is at the Mediterranean Ceramics Café <a href="http://www.mediterraneanceramics.com">www.mediterraneanceramics.com</a> where Ray had a tuna sandwich with no butter (1.60 euros) and I had a tuna salad (6.10 euros).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Ta%20Qali%20tuna%20salad.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20tuna%20salad.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>At the shop you can see a vast array of ceramic ornaments but the most unusual are the table tops made from volcanic stone and hand-painted, which are shipped all round the world. They are also exhibited at the Hampton Court Flower Show and Chelsea Flower Show in the UK.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20mediterranean%20ceramics%201.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20ceramic%20tabletop.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p><strong>Tea Notes</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20tea%20notes.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></strong></p>
<p>In Malta, the search is always on for a decent cup of tea as there is a tendency to serve a pot of hot water with the ubiquitous Liptons tea bags. They taste appalling, so it’s always a pleasure to discover new tasty varieties of tea such as Althaus German made tea “English breakfast St Andrews variety” at Café Cordina, Clipper tea at Costa Coffee <a href="http://www.costamalta.com">www.costamalta.com</a> (Valletta and The Point, Sliema) and English Tea Shop organic English breakfast tea <a href="http://www.etsteas.co.uk">www.etsteas.co.uk</a> at the Grand Excelsior Valletta. It’s great news that Costa Coffee has arrived in Malta as it means that their English Breakfast tea is available with soya milk. Our favourite branch is in the Embassy Shopping Complex, Valletta and there’s free wi fi (just enter the password at the bottom of the receipt)</p>
<p><strong>Supermarket Know How</strong></p>
<p>Valletta isn’t well served for supermarkets. You’ll find a few gluten free and dairy free foods at The Wembley Stores and Holland & Barrett. We also discovered gluten free and dairy free foods in The Albion Stores, Merchant Street, Valletta, although curiously the shop’s signage only says “souvenirs and decorations.”</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20supermarket%20know%20how%201.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20supermarket%20know%20how%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>In Sliema, you’ll find the Chain Foodstore on level -2 of The Point shopping centre <a href="http://www.thepointmalta.com">www.thepointmalta.com</a> with a gluten free and dairy free section.</p>
<p><strong>Dining in Sliema</strong></p>
<p>At Café Cuba <a href="http://www.cafecuba.com.mt">www.cafecuba.com.mt</a> the menu has symbols indicating whether a dish contains certain ingredients – SH spicy hot; SS sesame seeds; M mustard; S soyabean; V vegetarian; G gluten; L lactose; E eggs; F fish; N nuts. Virtually everything had gluten and lactose in it, although I did find roast beef, beetroot and goat’s cheese salad (12.50 euros). Ray had the same without cheese.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Cafe%20Cuba.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>I’m starting to think that some restaurants claim that more or less everything contains certain allergens so they are seen to be adhering to the EU regulations (where restaurants are supposed to list what allergens are in their dishes). This may be down to laziness (not wanting to make the effort to state the allergens in each dish), or lacking the ability to do it. Or are they playing it safe because their suppliers don’t give them this information?</p>
<p><strong>New Year’s Eve</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20New%20Years%20Eve%201.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20New%20Years%20Eve%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20New%20Years%20Eve%204.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></strong></p>
<p><strong></strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20New%20Years%20Eve%205.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></strong></p>
<p>Valletta came to life on New Year’s Eve with all the activity focused on St George’s Square with live music and cartoons projected onto the façade of the Grandmaster’s Palace. The streets were full of stalls selling all manner of food and drink. The city became frenetically busy with throngs of people. We had an early dinner at Papannis followed by tea at Caffe Cordina. The evening’ festivities culminated with a spectacular firework display.</p>
<p>On New Year’s Day, in contrast, the city was virtually deserted with only a few shops open. We found Costa Coffee at the Embassy Shopping Complex open and discovered the “Eat Real” gluten free and dairy free cereal bar.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Costa%20Coffee%20New%20Year's%20Day.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>A long walk down the steps and through winding streets brought us to the Valletta Waterfront, where you can see the beautifully restored baroque 18<sup>th</sup> century warehouses which were built by Grand Master Pinto as stores for the Knights of St John. The different colours on the doors represented the goods that were stored inside such as blue for fish and red for wine. Today the warehouses have been converted into restaurants and shops. We picked Bistro 516 <a href="http://www.qbarmalta.com">www.qbarmalta.com</a> as it offered a gluten free menu. We always think if there’s a gluten free menu available, chances are they will be more aware about other allergies such as dairy. This seemed to be the case because when I was handed the gluten free menu, they said it was lactose free too. As it was New Year’s Day, it was very busy with families and large parties, so I’d recommend booking.</p>
<p>We both ate sedanini, a curly gluten free macaroni pasta with chicken, peas, mushrooms, fresh parsley and olive oil (10.50 euros). Delicious. Mine was accompanied by a gluten free beer. To our astonishment there was a range of gluten free and dairy free desserts.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Bistro%20516%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Ray chose dairy free and gluten free lemon cheesecake, similar to a raw vegan cake. My choice was the gluten free almond cake topped with chunks of Toblerone – mouth-wateringly divine – crispy and chocolatey. A great start to the New Year!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Bistro%20516%203.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Bistro%20516%204.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p><strong>Fishing village of Marsaxlokk</strong></p>
<p>A trip to the tranquil fishing village of Marsaxlokk is a must. Avoid Sundays when the tiny village is over-crowded with people visiting the market and you’ll be very lucky if you can find anywhere for lunch.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Marsaxlokk%201.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Marsaxlokk%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>On Monday we took the 81 bus from Valletta and found the village was deserted and we could soak up the idyllic picturesque view of the brightly coloured fishing boats against the blue sky. Stroll along the harbour and watch the fishermen repairing their boats or folding the nets. A market is held there most days selling lace tablecloths, Maltese food and general tourist merchandise.</p>
<p>The highlight of the day, apart from sitting in the sunshine taking pictures and enjoying the view, is a fish lunch. At La Torre, there is a useful glossary of fish varieties at the back of the menu – for example, Spnotta – sea bass; Awrata – sea bream, Qamita – octopus.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20salmon%20Marsaxlokk.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20pork%20chops%20Marsaxlokk.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>I decided on my favourite grilled salmon (14.90 euros) while Ray ordered pork chops (10.90 euros) accompanied by salad, French fries and fried courgette. You can tell the difference between boat caught fish and the fish bought at a UK supermarket! The taste was wonderful – definitely no need for any kind of sauce. A dash of pepper and olive oil is all you need. Ray liked his pork shops (he rarely eats fish) and again no need for any sauce to spoil the natural flavour. It’s also reasonably priced.</p>
<p>There’s a Costa Coffee here opposite the bus stop where we had a reviving cup of tea with soya milk naturally.</p>
<p><strong>Maritime Museum at Vittoriosa</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20vittoriosa.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></strong></p>
<p>The next day we took the no. 2 bus to Birgu (Citta Vittoriosa). It was a Tuesday and we discovered a big street market right next to the bus stop. Worth checking if it’s held every Tuesday. Vast array of merchandise such as towels, socks, clothing as well as fruit and vegetable stalls.</p>
<p>Vittoriosa boasts the Maritime Museum which charts Malta’s maritime history. Its exhibits include the largest Roman lead anchor in the world weighing 4 tons.</p>
<p>We found the restaurant near the museum over-priced and crowded so headed back to the town square for lunch alfresco at Café du Brazil although it was draughty sitting in the wind, even though the sun was shining, but there were no tables inside.</p>
<p>Ray had chicken salad (giving me all the tomatoes as he can’t eat them) and I had the tuna salad. We were given sachets of mayonnaise. Automatically Ray checked the ingredients and found milk protein listed. You can’t be too careful! Milk in mayonnaise! Gluten free desserts were available.</p>
<p>Back at the Grand Excelsior Hotel, Valletta, we were surprised to see two vegan dishes listed on the lobby bar menu – tofu salad and a vegan burger.</p>
<p>Ray decided to try the vegan burger (16.50 euros) made of quinoa, chickpea and sweet potato patty with beef tomatoes and lettuce. He gave me the tomatoes. Ray said it was very tasty. The bun was spread with pate (white beans and garlic) similar to the one we tasted at Papannis.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20vegan%20burger.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Overall, Malta’s foodservice outlets seem to understand gluten free requirements. Several served gluten free pasta and in the case of Bistro 516, a gluten free menu, but I think there is room for improvement especially for people with dairy free intolerances and allergies.</p>
Eating Out With Food Allergies in Stockholm Sweden<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20abba%20boots.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20INTRO%20moose%20xmas%20decorations.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20INTRO%20Stockholm%20xmas%20lights.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Arriving at Gatwick Airport departure lounge northern terminal at 4.30am feeling shell-shocked and bewildered as it was so early, but determined to keep awake, we took solace at Pret <a href="http://www.pret.co.uk">www.pret.co.uk</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Pret%20gf%20granola.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Here I discovered gluten free granola topped with yogurt – delicious! Ray decided on his usual – cucumber and tuna baguette (which crucially has no butter) and picked out the slices of cucumber, which he can’t eat. The cups of tea with soya milk revived us. As we had been told (and researched ourselves) that alcohol was expensive in Sweden, we bought a few bottles of wine in the duty free. The idea was that we could have drinks in the room with our friends (who were travelling from Liverpool) and then not order wine with our meal (although Ray doesn’t drink alcohol and I drink very little).</p>
<p>Soon we were on board the full Norwegian Airlines <a href="http://www.norwegian.com">www.norwegian.com</a> flight to Stockholm. The food and drink inflight menu had no indication about allergies at all, so we were pleased we had already eaten something. On closer examination, there was gluten free cranberry and raisin porridge on offer or salmon and potato salad. The sandwiches had no indication as to whether there was any butter in them. There was no soya milk available, but fortunately we had brought our own Alpro soya milk <a href="http://www.alpro.com">www.alpro.com</a> in 100ml bottles from Muji <a href="http://www.muji.eu">www.muji.eu</a></p>
<p>At Stockholm Airport, we asked the information desk where we could catch the train to the city and then took the lift to the station on the floor below. The Arlanda Express <a href="http://www.arlandaexpress.se">www.arlandaexpress.se</a> takes only 20 minutes to the city and gives you a great opportunity to see the Swedish countryside. It was Friday so we got a good deal – two tickets for 300 Swedish kroner (SEK)/£27. We should have asked for a return because on the way back on Monday we paid 560 SEK/£50. You have been warned. From the railway station, it was a short walk to our hotel, although we had to ask a couple of people where it was as the map wasn’t clear.</p>
<p>Our first request at the Best Western&hotel <a href="http://www.andhotel.se/">http://www.andhotel.se/</a> where we were staying, was to ask the reception staff to write down in Swedish “I have an allergy to gluten” and “I have an allergy to milk and dairy products.”</p>
<p>Here is the translation: “<em>Allergier gluten</em>” – so it’s the same word which is helpful – and “<em>Allergier mjolkprotein/Mjolkprodukter</em>” – “I have an allergy to milk and milk products.”</p>
<p>We were tired from our early morning start and the walk from the railway station, so decided to have lunch at the hotel. A member of staff was helpful in telling us whether dishes contained gluten or dairy. We concluded there was nothing we could eat on the a la carte menu, but there was plenty we could eat from the cold salad buffet. Buffets are excellent because usually you can see at a glance whether you can eat a certain dish. Our meal consisted of cold chicken, dolmades, grated carrot, tomatoes, lettuce and corn on the cob (which were not coated in butter) – 120 SEK/£10.90 each.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20lunch%20buffet%20Best%20Western.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20lunch%20at%20Best%20Western.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Our mission was to find a restaurant that evening for our friends (who were arriving later) so we would be a party of eight. At the Stockholm tourist board booth in one of the largest shopping malls Galerian <a href="http://www.gallerian.se">www.gallerian.se</a> , they said they didn’t know much about restaurants – the only one they knew was Friday’s American Bar and Café <a href="https://fridays.se/find-us/">https://fridays.se/find-us/</a></p>
<p>We didn’t think our friends would like a hamburger joint, so we tried several more restaurants. Trying to book a table for eight so near Christmas was difficult. We continued walking around until we found, by chance, Jamie’s Italian, <span><strong> </strong></span><span>Humlegårdsgatan 23, </span><a href="https://www.jamieoliver.com/italian/sweden/restaurants/stureplan/">https://www.jamieoliver.com/italian/sweden/restaurants/stureplan/</a> where we were able to book a table. Our first choice would have been a more traditional Swedish restaurant, but we were getting desperate by this time. We stopped off for a tea with soya milk at Starbucks (as we thought there would be soya milk) in Stureplan <a href="http://www.starbucks.se/stockholm-stureplan.php">http://www.starbucks.se/stockholm-stureplan.php</a> where I enjoyed a gluten free peanut and cashew bar.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Starbucks%20gf%20bar.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>As there were tea-making facilities in our hotel room, we bought our own packet of Alpro soya milk from Hemköp supermarket on Ostermalm <a href="https://www.hemkop.se/">https://www.hemkop.se/</a> but couldn’t see a ‘free from’ section. Fortunately we had brought Nairns oatcakes <a href="http://www.nairns-oatcakes.com/gluten-free%20and%20nak'd%20bars%20/www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk/nakd-fruit-and-nut-bars/">www.nairns-oatcakes.com/gluten-free and nak’d bars /www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk/nakd-fruit-and-nut-bars/</a> with us as a stopgap – we always travel with these items – just in case.</p>
<p>That evening, our friends seemed to be happy with our choice of restaurant. On the menu there were gluten free options clearly marked – pasta and pizza. I opted for Gennaro’s Tagliatelle Bolognese (175 SEK with no pangrattato (breadcrumbs) and Parmesan. I enjoyed it, although I found the sauce thin and watery.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20ray%20burger.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>Ray explained he had an allergy to dairy and asked if he could have Jamie’s Italian Burger with no cheese or sliced tomato. I queried the brioche bun as traditionally it has butter in it. Our waiter checked with the kitchen and was told it had no dairy in it. The burger was placed in front of Ray with great aplomb. Automatically Ray removed the ‘lid’ of the bun to check the dish. To his surprise, there was a yellow sticky ingredient on top of the burger which I tasted. It was cheese, so we sent it back. The waiter was apologetic, but if Ray hadn’t removed the top of the bun, he wouldn’t have known there was cheese in the burger and would have been poorly.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20soya%20milk%20breakfast.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20gf%20df%20muesli.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20gf%20bread%20at%20breakfast.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>At breakfast at the hotel, there was a vast buffet – cold meats, salad, bread, avocadoes, fruit, jams, while the hot buffet offered meat balls (which I was informed contained gluten), bacon and scrambled eggs. I found a tiny ‘free from’ area where there was a collection of ‘free from’ milks including almond and soya; lactose free yogurt and gluten free muesli, which I recognised as Schar’s. Ray asked a member of staff to check the packaging to see if the smoked ham had dairy in it. It didn’t. After asking for gluten free bread, they found some which I then toasted. There wasn’t a designated toaster for gluten free bread, so you might have to go without toasting it, depending on how sensitive you are. The toast was delicious with strawberry jam.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20boots%20that%20fell%20apart.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>The next day we watched the colourful changing of the guard ceremony at 12.15pm in front of the 250 year old Royal Palace. The weather had changed; it was now snowing so I had taken the precaution of wearing my special snow boots.</p>
<p></p>
<p>While we were walking round the Gamla stan, the ‘Old Town’ with its narrow cobbled streets and golden buildings, I became aware that one of my boots were disintegrating and sure enough, a great lump of sole lay in the snow. Fortunately I was able to keep walking although it wasn’t very comfortable and soon the other boot was, too, falling away. Eventually we managed to flag down a taxi for the hotel which wasn’t as expensive as we thought, 120SEK/£10.90. It was a relief to sit in the taxi not only because of my boots, but also the weather was getting worse.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Tai%20pad%20thai.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Masimann%20curry.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Reunited with my ordinary boots, some friends joined us and suggested we should try a Thai restaurant round the corner from the hotel as the weather was so bad. From experience, we know Thai food doesn’t contain dairy. Thai Take Away Samniang <a href="http://www.thaitakeaway.kvartersmenyn.se">www.thaitakeaway.kvartersmenyn.se</a> was the Thai equivalent to a “greasy spoon café” with very little seating. We didn’t realise it was predominantly a takeaway joint, but a staff member welcomed us and joined two tables together. We both chose dishes we’d eaten before. Mine was Chicken Thai Pad, while Ray had chicken Massaman curry with rice. Each dish was around 89 SEK/£8 – very reasonable and just what we needed to keep warm. It tasted delicious too.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Drottinghof%20grill%20and%20bar%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Our friend Neil had found a restaurant for the evening – Drottninghof Grill & Bar <a href="http://www.drottninghof.se">www.drottninghof.se</a> I found the service excellent and the staff were very helpful regarding our food allergies, although it has to be said that vegetarians might find it a struggle as the menu is predominantly meat. The house speciality is home-made meatballs made of deer and elk with loganberries. My choice was grilled salmon with asparagus and potatoes. Ray explained his allergies and said he wanted “Oxfile” – this is filet of beef on a wooden slate, traditionally served on mashed potato, but the staff member said that instead of this, it would be served on a plate with French fries. He was very quick to understand what Ray could eat - as our friend Alan remarked “That’s the quickest Ray has ever placed his order.” The food didn’t disappoint either – it was very tasty.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20grilled%20salmon.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20filet%20of%20beef.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>The next day we caught a taxi to The Abba Museum <a href="http://www.abbamuseum">www.abbamuseum</a> on the island of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Djurg%C3%A5rden">Djurgården</a>, as the snow was getting worse. This museum is a must for Abba fans. Even if you’re not a fan, there’s still something to see and do for everyone. It’s worth booking online in advance – entrance is 195 SEK/£18 per person.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20outside%20abba%20museum.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>Included in the ticket is an audio commentary which is accessed by swiping a plastic phone-like contraption across a reader at strategic points of the exhibition. This means you can hear the members of the band sharing their early memories – how they met, how they began their careers and so on. There are plenty of videos to watch and opportunities to join in – you can stand on stage and sing alongside holograms of the band. Awesome!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20abba%20museum%203.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20abba%20museum%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20abba%20museum%201.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>After this, we trudged through the snow to the next museum - Vasamuseet (Vasa Museum). Although it is only a short distance from the Abba museum, it seemed much further in the show. Entrance is 130 SEK/£12 per person. The museum displays the only almost fully intact 16th century ship that has ever been salvaged, the 64-gun warship <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasa_(ship)"><em>Vasa</em></a> that sank on her maiden voyage in 1628. It truly is a spectacular sight and you can view different parts of the ship on each floor. There are additional displays of artefacts recovered during the salvage operation. The many lion sculptures reflect that King Gustav II Adolf, who commissioned the vessel, was known as the Lion of the North. An astonishing and absorbing visit.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Vasser%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Vasser%204.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Vasser%20replica.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Vasser%205.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>For lunch, Ray and I ordered a roast beef salad. The menu at the Vasa Museum has symbols on the menu (G means contains gluten, L contains lactose, E – egg) which is helpful, but revealed there wasn’t much choice.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20roast%20beef%20salad.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>On our last night, we dined at Urban Deli <a href="http://www.urbandeli.org">www.urbandeli.org</a>, a short walk from the hotel. This isn’t just a deli, as the name suggests, but also a restaurant. It sells many ‘free from’ foods such as Friends of Adam <a href="http://www.friendsofadam.se/">http://www.friendsofadam.se/</a> fruit and nut gluten free bread, gluten free and dairy free biscuits and gluten free muffins. Not many dairy free products to be seen.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Urban%20Deli%20prods%201.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Urban%20Deli%202%20gf%20biscuits.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Urban%20DEeli%203%20gluten%20free%20products.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></p>
<p>The menu is predominantly seafood and fish, but we did find one dish we thought we could have – “Spicy Lax Salad” spicy blackened salmon salad, kohlrabi, carrots, salad, peanuts, cilantro, cucumber, chili mayonnaise. There were no symbols on the menu to indicate whether dishes were gluten free or dairy free so you’d have to check with the waiting staff. Fortunately our waiter was very knowledgeable and advised us that the “Spicy Lax Salda” was ok. She also brought gluten free bread without being prompted. Urban Deli has its own white wine ‘Gallican’ made in Nimes which was delicious (our friends insisted!)</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Urban%20Deli%20gf%20bread%20restaurant.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Spicy%20Lax%20salad%20Urban%20deli.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>On the next day, as we took the train back to Arlanda Airport, we were able to admire fabulous snowy ‘postcard’ views of the countryside while basking in the warmth of the train.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20traing%20going%20back%202.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20train%20going%20back.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p><em>Note: I used the exchange rate of 11 SEK to £1</em></p>
Free From Eating Out Awards at Food Matters Live<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20CROPPED%20Michelle%20and%20Dominic.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="212"></p>
<p>The overall winner of the third FreeFrom Eating Out Awards was the Labyrinth Holistic Café <a href="http://www.labyrinthholisticcafe.org/">http://www.labyrinthholisticcafe.org/</a> , a community cafe in Stockton on Tees. This café operates a 100% gluten free kitchen, is accredited by Coeliac UK and offers lacto free, dairy free, egg free, vegetarian and vegan dishes. Ray and I are looking forward to visiting there next year.</p>
<p>Now in their third year, the FreeFrom Eating Out Awards <a href="http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk">http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk</a> aims to build awareness and reward ‘free from’ excellence in foodservice, as well as recognising the best allergy and gluten free friendly restaurants, cafes and other foodservice outlets.</p>
<p>Michelle Berriedale-Johnson and her team must be commended for starting up these vital Awards. It was so rewarding to attend the Awards ceremony at Food Matters Live <a href="http://www.foodmatterslive.com">www.foodmatterslive.com</a> to see how the sector is developing. This year’s successful entrants included fish and chip shops, gastro pubs, 960 branches of JD Wetherspoons, fine dining restaurants and school caterers. As Michelle says “The foodservice industry has definitely got its head round the concept of catering allergen free; we look forward to a very exciting year next year.”</p>
<p>The Awards were presented by Dominic Teague, executive chef of Indigo restaurant at London’s One Aldwych Hotel <a href="http://www.onealdwych.com/food-drink/indigo">http://www.onealdwych.com/food-drink/indigo</a> , who also received his own award – the new FreeFrom Eating Out Awards Pathfinder Award. When Indigo reopened after its kitchen refurbishment, it decided to offer an entirely gluten free and dairy free menu (as they received so many requests for gluten free and dairy free), but they didn’t tell anyone. All they received were compliments about their new menu, so after three months they revealed that the menu was gluten free and dairy free – and their bookings increased by 30%. I know this restaurant well as I wrote an article about the kitchen refurbishment. Ray and I dined with friends there recently, so I will be posting a blog about it soon. It’s well recommended. <em>(Pictured above is Michelle chatting to Dominic)</em></p>
<p>For a complete list of runners-up, Gold, Silver and Bronze winners in all the categories please visit <a href="http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk/">http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk/</a></p>
<p>I was pleased that one of my local ‘free from’ restaurants The Willow in Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, <a href="http://yourwillow.co.uk/">http://yourwillow.co.uk/</a> was not only one of the runners-up, but also one of the Gold winners in the restaurant category. T<span>he menu has symbols for every dish, so it’s easy to see at a glance what you can or can’t eat. The smoky kale crisps as a starter are a must. There’s a good selection of main courses, both dairy free and gluten free such as Fusion Salmon ‘n Salsa. The choice of desserts is impressive – Willow carrot and courgette cake or rosemary infused pear sorbet, both of which are gluten free and dairy free. It also has 13 gluten free beers on draught.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>What’s New in ‘Free From’ at Food Matters Live</strong></span></p>
<p><span><strong><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Oomi%20protein%20noodles.jpg" alt="" width="241" height="428"></strong></span></p>
<p><span>One of the best discoveries at the exhibition was Oomi gluten free ready-to-eat noodles </span><a href="http://www.oominoodles.com">www.oominoodles.com</a><span> which are high in protein and have 75% less carbohydrates than regular egg noodles. I sampled some on the stand – delicious! You can throw them in the wok or warm in the microwave or add them, cold, to salads. Available from Ocado. Attractive yellow packaging.</span></p>
<p><span><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Manilife%20peanut%20butter.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></span></p>
<p><span>I enjoyed tasting Manilife </span><a href="http://www.mani-life.com">www.mani-life.com</a><span> Argentinian peanut butter, both gluten and dairy free, with no sugar or palm oil, available online.</span></p>
<p><span><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Miiro%20ice%20cream.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></span></p>
<p><span>Another treat was sampling the new dairy free, sugar free and gluten free ice cream lolly from Miiro </span><a href="http://www.miiro.co.uk">www.miiro.co.uk</a><span> in three flavours – salted caramel, vanilla and peanut butter and chocolate hazelnut. This will be in the shops in February 2017 – will keep you posted.</span></p>
<p><span><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Wild%20Trail.jpg" alt="" width="241" height="428"></span></p>
<p><span>Wild Trail </span><a href="http://www.wildtrail.co.uk">www.wildtrail.co.uk</a><span> was showcasing its range of tasty raw fruit and nut bars, which are gluten and dairy free, refined sugar free and suitable for vegans. They contain just five ingredients – gluten free oats, peanuts, raisins, apple juice concentrate, pumpkin seeds, red skinned apple or cacao topping. Available online and from Tesco </span><a href="http://www.tesco.com">www.tesco.com</a><span> </span></p>
<p><span><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Gusto%20Nero.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></span></p>
<p><span>Gusto Nero </span><a href="http://www.gustonero.co.uk">www.gustonero.co.uk</a><span> launched its Organic Black Jasmine Rice Pasta from Thailand, which is gluten free and vegan. in a variety of formats such as fusilli, macaroni, spaghetti. Available online.</span></p>
<p><span><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Fodify%20Foods.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="500"></span></p>
<p><span>“Better Without” is a new curry and pasta sauce from Fodify Foods </span><a href="http://www.fodify.co.uk">www.fodify.co.uk</a><span> , which is dairy free and gluten free, has no onion or garlic and uses low FODMAP ingredients. See the web site for more information and online sales. </span></p>
<p><span> </span></p>
<p> </p>
What's New in 'Free From' at VegFestUK 2016<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20VEgfest%20opneing%20pic.jpg" alt="" width="309" height="174"></p>
<p>One of our best discoveries at this year’s VegfestUK show <a href="http://www.vegfest.co.uk">www.vegfest.co.uk</a> at London Olympia was the delicious dairy free chocolates from Almighty Foods <a href="http://www.almightyfoods.co.uk">www.almightyfoods.co.uk</a> a first time Scottish exhibitor. The Cashew Butter botanical raw chocolate - creamy cashew, coconut and vanilla chocolate – literally melts in your mouth.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Allmighty%20Foods%20cashew%20butter.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Allmighty%20Foods%20nut%20butter.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"></p>
<p>Other varieties include Golden Blonde and Coconut and Orange. The company also produces an array of nut butters such as Cashew Caramello and Raspberry Whip Gourmet, a fruity nut butter. You can order the products online, although there are stockists in Scotland. It can only be a matter of time before these delicious products are stocked country-wide.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Frill.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"></p>
<p>When is an ice cream not an ice cream? When it’s a Frill frozen smoothie <a href="http://www.frill.eu">www.frill.eu</a> that doesn’t contain cream or eggs – instead it’s a mix of maize, water, dates and dietary fibres. The result? An array of tantalising dairy free desserts in flavours such as chocolate and strawberry, which taste like ice cream but are dairy free and contain around half the sugar. The packaging features an appealing bear. Various stockists including Waitrose and Whole Foods – see web site for more.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Elspeths%20Kitchen.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"></p>
<p>We were impressed by the array of vegan tortes on display at Elspeth’s Kitchen <a href="http://www.elspethskitchen.com">www.elspethskitchen.com</a> These are gluten free, dairy free, soya free and refined sugar free. They look like works of art. In particular, we loved the chocolate and orange torte – delicious!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Bute%20Island%20Foods.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"></p>
<p>People crowded round the Bute Island Food stands <a href="http://www.buteisland.com">www.buteisland.com</a> to sample its dairy free vegan cheeses under the ‘Sheese’ brand. The mozzarella, mature cheddar, cheddar and chive and Greek style dairy free cheeses were all very tasty. Samples disappeared almost the moment they were put out and the staff were hard pressed to keep up. My favourite was the mature cheddar. It’s always difficult to find dairy free cheese which taste this good – normally it has a very synthetic taste. See the web site for stockists.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20CAribbean%20patties.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"> </p>
<p>For lunch, Ray chose a mixed vegetable vegan Jamaican pattie from St Best Caribbean Caterers <a href="http://www.stbestcaterers.co.uk/">http://www.stbestcaterers.co.uk/</a> , while I enjoyed mixed salads with brown rice and aubergine from The Green Bean Café <a href="http://www.tgbcafe.co.uk">www.tgbcafe.co.uk</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20VEgan%20Sweet%20Tooth.jpg" alt="" width="309" height="174"></p>
<p>The Vegan Sweet Tooth <a href="http://www.giancarolroncato.co.uk">www.giancarolroncato.co.uk</a> stand displayed its extensive range of vegan cakes, all beautifully decorated, such as Raspberry and Vanilla Marble Cake, Carrots and Dates Cake and Camomile and Zucchini cake, some of which are gluten free.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Good%20Full%20Stop%20bars.jpg" alt="" width="309" height="174"></p>
<p>Good Full Stop <a href="http://www.goodfullstop.com">www.goodfullstop.com</a> showcased its new range of bars, made from dates. Our favourites are Mixed Nuts Fruit & Nut Bar (made from dates, cashews and hazelnuts) and Chocolate & Mint Fruit & Nut Bar. They are gluten and dairy free, available to buy online.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Emily's%20Crisps.jpg" alt="" width="309" height="174"></p>
<p>Another newcomer was Emily Fruit Crisps <a href="http://www.emilyfruitcrisps.co.uk">www.emilyfruitcrisps.co.uk</a> Named after one of the co-founders, these fruity crisps are delicious. We tried several varieties such as Crunchy French Bean Sugar Snaps and Black Edamame, Crunchy Banana (my favourite) and Crunchy Sweet Potato Carrot & Beetroot. Available to buy online as well as stockists such as Ocado and Holland & Barrett.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
What's New in 'free from' at lunch Show? <p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Freak%20of%20Nature.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"></p>
<p>My best discovery at the lunch show <a href="http://www.lunchshow.co.uk">www.lunchshow.co.uk</a> (the trade show for the ‘food to go’ sector) was Freaks of Nature <a href="http://www.freaksofnature.co.uk">www.freaksofnature.co.uk</a> . These are delicious puddings, made from fruit, nuts, coconut and cacao. Crucially they are gluten free, dairy free and free from soya and artificial additives, packaged in 90g twin, single and 45g mini pots. I have to say my favourite was Cocoa Loco, a chocolate ganache made with coconut milk and a special blend of cashew cream, sweetened with date syrup and topped with hazelnuts, but they all taste great! It’s always challenging to find a dessert that is gluten free and dairy free, but this one ticks all the boxes.</p>
<p>Apparently Peter Ahye, the founder of the company, spent 12 months in the development kitchen coming up with these goodies. They were launched at the show, so we’ll have to wait to see where we can buy them. So watch this space.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Nom.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"></p>
<p>nom <a href="http://www.nomfoods.co.uk">www.nomfoods.co.uk</a> produces a range of bars which are gluten free, vegan, dairy free, with no refined sugars. Steph Croft-Simon, founder of the company, who is gluten and dairy free, wanted to make free from foods which appealed to everyone, not just those with a food allergy, so she started making nom bars at home. Now they can be found in stockists, such as Planet Organic and Holland & Barrett, although you can order direct from the web site. Varieties include banana and cacao and raspberry. There’s also a range of popcorn, in flavours such as Cinnamon Maple and Tomato Pesto, also gluten free and dairy free.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Booja%20Booja%20dairy%20free%20ice%20cream.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="519"></p>
<p>Another great discovery was the new gluten free and dairy free ice cream from Booja Booja <a href="http://www.boojabooja.com">www.boojabooja.com</a> . I particularly liked the Chocolate Salted Caramel, although there are plenty of other flavours including Hazelnut Truffle and Raspberry Ripple. Its range of truffles (also gluten and dairy free) are delicious especially Hazelnut Crunch. See the web site for stockists.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Mallow%20and%20Marsh.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="519"></p>
<p>How about a marshmallow bar? That’s what I discovered at the Mallow & Marsh <a href="http://www.mallowandmarsh.com">www.mallowandmarsh.com</a> stand. There are several varieties (all gluten free) including coconut marshmallow bar; raspberry, coated in 70% dark chocolate. Stockists, which include Sainsbury’s, are on the web site, although you can buy directly online.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Nutmeg%20and%20Hive.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="519"></p>
<p>Nutmeg and Hive <a href="http://www.nutmegandhive.com">www.nutmegandhive.com</a> was displaying its new range of gluten free super yogurts, packed in mini pots, comprising a layer of fruit at the bottom, yogurt and blossom honey. Three varieties – blueberry, mango and passionfruit and raspberry.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Glebe%20Farm.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="519"></p>
<p>Rebecca Rayner, who runs Glebe Farm <a href="http://www.glebefarmfoods.co.uk">www.glebefarmfoods.co.uk</a> with her brother, was showcasing her range of gluten free bread, muffins and cake mixes which she has developed. Cake mixes include chocolate, carrot and ginger, as well as cranberry and blueberry muffin mix. Breakfast cereals include gluten free oats, muesli and granola crisp. Glebe Farm’s gluten free bread and rolls can be found in all National Trust cafés. Available online or see the web site for stockists.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Sandown Park Food Festival September 17 and 18<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20general%20shot.jpg" alt="" width="289" height="163"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20cooking%20demo.jpg" alt="" width="289" height="163"></p>
<p>We arrived at the Sandown Park Food Festival in Esher on Saturday 17 September <a href="http://www.fantasticbritishfoodfestivals.com/sandown-park.html">http://www.fantasticbritishfoodfestivals.com/sandown-park.html</a> with great excitement. It was not only the first ever Festival, but it also gave us the opportunity discover new and innovative free from foods, that were dairy free and gluten free.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20pinch%20of%20this%202.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"></p>
<p>One of the biggest discoveries was Pinch of This, which calls itself “Gluten Free Gastronomy” <a href="http://www.pinchofthis.co.uk">www.pinchofthis.co.uk</a> with its magnificent display of gluten free cakes such as raspberry and white chocolate brownies and multi-coloured macarons. Mark Renshaw from the company says he also produces dairy free versions, so we look forward to sampling those soon.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20gf%20almond%20and%20coconut%20Mimis.jpg" alt="" width="289" height="163"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Mimis%20tea%20and%20cakes.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"></p>
<p>Talking of cakes, I sampled a delicious gluten free almond and coconut cake from Mimi’s Teas and Cakes <a href="http://www.mimisteasandcakes.co.uk">www.mimisteasandcakes.co.uk</a> from its bright pink van accompanied by a cup of tea with Alpro almond milk (as there was no soya) <a href="http://www.alpro.com/uk">www.alpro.com/uk</a> Apparently Mimi also makes vegan cakes and sells them at Greenwise in Fetcham, Surrey <a href="http://www.greenwiseshop.com">www.greenwiseshop.com</a> which also has a café.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Churros%201.jpg" alt="" width="289" height="514"></p>
<p>Ray, who is dairy free, was wondering if he would find anything he could eat until he chanced upon Churros <a href="http://www.churrosgarcia.co.uk">www.churrosgarcia.co.uk</a> with its bright red stand. Churros, dairy free and vegan, are a traditional Spanish snack, sometimes referred to as a Spanish doughnut, but they are crispier and lighter than a doughnut – or so Ray says.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20marshmallow%20heaven%201.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"></p>
<p>Another find was the mouth-wateringly delicious marshmallows, aptly named Marshmallow Heaven <a href="http://www.marshmallowheaven.org">www.marshmallowheaven.org</a> , very different from the normal ones. For a start, they are much bigger and they have imaginative toppings you wouldn’t associate with marshmallows such as rhubarb and custard, pineapple and mango. They really do melt in your mouth.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Oppo%20ice%20cream.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"></p>
<p>Gluten free ice cream could be found on the Oppo stand <a href="http://www.oppoicecream.co.uk">www.oppoicecream.co.uk</a>, also described as “guilt free” as it’s 40 calories a scoop as it keeps the amount of sugar to a minimum by using stevia. Check out the web site for your nearest stockist which include Waitrose and the Co-op.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Wiltshire%20Chilli%20Farm.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="164"></p>
<p>For those who like it hot, we found The Wiltshire Chilli Farm <a href="http://www.justchillies.co.uk">www.justchillies.co.uk</a> with its amazing Mango Hot Sauce, guaranteed to perk up food. It’s gluten free and dairy free.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20BasilurUK.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"></p>
<p>A novel way of presenting tea was on the Basilur Tea stand <a href="http://www.basilurtea.co.uk">www.basilurtea.co.uk</a> At first glance, an array of beautiful books was on display, but, in fact, they were tin boxes containing a packet of Ceylon tea. These beautiful tins would make an unusual and surprising gift. </p>
<p>We enjoyed our visit to the first ever Sandown Park Food Festival and look forward to returning next year.</p>
Eating Out With Food Allergies in Interlaken, Switzerland<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20start%20of%20blog.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"></p>
<h3></h3>
<p>During the summer holidays, we decided to visit Interlaken in Switzerland. It was a nostalgic trip for Ray, as the last time he'd travelled there was with his school! Interlaken lies in the Bernese Oberland, between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and is presided over by the three mountains, Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. It was my first trip to Switzerland.</p>
<p>For the flight from Gatwick to Geneva, we made sure we took Alpro soya milk in 100ml bottles from Muji <a href="http://www.muji.eu">www.muji.eu</a> .</p>
<p>After a tea (using their soya milk predictably) at Eat <a href="http://www.eat.co.uk">www.eat.co.uk</a> , we purchased food to take on the plane. Ray found that most sandwiches contained milk or cheese, but was able to have a tuna and cucumber baguette as it had mayonnaise rather than butter (although he had to remove the cucumber as he can’t eat it). Ray tried the banana, date, oat and almond smoothie – delicious!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20banana%20date%20smoothie%20eat.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="590"></p>
<p>There were no gluten free sandwiches so I opted for a tuna nicoise salad.</p>
<p>Once on the flight, we were pleased to see that the EasyJet <a href="http://www.easyjet.com">www.easyjet.com</a> “Bistro & Boutique” menu has improved as items now carry symbols – v for vegetarian and gf for gluten free, but sadly nothing for dairy free (or vegan).</p>
<p>The Mediterranean snack box comprises several items I could eat – green olives, roasted red pepper and feta cheese, hummus, but not the rosemary crackers or baklavas – so you could always give those items away.</p>
<p>There’s a Mini Bites box with an all fruit mix, black pepper cashews, seeds, cranberries and dark chocolate which I could eat, omitting the Italian bread, which is included.</p>
<p>Also, the Momo Porridge Pot unsweetened natural porridge served with 20g sachet of golden syrup is marked with a gluten free and vegetarian symbol.</p>
<p>All in all, an improvement for gluten free people if you have no time to buy something at the airport, but not much for dairy free people.</p>
<p> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20gf%20biscuits%20migros.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>On arrival at Geneva, we found a supermarket called Migros <a href="http://www.migros.ch">www.migros.ch</a> where we purchased soya milk, dairy free and gluten free biscuits as well as gluten free cakes. This supermarket doesn’t have a dedicated <em>free from</em> area so you have to search for products with the “aha” label or ask a sales assistant. We also found that the chemist Phamarcie Sunstore sold an extensive range of Schar free from products <a href="http://www.schar.com">www.schar.com</a> .</p>
<p>You reach Interlaken by two trains. The first journey (lasting two hours) was to Berne. On board the train, which didn’t have air conditioning despite 30 degree temperatures, there was little indication of any refreshment. Confusingly there were two levels on the train – ground floor and an upper floor accessible via stairs. After asking the ticket collector where the restaurant was, I went upstairs and walked through several carriages before I found it – an area with tables and chairs and glum-looking people. There was nobody serving, so I went downstairs to find a member of staff, who proceeded to give me two cups of boiling water until I pointed out there were no tea bags. She gave me some (there was no soya milk) and a cardboard carrier. It was a laborious journey balancing this back to our carriage and I only just remembered which staircase to descend to return to our carriage. We used the soya milk from one of our 100ml bottles.</p>
<p>At Berne, we transferred to a smaller train, packed with holidaymakers and commuters, to Interlaken Ost, but be warned. Just before there is another stop called Interlaken West, where we disembarked only to find it was the wrong station so we waited five minutes for the next train to take us to Interlaken Ost.</p>
<p>This must be one of the busiest stations as it’s the gateway to the Bernese Oberland area, recently visited by Theresa May, the prime minister.</p>
<p>Our tour operator took us to our hotel the Hotel Royal St Georges <a href="http://www.hotelroya.ch">www.hotelroya.ch</a> right in the centre of Interlaken, usefully only a short distance away from the station. We were glad of the lift with all the luggage.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20spectacular%20views%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20spectacular%20views%202.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"></p>
<p>From everywhere in Interlaken, as you look up there are spectacular views of the mountains including Jungfrau, the highest mountain, also home to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe at a height of 3,466 meters (11,371 ft) above sea level. It is astonishing to view the snow-capped mountain and arresting views on every side.</p>
<p>As we soon discovered, Interlaken is a meeting place of all nationalities including Arabs, Chinese, Koreans, Japanese, Asians, Americans and of course Europeans and Brits.</p>
<p>We found the local Coop <a href="http://www.coop.ch">www.coop.ch</a> opposite the railway station at Interlaken Ost where we stocked up on soya milk, which we kept in the mini bar. We soon discovered that there was no <em>free from</em> section. So the only option was to keep searching or ask a sales assistant, who might be able to help.</p>
<p>Although we had alerted the hotel in advance via the tour operator Inghams <a href="http://www.inghams.co.uk">www.inghams.co.uk</a> that I was gluten free and Ray was dairy free, nevertheless we asked the reception staff to write down our allergies in German just in case.</p>
<p>On many occasions we have alerted our hotel in advance about our allergies, but very often it makes no difference at all. But in this case they had really taken it on board. By mistake, we had purchased an all inclusive trip and so our evening meals were included. This was a happy accident because we quickly realised that eating in Interlaken is very expensive indeed! Another advantage was that the staff got to know us and our allergies, so by the end of the holiday they knew instantly what we could eat.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20packed%20lunch.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="443"></p>
<p>“Half board” also means that the hotel provided us with a packed lunch every day – gluten free and dairy free. This included gluten free rolls with ham and cheese and a baguette for Ray with ham, lettuce and cucumber, which he removed. Crucially it didn’t contain butter or cheese. Plus apples, pears, water and small cartons of orange juice. This was an unexpected bonus.</p>
<p>We arrived just in time for our evening meal, which was served every evening at the hotel’s The Verandah restaurant. There were no gluten free or dairy free symbols, only a “weighing scales” symbol identifying dishes offering satisfying and healthy nutritionally balanced meals.</p>
<p>We started explaining our allergies and intolerances. The waiter said he would check whether I could have the sauce on the main chicken dish.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20gluten%20free%20bread.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"></p>
<p>I was presented with gluten free bread, baked on the premises, which was impressive. Ray ate some and said he forgot it was gluten free bread whereas usually he can tell just after one bite.</p>
<p>Here’s an example of one of our meals at The Verandah. We were able to have three courses, but soon found that one or two courses was ample.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Trilkogy%20Melon%20orange%20jus.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20mixed%20salad%20with%20sprouts.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>For starters, Ray chose Trilogy of Melon, Orange Jus with Bundner ham and salad bouquet, beautifully presented as the lettuce sits in a “bowl” made of rolled cucumber.</p>
<p>I enjoyed seasonal Mixed Salad with sprouts and fresh fruits with a raspberry dressing, unusual and refreshing.</p>
<p>For the main course, for me it was crispy cornfed chicken breast with wholegrain mustard sauce with sautéed potatoes and vegetables – very delicious and beautifully presented.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20crispy%20cornfed%20chicken%20breast.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>Ray joked with the waiter that perhaps the chef would need to prepare a special sauce for him as he was unable to have the mustard sauce. We laughed at this; the waiter said he would ask but he couldn’t promise anything. When Ray’s meal arrived sure enough he was served with a special dairy free sauce so we sent our thanks to the chef.</p>
<p>Curiously, they still put the selection of butters on the table – standard, garlic butter and sour cream.</p>
<p>Ray remembered this hotel when he visited Interlaken as a schoolboy. “I saw it across the fields and thought ‘I’ll never stay there’ and here I am,” he said.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20lemon%20sorbet.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="590"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20salad%20fruit.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>For desserts, I ordered fresh fruit salad, an exotic mix of grapefruit, water melon, pineapple and other fruits, while Ray had lemon sorbet.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20paragliders%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"></p>
<p>Every morning, we enjoyed the panoramic views of the mountains and Jungfrau and the early morning paragliders with brightly coloured sails and house martins swirling around the sky.</p>
<p>Breakfast was buffet style so it was easy to see at a glance what we could eat. Soya milk was available alongside ordinary milk and I was provided with gluten free bread.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20honey%20pic%20machine.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="443"></p>
<p>Unusually there was a machine which dispenses honey into a small bowl so you could have as little or as much as you wanted. Alongside this was a similar machine dispensing a whole array of jams such as cherry, strawberry and blackberry.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20chiller%20cabinet.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"></p>
<p>A chiller cabinet contained juices, fruit yogurts and quark. Each shelf was labelled so you could identify the items.</p>
<p>Ray checked with a member of staff to see if the baked beans contained milk – they didn’t – so he ate bacon and baked beans, smoked salmon, toast and honey. It has to be said that the honey was absolutely delicious so I put some on my gluten free bread, as well as bacon. This was followed by fruit salad in a pot from the chiller cabinet and natural home-made yogurt in a pot.</p>
<p>Each morning there was a news summary available on an A4 sheet in different languages catering for tourists from various countries – USA, Japan, China, Middle East. Curiously the company that’s supplies this is based in Liverpool, UK <a href="http://www.kvhmediagroup.com/hotels">www.kvhmediagroup.com/hotels</a></p>
<p>A rucksack is de rigeur in Interlaken. It is the ultimate fashion accessory for men and women so I bought my first – a lightweight red and black one which folds into a tiny square. It transformed my life. No more lugging a heavy handbag as the weight is evenly distributed on my back. So I simply packed it every morning with everything we needed including the packed lunches (Yes Ray shared the carrying).</p>
<p>As we wandered round Interlaken we were amazed at the different modes of transport available. You can be driven in a horse and carriage, which is covered in rainy weather; you can hire a Segway, roller blades, bicycles – some with a trailer at the back for small children.</p>
<p>It’s astonishing how efficient the Swiss public transport system is – buses, trains, boats – and how they interact with each other so perfectly. So when you arrive by train, the connecting one is waiting. On one occasion, our boat was late in leaving “as we are waiting for the people on the train connection.” The boat jetty was, in effect, one of the station platforms – integrated transport or what!</p>
<p>That evening at The Verandah restaurant, Ray ordered the grilled sirloin steak, seasonal vegetables and gnocchi while I indulged in sautéed cubes of salmon and prawns fried in olive oil with potatoes and spinach. Yummy.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20grilled%20sirloin%20steak.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20cubes%20of%20salmn%20and%20prawns.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>As we were warned the weather would change dramatically, we decided to go up Jungfrau “the top of Europe” the next day to ensure we enjoyed the best possible views. The first leg of the journey was from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen by train, a real transport hub not dissimilar to a mini Clapham Junction where people transfer to trains to other destinations.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20train%20journey%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20train%20journey%202.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"></p>
<p>Then it was onwards to Kleine Scheidegg. Train travel in this area passes quickly as there are so many arresting views.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20arresting%20view%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20arresting%20view%202.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20arresting%20view%203.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"></p>
<p>At Kleine Scheidegg, there was a mad panic for everyone to transfer to the train to Jungfrau. Some people left the train at Eigergletscher to walk the Eiger Trail. As the train passed through tunnels, we felt it ascend and began to feel light-headed because of the altitude. The train stopped for five minutes at the two stations before our ultimate destination so people could use the facilities and admire the view through huge windows strategically placed at the stopping points, although we suspect it was to allow people to acclimatise to the altitude. Many of our fellow passengers were asleep as we arrived at our final destination. The temperature dipped as we came out of the station so we quickly put on our fleeces, which did the trick. The advice was “walk slowly”, because of the altitude, which we did. We both had headaches, but when we emerged into the welcome area these were soon forgotten as we viewed the snow-capped mountain ranges through the windows.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20welcome%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="443"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20welcome%202.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"></p>
<p>We walked through chilly dark corridors decorated with posters showing unusual events which had taken place on top of the mountain such as cricket and tennis matches.</p>
<p>Outside on the plateau viewing area, we walked on soft snow but it wasn’t slippery and it was much warmer. The brightness was incredible but our sunglasses, (thoughtfully provided by our hotel) helped the glare. The views were spectacular as you can see from these pictures.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20plateau%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20plateau%202.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20plateau%203.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="249"></p>
<p>All we could hear were whoops of delight from people zipwiring their way across.</p>
<p>It truly was an awesome experience, certainly the highlight of the holiday. You can go a little bit higher to The Sphinx viewing level but we decided to skip this as we were finding it difficult enough to cope with the altitude where we were.</p>
<p>On the journey back down to Kleine Scheidegg, virtually everyone in the train carriage was asleep.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Grindelwald.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="443"></p>
<p>We stopped off at Grindelwald, a typical Swiss village with jaw dropping views of the mountains on every side. As it was 30 degrees heat, we strolled slowly along the pavements trying to find shade but it was impossible.</p>
<p>After a night of dramatic and noisy thunder and lightning, we were surprised (although relieved) to find the temperature had dropped to a more manageable 15 degrees but Jungfrau was shrouded in clouds so were pleased we had made the trip to the top of the mountain the day before for the best views.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20paddlesteamer.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>A leisurely boat tour around Lake Brienz was our next excursion. At 11.05am we boarded a 175 year old paddle steamer (this is the only steam operated boat) finding a seat outside for the best views, but everyone beat a hasty retreat inside as the rain lashed onto the deck from all sides and through a hole in the awning.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Giessbach%20hotel.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Giessbach%20falls.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="590"></p>
<p>At Giessbach, we alighted and took the funicular railway up to see the spectacular waterfalls that cascade down the side of the adjacent mountain and the historic Grandhotel Giessbach <a href="http://www.giessbach.ch/en/grandhotel-giessbach.html">http://www.giessbach.ch/en/grandhotel-giessbach.html</a> </p>
<p>By this time, the rain was much heavier, but even so some brave souls walked over the bridge, umbrellas in tow, to view the falls. The boats from here to Brienz are every hour so be careful you don’t miss one as we did!</p>
<p>You may wonder why there are no details about food. That’s because we had our packed lunches (gluten free and dairy free) so there was no need to look for anywhere to eat for lunch. This saved considerable time and money. A lesson to be learnt for future trips.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20wood%20carving%20museum%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="590"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20wood%20carving%202.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20wood%20carving%203.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="590"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20wood%20carving%204.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>Our next stop was Brienz, where the tourist board (just opposite the jetty) gave us a map and directions to the wood carving museum <a href="http://www.interlaken.ch/en/woodcarving-museum-brienz-jobin.html">http://www.interlaken.ch/en/woodcarving-museum-brienz-jobin.html</a> This is worth a visit to see all the amazing creations that have been carved in wood – everything from bears to toy ducks, as well as collections of wooden boxes, cuckoo clocks and musical boxes.</p>
<p>Wander further down the road to Jobin <a href="http://www.jobin.ch">www.jobin.ch</a> where you can see the wood carvers at work and even farther to the ancient part of town – beautiful traditional wooden chalets adorned with flowers.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Brienz%20wooden%20chalet.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="590"></p>
<p>Ray wanted to see Murren, which he visited as a boy, but despite the poor weather and visibility we decided to set out. Murren is high in the alps nestling on the side in a deep valley and is famous for having no access for cars. After taking the train to Lauterbrunnen, we then crossed to the Murrenbahn cable car to Grutschalp. Although the views were limited because of the mist, it was still spectacular. The first time the cable car passed over the pylon the car dipped and swung causing several people to gasp and “ooh”. It was a bit of a shock, but by the second pylon we were expecting it.</p>
<p>At Grutschalp we took a further train to Murren. We found a cup of tea with soya milk at The Alpine Spa. We were told they usually had gluten free cakes, but not today, although there were gluten free energy bars.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Murren%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Murren%203.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="590"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Murren%204.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>Wandering round the village we saw typical Swiss chalets with colourful window baskets, although it was too misty to see much of the mountains except the occasional glimpse of cows and farmland.</p>
<p>From Murren, we took the cable car down to Stechelberg and then a bus to the Trummelbech Falls – a place Ray wanted to revisit. After a short walk across the terrain to the mountains, we took an underground elevator – an exhilarating ride up through the inside of the mountain to the falls.</p>
<p>There are several places where you can get astonishing views of the falls – where the torrent has cut its way through the mountain. The viewpoints have been conveniently numbered 1 to 10, so we decided to look at number 10 first – a further couple of flights of steps up. We found this was the most striking view.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Trummelbach%20Falls%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Trummelbach%20Falls%202.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Trummelbach%20Falls%203.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>The water roars through the rocks which have worn away over aeons, vapour rising as it gurgles down the rocks. A fine spray covers my glasses like fine rain. It’s fresh, invigorating just like a toothpaste advert, a light smell of mint pervading the air. People carefully lean over the railings to get pictures. The falls are spectacular and the power of the water as it cuts through the rocks is incredible.</p>
<p>The packed lunches were a godsend as we didn’t have to search for restaurants where we might be have been able to eat something. The only day it didn’t work is when salami was mistakenly put in our sandwiches – a lesson to be learnt – “keine salami bitte”. (Salami tends to have milk and gluten in it).</p>
<p>We took the bus back to Lauterbrunnel and from there, the train back to Interlaken Ost.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Lake%20Thunersee%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Lake%20Thunersee%202.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>On the next day we took a leisurely cruise down Lake Thunersee, picking up the boat from Interlaken West, a short walk from our hotel.</p>
<p>We disembarked at Spietz to stretch our legs. Although it was raining, we continued to have a stroll round the castle and grounds.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Spietz%20castle.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>At the quay, we had a close up view of the paddle steamer collecting passengers for Interlaken West.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Spietz%20paddlesteamer.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>Our boat took us to Thun, a much larger town than expected. The castle is the highlight, although we found a street with specialist shops - for example, one for guitars and another for cat lovers. There was also Muller <a href="http://www.mueller.eu">www.mueller.eu</a> , a small department store which sold a selection of gluten free and dairy free food, so we bought some cakes.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Thun%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="590"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Thun%202.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="590"></p>
<p>As the cruise to Thun took two hours, we decided to take a train back, as it had been a long day.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Interlaken%20West%20Mylos%201.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Interlaken%20West%20salad%20bar.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>Back at Interlaken West, we discovered Mylos supermarket with its upmarket café selling all sorts of food and an extensive choice of cakes. Sadly there were no gluten free or dairy free cakes although we were told they were for sale in the supermarket. Like the Coop, there was no <em>free from</em> section, although the Mylos supermarket at Geneva airport did have one. We were told to look for the symbol denoting gluten free or dairy free. These were few and far between although we did find a couple of cakes. This was only because a sales assistant pointed them out to us. I truly hope the UK doesn’t stop having <em>free from</em> sections in supermarkets as it’s so time-consuming finding <em>free from</em> products when they’re placed with everything else on the shelf.</p>
<p>We returned from Interlaken rested, relaxed and full of energy. It’s a wonderful place, well recommended, although expensive, so we are starting to save up for our return trip.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.myswitzerland.com/en-gb/interlaken.html">http://www.myswitzerland.com/en-gb/interlaken.html</a></p>
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Eating Out With Food Allergies at Shuttleworth Edwardian Air Pageant<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%201%20start%20of%20blog.jpg" alt="" width="340" height="191"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20start%20of%20blog.jpg" alt="" width="283" height="378"></p>
<p></p>
<p>We were lucky enough to be invited to the Shuttleworth Edwardian Air Pageant which took place at Old Warden, <a href="http://www.shuttleworth.org/">http://www.shuttleworth.org/</a> a small grass aerodrome, near Biggleswade, Bedfordshire. This was a fantastic day out as we were able to view an array of working vintage aircraft dating between 1909 to 1950 not only on the ground, but some of them took to the air as well! In addition, there was a stunning parade of vintage cars and we had a ride in a 1921 Charabus – a vintage bus in case you were wondering. An added bonus was the sunny weather.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%202%20vintage%20aircraft%20in%20hangar.jpg" alt="" width="340" height="191"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%201934%20Dragon%20Rapide.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%201937%20Chilton.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="158"><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20aircraft%20in%20hangar.jpg" alt="" width="340" height="191"></p>
<p>We played it safe and took a packed lunch to make sure there was something we could eat. The issues surrounding gluten free bread have been well discussed on other blogs – how the bread disintegrates the further down the pack you go until you have to discard it. Gluten free bread doesn’t make particularly good sandwiches either because the bread tends to fall apart. Well, my discovery is gluten free Warburton’s sandwich thins <a href="http://www.warburtons.co.uk">www.warburtons.co.uk</a> which don’t fall apart as you make your sandwich and taste delicious as well! Ray doesn’t have the bread problem, but being dairy-free he can’t have butter or margarine so we use Hellmann’s mayonnaise <a href="http://www.hellmanns.co.uk">www.hellmanns.co.uk</a> instead, which sticks the sandwich together. I made ham and cheese sandwiches – yes incredibly Ray can eat some goats cheese – and likes St Helen’s Farm <a href="http://www.sthelensfarm.co.uk">www.sthelensfarm.co.uk</a> hard goats cheese because of the taste. I also included two slices of dairy free and gluten free Viennese carrot cake which I had made from Nigella Lawson’s recipe <a href="http://www.nigella.com">www.nigella.com</a>, as well as two nakd ginger bars (dairy free and gluten free) <a href="http://www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk">www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Nigella%20viennese%20cheesecake.jpg" alt="" width="332" height="187"></p>
<p>We also went armed with 100ml bottles of Alpro soya milk in case there wasn’t any at the air field’s restaurant.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20gluten%20free%20daim%20cake.jpg" alt="" width="340" height="191"></p>
<p>We visited the restaurant for a cup of tea, but there was no soya milk and only one gluten free cake – the almond cake with Daim from Almondy <a href="http://www.almondy.com">www.almondy.com</a> so of course I enjoyed a slice. There was nothing dairy free so Ray ate his Nakd bar.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20gluten%20free%20liquorice.jpg" alt="" width="340" height="191"></p>
<p>Inside one of the hangars we found Allsorts of Liquorice selling gluten free liquorice (<a href="mailto:alisonbraithwait@aol.com">alisonbraithwait@aol.com</a>)</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20silver%20ghost%20rolls%20royce.jpg" alt="" width="340" height="191"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20vintage%20car%202.jpg" alt="" width="340" height="191"></p>
<p>Highlights of the day included the vintage car parade featuring a Silver Ghost Rolls Royce, 1900 Marot Gardan and 1901 Arroll Johnston, but for us the best part was the air display.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20red%20plane%20in%20flight.jpg" alt="" width="283" height="213"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20yellow%20plane%20in%20flight.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="191"></p>
<p>It was very rewarding to see the aircraft we had looked at in the hangars actually flying in the air! These included the Sopwith Snipe (1918) and the Albatros DVa, a German fighter aeroplane built during the Great War (1914-1918).</p>
<p>You can also visit Shuttleworth House, as well as the Swiss Gardens, but our attention was totally on the vintage aircraft that day. Perhaps we’ll do it on our next visit.</p>
<p>For more information, <a href="http://www.shuttleworth.org/">http://www.shuttleworth.org/</a></p>
Eating Out With Food Allergies in Croatia<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Porec%20harbour.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"><p></p><p>You must be prepared when you travel overseas if you suffer from a food allergy. The best policy is to take food with you in case you have a problem. We always take oatcakes from Nairns <a href="http://www.nairns-oatcakes.com">www.nairns-oatcakes.com</a> and Nak’d bars <a href="http://www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk/nakd">www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk/nakd</a> / both dairy and gluten free. Buying soya milk in containers at airport departure lounges is impossible, so we take some in two 100ml plastic bottles from Muji <a href="http://www.mufi.eu">www.mufi.eu</a> . We find this is enough for the journey and on arrival at our destination until we can find a local supermarket that sells soya milk.</p><p>I am a member of Elmbridge Ladies Choir so I was travelling to Croatia with them and our sister choir, Elmbridge Mixed Choir, to participate in the Istria Music Festival in Croatia. Spouses, partners and friends were also on the trip so Ray came with me.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Leon%20at%20airport%20(2).jpg" alt="" width="275" height="490"> </p><p>At Stansted Airport, we were relieved to find Leon Restaurants <a href="http://www.leonrestaurants.co.uk">www.leonrestaurants.co.uk</a> , one of the pioneers of including free from symbols on the menu which is so helpful. Glancing at the blown up menus on display, we could quickly identify which meals we were able to eat. Ray chose Brazilian Black Bean with rice (WF, GF, DF, V, Ve) while I ordered the Chicken Superfood Salad (WF, GF). For dessert I had the cranberry bakewell cake while Ray ordered the dairy free almond and orange cookie. To round off the meal, we also had two teas with soya milk, thus conserving our own supply for as long as possible.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20A%20dinner%20buffet%20(2).jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>We flew into Pula, then a coach took us to Porec in the Istria peninsula. On arrival at the Valamar Crystal Hotel <a href="http://www.valamar.com/en/hotels-porec/valamar-crystal-hotel">http://www.valamar.com/en/hotels-porec/valamar-crystal-hotel </a> dinner was available. We were astonished by the choice of the dinner buffet, all beautifully displayed. This included a special section where fresh fish was grilled in front of you, a carvery where fresh meat was served, a meat section offering grilled meats, vegetables, desserts, fruits. I don’t think I have ever seen such an extensive buffet. Our group leader had given me a piece of paper“<em>Molim Vas Bez Glutena</em>” (I am gluten intolerant) which I showed the manager, who walked me round the buffet, indicating what I was able to eat. He then did the same with Ray once he had shown him his piece of paper “<em>Ja sam netolerantan na mliječne proizvode</em>” saying he was intolerant to dairy products. We both enjoyed a feast of grilled meat and salad – very welcome after a long journey.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20buffet%20dinner%20at%20hotel%20(2).jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>At breakfast, the buffet offered an impressive array of food and again, the manager showed us what we could eat.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20breakfast%20hotel%20buffet.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>Gluten free bread was provided which on first glance looked unappetising, but once it was toasted and spread with the blueberry jam, it was delicious.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20breakfast%20gf%20bread.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>The hotel boasted an amazing array of different jams.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20jams%20at%20breakfast.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>Ray had a chat with the manager, who provided us with gluten free and dairy free cereals, suggesting we should keep the packets for the duration of our stay.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20gf%20cereal.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20gf%20cereal%20cornflakes.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360"></p><p>These were Schar’s <a href="http://www.schar.com">www.schar.com</a> muesli and cornflakes, which strangely we can’t get in the UK, although other Schar products are available. I must find out why as both these cereals are very tasty and a considerable improvement on most gluten free cereals. Soya milk was freely available, as was rice milk. Ray had a choice of rustic-type bread which he spread with honey and crispy bacon. The choice of fruit was wonderful and included fresh pineapple, melon and kiwis, as well as the more usual apples, oranges and bananas.</p><p>In Porec, we were directed to Billa supermarket <a href="http://www.billa.hr">www.billa.hr</a> , where we were surprised to find several varieties of soya milk including Alpro in the “health foods” section.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Billa%20supermarket.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>Our group leader had organised a wine and olive tour to artisan producers, which was very interesting. Firstly, our guide took us to the town of Groznjan, which hosts a jazz festival in the summer. We enjoyed a coffee at an outdoor café with arresting views. I was able to buy “Vegeta”, a traditional Croatian condiment with spices and vegetables, although it does contain monosodium glutamate. Apparently it is also available without MSG.</p><p>Our guide told us that the Istrian peninsula is a great truffle hunting area in September and October, while goats milk is also produced.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20olive%20trees.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>We visited Babić, <a href="http://www.coloursofistria.com/en/olive-oil-producers/babic">http://www.coloursofistria.com/en/olive-oil-producers/babic</a> a family business producing extra virgin olive oil. Ante Babic showed us how the oil is processed from the olive to the bottled product. He told us that olive trees have to be seven years old before the olives are harvested. The olive oil harvest season starts in October and lasts just two months. “It takes 15 years to recoup the cost of the machines,” he said. “We produce 2-3,000 litres a year depending on the season. To make the oil, we pick olives and make it immediately – if we wait, it won’t taste good. The whole procedure of extraction does not exceed the temperature of 27 °C, so everything good (phenols and vitamins) remains in the oil. ”</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20olive%20oil.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360"></p><p>We took part in an olive oil tasting. Ante explained “To taste the oil, warm the small container with the oil in your hands, then drink it back in one.” I followed his instructions and my mouth was infused with a very delicious, spicy olive oil.</p><p>Next up was a visit to the Bernobic vineyard where we were shown the wine making process by Guido Bernobic and took part in a wine tasting where we tasted Ternani red wine, Malvazles white wine, Muskatelo Rose and an exceptional walnut liqueur (22% alcohol).</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20winery.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20wine%20bottles.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20countrside.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360"></p><p>That afternoon we performed in the town square of Porec along with the other choirs from Europe in the rain. All part of the fun.</p><p>That evening our choirs went to the Trost Restaurant in Vrsar, overlooking the harbour <a href="http://www.restoran-trost.hr">www.restoran-trost.hr</a>, where we had a sumptuous three course dinner – parma ham and cheese (no cheese for Ray), followed by roast pork and vegetables, culminating in a refreshing fruit salad, while we were entertained by local musicians.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20starter%20parma%20ham.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20main%20course%20pork%20dish.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20local%20musicians.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>Next day we headed for Rovinj, a Croatian fishing port on the west coast of the Istrian peninsula.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Rovinj%20overview.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>The old town stands on a headland, with houses tightly crowded down to the seafront. A tangle of cobbled streets leads to the hilltop church of St. Euphemia, whose towering steeple dominates the skyline.</p><p></p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20narrow%20st%20Rovinj.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360"></p><p>Near the harbour, there’s a market selling food gifts such as olive oil and honey, but be quick to buy, as it closes early.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20food%20market%20Rovinj.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20food%20market%20Rovinj%20(2).jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>We basked in the sunshine while enjoying lunch at Pogon Bistro www.gg-grupa.eu - grilled salmon with chips. We had shown the waiter our pieces of paper so there was no misunderstanding over our allergies.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Rovinj%20Pogon%20Bistro.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Rovinj%20harbour.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>That evening we had dinner at the hotel’s extensive buffet before performing in the 6<sup>th</sup> Istria Music Festival at Hotel Pical, Porec.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Porec%20church.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20EDITED%20narrow%20st%20Porec.jpg" alt="" width="279" height="479"></p><p>Lucky for us we hadn’t been able to get on the flight home on Sunday, so we luxuriated on a free day in Porec with those who remained. Lunch was at Bijeli San in Porec <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Bijeli-San-501823593253018/?rf=243433722356806">www.facebook.com/Bijeli-San-501823593253018/?rf=243433722356806</a> in the sunshine. I asked for a feta cheese salad which curiously comprised mainly grated feta cheese with a few tomatoes and cucumber thrown in. Ray fared better with parma ham and melon. We were only looking for a snack and it was a treat to sit in the sunshine.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20lunch%20Bijeli%20San%20Porec.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20lunch%20Bijeli%20San%20Porec%20(2).jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p><p>We spent the day wandering round Porec, especially the picturesque harbour before returning to the hotel for dinner by water taxi – a real treat and only £10 (100 kuna) for four of us.</p><p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20Porec%20view%20from%20riverbus20160417_96.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210"></p></p>
Eating out with Food Allergies in Eastbourne<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR A Tenors Unlimited DSC00770.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>On a recent flying visit to Eastbourne, East Sussex, we discovered several fantastic restaurants. We were seeing our friends Lynne and Jack who had kindly bought some new cakes from Waitrose <a href="http://www.waitrose.com">www.waitrose.com</a> which we hadn’t tried before – and they were wonderful! Both labelled “free from gluten and made without milk”, they were coffee and walnut slices, as well as lemon cakes slices – a blend of brown rice flour and ground almonds. What a great discovery and we’ll be buying more.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Waitrose gf df cakes.jpg" alt="" width="275" height="490" /></p>
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<p>We visited The Royal Hippodrome Theatre <a href="http://www.royalhippodrome.com">www.royalhippodrome.com</a> to see Tenors Unlimited <a href="http://www.tenorsunlimited.com">www.tenorsunlimited.com</a> (pictured above) the ‘Rat Pack of Opera’. A great evening’s entertainment – see my review on TripAdvisor</p>
<p><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g190722-d4263788-Reviews-Royal_Hippodrome_Theatre-Eastbourne_East_Sussex_England.html">https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g190722-d4263788-Reviews-Royal_Hippodrome_Theatre-Eastbourne_East_Sussex_England.html</a></p>
<p>Conveniently located a stone’s throw away from the theatre is Henry’s Bistro <a href="http://www.henrysbistro.com">www.henrysbistro.com</a> promising Asian fusion cuisine. Lynne had suggested it and I had telephoned in advance to warn them one diner was gluten free and the other was dairy free and received a reassuring email saying that it was no problem.</p>
<p>The menu helpfully carries symbols (nf) nut free, (df) dairy free, (gf) gluten free, (v) vegetarian, which is impressive and makes a huge difference, although I do tend to check with the waiting staff that a dish really is gluten free – just in case. The restaurant is small and intimate, so it’s not a problem if the waiting staff has to check with the kitchen as it’s located so close to the front of house area – unlike larger restaurants where the staff have to walk a long way to the kitchen.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Salmon Ceviche.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR sweet potato cakes.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>To start with I had salmon ceviche (nf, df, gf) salmon rolled in carpaccio of cucumber and cucumber jelly and avocado puree. Ray opted for sweet potato cakes (df).</p>
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<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Thai peanut curried sweet potato.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>For the main course, we both ordered Thai Peanut Curried Sweet Potato with rice and crispy shallots (v, df, gf). The food was delicious, tasty and beautifully presented. The service was excellent and fast when I explained we were going to the theatre.</p>
<p>It’s unusual for Ray and I to have a choice of desserts – usually there is nothing we can have. But at Henry’s Bistro this isn’t the case. There were two puddings that were both gluten free and dairy free – Five Spiced and Vanilla Poached Plums (gf, df) and Coconut Pannacotta with fruit marinated in coconut water and mango sorbet (gf, df). We did query whether the Pannacotta was dairy free, but it’s a sorbet. We didn’t have room for dessert, so we’ll have to go back.</p>
<p>As we were paying the bill, we were presented with some more goodies – honeycomb, both gluten free and dairy free and marshmallow, which was dairy free. Ray & I felt very spoiled.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR honeycomb marshmallow.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>Our friends took us to the oldy worldy village of Alfriston to visit Much Ado Books <a href="http://www.muchadobooks.com">www.muchadobooks.com</a> with its eclectic collection of books, both new and old on two floors, as well as an array of highly original cards and their own recovered notebooks fashioned from the covers of old books which would otherwise go to the tip. Well worth a visit.</p>
<p>After all that book browsing we stopped off at Badgers Tea House, North Street, Alfriston, <a href="http://www.badgersteahouse.com">www.badgersteahouse.com</a> where the tea is beautifully served in pots in china rosebud cups – no unsightly teabags plonked in mugs here! To our delight, there was Molly Cake, both gluten free and dairy free with no added fat, sugar or eggs which was yummy, packed full of dried fruit.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR molly cake.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>Our final meal in Eastbourne was at the quirky Two Bulls at The Tally-Ho, Church Street, Eastbourne <a href="http://www.thetallyho.net">www.thetallyho.net</a> where we were given an enthusiastic welcome. On the table is a sign saying how they would like to make us happy by giving us extra chips! There was a special £8 per person gourmet lunch which we opted for – I had the salmon without sauce while Ray enjoyed steak kebabs with Thai peanut sauce (after having checked there was no dairy in it), which he enjoyed.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Two bulls steak kebabs.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Two Bulls salmon.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>Eating Out with Food Allergies in Liverpool<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Chinese New Year Liverpool 1.jpg" alt="" width="326" height="184" /></p>
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<p>As we had a long journey ahead, Ray and I visited the Marks & Spencer <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com">www.marksandspencer.com</a> shop at London’s Euston station for some provisions. We were pleased to see Leon <a href="http://www.leonrestaurants.co.uk">www.leonrestaurants.co.uk</a> now has a branch there, but we were short of time so decided to try M&S. A gluten free buddy had told me that M&S had introduced gluten free sandwiches so I wanted to check if this was the case. For Ray, who is dairy free, it would be problematic as he has found that M&S sandwiches usually contain milk.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR children salad gf sandwich.jpg" alt="" width="275" height="490" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR chilck and sweetcorn df sandwich.jpg" alt="" width="275" height="490" /></p>
<p>I was delighted to find a chicken and salad sandwich “made without wheat or gluten” and after reading all the labels, Ray finally found a chicken and sweetcorn sandwich with mayonnaise, but no butter or milk. There was also a wheat free, dairy free Honeycomb Crispy Bar and Thai Green Curry Sticky Rice Chips (150g bags) which were more like crisps– rice and maize chips with red chilli and coriander. M&S seem to be making an effort to cater for people who are gluten free but it remains to be seen whether they will do the same for people with other allergies.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR honeycomb crispy.jpg" alt="" width="326" height="184" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR rich chips M and S.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>One of the strange sights we encountered in Liverpool everywhere were these peculiar confetti-like white dots on pavements. Ray and I thought it might be seagull droppings, but when we asked the tourist office we were told it was chewing gum!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Liverpool chewing gum.jpg" alt="" width="275" height="490" /></p>
<p>I was pleased to see that Liverpool’s colourful Super Lambananas (a cross between a lamb and a banana!) were much in evidence around Liverpool. Designed by Taro Chiezo, The Super Lambanana was originally created for the 1998<span> </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=ArtTransPennine_Exhibition&action=edit&redlink=1">ArtTransPennine Exhibition</a>. It reflects the history of Liverpool, as both sheep and bananas were common cargos in the city's docks.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Liverpool lambana.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>In 2008, when Liverpool was designated<span> </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Capital_of_Culture">European Capital of Culture</a>, 125 replicas were created, each with a different design. There aren’t that many now but if you’re lucky you’ll find some as you walk round the city.</p>
<p>We met our friends at the Bear & Staff pub, 24-26 Gateacre Brow, Liverpool L25 3PB <a href="http://www.chefandbrewer.com/">http://www.chefandbrewer.com/</a> where I enjoyed gammon steak and potato fries, while Ray ordered steak, chips and mushy peas (it’s his northern roots).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Bear and Staff Gateacre 1.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Bear & Staff Gateacre 2.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>We were staying in one of our favourite hotels Hope Street Hotel <a href="http://www.hopestreethotel.co.uk">www.hopestreethotel.co.uk</a> but our special deal didn’t include breakfast. So we returned to Leaf in Bold Street, <a href="http://www.thisisleaf.co.uk">www.thisisleaf.co.uk</a> one of our favourite venues. We noticed that their menu now has helpful symbols – (N) contains nuts, (V) vegetarian, (VV) vegan, (G) gluten and (GA) gluten free alternative.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR porridge with soya milk.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Leaf vegan breakfast.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>We found the staff at Leaf very understanding and accommodating, although it was a surprise they didn’t serve gluten free bread. On one occasion, Ray had porridge made with soya milk and on another day, the vegan breakfast comprising two falafel sausages, field mushrooms, baked beans (he was assured they were Heinz as other varieties can contain cow’s milk), potato croquets and toast. Mostly I had a cooked breakfast accompanied by Nairns <a href="http://www.nairns-oatcakes.co.uk">www.nairns-oatcakes.co.uk</a> oatcakes which I brought myself.</p>
<p>We visited the Foundation for Art and Creative Technology (FACT), Wood Street, Liverpool L1 4DQ <a href="http://www.fact.co.uk">www.fact.co.uk</a> to look at its current exhibitions, although the centre also offers a film programme. We stopped off at The Garden @ FACT , which is run by the team at Leaf. The menu has symbols for (V) vegetarian, (GF) gluten free (VV) vegan and (N) nuts. I opted for a baked sweet potato with a mixed bean and sweetcorn topping and a salad, while Ray chose a tuna sandwich in granary bread, requesting no butter as he had an allergy to dairy. The staff member queried the mayonnaise in the sandwich, but Ray pointed out that this was ok as it was made from egg whites and oil.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR FACT sweet potato with filling.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>As Ray was finishing his sandwich, he discovered there was butter on the bread. He showed this to the woman who served us. She apologised but obviously didn’t understand the implications that Ray would be ill for possibly two days. She returned to the table adding “There was only a little butter”. I explained it didn’t matter how much there was, any amount would make Ray poorly. She said “It was my fault. I wrote ‘no butter’ under the sweet potato on the order, not the sandwich.”</p>
<p>The sharp lesson is don’t go to independent establishments. We should have stuck with Pret A Manger <a href="http://www.pret.com">www.pret.com</a> where everything is clearly labelled. Secondly, this is a wakeup call to always check with the member of staff as they serve your meal “That hasn’t got butter in it, has it?”</p>
<p>Ray did feel poorly although there wasn’t an instant reaction.</p>
<p>The next day we visited our friends who shared with us “free from” products we hadn’t seen such as the delicious Prewett’s <a href="http://www.prewettsbiscuits.com">www.prewettsbiscuits.com</a> gluten free and milk free chocolate chip cookies and Schar’s <a href="http://www.schar.co.uk">www.schar.co.uk</a> gluten, wheat and lactose free Grissini (bread sticks).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Prewetts biscuits.jpg" alt="" width="275" height="490" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 2Schar Grissini.jpg" alt="" width="275" height="490" /></p>
<p>They had made a wonderful gluten free and dairy free flourless chocolate cake using Nigella Lawson’s recipe <a href="http://www.nigella.com">www.nigella.com</a> - we felt very spoiled.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR flourless chocolate cake.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>We visited Liverpool at the time of Chinese New Year so joined in the colourful celebrations, led by the dragon dance.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Chinese New Yedar 2.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>In the evening, we visited Arabesque Bazaar & Bistro Moroccan restaurant, 56-58 Lark Lane, Liverpool L17 8UU, which also sells Moroccan rugs, lamps and ceramics. Here I enjoyed hummus with gluten free crackers followed by Lamb Tagine with rice. Lark Lane should be renamed Restaurant Row as it is predominantly restaurants so you can wander up and down the street until you find a restaurant you fancy.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Arabesque.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR hummus gf biscuits.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR main course Arabesque.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>Our final meal in Liverpool was at the Blackburne Eatery, 135 Allerton Road, Liverpool L18 2DD, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theblackburneallerton">https://www.facebook.com/theblackburneallerton</a></p>
<p>well known for Sunday roasts. I didn’t feel that hungry so ordered a feta cheese salad. To Ray’s delight, he discovered that the batter used for the fish didn’t contain milk so he relished his meal of fish and chips, something he has rarely because the batter usually contains milk.</p>
<p> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR feta cheese salad.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR df fish and chips blackburne pub.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>The rise of gluten free beer<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Greens group with beer and tops.jpg" alt="" width="202" height="203" /></p>
<p>The market for gluten free beers is on the increase. This is partly due to new brewing processes and the growing demand from the general public.</p>
<p>As Sue Cane, gluten-free beer expert, says “I ran my first gluten free beer tasting in 2009 at River Cottage Canteen when I was desperate to find something to drink that even resembled beer. Since then, the market has changed dramatically and there are now many outstanding quality, gluten free beers around.”</p>
<p>Traditionally, there was only one way of making gluten free beer and that was by replacing wheat and barley with gluten free materials such as sorghum, buckwheat, rice or millet. Green’s Beers was the first company in Europe to produce beer in this way in 2003.</p>
<p>A new brewing method has been introduced, popular among smaller and craft breweries, where beer is made from barley and treated with a special enzyme such as Brewers Clarex, which prevents chill haze in beer. (Brewers are keen to get rid of as this makes beer cloudy.) The enzyme’s active ingredient, Proline Specific Endo-protease, breaks down the gluten in malted barley. The resulting beer tests below the currently accepted gluten free standards of less than 20 parts per million. As a result of this new brewing process, there’s been a rise in the number of beers on the market, also called “gluten removed” or “deglutenised”.</p>
<p>Sue Cane explains “One of the side effects of using the enzyme is that it makes the beer test gluten-free. This is a contentious point. Some people claim the beer's still toxic and that the tests simply can’t identify the gluten as it’s been broken up so much. For example, if gluten is a rugby ball but it’s been broken up into tennis balls during the brewing process, the test won’t identify it as it’s looking for rugby balls. If you're coeliac it's not safe to simply rely on the absence of symptoms as a guide to the safety of food and drink and certainly not a good idea to chance it and drink beer that hasn't been declared gluten free. Even with beer that is declared gluten free, moderation is the key as a few bottles can take you dangerously near the limit that is deemed a safe daily maximum.”</p>
<p>There is a great deal of controversy about this as gluten sensitivity varies among people and researchers aren’t certain whether these small pieces of the gluten protein can still cause a reaction.</p>
<p>Jon Kyme from Stringers Beer <a href="http://www.stringersbeer.co.uk">www.stringersbeer.co.uk</a> believes the new brewing process is genuinely innovative technology. “Beers treated with the appropriate enzyme are ‘testing as gluten free’ because that’s what they ‘effectively’ are. There’s no trickery involved here. To say anything else is to misunderstand the science. The problem isn’t with gluten per se (that’s just a name for a group of proteins in wheat and related grains), but with a particular string of amino acids which are part of the make-up of those proteins. This ‘epitope’ is responsible for triggering the harmful inflammatory response. The immunological tests used to measure gluten in foodstuffs recognise this epitope – so we can be confident that a food testing as gluten free must have a very small potential for causing harm.”</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR quirky group shot with spray.jpg" alt="" width="378" height="202" /></p>
<p>David Ware from Greens Beers <a href="http://www.glutenfreebeers.co.uk">www.glutenfreebeers.co.uk</a> says he hasn’t come across the controversy surrounding “deglutenised” beer. “We haven’t had any specific feedback on this issue,” he says. “I believe consumers will make their own choices as to which style of gluten free beer they choose. The gluten free beer category is growing in the number of brands available and the “lifestyle free from” consumer may take less notice of how it is made whereas those who are gluten intolerant will be more selective and choose a safer option. Therefore the category will ‘split’ between naturally gluten free beers and deglutenised beers.”</p>
<p>Kyme feels that this controversy is nothing more than FUD (fear, uncertainty and doubt) “and serves only those investing in alternative ingredient beer-like beverages. The enzyme-based processes have shaken up the industry and allow folks with gluten intolerance a much wider choice of beverages now including genuine beer. It lowers the bar for new entrants to the sector and this is bound to provoke hostility from those who imagined they had the market to themselves. I hope that all the new producers take their responsibilities seriously and make sure they have the necessary quality assurance procedures in place to protect their customers. This will, as a minimum, include per batch testing by reputable third parties.”</p>
<p>Meanwhile, some people report that they are fine drinking deglutenised beer, while others say they aren’t and some just don’t want to take the risk. As David Ware from Greens says “It’s a muddy area - maybe if the waters get too muddied, the regulators may adopt the North American beer labelling system whereby any beer defined as gluten free must be made from gluten free raw materials. Any other beer which is less than 20ppm may call itself “suitable for coeliacs”. My guess is that it may well come down to this.”</p>
<p>CONTACTS</p>
<p>Sue Kane</p>
<p>@gfbeerexpert</p>
<p>Greens Beers</p>
<p><a href="http://www.glutenfreebeers.co.uk">www.glutenfreebeers.co.uk</a></p>
<p>Stringer Beers</p>
<p><a href="http://www.stringersbeer.co.uk">www.stringersbeer.co.uk</a></p>
<p> </p>Tips on eating out with food allergies<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR dairy free pizza Pizza Express.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /> </p>
<p>Eating out with food allergies is difficult. Some restaurants and cafes offer special menus or include ‘free from’ symbols on their menus, but these are few and far between.</p>
<p>The European Union (EU) regulations on food allergens were introduced in the UK last December, but it doesn’t seem to have made much impact. Under the regulations, restaurant owners risk large fines if they don’t state which dishes contain ingredients from a list of the EU’s 14 top allergens.* These include gluten, milk, celery and mustard seeds. This information needs to be clearly displayed and staff should be able to tell diners the ingredients of each dish.</p>
<p>Although the EU regulations are a big step in the right direction, if you have a food allergy you still have to be vigilant when ordering meals. Here’s some advice:</p>
<p><strong>Before you visit a restaurant</strong></p>
<p>Investigate the menu online to see if there is something you can eat. If it doesn’t seem likely, telephone the restaurant in advance and ask them whether they will be able to cope with your particular allergy. If you’re gluten free, give examples of what is not safe for you to eat such as wheat flour in sauces, breadcrumbs, stock cubes and so on. Does the information they give you on the phone and their manner fill you with confidence? If not, try elsewhere. Always get a contact name.</p>
<p><strong>At the restaurant</strong></p>
<p>Remind the waiting staff that you have food allergies and ask for the person you spoke to on the phone. In many cases, they won’t be there as they may work a different shift. Reiterate your particular allergy and discuss with the waiter what you can eat. Don’t be surprised if the waiter has to check with the kitchen. Be persistent and don’t place your order until you have been reassured that they can supply an acceptable dish. In some cases, I’ve asked to see the packaging of certain foods so I can check the ingredients. One of the problems is that some waiting staff can’t speak English and don’t understand the word “allergy”. On one occasion, when I said I had an allergy, the waiter tried to find it in the menu. I find it incredible that some waiting staff don’t know what’s in the food, have never tasted the food or been educated as to what is in the dishes so they can pass this information onto customers.</p>
<p>Don’t be put off by your friends (who don’t have food allergies) who are embarrassed, make jokes and get impatient. This is the price of eating out with food allergies. They won’t be the people who get sick, so take no notice.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gluten free pasta Carluccios.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>Some restaurants such as Carluccio’s <a href="http://www.carluccios.com">www.carluccios.com</a> have a special gluten free menu, while Pizza Express <a href="http://www.pizzaexpress.com">www.pizzaexpress.com</a> offers gluten free and dairy free pizzas.</p>
<p>The Leon chain <a href="http://www.leonrestaurants.co.uk">www.leonrestaurants.co.uk</a> have symbols indicating whether a dish is gluten, dairy or nut free. This is such a simple idea; I wish more restaurants would follow their lead. I do like their gluten free cakes.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Leon.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>When your meal arrives, ask “Is this dish gluten free?” as they place the plate in front of you. It is easy for them to make a mistake in the kitchen and give you the wrong meal. This has happened to me several times.</p>
<p>Buffet restaurants are a great idea because you can see at a glance whether there is anything you can eat, although you may have to ask questions as to whether certain dishes contain your allergen, unless the food is well labelled. Tibits buffet restaurant <a href="http://www.tibits.ch/en/home.html">http://www.tibits.ch/en/home.html</a> clearly labels all the dishes with symbols so you know exactly what’s in them.</p>
<p>Labelling is great but sometimes it can be inaccurate, so you should doublecheck. Restaurants can be over zealous with labelling. For example, in a staff restaurant, I thought I couldn’t eat the curry as it said “contains gluten” in the label, but it turned out it was only the accompanying poppadum that contained the gluten, not the curry.</p>
<p><strong>When Travelling</strong></p>
<p>It’s a good idea to take a snack with you such as gluten free crackers and bread. Make sure you have a written translation of “I have an allergy to dairy products – milk, butter, cheese, eggs” or whatever it is and then you can show this to the waiting staff in restaurants. I’ve found this method works well. You can try saying it, but unless you’re fluent in the language, they won’t understand you. Ask your hotel in advance to supply “free from” food for breakfast such as soya milk or gluten free bread. Always ask your hotel to direct you to the nearest supermarket so you can buy “free from” food and soya milk if needed. On the plane, I always take soya milk in 100ml bottles from Muji <a href="http://www.muji.eu">www.muji.eu</a></p>
<p><strong>A growing demand</strong></p>
<p>As the demand for “free from” food is growing – in the UK about 20% of the population are affected - many restaurants recognise the enormous opportunity to cater for this market. At the Rainforest Café <a href="http://www.therainforestcafe.co.uk">www.therainforestcafe.co.uk</a> , for example, there is a staff member responsible for looking after customers with food allergies.</p>
<p>Eventually you’ll create your own list of restaurants and chains which cater for your food allergies, but even if you think you know a particular establishment well, the same rule always applies – inform the staff about your food allergy as restaurants staff and menus change regularly.</p>
<p>There are a couple of Apps to help you find restaurants catering for people with food allergies – Coeliac UK has an App “Gluten free on the move” <a href="http://www.coeliac.org.uk">www.coeliac.org.uk</a> and Biteappy <a href="http://www.biteappy.com">www.biteappy.com</a> is a worldwide search for people with food allergies.</p>
<p><strong>Footnote: The EU top 14 allergens are: egg, molluscs, crustaceans, celery, milk, fish, treenuts, sulphites, soya, sesame, peanut, mustard, lupin and gluten</strong></p>
<p> </p>Eating Out with Food Allergies in Montpelier France<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Montpelier general.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Montpelier 3.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>When we go to stay at friends’ houses, we always take some ‘free from’ provisions. Although you may tell your friends that you are gluten free or dairy free, there’s no guarantee they will understand the problem. And why should they? On one occasion when we had a meal at a friend’s house, they offered Ray (who can’t eat dairy products) vegetables saying “There’s only a little butter on them.” They knew he couldn’t eat dairy products, but thought it was ok because there was only a small amount of butter!</p>
<p>We were lucky to be invited to stay with our friends François and Colette in Montpelier, France for a few days. At Costa Coffee, Gatwick Airport, <a href="http://www.costa.co.uk">www.costa.co.uk</a> we enjoyed gluten free Cherry Bakewells. These don’t contain dairy products, but strangely are not labelled dairy free.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Costa cherry bakewells.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>We packed gluten free cornflakes from Doves Farm <a href="http://www.dovesfarm.co.uk">www.dovesfarm.co.uk</a> , Nairns oatcakes <a href="http://www.nairns-oatcakes.com">www.nairns-oatcakes.com</a> and muesli for Ray from Lidyl <a href="http://www.lidyl.co.uk">www.lidyl.co.uk</a></p>
<p>In our hand luggage, we had our usual Alpro soya milk <a href="http://www.alpro.com/uk">www.alpro.com/uk</a> in 100ml transparent bottles from Muji <a href="http://www.muji.eu">www.muji.eu</a></p>
<p>At least we knew we could have breakfast, provided we could buy soya milk.</p>
<p></p>
<p> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Bio Sens store.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Bio Sens food 1.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>Our friends were wonderful and took us to a special health food shop Bio & Sens in Juvignac <a href="http://www.bioetsens.net">www.bioetsens.net</a> opposite the main supermarket Intermarché. It is stocked with all manner of gluten free and dairy free foods as well as health foods. So we bought some biscuits and gluten free Schar bread <a href="http://www.schar.com/glutenfree">www.schar.com/glutenfree</a>.</p>
<p>We didn’t recognise any of the soya milk brands, so waited until we were in the main supermarket across the road Intermarché <a href="http://www.intermarche.com">www.intermarche.com</a></p>
<p>Inside we found Bjorg soya milk <a href="http://www.bjorg.fr">www.bjorg.fr</a> which we’d sampled before in France. We find you have to be careful when selecting soya milk as some brands not only taste awful but break up when mixed with hot drinks. We were impressed to see an array of free from foods on display including pasta.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 3 intermarche free from food.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>That evening Colette cooked us a delicious meal of grilled salmon, potatoes and salad.</p>
<p>At breakfast I had gluten free cereal with fruit, soya milk and soya yogurt, while Ray enjoyed a bowl of muesli. He was able to eat the French baton bread, so toasted it and ate it with honey.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Hot Club de Paris.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>In Montpelier, we browsed round the shops in the Polygone shopping centre <a href="http://www.polygone.com">www.polygone.com</a> . In the main square, the Place de la Comedie, we listened to two musicians playing music in the style of Django Reinhardt, gypsy jazz or “hot club de Paris”. The Place de la Comedie is the heart of Montpelier, where you’ll find the 18<sup>th</sup> century opera house alongside lively alfresco cafes.</p>
<p>Behind the Place de la Comedie are a multitude of streets and alleys, which make up the old town, called the Ecusson, which we explored by foot.</p>
<p>Even though we were with our French friends, we still had a piece of paper explaining our allergies in French to show waiting staff at restaurants. For me, “Je dois allergies au gluten et le blé” (I am allergic to gluten and wheat) and for Ray, “Je suis allergique aux produits laitiers – lait, beurre, fromage” (I am allergic to dairy products – milk, butter, cheese) We still found this useful. Sometimes when we show it to a waiter, they read it several times as if it is something outside their experience.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Flunch J meal.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 2 Ray flunch meal.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Flunch.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Flunch 2.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>The Flunch restaurant in Montpelier’s Polygone shopping centre <a href="http://restaurant.flunch.fr/montpellier/flunch-montpellier-le-polygone/">http://restaurant.flunch.fr/montpellier/flunch-montpellier-le-polygone/</a> is one of our favourites as it has a buffet-style salad bar and cold meats. For the hot food, you choose from the pictures on display. Ray asked for grilled ham, French fries and salad (5.50 euros). We checked that there was no dairy; the ham is grilled with oil. When you have paid for the hot meal, you are given a receipt and then queue for your meal. When it’s your turn, you can watch your meat being cooked in front of you. You then help yourself to vegetables and French fries.</p>
<p>I enjoyed salad with sweetcorn, tomatoes, chopped carrots and lettuce (4.95 euros). It’s a popular restaurant so we had to search for seats. Quick, easy and affordable – Flunch works well for us.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Pomme de Reinett 1.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 2 Images De Demain 1.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>Montpelier boasts some fascinating independent shops such as Pomme De Reinett, Rue de l’aiguillerie <a href="http://www.tradition-jouet.com">www.tradition-jouet.com</a> a warren-like toy shop selling all sorts of toys from teddies and tin toys, all beautifully displayed. Or there’s Images De Demain, Rue de la Vieille, +33 4 67 66 23 45 offering a vast selection of picture postcards, prints cards and gifts.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR L'Heure Bleu tea salon.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Later that afternoon, we relaxed at L’Heure Bleu tea salon, 1 Rue de la Carbonnerie, tel: +33 4 67 66 41 05 with its “objets de qualité” – an astonishing array of paintings, ornaments and bric a brac, all for sale. It offers an impressive menu of teas with fabulous names such as Secret Moon, Rose d’Hiver, Lady in Red and Good Feeling, as well as a choice of hot chocolate. Oddly, François was unable to have hot chocolate because the staff member who makes it was at lunch. We all opted for the Jasmin bio tea, beautiful served in a teapot (4.80 euros per person).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR A Utopia cinema.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>That evening, we went to the Utopia cinema, 5 Avene Du Docteur, Pezet 34090 Montpelier, <a href="http://www.cinemas-utopia.org">www.cinemas-utopia.org</a> tel: +33 4 67 52 32 00. This is more like going inside a private house. It is reminiscent of the Everyman cinema in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey <a href="http://www.everymancinema.com">www.everymancinema.com</a> as it is a small, intimate cinema with very comfortable seating. We saw the film “Youth” starring Michael Caine and Harvey Keitel – brilliant. Do see it if you can.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 1 Pointe Courte Sete.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 2 Pointe Courte Sete.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR house with unusual decorations.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR A view of Sete.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>In Sete, we visited Pointe Courte, a typical old fishing village, very picturesque, with plenty of ducks. We found unusual decorations outside one of the houses of soft toys, tinsel and netting.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Le Petit Pescher salmon.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Lunch was at Le Petit Pescher , 12 Quai General, Durand <a href="http://www.restaurant-sete.com/">http://www.restaurant-sete.com/</a> where we both enjoyed grilled salmon, French fries and salad. We did check with the waiter that the fish was cooked in oil, not butter.</p>
<p>Later in the afternoon, we visited Tabary’s Café, 1 Grand Rue Maris, Roustan, 34200 Sete, tel: +44 3 67 74 3907, where the only black tea was Russian and although it smelt strange, it tasted fine.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Arles amphitheatre.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Arles 2.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>In Arles, our friend Colette took us to Hotel le Calendal, Rue Porte de Laure <a href="http://www.lecalendal.com">www.lecalendal.com</a> initially for tea, where we sat outside in the sunshine, admiring part of the famous amphitheatre, which dominates the city.</p>
<p>The Roman Amphitheatre is the largest and best preserved ancient monument in Arles, dating back to the first century AD. The arena was one of the largest in Gaul and could accommodate 21,000 spectators. It is currently undergoing major restoration, although visitors can still look round.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR smoked salon salad Arles.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR bread basket with rice cakes.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>For lunch, we returned to Hotel La Calendal and sat in its tranquil garden at the back. Here, both Ray and I enjoyed smoked salmon salad with artichoke, tomatoes and lettuce (7.50 euros). Happily the bread basket also contained rice cakes which I could eat.</p>
<p>We discovered some fascinating independent shops, although not many were open. These included Farfantello, 32 Rue de La Liberte, Arles, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/farfantello.arles">www.facebook.com/farfantello.arles</a> tel: +44 3 04 90 96 15 87 selling retro toys, ornaments and children’s clothing. Well worth a visit. Also the Puyricard chocolate shop <a href="http://www.puyricard.fr">www.puyricard.fr</a> where you can buy a small box of artisan chocolates for about 11 euros. It also runs chocolate making workshops. Sounds good to me! </p>British Sausage Week 2 to 8 November<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR sausages.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>It’s time to celebrate the British banger during British Sausage Week from Monday 2<sup>nd</sup> November to Sunday 8<sup>th</sup> November <a href="https://www.lovepork.co.uk/campaigns/british-sausage-week-2015/">https://www.lovepork.co.uk/campaigns/british-sausage-week-2015/</a></p>
<p>Even if you’re gluten free and dairy free, you can still join in the celebrations as more gluten free and dairy free sausages are becoming available in supermarkets.</p>
<p>When Ray and I dine out, we generally avoid sausages as they often have milk, gluten or wheat in them. If you’re queuing at a busy hotel buffet breakfast, no-one has the time to answer your crucial questions “Do the sausages contain milk/gluten/wheat?” If there’s a lull and you rush up to ask them, chances are they don’t know and there’s no-one in the kitchen who knows either. Occasionally we’ve struck lucky and someone does know, but we usually can’t eat them. Very very occasionally the catering staff have the packaging to hand with an ingredients list so we can check it ourselves.</p>
<p>In the supermarket it’s totally different thank goodness. In Waitrose, for example, <a href="http://www.waitrose.com">www.waitrose.com</a> there’s Waitrose Lovelife Gluten Free British sausages, which happen to be dairy free when you read the label. Strange they don’t label the product “gluten free and dairy free”. This is one of our favourites, but unfortunately it can be difficult to track down.</p>
<p>Another favourite are the pork sausages from The Black Farmer (pictured) <a href="http://www.theblackfarmer.com">www.theblackfarmer.com</a> which are gluten free, wheat free and dairy free. The company also produces free from meatballs and burgers. We’ve found these sausages in Sainsbury’s <a href="http://www.sainsburys.co.uk">www.sainsburys.co.uk</a> although you can order direct from the web site.</p>
<p>We recently discovered Heck <a href="http://www.heckfood.co.uk">www.heckfood.co.uk</a> Smoky Chorizo Style sausages, gluten and dairy free which were delicious. Heck produces a whole range of sausages but you need to check the ingredients carefully as they’re not all gluten and dairy free.</p>
<p>Dee’s Wholefoods <a href="http://www.deeswholefoods.com">www.deeswholefoods.com</a> offers a range of vegan sausages, which does mean dairy free, but not necessarily gluten free so you always need to check. I sampled some at Vegfest in Brighton, which were delicious. Varieties include Leek and Onion, Traditional Vegan and Roast Garlic and Mushroom, which don’t contain gluten. You can shop online or see the web site for your nearest stockist.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>OUR DISCOVERY</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR sponge cake.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></strong></p>
<p>We ordered a sponge cake online, which is both dairy free and gluten free from <a href="http://www.sponge.co.uk">www.sponge.co.uk</a> We received it the next day. The “Elizabeth” sponge cake, available in 7in and 10in, is a delectable mouth watering cake with sultanas and apricot jam. Ray and I loved it. It was so moist and flavoursome unlike other “free from” cakes we’ve tasted, which can be too dry. What’s more, the cake arrives beautifully packaged complete with serviettes. It’s the ultimate gift. The company also produces a range of gluten free cakes with a good sized filling of butter icing!</p>Eating Out With A Food Allergy in Bologna Italy<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Bologna general.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Bologna general 2.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Bologna general 3.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>In Bologna, it was more challenging finding places to eat which would accommodate our allergies, compared to Bardolino. On arrival we found Tramezzino, via degli Orefici 4 <a href="http://www.bologna.tramezzino.it">www.bologna.tramezzino.it</a> which purported to be vegan friendly, but seemed to serve a lot of cheese.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Ray sandwich.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR salad.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>After showing them our pieces of paper saying we had allergies, Ray enjoyed a tuna and artichoke sandwich, 3.70 euros (he discovered he can eat artichokes), while I had a green salad with carrots, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and olives, 6 euros. We both indulged in a fresh apple, melon and ginger juice, 4 euros each.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR vegan ice cream.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Across the road we discovered a shop selling vegan friendly ice cream – La Crème de la Crème, Via Degli Orefici and shared a small punnet of dairy free cherry ice cream, 2.50 euros.</p>
<p>We discovered that most cafes not only served English breakfast tea, but also soya milk which was a bonus such as Ca’Pellelti, via Altabella 15 <a href="http://www.capellettilocadaitalia.it">www.capellettilocadaitalia.it</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR building work.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>Bologna is dominated by the two medieval towers, the landmark of the city. Unfortunately there was major building work going on in the city centre which spoiled the ambience.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Ray dairy free pasta.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gf lasagne.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>The greatest find was Osteria del Podesta, Via Orefici 21, virtually next door to the vegan ice cream parlour, which offered delectable gluten free delights, but weren’t so geared up for dairy free. The waitress said Ray shouldn’t have Bolognese sauce as it had milk in it, but could have Tortellini (meat filled pasta) with a creamy sauce made with soya milk. I opted for the gluten free lasagne Bolognese. This was the first time I’d eaten lasagne in over 15 years and it didn’t disappoint. It was mouth-wateringly delicious. It was served with warm gluten free bread patties, sensibly wrapped in a cloth with the gluten free symbol on it to avoid cross contamination.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gf patties.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gf symbol.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Ray’s tortelloni was “wonderful” he said. We sat chatting to an Australian couple who were bravely touring Italy by car and shared their hair raising experiences of driving in Italy.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gf cakes.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>For dessert, I indulged in a gluten free chocolate cake similar to a brownie, but much softer, almost like an ice cream cake.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Pizza Maggiore as a festival.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>The main square is Piazza Maggiore and during our stay it was transformed into a venue for a religious festival with wooden pallet seating and covered stalls.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gf muesli.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>At our hotel Hotel Corona D’Oro <a href="http://www.HCO.it">www.HCO.it</a> the breakfast buffet meant we could see at a glance what we could eat. There was a small offering of gluten free products including the Schar <a href="http://www.schar.com">www.schar.com</a> muesli, also lactose free so Ray and I both ate it. We were given a jug of gluten free milk for our cereal.</p>
<p>The gluten free bread was unbranded; I decided to toast it and it tasted great with strawberry jam. The bacon was too fatty to eat so I had some prosciutto and fruit, while Ray ate parma ham, bread and honey. English breakfast tea was plentiful so we enjoyed a long leisurely breakfast.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR supermarket 1.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR supermarket 2.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>The supermarket round the corner from the hotel - Meta, Via Altabella 21, sold several “free from” foods such as rice cakes, gluten free bread, dairy free croissants and gluten free chocolate wafers, as well as soya milk. Fresh produce is freely available, as we passed so many shops with colourful displays of fruit and vegetables.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Duca D'Amalfi.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Duca D'Amalfi 2.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>For lunch, we visited Il Duca D’Amalfi, Pizza dei Celestini where Ray chose a ham and artichoke sandwich, but the waiter came and told him that the same machine was used for cutting ham and cheese so there would be cross contamination. So instead, Ray had a tuna salad mayonnaise sandwich (3.50 euros). We were so pleased they were so concerned and vigilant. I ate a green salad with tomatoes, tuna and corn (8 euros).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Medieval museum 2.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR medieval museum 3.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>We visited the Medieval Museum <a href="http://www.museibologna.it/">http://www.museibologna.it/</a> where we were underwhelmed by bad signage and miserable staff. When Ray asked if there was a guidebook in English, they said no. When we started looking round we discovered by accident A4 sheets in English in each room describing what was on display.</p>
<p>Curiously, we weren’t asked for tickets immediately on entry but only in the second room. Be careful you don’t miss exhibits as the museum is housed on several floors, but the signage is poor.</p>
<p>The museum exhibits impressive displays of medieval armour, guns and weapons, religious artefacts and marble carvings.</p>
<p>Do have a coffee in the Salaborsa <a href="http://www.bibliotecasalaborsa.it/">http://www.bibliotecasalaborsa.it/</a> , off Piazza Maggiore. It’s a favourite meeting place with a multi media library. There’s a covered square in the centre of the building. Beneath your feet through the glass floor you’ll see a view of the original city. Look up and admire the art nouveau ceiling.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Ray tagliatelli bolognese.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR chicken breast & salad.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>In the Piazza San Stefano, the heaters at Il Caffe Delle Sette Chiese kept us warm. I indulged in chicken breast and salad (12 euros) while Ray ate Tagliatelli Bolognese – the waitress checked that there was no butter or milk in the sauce. We liked it so much we returned there again in the evening, where we chatted to an English couple who had both climbed the 498 steps of the Asinelli Tower in the centre of Bologna. Very impressive.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Eating Out with Food Allergies in Bardolino, Italy<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 1 Bardolino.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>“Ho Allergica Al Glutine” (I have an allergy to gluten) and “Ho Allergica A Lattiosio” (I have an allergy to dairy products) are the two phrases you need to know when dining out with an allergy in Italy. Ray and I wrote out these phrases and showed them to waiting staff and it did make a great deal of difference. You can say it of course, but if your Italian accent is anything like mine, it’s better to put it in writing.</p>
<p>Eating out with food allergies at a private function such as a wedding is always a hit and miss affair. It is somewhat embarrassing to explain to the bride and groom that you have dietary requirements, but you just have to tell them or go hungry.</p>
<p>I always offer to call the venue myself. Happily these days invitations usually include a “please let us know if you have any dietary requirements” sentence.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 2 Kate & Nick.jpg" alt="" width="165" height="294" /></p>
<p>We were lucky enough to attend Kate and Nick’s wedding in Bardolino <a href="http://www.bardolinoitaly.com">www.bardolinoitaly.com</a> on the shores of Lake Garda, which must be one of the most romantic destinations in the world – the mountains, the lakes, clear turquoise skies and vivid blue water. It has it all, as well as a picturesque town with narrow streets and alfresco restaurants. A very special place.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 3 Bardolino.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>The wedding took place at the Municipio (town hall) .The registrar was pleased they had chosen Bardolino to be married. After the ceremony, he invited them to uphold an old tradition – walking round a large flat table-shaped stone, where the fishermen used to sell their fish. The tradition is that this will bring the newlyweds good luck. After posing for pictures, Kate and Nick dutifully walked round the stone, encouraged by clapping from the wedding party.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Kate & Nick going round stone.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>We then walked along the bay, enjoying the sensational views to the Bar Mirabello Lido, Lungolago, right on the lake. A glorious setting and excellent for pictures with a backdrop of the mountains. The temperature was a boiling 30 degrees so some people sat in the shaded part of the lido.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 4 Loggia Rambaldi gf plate.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>That evening we made our way to La Loggia Rambaldi <a href="http://www.laloggiarambaldi.it">www.laloggiarambaldi.it</a> for the drinks reception and evening meal. At the drinks reception, there was a tray labelled “gluten free” with prosciutto, cheese and other cold meats.</p>
<p>The newlyweds had gone to so much trouble to ensure we could enjoy the occasion. It must have been a logistical challenge as there were several guests with dietary requirements – vegetarians, a coeliac, lactose intolerance, a guest who couldn’t eat pasta, bread or rice and of course, us. They did a superlative job.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 5 chicken salad.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Our first course was chicken salad followed by gluten free fusilli pasta, mushrooms and garlic – truly scrumptious, tasty and moreish. For the main course Ray was served a plate of Argentine beef which he described as “tender and tasty”.</p>
<p>I had the same meat accompanied by rocket and shavings of grana Padano cheese.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 6 wedding meat.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>We skipped the sorbet as we were told it contained milk.</p>
<p>For dessert, Ray enjoyed chopped up apple and banana, while I enjoyed an exotic fruit salad. A refreshing end to the meal.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 7 polar bears cake.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>The wedding cake was most impressive with two polar bears adorning the top. (The couple are fond of polar bears and the bride’s favourite childhood toy was a polar bear). It looked scrumptious – mille-feuille garnished with chocolate.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 8 top of cake polar bears.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Next day, for lunch we visited Bar Cristallo, Piazza Matteotti, with great views of the mountains. We both enjoyed huge servings of prosciutto with melon.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 9 prosciutto and melon.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>That evening we visited La Lanterna restaurant, Via Mameli, Bardolino, which didn’t disappoint. While Ray munched on bread sticks (we had checked the printed ingredients to make sure they didn’t contain dairy) another waiter brought me some gluten free crackers by Schar <a href="http://www.schar.com">www.schar.com</a>.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 10 salmon.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 11 lamb chops.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>I had delicious grilled salmon and boiled vegetables, while Ray enjoyed grilled lamb chops, cooked in oil. Our waiter explained the roast potatoes were cooked in butter, so Ray didn’t have any. The flavour of the fish was tender and succulent and the vegetables were perfectly cooked. I also sampled gluten free beer.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 12 gluten free beer.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>Our breakfast at the Aqualux hotel <a href="http://www.aqualuxhotel.com/en">www.aqualuxhotel.com/en</a> was a sumptuous buffet. Ray chanced upon Bircher muesli (no dairy in the ingredients) and there was a jug of rice milk and soya milk by the cereals. I have got into the habit of requesting soya milk and gluten free bread in advance of trips. Sometimes we’re lucky, sometimes we’re not. In this case we were lucky.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 13 Schar crackers.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 14 Magdalena.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>There was also a display of gluten free products by Schar – for example Fette croccanti, wheat free, dairy free wafers and Magdalena wheat free, lactose free, gluten free apricot cakes, as well as Gallette di Mais rice cakes by Natura Nuova <a href="http://www.natura-nuova.com">www.natura-nuova.com</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 15 Aqualux gf bread.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>I opted for a plate of cold meat and smoked salmon. When I asked our waiter for gluten free bread, I was presented with warm bread in a plastic covering which needed a knife to cut it open. We did try, but in vain so our waiter came to the rescue. The bread by Schar, although cake-like, was delicious topped with bacon and raspberry jam. Another plus was the Robot Coupe juicer so we were able to prepare fresh juice using raw apples and carrots.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 16 Robot Coupe juicer.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>Next instalment: Bologna</p>National Afternoon Tea Week August 10-16<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR at start of blog.jpg" alt="" width="228" height="129" /></p>
<p>Tomorrow sees the start of National Afternoon Tea Week <a href="http://www.afternoonteaweek.com">www.afternoonteaweek.com</a> which runs until 16<sup>th</sup> August. During the week hotels, tea rooms, restaurants and even a Routemaster bus will be running tea-time events throughout the country.</p>
<p>We thought we would give you a run down of places to go to enjoy gluten free and dairy free teas during this special week.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gluten free sandwiches.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gluten free scones.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR cake and mousse.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>I was lucky enough to attend the launch of Afternoon Tea Week at St Ermin’s Hotel <a href="http://www.sterminshotel.co.uk">www.sterminshotel.co.uk</a> where they provided a special gluten free tea. First up was a glass of Innocent Bystander from Wine Trust <a href="http://www.winetrust.co.uk">www.winetrust.co.uk</a> , a light, sparkling rose wine. I enjoyed sandwiches made with gluten free bread – smoked salmon and caviar, salt beef with horseradish and cucumber and cream cheese. This was followed by mouth-watering gluten free chocolate and raspberry cake and lemon and rose petal drizzle cake. The portion sizes were dainty so I didn’t feel too naughty eating every crumb! There was an unusual, but delicious pink marshmallow and coconut cake, as well as passionfruit mousse. The highlight was the gluten free scones accompanied by jam and cream. We enjoyed a selection of teas from Newby Teas <a href="http://www.newbyteas.co.uk">www.newbyteas.co.uk</a> , which is supporting Afternoon Tea Week such as Rooibos Orange, Jasmine Princess, Strawberry and Mango. I enjoyed Assam tea with soya milk.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/bee hive.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>I took the opportunity to visit the hotel’s bee hives on the third floor balcony – you can view the busy bees through the window.</p>
<p>Events during the special week will include a pop up café at St Pancras International station and at the Intercontinental Park Lane Hotel <a href="http://www.parklane.intercontinental.com">www.parklane.intercontinental.com</a> , executive chef Ashley Wells and perfumers Floris will talk about how they collaborated to create an afternoon tea inspired by scent. For more details about all events, visit <a href="http://www.afternoonteaweek.com">www.afternoonteaweek.com</a></p>
<p>So where else can you go for afternoon tea and be able to indulge in gluten free dairy free cakes? Café Nero <a href="http://www.caffenero.com">www.caffenero.com</a> serves a wheat free carrot cake.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Foyles.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>I was delightfully surprised to find a blackcurrant gluten free sponge in Foyles café <a href="http://www.foyles.co.uk">www.foyles.co.uk</a> in London – really moist and delicious – so many gluten free cakes can be too dry.</p>
<p>At the Giro Cycling Café, 2 High Street, Esher <a href="http://www.girocycles.com">www.girocycles.com</a> we chanced upon cakes that were not only gluten free, but dairy free as well! Ray ordered the gluten free and dairy free lime and coconut cake, while I enjoyed the gluten free orange and polenta cake. Heaven!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR orange& polenta.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR lime and coconut.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>At Leon Restaurants <a href="http://www.leonrestaurants.co.uk">www.leonrestaurants.co.uk</a> , with branches throughout London, you’ll find an array of gluten free cakes. I was particularly taken with the cranberry cake – divinely moist.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Leon.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>In Claygate, at Caffee Capital coffee shop <a href="http://www.capitalcoffee.co.uk">www.capitalcoffee.co.uk</a> , I was delighted to find gluten free lemon polenta cake – wonderful.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Capital lemon cake.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="165" /></p>
<p>Of course you could always make your own dairy free and gluten free cake. One of my favourites is Viennese carrot cake by Nigella Lawson <a href="http://www.nigella.com">www.nigella.com</a> . Awesome.</p>
<p> </p>Eating out with food allergies in Llandudno Wales<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR the front.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR front illuminated.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>On the Virgin train <a href="http://www.virgintrains.co.uk">www.virgintrains.co.uk</a> to Chester to catch the onward train to Llandudno, we discovered individual portions of soya milk by Miko Plus <a href="http://www.mikoplus.com.pl">www.mikoplus.com.pl</a> !</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR soya milk cartons.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>As regular readers will know, we decant Alpro soya milk www.alpro.co.uk into two 100ml bottles bought from Muji <a href="http://www.muji.co.uk">www.muji.co.uk</a> as normally we can’t find soya milk when we travel. On this occasion, we were lucky and were able to enjoy soya milk served with our cup of tea. Wouldn’t it be great if these soya milk portions were available elsewhere such as on airlines? Food-wise we weren’t so lucky, but we had already bought some provisions from Pret A Manger <a href="http://www.pret.com">www.pret.com</a> at Euston station before we left.</p>
<p>At Chester station, we enjoyed a further reviving cup of tea at the Costa Coffee <a href="http://www.costa.co.uk">www.costa.co.uk</a> branch at the station. I made a further discovery – gluten free and dairy free cherry bakewells.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gl df bakewell tarts costa.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>When I asked whether they had any gluten free cakes, the assistant in the coffee shop showed me the gluten free symbol on the packaging to indicate there was no gluten. In a hurry, I would never have realised this was a gluten free product! We were delighted to learn (by reading the small print) that they were also dairy free so Ray could share the twin pack with me. As you know, dear reader, it is a constant challenge to find gluten free and dairy free combined products.</p>
<p>We checked into Craig-Ard Hotel in Arvan Avenue,</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Craig-Ard Hotel entrance.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Craig-Ord Hotel 2.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p><a href="http://www.craig-ardhotel.co.uk">www.craig-ardhotel.co.uk</a> where we received a friendly welcome. This hotel is perfectly located minutes away from the town centre and seafront. As a first time visitor to Llandudno, I was delighted by this charming and elegant Victorian seaside resort. The seafront was reminiscent of Nice.</p>
<p>That evening we dined with friends at Osborne House <a href="http://www.osbornehouse.com">www.osbornehouse.co</a>.uk , two of whom also had food allergies. We had contacted the hotel beforehand to inform them so they had selected dishes that were gluten free and dairy free. For a starter, Ray and I had melon and prawn cocktail.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR melon & prawn cocktail.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR lamb.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR salmon.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR trio of sorbet.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>For the main course, Ray enjoyed lamb with new potatoes and carrots while I chose salmon. A choice of vegetables – broccoli and carrots (with no butter) was shared on the table. For dessert, we both had trio of sorbet – a refreshing end to the meal.</p>
<p>The next morning, we waited in eager anticipation for our cooked breakfast at the Craig-Ard Hotel.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Craig-Ard hotel breakfast.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>We had informed them about our allergies, but from previous experience we know this can be a hit and miss affair. They had gone to the trouble of sourcing dairy free and gluten free sausages from Asda <a href="http://www.asda.com">www.asda.com</a> which they usefully informed us were in the frozen section, not in the free food section. The delicious bacon was from the local butcher, while the gluten free bread was from Warburtons <a href="http://www.warburtons.co.uk">www.warburtons.co.uk</a> accompanied by Pure dairy free soya margarine <a href="http://www.puredairyfree.co.uk">www.puredairyfree.co.uk</a><a href="http://www.puredairyfree.co.uk"></a></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR great orme llandudno.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Great Orme.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>As you walk round Llandudno and look up – there is the Great Orme and apparently, it’s a must see in Llandudno. The Great Orme headland is a massive chunk of limestone rising 207m/679ft straight out of the sea, so it’s no surprise that its name, given by the Viking means “sea monster”. After breakfast, we decided to go up the Great Orme with our friends Alan and Do by cable car. It seemed a good idea at the time, except it poured down. The problem was that the sides of the cable car are open so the rain is blown in. We felt sorry for a couple of women in summer dresses, but as they explained when they left home it was brilliant sunshine.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR view from cable car.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>As the cable car ascends, it is truly spectacular with amazing views. When we reached the top, we were soaking wet so made a dive for it into the visitor centre. We will have to revisit it another day when it’s fine so we can admire the view.</p>
<p>Back in Llandudno, we had a walk along the pier wearing our ponchos (what else?) but it was pretty miserable although you could buy a bargain poncho at £1.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR pier.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR ponchos on sale.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="280" /></p>
<p>That evening we enjoyed a meal at The Cottage Loaf <a href="http://www.the-cottageloaf.co.uk">www.the-cottageloaf.co.uk</a> winner of the Abercolwyn Food Pub of the Year. Its menu did indicate which dishes had a gluten free option, although these were few and far between. Ray decided on Grilled Lamb Koftas with chips and salad, £12.95, while I sampled Homemade Jamaican Conwy Valley goat curry with coconut rice and peas, sweet potato chips, mango chutney and gluten free bread, £13.95.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Cottage Loaf lamb koftas.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Cottage Loaf goat curry.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>A fitting end to an enjoyable – if wet – weekend.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>The Allergy & Free From Show 2015<h1></h1>
<p><strong><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR 1 overview of show at start.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></strong></p>
<p><strong></strong>The growth of the free from market was reflected by the huge expansion of The Allergy & FreeFrom Show www.allergyshow.co.uk, held in early July this year at London Olympia. When I first visited this show some years ago, it was contained in one hall. This year’s show was huge and included two other shows – The Just V Show, aimed at vegetarians and vegans and Love Natural Love Organic. Usefully the shows were divided by different coloured carpet – green for The Allergy & Free From Show; pink for the Just V Show and blue for the Love Natural Love Organic.</p>
<p>One of my quests was to find as many products as possible which were both gluten free and dairy free because, as regular readers know, I am gluten free and Ray is dairy free and it is increasingly difficult to find products which cater for both allergies.</p>
<p><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR 2 Great Foods falafels.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>The show didn’t disappoint. First up was gluten free and dairy free falafels from Great Food UK <a href="http://www.greatfooduk.com/">www.greatfooduk.com</a> in delicious flavour combinations – for example Tuscan vegetable Bites, Chunky Broad Bean Quinoa Bites and Aromatic Moroccan to get retailers to extend the distribution. Available from Ocado, Sainsburys (in the kosher section), Morrisons (in world food section), Tesco and Asda. How confusing that the products are stocked in different sections of the supermarket! New snack foods will be launched in August. It was a very timely discovery because I had been trying to find dairy free and gluten free falafels for some time, but found they mostly contained milk.</p>
<p><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR 3 new launches Explore Asian.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>I visited Explore Asian <a href="http://www.opal-export.com/">www.opal-export.com</a> producers of one of my favourite pastas made from edamame and mung bean. In September, the company will be launching a new range of ready meals such as Edamame Fettucine with Thai coconut sauce, black bean spaghetti with mild Thai Red curry sauce and Soybean Spaghetti with sundried tomato sauce. I’m looking forward to that.</p>
<p>Sourcing free from products is always a problem. Companies give you stockists’ details but when you go into the specified supermarket, it’s not there.</p>
<p><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR range of prods Free From Market.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>The answer is FreeFromMarket.co.uk <a href="http://www.freefrommarket.co.uk">www.freefrommarket.co.uk</a> which launched at the show – an online shop selling 600 brands of free from food, so this is where you’ll be able to buy the Explore Asian products. I was astonished at the breadth of products displayed on the FreeFrom market.com stand such as Eshal nut free peanut butter, Mini Moos dairy free chocolate, Delicious Alchemy’s gluten free vanilla sponge mix, Ugg Foods’ gluten free Chia Seed Muffins, Plamil dairy free milk chocolate spread and egg free mayonnaise with chilli. Other brands include Hale & Hearty and Rude Health.</p>
<p><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR 5 Dr Ape3lles Econ & Stanley Montwedi.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>Entrepreneur Stanley Montwedi started up the company to meet a gap in the market. (Pictured from left to right Dr Apelles Econs and Stanley Montwedi). He told me his wife and two young sons are intolerant to dairy, while one son is also intolerant to nuts, “so I know how difficult it is to find free from products. We found it such a struggle so I wanted to create a market-place for people to find free from products under one roof. It’s not only a online shop but also a sharing experience – there are recipes and a blog giving advice.” Also on the stand was Dr Apelles Econs from TV’s The Food Hospital and Embarrassing Bodies giving advice to visitors.</p>
<p><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR 6 Sensitive Souls.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="280" /></p>
<p>A first time exhibitor was Sensitive Souls www.sensitive-souls.co.uk started up by Alex Griffiths seven months ago who suffers from a host of allergies himself including chilli, mustard, cumin, seeds, dairy and histamine. His mission is to create fun delicious free from sweet treats. What is impressive is that the products are free from so many allergens including eggs, dairy, gluten, wheat, soya, nuts, sulphites and are suitable for vegans. A notice displayed all the allergens. Products include toffee popcorn, chocolate brownie, fruity flapjack, millionaire’s shortbread and rocky road – chocolate with marshmallows and biscuit. All very delicious. His wife Jenny, also on the stand, suffers from no allergies but has gone dairy free “and I feel much better for it,” she added.</p>
<p><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR 8 Livia's Kitchen.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="280" /></p>
<p>Livia’s Kitchen <a href="http://www.liviaskitchen.co.uk/">www.liviaskitchen.co.uk</a> has taken the traditional British apple crumble and turned it on its head. These crumbles are free from wheat, dairy and refined sugar and are available in various flavours. I tasted the yummy banana flavour, but other variants include peach and apple.</p>
<p><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR 9 Wholesome Bakes.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>The search for cakes which are both gluten free and dairy free was successful when I reached the Wholesome Bakes Ltd <a href="http://www.wholesomebakes.co.uk/">www.wholesomebakes.co.uk</a> stand with its delectable array of eye-catching cakes and pastries. They are also free from nuts which is another plus. Started by Anna Godinho, the samples were going like hot cakes (!) She started making celebrations cakes, but soon realised there was a gap in the market. “Many family members suffer from allergies so I decided to make cakes that everyone can enjoy whether they have an intolerance or allergy or not.</p>
<p><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR 10 Genius stand.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>On the Genius Gluten Free <a href="http://www.geniusglutenfree.com/">www.geniusglutenfree.com</a> stand I was able to sample blueberry muffin which was delicious and moist. When I said how difficult it was to find in the supermarkets, they handed me a leaflet giving stockists details although all the information can be found on the web site. The company has diversified considerably since it first launched its gluten free bread some years ago, which was a revelation. Up until then gluten free bread had tasted like blotting paper! Products on display included Genius pies (which Ray likes) under the Denby Dale label. New to me was the apple pie so I shall be looking out for that.</p>
<p>It was good to see that there was a Free From Café at the exhibition selling a selection of hot food, salads and cakes.</p>
<p><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR 12 Amy's Kitchen.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="280" /></p>
<p>At Amy’s Kitchen <a href="http://www.amyskitchen.co.uk/">www.amyskitchen.co.uk</a> I sampled the Chinese ready meal with noodles and veggies which is not only gluten free but also suitable for vegans and vegetarians so it ticks a lot of boxes. It was delicious and marks a breakthrough for the free from market to find a ready meal that only needs to be popped into the microwave! Not surprisingly it won a Free From Award <a href="http://www.freefromawards.co.uk/">www.freefromawards.co.uk</a> impressing the judges who said “visually perfect with lots of flavour, easy to prepare, tasty and convenient.” Also on offer was gluten free Organic Tomato Soup, also free from egg and soya and Hearty French Country Vegetable Soup, suitable for vegans and free from gluten, dairy, soy and lactose.</p>
<p><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR 13 Venice Bakery 2.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>I made a beeline to the Venice Bakery <a href="http://www.venicebakery.co.uk/">www.venicebakery.co.uk</a> stand which sells the best pizza bases in my opinion, free from gluten and dairy. This is where I tasted divine slices of pizza which literally melted in my mouth. The bases are light and crispy not like he biscuit hard bases served in pizza and restaurant chains. They’re now selling free from tortilla wraps and free from breadcrumbs.</p>
<p><img src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/LR 14 Udi's.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>On the Udi’s Gluten Free stand <a href="http://www.udisglutenfree.co.uk/">www.udisglutenfree.co.uk</a> was a vast range of gluten free products. I sampled a delicious light cake made form Udi’s Gluten Free sponge cake mix. Other products includer Toffee and Chocolate Chip cookies, Almond Vanilla flavour Granola, Cinnamon and Raisin Bagel and Strawberry Breakfast Bar.</p>
<p>If you didn’t manage to get to the London show, there will; be The Allergy & Free From Show in Liverpool from 7 to 8 November and the brand new Allergy & Free From Show Scotland to be held 19 to 20 March 2016 at the SECC Glasgow www.allergyshow.co.uk</p>Eating Out with Food Allergies in Verona<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR opening shot Verona.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>In Verona, we were staying at the Hotel Accademia <a href="http://www.hotelaccademiaverona.it">www.hotelaccademiaverona.it</a> right in the heart of the city so most of the main attractions were in walking distance. On arrival we were offered a welcome drink in the elegant bar decorated with old photographs from silent movies. The bar was well supplied with free snacks we could eat such as crisps and olives.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Arena.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>The focal point of Verona is the Arena, which can accommodate 20,000 spectators who come here to watch opera in July and August, although other productions are staged throughout the year.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR props outside arena.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>We saw scenery and props piled up outside the arena. As we were so centrally located it wasn’t long before we found Aquila Nera Café <a href="http://www.aquilaneraverona.com">www.aquilaneraverona.com</a> offering a self service buffet everyday from 12 noon to 3pm at 15 euros a head.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Aquila Nera Cafe.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>As regular readers know I am a fan of buffets because you can see exactly what you’re getting. Fortunately a helpful woman stood by the buffet so after Ray explained his allergies, she pointed to the dishes he could eat; she did the same for me. We ended up with a delicious array of meat dishes and freshly cooked vegetables as well as salad.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR creme caramel.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>For dessert I was able to eat crème caramel and fresh slices of orange, but there was nothing Ray could eat (he can’t eat oranges). So he looked the other way as I indulged in my crème caramel something I hadn’t eaten for years. I wonder if you can make an egg and dairy free crème caramel? You may think 15 euros is expensive for a buffet meal. It is, but I was quoted 15 euros for a salad in Piazza d’Erba, Verona. Italy is expensive for dining out.</p>
<p>After Ray’s blue plaque moment in Venice, we were prepared to go without an evening meal as we didn’t want Ray to be ill again as we felt we were in a “Russian roulette” situation. We wandered around the Arena and started to explore the back streets away from the main drag to see if we could find a suitable quiet restaurant. We looked at several but there was always something dubious about them. For example, one menu described a horsemeat dish with donkey sauce!</p>
<p>Eventually we came across a small restaurant Osteria Casa Vino, Vic Morette 8/a, tel: 045/8004337 <a href="http://www.osteriacasavino.it/">http://www.osteriacasavino.it/</a> off the beaten track with tables outside. A large group of Americans were being served and we could hear a woman speaking English to them. Ray took this as a good sign and we sat down.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Fiori Di Zucchini.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>This woman called Janina listened intently to our list of allergies and made suggestions. As a starter Ray ordered smoked salmon (9 euros) and I had Fiori Di Zucchini (zucchini stuffed with ricotta cheese).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR grilled turbot.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR lamb in breadcrumbs.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>This was followed by lamb in breadcrumbs (17.50 euros) for Ray and grilled turbot (16 euros) for me, both accompanied by grilled vegetables. It was delicious and the ambience of the restaurant was delightful with friendly staff. One of our fellow diners was an American student staying in Verona who was dairy free. She, too, had been having problems although she’d found some pizzerias where they had tailor-made pizzas for her, omitting the cheese “but in some cases I’ve just had to have a salad,” she added.</p>
<p>We took the precaution to wait 40 minutes after we’d eaten our meal having a mint tea to check if Ray was ok. He was.</p>
<p>When we’d asked our hotel whether they could order in soya milk and gluten free bread, we were told they already supplied it and to our delight, it was true. The breakfast buffet was extensive with plenty of items we could eat. On the cold side, there was tuna, olives, tomatoes, ham. Usefully the cold meat section was labelled gluten free and dairy free so we knew which were ok.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR hotel gf df items.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR hotel gf muesli.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR hotel gluten free bread.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>A section of the buffet was dedicated to gluten free and dairy free items including muesli, crispbreads, biscuits and a dairy free croissant with apricot jam in the middle. My toasted gluten free bread arrived and I was able to choose from the selection of jams – I chose blackcurrant. Ray suggested I should put a thin layer of mayonnaise on first followed by the jam as this gives the taste of buttered toast – absolutely scrumptious. I finished off with a platter of fruit including fresh pineapple, melon, apples and prunes. So we both had substantial breakfasts.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR piazza d'erba.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>We wandered into Piazza D’Erba the main square. In the middle is the spectacular statue of the winged lion of St Mark C XVI century and the fountain of Madonna di Verona 1368. It is an elegant square and on a Sunday you can sit and gaze at the architecture.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR hats at market.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>On other days there’s a market selling all manner of goods such as hats, scarves, food and general paraphernalia.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR inside arena.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR choir performing arena.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>We paid to enter the Arena which was smallish when compared to other arenas we’ve visited such as Rome’s Colosseum. A highlight was the impromptu performance by a German choir a capella inside the Arena – MGV Langenbruchen from Heidelberg with women wearing red tops and the men in white – very impressive.</p>
<p>We were so appalled at the cost of meals and concerned about Ray’s health, we bought “picnic” items at the nearest supermarket – Pam Panorama, Via Dei Mutilati 3, Verona – and ate them alfresco. We did this successfully one evening and one lunchtime. Not only did we save money but we didn’t have to worry about what was safe to eat in some unknown restaurant.</p>
<p>We also visited Juliet’s House, where tourists write their names on the walls. Ray thought this was a rip off when we paid to go inside. I could see he had a point as the house just contains items relating to Juliet. There isn’t much to see at all – just have a look at the famous balcony outside. That’s all you need.</p>
<p>One of the best cups of tea we had in Verona was at the Loacker shop <a href="http://www.loacker-moccaria.com">www.loacker-moccaria.com</a> with giant T-bags in good sized cups, although costly at 3.20 euros a cup so make the most of every sip! It also houses a shop selling chocolates and biscuits.</p>
<p>As for Venice, we had to pay a city tax of 12 euros.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR prosciutto baguette.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR airport rice salad.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>In the departures lounge at Verona airport, it looked unlikely we would be able to find anything to eat, but we found De Canto Wine Bar <a href="http://www.aeroportoverona.it/en/eat-drink_t2">www.aeroportoverona.it/en/eat-drink_t2</a></p>
<p>Ray explained his allergies and was given a prosciutto baguette with lettuce (but crucially no butter) and I enjoyed a rice salad.</p>
<p> </p>Eating Out with Food Allergies in Venice<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR VEnice general view to start.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Venice general view to start 2.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>We learnt a great deal while on holiday in Venice and Verona. If you suffer from food allergies and intolerances, avoid busy restaurants because they don’t have the time (or inclination) to listen to your explanation. Their main priority is to get as many customers in and out as possible. In some cases, restaurants have special menus which are useful, but none had symbols on the menus indicating the various allergens. As a result, we found it a struggle.</p>
<p>It helps if you have written down on a piece of paper your allergies. For me “Ho allergica al glutine” (I have an allergy to gluten) and for Ray “Ho allergico al fromaggio, burro, latte” (I have an allergy to cheese, butter, milk” as the waiting staff can read it and digest it (excuse the pun) especially if like us, your Italian accent is rubbish.</p>
<p>As usual, we were prepared for the trip – two small 100ml plastic bottles from Muju <a href="http://www.muji.eu">www.muji.eu</a> filled with Alpro soya milk <a href="http://www.alpro/com/uk">www.alpro/com/uk</a> They are 100ml bottles so they pass through airport security. This is invaluable as we can’t buy soya milk in the departure lounge. We also had Nairns oatcakes <a href="http://www.nairns-oatcakes.com">www.nairns-oatcakes.com</a> and several wheat-free and dairy-free Nak’d bars <a href="http://www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk/nakd">www.naturalbalancefoods.co.uk/nakd</a> in various flavours and a packet of Hobnobs <a href="http://www.mcvities.co.uk/hobnobs">www.mcvities.co.uk/hobnobs</a> which Ray can eat.</p>
<p>It’s always a good idea to take food with you in case you’re stuck and can’t find anything to eat. Rice cakes are another option.</p>
<p>At the airport we were pleased to find Pret A Manger <a href="http://www.pret.com">www.pret.com</a> where I enjoyed a tuna salad, while Ray consumed a tuna mayonnaise baguette. This is a good choice as it doesn’t contain butter and he can easily pick out the cucumber slices (he can’t eat cucumber) without losing much tuna. Our discovery was the dairy free and delicious Almond Milk Shake made with almond milk – definitely worth trying.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Pret A Manager tuna baguette.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR dariy free almond milk shake.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>On board the EasyJet flight to Venice, <a href="http://www.easyjet.com">www.easyjet.com</a> we found in the Bistro Booklet magazine a useful allergen colour coded guide to the food sold inflight, but nothing Ray and I could eat.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR easyJet allergen guide.jpg" alt="" width="457" height="600" /></p>
<p>On closer inspection, we found Mrs Crimbles <a href="http://www.mrscrimbles.com">www.mrscrimbles.com</a> dairy free and gluten free chocolate maracoons but it wasn’t listed in the allergen guide. I always make a point of ordering this to encourage EasyJet to keep selling it. As part of the meal deals we noticed there were Nak’d bars and Nature Valley <a href="http://www.naturevalley.co.uk">www.naturevalley.co.uk</a> biscuits (which Ray can eat) available but not individually, but again with no allergen information.</p>
<p>Our flight was delayed approaching Venice because the pilot waited for a thunderstorm to move away; this meant we circled round and round for a while until finally he could land the plane. Couldn’t see anything through the window except clouds. Yes the weather was very unsettled and the journey on the water taxi across choppy waters bumpy – although the driver managed to talk on his mobile throughout the journey. Must have a good sense of balance. At one point I felt seasick but managed to fix my eyes on the horizon. Fortunately as we entered Venice, the water taxi was forced to slow down and we could admire the majestic buildings.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Venice in the rain.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="280" /></p>
<p>Our hotel Locanda Vivaldi <a href="http://www.locandavivaldi.it/en">www.locandavivaldi.it/en</a> the former dwelling of the composer Antonio Vivaldi which has been transformed into a charming hotel, minutes away from St Mark’s Square with spectacular views of the lagoon. It was so quiet we couldn’t believe we were in the heart of Venice until we stuck out heads out of the window and saw the hordes of tourists amid a sea of coloured umbrellas. For it rained and rained in Venice although we didn’t let that dampen our spirits.</p>
<p>Normally I contact hotels in advance and ask for soya milk and gluten free bread but failed to do so on this occasion, but the hotel said they would buy some for me.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Alpro individual milk cartons.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>So our first port of call was the supermarket Punto Sma City (New Venice Com, 30122 Venezia Castello 5065, tel: 041-29 60 560) to buy soya milk. Ray was delighted to see individual packets of vanilla Alpro soya milk <a href="http://www.alpro/com/uk%20.%20Unlike">www.alpro/com/uk . </a> Unlike all the other flavours in England, this flavour has disappeared and oh joy! 250ml sized packets of soya milk and 500ml packs, great for portability and travelling. These 250ml packs negate the need for Ray to decant soya milk into two bottles for travelling. We wish they were available in the UK – plain Alpro soya milk in portable sizes!</p>
<p>That evening we chanced upon a nearby restaurant Trattoria Da Remigo, Venezia Castello 3416 (tel: 04-5230089) where our waiter listened to our various allergies and was able to recommend dishes. As I like fish, I chose sea bass (25 euros) and Ray ordered grilled steak (15 euros). We were astonished by the prices, but gradually realised this was the norm. We noticed there was a mix of locals and tourists. Service was fast and affable. A good start.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR seabass Trattoria Da REmigo.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>The hotel breakfast buffet was limited to say the least – that is if you’re gluten free and dairy free. I helped myself to ham and fruit, fortified with oatcakes I’d brought with me. Ray chose bread, ham and bacon, then some toast and honey. I didn’t fancy the bacon as it was so fatty. Otherwise there was an array of pastries and cereal which we couldn’t eat.</p>
<p>Surprisingly, there was a choice of tea (not the usual Liptons) so we selected Twinings <a href="http://www.twinings.co.uk">www.twinings.co.uk</a> English Breakfast tea.</p>
<p>The following morning the hotel supplied soya milk as well as gluten free crackers and biscuits.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Beinnale art.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Biennale art 2.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="280" /></p>
<p>I had pre-ordered Venice Biennale <a href="http://www.labiennale.org.en">www.labiennale.org.en</a> tickets so we walked to Giardini where 50% of the exhibition was being held, although you could find art exhibits and installations throughout the city.</p>
<p>The Giardini consisted of huge pavilions representing various countries. The buildings were huge and splendid and some resembled palaces. The area was so extensive we only managed to visit a few pavilions.</p>
<p>We ate in the café at the exhibition which was like an art work itself with jazzy black and white striped décor. It lacked basic signage to indicate how to order food and after much confusion, realised there was a counter service and a table service area.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Biennale cafe.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>At the counter the ingredients of the snacks were clearly labelled, although Ray did check with the member of staff. He ordered a prosciutto baguette, while I had a salad. Our area was short of seats but we managed to find a couple.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Ray proscuitto baguette.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>We felt it was our duty to visit the British Pavilion to see Sarah Lucas’ work. This comprised of giant phalluses, droopy boobs and scrotum in bright yellow plastic. Or there were mannequin-like body parts (casts of her friends?) with Camel cigarettes stuck in various orifices. The cigarettes were unlit which was probably a good idea. An acquired taste.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR British pavilion.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>Happy to report that not all the art work was like that. We found Usrula Von Rydingsvard’s outdoor tree-like sculptures strangely beautiful.</p>
<p>Elsewhere in Venice we found Yahon Chang’s “The Question of Beings” - an entire room painted with psychedelic drawings – not only the walls and ceiling, but the floor as well. One had to wear shoe covers to enter it.</p>
<p>Fellow blogger Gluten Free Mrs D <a href="http://www.glutenfreemrsd.com">www.glutenfreemrsd.com</a> had told me that while she and her husband toured round Italy, she’d found gluten free pasta dishes served in restaurants. Was this a myth? I decided to put this to the test and asked our hotel concierge if he could recommend any restaurants which served gluten free pasta. He suggested Trattoria al Giardinetto <a href="http://www.algiardinetto.it">www.algiardinetto.it</a> and showed us the location on the map. After a circuitous long-winded route in the rain, we found the restaurant with a nearby magic shop which pleased Ray.</p>
<p>As we entered the trattoria, the New Zealanders in front reassured us it was a good place to eat. We were shown into the huge outdoor terrace covered with canvas (good idea with the constant rain!) covered with criss-crossing vines and greenery so the overall effect was sitting in a garden (hence the name!) I was given a gluten free menu (menu senza glutine). Astonishingly there were seven types of gluten free pasta, not just one so I opted for Spaghetti Bolognese a dish I hadn’t eaten for over 15 years (the gluten free spaghetti on sale in the UK tends to taste like cardboard so I’ve always bought other types of pasta).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR spag bol trattoria al giardinetto.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>Ray chose the same dish – it was cooked to perfection, al dente. A real treat.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR dok dallave overview.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>Sightseeing in incessant rain can become tiring and damp so after our tour of the narrow passageways of Venice and admiring St Mark’s Square, we found by accident Dok Dall’ava <a href="http://www.dallava.com">www.dallava.com</a> described as a “proscuitterie” – yes you’ve guessed it selling predominantly prosciutto. Ray ordered a regular plate of prosciutto (8.50 earos) served on a bed of lettuce with bread and bread sticks.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR dokdall venezia salad.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>I enjoyed Venezia salad comprising lettuce, rocket, cabbage, runa, lightly smoked trout and red onions (12 euros).</p>
<p>That Saturday night, our last in Venice, we made the mistake of returning to Trattoria Giardinetto. The garden was closed off to a private party and the restaurant was rammed with people. Luckily (or unluckily) we had make a reservation. People were queuing at the door for a table (I suppose tables are scarce in Venice on a Saturday night). The noise levels were high and there was a certain tension in the air. Our waiter barked at us rather than spoke. As he spoke English, Ray explained in English he was allergic to dairy and immediately this guy rattled off in Italian a list of dishes. He thought Ray had requested a certain dish. I tried to intervene and eventually he appeared to understand. This time I chose sea bass while Ray had grilled steak.</p>
<p>We knew he was under stress and in a hurry because the restaurant was so busy. Even so, he could have been a bit more patient. His movements were jerky and uncoordinated. We wondered if he was going to have a nervous breakdown at any moment. There was an uneasy atmosphere in stark contrast to the previous evening. Perhaps this was the penalty of dining out in Venice on a Saturday night?</p>
<p>We tried not to let this affect us. My fish was burnt and Ray’s steak was mediocre; I decided not to make a fuss. When I asked to see the gluten free menu again to see what desserts there were, this waiter shouted at me “Crème Caramel! That’s all! Crème Caramel!” Having looked at the menu previously, I knew there were more options but with his rudeness and shouting, I lost my appetite.</p>
<p>He was also obstructive; I had problems getting past him to the toilet and returning to the table as he stood in front of me. At the end of the meal, Ray left the table easily but I was virtually barricaded by this waiter. I yelled out “Ray I can’t get out!” at which point he stepped aside.</p>
<p>When we got outside, we were exhausted. It was one of the worst dining experiences I’ve ever had, with or without allergies.</p>
<p>Sadly later that evening Ray had what we call the “blue plaque moment”. This is when the meal has upset your stomach and you have to run for the nearest loo. Fortunately this moment occurred in time for him to go inside a restaurant near the hotel. Strange thing was he’d eaten no dairy.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR REgatta boats Venice.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>Sunshine greeted us the next morning when we were leaving but we did see the regatta – a colourful display of boats filled the lagoon. A wondrous sight.</p>
<p>It softened the blow of having to pay 27 euros city tax. This was introduced three years ago – 4.50 euros per person per day (even if you didn’t like it).</p>
<p>Next instalment: Verona</p>The First Ever Raw Vegan Pop Up Gathering in North Kingston<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR pop up vegan cafe.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>What a treat to attend the first ever Pop Up Raw Vegan Gathering on Sunday in North Kingston organised by Patricia Campbell Parker <a href="http://www.vitalwellbeing.net">www.vitalwellbeing.net</a> featuring raw vegan food created by Francesca Paz from Moody Mango. We were so excited because the menu was not only dairy free, but gluten free as well!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR ginger shot.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>First up was a ginger shot, produced by Patricia, a delicious blend of ginger and citrus fruits. I remembered it well from Patricia’s juicing workshop I attended, since when I’ve become an avid juicer!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR A starter.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>The starter was radicchio leaves filled with peanut satay, accompanied by a yellow mango chutney. The nuts gave the dish an extra dimension. An unusual and beautifully presented dish.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR main course.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>The main course was lasagne but not as we know it. It was made from thinly sliced courgette layered with a spicy tomato sauce, ricotta, hemp pesto, tomatoes, rocket and avocado pieces. The star of the dish was the ricotta made from macadamia nuts – it not only looked like cheese, but tasted like it as well. Completely convincing. The overall taste was tantalising. I particularly enjoyed the cheese and tomato sauce. Astonishingly, none of this food was cooked and yet it tasted wonderful.</p>
<p>In between courses, we were encouraged to mingle with people on other tables and swop business cards which was great fun.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR vegan cheesecake.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>As regular readers know, Ray and I rarely have desserts – well, in most restaurants, desserts have dairy and gluten in them. But the dessert was a melt-in-the-mouth cheesecake – not only dairy free, but gluten free as well! It was made from coconut and cashews topped with dehydrated citrus fruit and surrounded by hazelnut crumble. A triumph. Ray was over the moon as most dairy free cheesecakes we’ve tried have tasted bland, but this was the best we’ve eaten.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/A LR tonic.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>To finish off, Patricia served everyone a glass of her warm tonic, a blend of coconut and turmeric to settle the digestion. Delicious.</p>
<p>Congratulations Patricia and Francesca – I’m sure this will be the first of many. Keep up the good work.</p>
<p>For more details of future raw vegan pop ups, visit <a href="http://www.vitalwellbeing.net">www.vitalwellbeing.net</a></p>
<p> </p>VegFest Brighton 2015<p>Enormous queues formed outside The Brighton Centre <a href="http://www.brightoncentre.co.uk">www.brightoncentre.co.uk</a> waiting to enter this year's VegFest <a href="http://www.brighton.vegfest.co.uk">www.brighton.vegfest.co.uk</a> despite the stormy weather conditions.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Vegfest crowds.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Inside the centre, crowds thronged the walkways at the exhibition. Jimmy Pierce from The Vegan Society <a href="http://www.vegansociety.com">www.vegansociety.com</a> told me that they are receiving 500 applications every month from people wanting to take up the "30 Day Vegan Pledge" and that 91% who try out a vegan lifestyle for 30 days, remain vegan. He pointed out it's not just about food. Becoming vegan also means not using products that derive from animals such as leather, wool or fur and not using cosmetics tested on animals. A total of 18,000 products bear The Vegan Society logo.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR V-Bites quiche.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>As I am gluten free and Ray is dairy free, we always have to be careful that food meets both criteria. If food is vegan, it doesn't necessarily follow that it is also gluten free, so this is something you have to remember. So I was unable to sample the vegan quiche (which means it's also egg free) from V-Bites <a href="http://www.vbitesfoods.com">www.vbitesfoods.com</a> that Ray devoured, savouring every mouthful. "I'm so enjoying this," he said. He's been programmed over the years to ask "Is there dairy in this?" Although he realises if a product is vegan it means it is dairy free, he still had to ask to make sure - as he couldn't believe it.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Cocoafeliz.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>This was definitely the case at the Cocoafeliz stand <a href="http://www.cocoafeliz.com">www.cocoafeliz.com</a> with its array of beautiful vegan and vegetarian chocolate. We enjoyed a white chocolate ganache and a rose fondant in dark chocolate. Bliss.</p>
<p>We're fans of the Koko dairy free range of coconut milk <a href="http://www.kokodairyfree.com">www.kokodairyfree.com</a> so was pleased to discover the launch of a new Koko dairy free spread made with pressed coconut oil. We tasted the spread on gluten free oat cakes - delicious. It will be available from Waitrose <a href="http://www.waitrose.com">www.waitrose.com</a> as well as other supermarkets and healthfood shops later this month.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Koko margarine.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Explore Asian <a href="http://www.explore-asian.com">www.explore-asian.com</a> showcased its highly original bean pastas, gluten free and dairy free. Our favourite is Edaname & Mung Bean Fettucine. Other varieties include Black Bean Spaghetti and Edaname Spaghetti.</p>
<p>Finding something gluten free for lunch was challenging especially as the Food Village was packed with people. Eventually I sampled a Caribbean-style chickpea and sweet potato curry with roasted tropical pumpkin from St Best Caterers <a href="http://www.stbestcaterers.co.uk">www.stbestcaterers.co.uk</a> - well worth the wait! This was accompanied by a Tropical Twist drink with ginger and tamarind.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR St Best curry.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Alas we arrived too late at the Ms Cupcake <a href="http://www.mscupcake.co.uk">www.mscupcake.co.uk</a> stand - they had virtually sold out of vegan cupcakes. On display was a range of giant American vegan cookies (gluten free is available) in different varieties such as Red Velvet and Double Chocolate as well as vegan date slices. Copies of the Ms Cupcake book was also on sale. Ms Cupcake is London's first vegan bakery - I will get there one day!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Ms Cupcake 2.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>We enjoyed sampling Moo Free dairy free chocolate <a href="http://www.moofreechocolate.com">www.moofreechocolate.com</a> especially the Caramelised Hazelnuts Bar. Talking about chocolate, The Raw Chocolate Company <a href="http://www.therawchocolatecompany.com">www.therawchocolatecompany.com</a> launched its Raw Chocolate coated mulberries - a delicious combination.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Moofree.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>International Food Exhibition IFE2015 & Great Taste Awards judging<p>It's been a busy time with the International Food Exhibition (IFE15), judging the Great Taste Awards and visiting VegFest in Brighton.</p>
<p>At IFE15 <a href="http://www.ife.co.uk">www.ife.co.uk</a> at London Excel <a href="http://www.excel-london.co.uk">www.excel-london.co.uk</a> I was delighted to find so many free from products not only gluten free, but dairy free as well. Interestingly most of these were located in the "Health and Wellbeing" section.</p>
<p>Congratulations to Clive's Pies <a href="http://www.clivespies.com">www.clivespies.com</a> for winning the Best Free From Product in the World Food Innovation Awards 2015 for its gluten free pies. What's more they are virtually all dairy free as well except for a few varieties such as Homily Pie and Cheese and Potato. At the show, I sampled Mushroom & Leek pie. Most pies I've tried before made with gluten free pastry tend to be doughy with dried out fillings, but not this pie. The pie has crispy pastry with a generous moist tasty filling. A real treat. That evening I heated up the Aloo Gobi pie, with cauliflower florets, potatoes and vegetables in aromatic Indian spices with fresh ginger and coconut cream. It was a similar story - melt in the mouth pastry and a yummy filling. Ray, who's dairy free, was over the moon. "This is the best pie I've tasted," he said. "When can we have another one?"</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Clive's Pies Aloo Gobi.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>Pies are available already cooked in single packs, so you can eat them cold. The pies are also available uncooked in twin packs. You can buy them online or from independent health food shops, Holland & Barrett, Ocado and Goodness Direct.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRWalkers gluten free shortbread.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>Walkers <a href="http://www.walkersshortbread.com">www.walkersshortbread.com</a> is synonymous with quality shortbread. As a child, I remember my mother buying it every Christmas as a treat. Imagine my surprise to discover that Walkers has launched gluten free shortbread. Tasting it evoked memories of my childhood. It's truly delicious and not over sweet. Available in three varieties - Pure Butter, Chocolate Chip and Ginger & Lemon in 140g boxes. The shortbread is made with a blend of potato, rice and maize flour and carries the Coeliac UK certificate.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR The Nude Spoon.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>Dairy free ice cream is hard to find so I was pleased to discover The Nude Spoon's <a href="http://www.thenudespoon.com">www.thenudespoon.com</a> dairy free ice cream, made from coconut milk, cashews, coconut sugar and a pinch of Himalayan salt. It's delicious and also available in Hot-To-Trot Choco-Lot and Sultry Salted Caramel. Kezra Powell, who's dairy free herself, founded the company with Anna Winterbotoom a year ago. The ice cream is available from Alara Health Store <a href="http://www.alarashop.com">www.alarashop.com</a> in 500ml packs at £7.37 in biodegradable packaging. They're looking for new distributors, so I hope they find some soon. They will be at VegFest in London on October 10 & 11 <a href="http://www.london.vegfest.co.uk">www.london.vegfest.co.uk</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Jim Jams.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>When Kevin Bath was looking for a chocolate spread for his children, he was shocked to find that they contained so much sugar, so he decided to make his own and thus Jim Jams <a href="http://www.jimjams-spreads.co.uk">www.jimjams-spreads.co.uk</a> was born about ten months ago. Its gluten free chocolate spread contains 83% less sugar than others on the market. Jim Jams also offers reduced sugar jams. Kevin says "When I was researching the market, no company does the whole range - it's either chocolate spreads or jams." Chocolate spread is in Milk Chocolate and Hazelnut varieties, while the reduced sugar jam is in Strawberry, Raspberry and Blackcurrant. There's also Orange Marmalade. I was given a recipe leaflet, although there are recipe ideas on the web site. The Berry Jam and Vanilla Swirl Cheesecake looks amazing and is definitely one to try!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Funnybones Yuca Fries hi res.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="187" /></p>
<p>For something different, I sampled "Yuca Fries" on the Funnybones <a href="http://www.funnybones.co.uk">www.funnybones.co.uk</a> stand - delicious. Funnybones is a foodservice company providing products to caterers. The fries are made from cassava (also known as yuca), a root vegetable native to Central and South America. Also on the stand was a range of gluten free bread.</p>
<p><strong>The Great Taste Awards</strong></p>
<p>The Great Taste Awards <a href="http://www.greattasteawards.co.uk">www.greattasteawards.co.uk</a> organised by the Guild of Fine Food, is the acknowledged benchmark for speciality food and drink. It's been described as the "Oscars" of the food world and the "epicurean equivalent of the Booker prize". When you see the Great Taste logo on a product it means it's a sign you can trust when buying food and drink.</p>
<p>Now in its 21st year, the number of entries is capped to 10,000 and over 400 judges blind taste the products over 50 judging days from April through to mid July. And I was one of them.</p>
<p>I sampled a wide range of products including seaweed crackers made with gluten free beer, dairy free lemon chilli curd, poached duck's eggs, a blend of English Cox apples and lightly sparkling spring water, Tayberry ice cream and a brownie which was egg free, dairy free and gluten free.</p>
<p>Can't wait to hear the results. For a summary of 2014 winners, see <a href="http://www.greattasteawards.co.uk">www.greattasteawards.co.uk</a></p>
<p></p>Eating Out with Food Allergies in Bratislava and Vienna<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRice rink at Bratislava.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>Travelling with food allergies can be problematic, so it's best to be prepared. On tour with Elmbridge Ladies Choir <a href="http://www.surreymusic.org">www.surreymusic.org</a> to Bratislava in Slovakia, our group leader had thoughtfully provided cards for anyone with a food allergy, so Ray and I had cards explaining our dietary requirements in Slovakian for our trip to Bratislava and in German for the Vienna leg. These proved invaluable when we dined out on our own as we could simply show them to our server. A simple effective idea we will be using from now on.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRLondon Heathrow Terminal 2.jpg" alt="" width="196" height="110" /></p>
<p>It was our first time at the new Queen's Terminal (Terminal 2) at Heathrow Airport, London, but as it was around 4.45am there was nothing open. We admired Heston Blumenthal's The Perfectionists' Cafe <a href="http://www.theperfectionistscafe.com">www.theperfectionistscafe.com </a>which we'd heard so much about with its wood-fired pizza oven (not operational this early in the morning) and the Nitro Ice Cream Parlour with its liquid nitrogen-fuelled machine. We'll have to go back and try them out.</p>
<p>Fortunately Leon <a href="http://www.leonrestaurants.co.uk">www.leonrestaurants.co.uk</a> was open and ready for business so we enjoyed a reviving cup of tea and I indulged in a gluten free cake. They served a variety of breakfast options such as poached egg pots with truffled gruyere - all wheat and gluten free. The menu has symbols for wheat free, dairy free and so on which makes life easier as you don't have to go into a big explanation.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRLeon restaurant.jpg" alt="" width="196" height="110" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRgluten free cakes Leon.jpg" alt="" width="196" height="110" /></p>
<p>Once in Bratislava, a small pretty town reminiscent of Prague on a much smaller scale, we came across a large thriving book shop <a href="http://www.martinus.sk">www.martinus.sk</a> with an interesting English book section and cafe. This reminded us of what was Borders - sadly gone now like many others in the UK.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRBratislava bookshop.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>We wandered the streets looking for somewhere to eat before choosing Cafe Milenium <a href="http://www.mileniumcafe.sk">www.mileniumcafe.sk</a> in the centre of Bratislava SNP Square 3 opposite the main post office. Bizarrely, for us, the restaurant had a smoking section at the back of the restaurant and played English pop music. We showed the cards outlining our dietary requirements (gluten free and dairy free). The waiting staff were helpful pointing out that the mayonnaise served in the restaurant contained milk. I had grilled salmon with English vegetables and chips, while Ray had a Milenium burger and chips (Not a preference of his, but a safeish choice)</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRMillenium dish.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>After choir rehearsal which took place in the lobby of our hotel Austria Trend Hotel <a href="http://www.austria-trend.at/Hotel-Bratislava/en/">www.austria-trend.at/Hotel-Bratislava/en/</a> much to the delight of other hotel guests who took pictures. Both the Elmbridge Ladies Choir and our sister mixed choir Elmbridge Choir then walked to the 17th century Jesuit Church in Franciscan Square, next door to the Old Town Hall. It was reassuring to see both choirs listed on the poster outside the church advertising that evening's concert as part of the International Festival of Advent and Christmas Music. Our choirs, the only ones from the UK, were taking part alongside 11 others from countries including Russia, Ukraine, Lithuania and South Africa.</p>
<p>It was rewarding to listen to all the other choirs, each with their own distinctive style, appearance and repertoire.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Bratislava Xmas market sq.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="240" /></p>
<p>Dinner had been arranged at Zichy Cafe & Restaurant <a href="http://www.carec-zichy.sk">www.carec-zichy.sk</a> in Bratislava which did an excellent job, not only catering for over 100 people but also taking care of our food allergies. For starters, we enjoyed vegetable soup followed by chicken with potatoes and salad. During our stay we noticed that typical Slovakian cuisine tends to be filling soups, casseroles and potatoes to keep you warm!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRBratislava Zichy soup.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRBratislava Zichy chicken main course.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>Breakfast at the Austria Trend Hotel was in the form of a buffet, which always makes life easier as you can see at a glance what you can eat. The buffet comprised an array of cold meats, cheese and fruits, as well as a choice of hot dishes, although we found the bacon rather too streaky. Gluten free bread was available on request, as well as lactose free milk and yogurt. Soya milk was readily available in a jug on the buffet, although we had to ask for a couple of refills.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRRed Stone Castle Bratislava.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>A tour had been arranged for both choirs to the Red Stone Castle and Trnava City. Red Stone Castle <a href="http://www.hradcervenykamen.sk">www.hradcervenykamen.sk</a> is one of the best preserved Slovak castles. We were shown over 20 rooms of the castle palace beautifully furnished including the library, chapel and weapons room. The museum houses over 13,000 objects, some of which are highly unusual like this bed.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Bed Red Stone Castle.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="240" /></p>
<p>Lunch was at Hotel Phoenix in Trnava City <a href="http://www.hotelphoenix.sk">www.hotelphoenix.sk</a> where they did a sterling job identifying everyone who had food allergies - gluten free, dairy free, vegan, vegetarian. We enjoyed a rice noodle soup to start with followed by chicken, potatoes and vegetables with fruit salad as dessert.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRcastle starter.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRcastle main course.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR castle dessert.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="240" /></p>
<p>Back in Bratislava, we changed quickly into our choir costume of black coat, red hat, scarf and gloves to walk down to the Christmas Market where we would be performing. I envisaged standing on the pavement outside the church, so I was astonished to find we were going to perform on a proper stage with heating and lighting! As we took our positions, Bratislava's answer to Pavarotti sang some carols so we became his impromptu backing singers and joined in with "Silent Night".</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRElmbridge Ladies Choir Bratislava Xmas Market.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>After our repertoire of nine cheerful Christmas songs, Ray led a small group of us to a restaurant he had researched with the hotel reception staff - Zylinder Cafe and Restaurant <a href="http://www.zylinder.sk">www.zylinder.sk</a> situated on Hviezdoslav Square. As we entered, grateful for the warmth, the sound of live piano music greeted us. It was an informal restaurant serving a combintation of Austro-Hungarian cuisine. After showing my card telling the serving staff I was gluten free in Alovakian, they confirmed I could have Hungarian Goulash (9.90 euros) with no bread dumplings while Ray had the same with the dumplings. It was exceptional with a strong meat taste - just the job after standing around in the cold (even though the stage purported to be heated!)</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRZylinder goulash with dumplings.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>Next day the choir rehearsed at 8am in the Mirror Hall of the Primatial Palace, Primatial Square. This was followed by our competition performance at 9.18am, a nerve-wracking experience as the panel of judges was seated in front of us behind tables. They studied us closely and made copious notes during our repertoire.</p>
<p>That evening we collected in the main square at Bratislava to wait for the results of the choir competition. Elmbridge Choic, our sister choir, won a 'silver' in their category. Elmbridge Ladies Choir was presented with a 'bronze' - and this was the first time we had entered a competition. Fantastic news! We all jumped up and down with excitement and enjoyed a few Gluviens from a market stall. The overall winner was St Cyprian's Choir from South Africa's St Cyprian's School which also won several other prizes.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Boat trip view from the boat.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>We were pleased with our results and went to celebrate at the choirs' Christmas party on board the Admiral Tegetthoff boat <a href="http://www.ddsg-blue-danube.at/eng/ships_ms_admiral_tegetthoff.php">www.ddsg-blue-danube.at/eng/ships_ms_admiral_tegetthoff.php</a> as it cruised down the Blue Danube. On arrival at the boat, we were given a warming Gluvien with berries. The boat, on three levels, was spectacular. Downstairs was a seating area while upstairs was the restaurant and two bars. The top deck was open providing excellent views although very much on the cold side! A magnificent buffet had been laid out, although Ray and I had been specially catered for, as most of the dishes had wheat flour or dairy in them. For starters it was asparagus, olives and gluten free bread; baked potatoes and roasted aubergines for main course and fruit salad as dessert. Local music entertainment was provided and there was lots of dancing and celebrations including a conga!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRboat trip interior.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR boat starter.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR boat main meal.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRboat dessert.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>Next day some of our party returned to the UK, but we had decided to join the tour to Vienna and we were so pleased we did. Vienna is breathtaking and spectacular. Ray was pleased as he could view some of the art nouveau work by Otto Wagner, who designed a special sunflower motif, which can be seen all over Vienna. As we were too early to check into the hotel, the guide took our coach on the ring road around Vienna giving us a preview of the following day's tour.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Parliament building Vienna.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>Once we had checked in, it wasn't long before we found ourselves at St Stephen's Cathedral via the excellent metro underground system. We chanced upon a Lebanese restaurant Turkis City <a href="http://www.tuerkis.at">www.tuerkis.at</a> where Ray had lamb skewer with rice on flatbread (13.50 euros). We showed our cards to the server about being gluten free and dairy free. When he asked Ray what he would like to drink, he suggested with a grin "a glass of milk"? I enjoyed Tavok Sis marinated grilled chicken skewer garnished with rice, tomatoes and grilled peppers (11.50 euros).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR St Stephen's Cathedral exterior Vienna.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="240" /></p>
<p>Our hotel was the Austria Trend Hotel Ananas <a href="http://www.austria-trend.at/Hotel-Ananas/en">www.austria-trend.at/Hotel-Ananas/en</a> a very convenient location near a metro stop. Breakfast was similar to the hotel in Bratislava (they are in the same chain). Alpro soya milk <a href="http://www.alpro.com">www.alpro.com</a> was provided in little packets which was very convenient and portable - why can't we get these in the UK? The gluten free bread, curiously, was presented wrapped in cellophone as though it had been heated up.</p>
<p>Our time was short in Vienna, but we did manage to visit the Klimt exhibition in Belvedere <a href="http://www.belvedere.at">www.belvedere.at</a> It was an adventure getting there via underground and tram, but great fun!</p>
<p>Enjoying a cup of tea in the cafe, Ray chanced upon the answer to a question that has long puzzled him. Why in Europe is the teapot often only filled half-way? The waiter explained that the teapot is filled automatically from a dispenser in the kitchen which is connected to the cafe's computer and dispenses only enough water for one cup or mug. So it only fills the teapot half way. But if you use it a second time to fill the teapot up, the system charges you for a second pot of tea. So, no second cup of tea from the pot. What a bombshell!</p>
<p>That evening we asked our hotel for restaurant recommendations and they referred us to Newpoint <a href="http://www.newpointlounge.at">www.newpointlounge.at</a> where I opted for cashew chicken ("with your own level of severity" as written on the menu) and Ray chose Bombay duck on bamboo shoots and rice with teriyaki sauce.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRVienna Newpoint meal.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>On our last morning we admired Otto Wagner's work at the Karlsplatz underground station and visited the wonderful Secession an art nouveau style building designed by Joseph Maria Olbrich in 1897/8 as an exhibition gallery. it features the Beethoven Frieze by Gustav Klimt.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Secession building Vienna.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>We also visited the exterior of Parliament Building, on the Ringstrasse, an astonishingly beautiful building, highlighted by an impressive fountain at the front.</p>
<p>For our last meal in Vienna, we found Xcelsior Caffe Bar, near the museums, a typical Australian konditorei, rather better than some of the indifferent town centre ones <a href="http://www.xcelsior.at">www.xcelsior.at</a> </p>
<p>Here Ray ordered spaghetti with chicken and olives (5.90 euros) and I enjoyed risotto with chicken and vegetables (8.90 euros) helped with the German version of our allergen cards.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRVienna Excelsior cafe.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRVienna Xcelsior caffe.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p>We loved Vienna and will be back. Watch this space!</p>
<p> </p>Eating Out With Food Allergies in Manchester and London<p>When I travel anywhere, I always take my own food as there have been so many occasions when all I can eat is a bag of crisps! Armed with my ham sandwich made with Genius bread <a href="http://www.geniusglutenfree.com">www.geniusglutenfree.com</a> I was delighted to find on the Virgin Trains train to Manchester <a href="http://www.virgintrains.co.uk">www.virgintrains.co.uk</a> a "Gluten Free Grazing Box" which included Dormens' <a href="http://www.thedormenfoodcompany.com">www.thedormenfoodcompany.com</a> cranberry and cherry fruit mix, Eat Natural cereal bar <a href="http://www.eatnatural.co.uk">www.eatnatural.co.uk</a> and Welsh Hills cake slice <a href="http://www.lovemorefoods.com">www.lovemorefoods.com</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gluten free grazing box.jpg" alt="" width="163" height="92" /></p>
<p>At a function held at the Midland Hotel Manchester <a href="http://www.qhotels.co.uk">www.qhotels.co.uk</a> our waiter asked everyone on the table if they had any dietary requirements. When I said 'gluten free' she immediately found me some gluten free bread to accompany the leek and potato soup with spring onion snippits. The main course was breast of Ribble Valley Chicken stuffed with wild mushrooms and spinach accompanied by two ways Parsley potatoes. Normally I forgo dessert at these formal occasions or have fruit salad. Imagine my surprise when I was served with rhubarb pannecotta with meringue - it was delicious!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR rhubarb pannecotta.jpg" alt="" width="92" height="163" /></p>
<p>In Starbucks <a href="http://www.starbucks.co.uk">www.starbucks.co.uk</a> in Manchester I noticed there's a turkey and bacon gluten free wrap, but I haven't seen it in London so far. I hope I do as I'd like to try it!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Starbucks gf wrap.jpg" alt="" width="92" height="163" /></p>
<p>Back in London visiting the RHS London Secret Garden Sunday <a href="http://www.rhs.org.uk/shows">www.rhs.org.uk/shows</a> is always a great opportunity to buy flowers and plants, as well as learn about gardening and meet experts who can help. We discovered, for example, that orchids prefer rainwater and if you use tap water, it needs to be room temperature. Now we know what we've been doing wrong all these years. You can also buy beautiful scarves depicting flowers, birds and insects <a href="http://www.sparrowsgreenstudio.com">www.sparrowsgreenstudio.com</a> as well as garden pottery animals <a href="http://www.sarahdesign.co.uk">www.sarahdesign.co.uk</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Honest Carrot 1.jpg" alt="" width="163" height="92" /></p>
<p>Our great discovery was The Honest Carrot <a href="http://www.thehonestcarrot.com">www.thehonestcarrot.com</a> selling an array of gluten free and dairy free food. As regular readers know, Ray and I always have difficulty finding food that is both gluten free (which I can eat) and dairy free (which he can eat). Very often I have to sit watching him devour a gorgeous dairy free (but not gluten free) cake and vice versa. But not on this occasion. We decided to buy sweet potato hummus as well as Spinach and Chick Pea Roast (vegan, gluten free) - spinach, chick peas, carrot, chives, garlic, red onion, red lentils, gluten free corn flakes, sea salt and black pepper) and Super Food Roast (broccoli, spinach, carrots, hazelnuts, seawood, cranberries, linseed, brown rice, gluten free corn flakes, sea salt, black pepper). So tonight we'll be oven baking the roasts for 15 minutes in the oven.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Honest Carrot 2.jpg" alt="" width="163" height="92" /></p>
<p>I also tried Ginger Chai Tea from The Wee Tea Plantation <a href="http://www.weeteaplantation.com">www.weeteacompany.com</a> which was very refreshing. The company is Scotland's first tea plantation, the second in the UK, where they grow plants which they use in the tea blends. It would be great to see the plantation, as I did visit Tregothan tea planatation in Cornwall <a href="http://www.regothnan.co.uk">www.tregothnan.co.uk</a> Fascinating to see tea plants growing in the UK!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Shack HQ.jpg" alt="" width="92" height="163" /></p>
<p>We enjoyed trying the range of juices from The Shack HQ <a href="http://www.theshackrevolution.co.uk">www.theshackrevolution.co.uk</a> and ended up buying a bottle of apple and ginger. As we both love figs, we bought a jar of fig jam from Jammy Val <a href="http://www.jammyval.com">www.jammyval.com</a> which is delicious.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Lamb Kofta salad.jpg" alt="" width="163" height="92" /></p>
<p>For lunch, we stopped at Leon's in Victoria Street <a href="http://www.leonrestaurants.co.uk">www.leonrestaurants.co.uk</a> Ray really wanted the Lamb Kofta Salad but there was no symbol to say it was dairy free, but the staff said they would leave off the aioli sauce (made with garlic and yogurt) so it was dairy free. Great stuff! I enjoyed the Thai green curry.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR thai green curry.jpg" alt="" width="163" height="92" /></p>
<p>Nearer to home, it was a delight to discover that my local bakery Nathan's Bakery @NathansBakery sells gluten free bread, jam tarts and lemon tarts, as well as sausage pic. What's more they are all dairy free which means Ray can eat them. The only exception is the gluten free brownie, made with milk chocolate.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LRNathans brownie.jpg" alt="" width="92" height="163" /></p>
<p>Caroline Oldham has launched the only free App to provide a world-wide searchable directory for "freefrom" restaurants. You can search by restaurants by location and type of allergy. Caroline, a coeliac with an additional lactose allergy, has come up with "biteappy" <a href="http://www.biteappy.com">www.biteappy.com</a> which addresses all dietary requirements when eating out on a worldwide basis. I've just downloaded it on my phone and look forward to using it. It's available at the App Store for free.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Biteappy_15_JH.jpg" alt="" width="356" height="220" /></p>Eating Out in Surrey and Brighton<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Costa wrap.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>I finally managed to sample a gluten free wrap in Costa Coffee <a href="http://www.costa.co.uk">www.costa.co.uk</a> in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey. I'd heard that Costa was offering this but could never find a branch that actually sold it. As it was, I bought the last one. It's a chicken and basil salad gluten free wrap with basil, mayonnaise, tomato and wild rocket. It was a joy being able to eat lunch in Costa; normally I have to go elsewhere as there is nothing I can eat. Keep up the good work, Costa!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Salmon Teriyaki Donbu.jpg" alt="" width="220" height="294" /></p>
<p>In Kingston Market-Place <a href="http://www.kingstonfirst.co.uk">www.kingstonfirst.co.uk</a> I visited the Namu Japanese street trader and indulged in Salmon Teriyaki Donbu - grilled salmon with boiled rice, vegetables and teriyaki sauce. You can watch the world go by sitting on the wooden tables and chairs. Ray enjoyed Pork Katsu Donbun - pork katsu with boiled rice, vegetables and katsu sauce. He's been here before and recommends it.</p>
<p>Joanna Fuertes-Knight graphically wrote about the flatulence she experiences as a result of her lactose intolerance in The Guardian <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/uk">www.theguardian.com/uk</a> She mentioned that Oreo biscuits are dairy-free. Yes Joanna that's right, but they aren't gluten free which is a pity. Ray loves Oreos as well as fig biscuits by Jacobs <a href="http://www.123healthbalance.com">www.123healthbalance.com</a>, but you have to be careful about the ones called "fig bars" as they always seem to have milk in the pastry. He can also eat Bourbons and Hobnobs without chocolate.</p>
<p>When it comes to cereal bars, you have to examine them carefully because of milk, gluten or wheat content. One of our favourites is Eat Natural <a href="http://www.eatnatural.co.uk">www.eatnatural.co.uk</a> date and walnut with pumpkin seeds bar (which we can both eat). Also beware yogurt coated cereal bars if you're dairy free. Eat Natural's seasonal varieties are worth looking out for.</p>
<p>Now to some "free from" discoveries:</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Heck sausages.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Heck sausages <a href="http://www.heckfood.co.uk/sausages">www.heckfood.co.uk/sausages</a> All their sausages are gluten free. Ray & I enjoyed sampling the Smoky Chorizo-style sausages which are also dairy free. They have a succulent flavour, but aren't too hot and spicy. Compared to other gluten free sausages on the market, there was much more flavour. We'll definitely be having these again. The web site lists stockets or you can buy them online.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gluten free doughnut.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>I can't remember the last time I ate a donut - 15 years maybe? So it was with great delight I ate gluten and wheat free frozen donuts from Feel Free for Gluten Free Keep them in the freezer and thaw one by one. Leave the donut for about an hour at room temperature to defrost and enjoy! They are sugared ring donuts with four to a pack. Yummy! You can buy them from their online shop <a href="http://www.glutenfree-direct.co.uk">www.glutenfree-direct.co.uk</a> A pack of four donuts costs £3.99. I'm sure it won't be long before supermarkets stock them. I've kept them hidden from Ray as they aren't dairy free.</p>
<p>And so to Brighton.....</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Brighton.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>Arriving early and ravenous we visited Iydea Vegetarian Kitchen, 17 Kensington Gardens, Brighton <a href="http://www.iydea.co.uk">www.iydea.co.uk</a> Its menu carries symbols for gluten free and vegan. Several dishes offer gluten free or vegan options. I enjoyed Avocado on Toast - avocado, hummus and cherry tomatoes on gluten free bread (£4.75) while Ray had the vegan version of Banana Nut on Toast - peanut butter and bananas on wholegrain toast, washed down with tea and soya milk.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR chocaffinita.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>For a reviving cup of tea we revisited Chocaffinitea, Gloucester Road, Brighton <a href="http://www.chocaffinita.co.uk">www.chocaffinitea.co.uk</a> which offers 17 varieties of loose leaf tea. We opted for Assam which was beautifully presented in a transparent glass tea pot with a timer giving options of 3/4/5 minutes. We were advised to leave the tea for four minutes. This cafe also offers an astonishing array of chocolate. Most importantly it serves gluten free and dairy free cakes. Its web site has a recipe for dairyfree cheesecake - I'm definitely going to try it.</p>
<p>After wandering through the lanes of eclectic shops, we found Food For Friends <a href="http://www.foodforfriends.com">www.foodforfriends.co.uk</a> in Brighton which we hadn't visited for years. It's a relaxing haven away from the hustle bustle of Brighton. Its menu usefully carries symbols - V vegan, VO vegan option, GF gluten free, GO gluten free option, N contains nuts; S contains sesame seeds, LF low fat, LC low carb.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR fresh fig salad.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>It's so refreshing to see this on menus and makes life so much easier for all concerned. I chose Fresh Fig Basil and Smoked Ricotta Salad, N, GF, VO, LV - vegan option is crispy tofu. I ordered the cheese version and was delighted with the combination of flavours - the sweetness of the fig contrasting with the cheese.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR sweet tofu pockets.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>Ray selected "Duo of Sweet Tofu Pockets" V, LF, GF, N. The first pocket contained shitake rice and pine nuts, while the second had butternut squash, tofu and miso served with pickled ginger, wakame and sesame mirin dressing.</p>
<p>The entire meal was a real treat. Ray said this was one of the best meals he's enjoyed. He always seems to say that!</p>Eating Out with a food allergy in South Devon<p><img src="/uploads/LR view from annex.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Self catering in the UK is ideal if you suffer from a food allergy or intolerance because you know exactly what you're eating and can take your favourite products with you. The only down side is if you can't find "free from" provisions at local supermarkets. Thankfully that wasn't a problem for Ray and I when we stayed at The Annexe, Higher Norton Farm, East Allington, Devon <a href="http://www.toadhallcottages.co.uk">www.toadhallcottages.co.uk</a> This is near Kingsbridge, Dartmouth and Totnes, a town famed for its "free from" vegetarian and vegan cafes and restaurants. We foound a Sainsbury's superstore <a href="http://www.sainsburys.co.uk">www.sainsburys.co.uk</a> and Lidl <a href="http://www.lidl.co.uk">www.lidl.co.uk</a> outside Dartmouth, as well as a Morrisons <a href="http://www.morrisons.co.uk">www.morrisons.co.uk</a> on the outskirts of Kingsbridge and Totnes. Compared to Sainsbury's, the Morrisons' "free from" section isn't as extensive, but you can find the basics.</p>
<p>The other advantage of self catering is you can have meals when you want them rather than be confined to certain times, especially for breakfast.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LRNewburn gf bread.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Our welcome pack at Higher Norton Farm included Warburtons Newburn Bakehouse gluten free and wheat free bread <a href="http://www.newburnbakehouse.com,">www.newburnbakehouse.com,</a> a new brand for me, which we found tasty especially when toasted. Also in the pack was our favourite dairyfree margarine Pure sunflower margarine, which can be used not only for spreading on bread and toast, but also for cooking <a href="http://www.puredairyfree.co.uk">www.puredairyfree.co.uk</a></p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR Dartmouth.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>We visited Darmouth during the Dartmouth Regatta (28 to 30 August) so the town was really buzzing with people and attractions. We met our friends at the 26 Cafe & Bistro <a href="http://www.twentysixcafe.co.uk">www.twentysixcafe.co.uk</a> where I indulged in a gluten free scone with jam and cream. Truly scrumptious. Ray was disappointed they weren't dairy free, but contented himself with toast and honey!</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LRgluten free scone Dartmouth.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LRtug of war Dartmouth.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>In the harbour we watched the tug of war between two boats - highly entertaining. Later in the day we were enthralled with the air displays with two spitfires and a RAF Chinook. The programme said that two Lancasters were going to join the display, but they didn't materialise.</p>
<p>Later in the day I enjoyed a gluten free brownie at Bayards Cove Inn <a href="http://www.bayardscoveinn.co.uk">www.bayardscoveinn.co.uk</a> Dartmouth has a food festival 24 to 26 October <a href="http://www.dartmouthfoodfestival.com">www.dartmouthfoodfestival.com</a></p>
<p>The weather was glorious on Sunday so we visited Greenway <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/greenway">www.nationaltrust.org.uk/greenway</a> the summer home of Agatha Christie. The best way to arrive is by water so we took a small ferry boat from Dittisham, although there are ferries available from Dartmouth, Totnes, Brixham and Torquay.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LRview from boat Greenway.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>If you fancy arriving by train, the steam railway between Paignton and Kingswear <a href="http://www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk">www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk</a> has also started stopping at Greenway - at the aptly named Greenway Halt stop - although you have to ask for this stop and not all the trains stop there, so check before you travel.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR Greenway exterior.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>At Greenway, scaffolding covered the exterior of the house, but inside provides a glimpse into the family life of Agatha Christie. The house is set in the 1950s when Agatha and family would spend summer and Christmas holidays with friends. The family were great collectors so there are fabulous displays of silver, botanical china and of course books! Don't miss the walled gardens, home to the restored peach house and vinery or the boathouse, scene of crime in "Dead Man's Folly".</p>
<p>In the past, Ray and I have found the National Trust restaurants and cafes offered an extensive choice of dairy free and gluten free choices, but not at Greenway.</p>
<p>Ray discovered the pasties didn't contain dairy and were glazed with egg (which he cat eat) so he enjoyed a traditional lamb pasty. At the Barn Gallery cafe there was a pitiful selection of gluten free food. The menu did have symbols indicating what was gluten free although there were only two options! When I asked whether they had gluten free bread I was told there was only a roll which is served with the soup, but that wasn't gluten free. Even the jacket potato fillings were out of bounds apart from West Country mature cheese (£5.95). Come on National Trust, you can do better than this!</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR Yo Sushi conveyor belt.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>In Plymouth, where we indulged in retail therapy as I had to buy a wedding outfit, we visited one of our favourite chains Yo Sushi! <a href="http://www.yosushi.com">www.yosushi.com</a> in the Drake Circus Shopping Mall. When I asked what the gluten and dairy free options were, we were told that most dishes were dairy free and immediately handed me a nutritional and allergen information book so I could look up each dish and see whether it contained gluten or wheat. We love the "theatre" of Yo Sushi watching the tiny dishes revolve round the conveyor belt and identifying what they are and then picking the dishes of our choice off the belt. Each dish has a different colour round the rim indicating the price. It was "Blue Monday" (special promotion 1st to 19th September) so there was a choice of 50 dishes on blue rimmed dishes, all £2.50 each. Apart from the conveyor belt, you can order off a menu - especially if there is a certain dish you would like which you can't see on the belt.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR Yo Sushi seaweed cone.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Ray ordered Beef Tsukune sausages which were dairy free but contained gluten. We both enjoyed a mug of miso soup which contains soybean and Kaiso Salad, sesame marinated Japanese seaweed, edaname and carrot. New for me was the wheat, gluten and dairy free Salmon and Avocado Seaweed Cone with rice, salmon and avocado. (It does contain eggs, fish, sesame and soybeans).</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR view from train.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>We do recommend taking a steam railway journey with the Dart Valley Railway <a href="http://www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk">www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk</a>. We drove to Paignton, parked in the station and took the train to Kingswear, then the ferry to Dartmouth. The railway journey offers breathtaking views of the Devonshire countryside and beaches.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR Paington steam train.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Totnes is always worth a visit for its eclectic mix of independent shops and cafes. You won't find many chains here and in fact the local community was successful in "saying no to Costa". My favourite vegetarian restaurant is Willow, 87 High Street, Totnes 01803 862605 <a href="http://www.totnesinformation.co.uk/eatingout/27/restaurants/30/willow-vegetarian-restaurant">www.totnesinformation.co.uk/eatingout/27/restaurants/30/willow-vegetarian-restaurant</a></p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR Totnew Willow meal.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Its chalkboard menu includes gluten free, vegan and organic choices. Ray and I both chose potatoes, mushrooms and cashew casserole with salad (vegan and gluten free) - delicious. Willow also has an excellent array of gluten free and vegan cakes. Ray opted for date and stem ginger vegan cake which he said was fabulous.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR df gf cake Totnes.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Later on the day we indulged in a dairy free and gluten free carrot cake at Thrive Cafe, 47 Fore Street, Totnes <a href="http://www.thrivecafe.co.uk">www.thrivecafe.co.uk</a> complete with icing which was light, feathery with a delicious citrus taste. What's more, the tea served is loose leaf from local producer Tea's Me <a href="http://www.teasme.co.uk">www.teasme.co.uk</a></p>
<p>We tried to buy some, but they had out sold - you can buy it online.</p>Eating out with Food Allergies in the UK<p>The closing date for the inaugural Free From Eating Out Awards <a href="http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk">www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk</a> is on Sunday 31 August, although the schools, colleges and universities category is open until 30 September.</p>
<p>These Awards have been launched to raise awareness of the huge opportunities offered by 'freefrom' food within the foodservice sector, especially once the new allergen regulations affecting foodservice come into force in December 2014. For all of us who suffer from a food allergy or intolerance, these Awards are doing a fantastic job in raising awareness among restaurants and venues about catering for people with allergies.</p>
<p>One restaurant chain which recognised the need for catering for people with food allergies some years ago is Leon <a href="http://www.leonrestaurants.co.uk">www.leonrestaurants.co.uk</a> as its menus carry symbols such as WF (Wheat Free), GF (Gluten Free), DF (Dairy Free). Such a simple idea. So when Ray and I visited their branch at 56 Victoria Street, London SW1E 6AN we had no problem in choosing our meal. Ray opted for Thai Green Chicken Curry (WF, GF, DF) and I had Chicken Lemon and Olive Tagine (WF/GF).</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR Leon meals Aug 14.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Great new that Leon is introducing a new range of milk free shakes made with unsweetened almond milk, which are dairy, gluten and wheat free. Apparently Leon has developed a vanilla and date base that naturally sweetens the drinks. There will be three flavours - Original Vanilla, Banana and Cinnamon and Flaked Chocolate. Can't wait to try one!</p>
<p>I'm a frequent visitor to Pret A Manager <a href="http://www.pret.com">www.pret.com</a> because of its delicious spread of salads. Imagine my surprise to discover a gluten free tortilla wrap Mexican Guatamole. Made with avocado, chipotle ketchup, coriander, red peppers, spinach, cucumber and fresh mint, it's dairy free and vegetarian too. I savoured every mouthful as I haven't eaten a wrap for 15 years. Wonderful. Do hope they introduce more gluten and dairy free foods.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR gluten free wrap Pret A Manger.jpg" alt="" width="220" height="294" /></p>
<p>Great news to hear that Naomi Stoker is going to open Reading's first gluten free cafe Nibsy's Coffee Shop, 26 Cross Street, Reading <a href="http://www.getreading.co.uk/news/local-news/gluten-free-cafe-set-open-reading-7629825">www.getreading.co.uk/news/local-news/gluten-free-cafe-set-open-reading-7629825</a> on 2 September. Wish her every success and I'm looking to visiting soon.</p>
<p>Rosie Norman and Ant Saunt will be running the gluten free Camberwell Kitchen Supper Club on 18 October <a href="http://www.thecamberwellkitchen.com">www.thecamberwellkitchen.com</a> - this sounds like fun!</p>
<p>Have you tried goats' ice cream yet? I sampled some at the RHS Secret Garden Sunday event <a href="http://www.rhus.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-londong-shows/secret-sundays">www.rhus.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-londong-shows/secret-sundays</a> Light, creamy, lactose free and refreshing, available in several flavours from Greedy Goat <a href="http://www.greedygoat.co.uk">www.greedygoat.co.uk</a> such as Maple and Praline, Salted Caramel and Apple Pie. The next Secret Garden Sunday is on Sunday 7 September. Greedy Goat can be found at Borough Market <a href="http://www.boroughmarket.co.uk">www.boroughmarket.co.uk</a></p>
<p><img src="/uploads/Greedy Goats ice cream.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>When attending functions, I normally have to refuse canapes and nibbles because invariably they have gluten or wheat in them or the member of staff doesn't know so I can't rake a risk. I attended the CIPR <a href="http://www.cipr.co.uk">www.cipr.co.uk</a> Greater London Group's Summer Party last night at Skyloft Altitude 28th Floor Millbank Tower with panoramic views of London and was delighted to be served with goats' cheese on sticks (looked like tomatoes!) with chopped pistachios and slivers of roast beef on rosti potatoes topped with mayonnaise.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR aerial view of London.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR goats cheese.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>This brings us to the problem of entertaining friends who don't suffer from food allergies at all. For example, I used to serve a choice of a wheat free and dairy free cheesecake and an ordinary one and would announce "This dish is wheat and dairy free". Yes you've guessed it, they didn't want the wheat and dairy free cheesecake. Now I just serve the one dessert without saying anything. No complaints yet. The biggest surprise is Alpro <a href="http://www.alpro.com/uk">www.alpro.com/uk</a> custard made with soya milk - guests willingly pour it over dessert, amazed to learn much later that it is made with soya milk.</p>
<p>New Products</p>
<p>Here's a round up of new free from products on the market:</p>
<p>Soupologie's vegetable soup which is vegan, gluten and lactose-free. Choose from Beetroot & Pomegranate Detox Boost and Spinach & Kale with Garlic Super Soup <a href="http://www.soupologie.com">www.soupologie.com</a> </p>
<p>Mrs Crimbles' <a href="http://www.mrscrimbles.com">www.mrscrimbles.com</a> new Belgian Chocolate Coconut - coconut macaroons coated in Belgian chocolate. Do hope they will be avalable on Virgin Trains <a href="http://www.virgintrains.co.uk">www.virgintrains.co.uk</a> as some of their other products are.</p>
<p>Phil Vickery has added new varieties to his range of gluten and dairy free mixes including Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix, Natural Vanilla Cupcake Mix and Very Chocolaty Cupcake Mix. There's also a range of gluten and dairy free fondant icing mixes in chocolate, raspberry, lemon and strawberry. Available from <a href="http://www.squires-shop.com">www.squires-shop.com</a></p>
<p> </p>Eating out with food allergies at a wedding<p> </p>
<p><img src="/uploads/Amanda & Darren married.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>The wedding season is upon us and if you're like us, you have probably been lucky enough to be invited to one or two.</p>
<p>The only drawback is the food served at the wedding. If you suffer from food allergies or intolerances, will there be anything you can eat? You have a few choices - either you can go hungry because you don't want to cause a fuss or you tell the bridge or groom-to-be (whoever has invited you). It's a good idea to offer to contact the caterers or the food & beverage manager at the venue yourself to check the menu with them. Usually the bride-to-be is relieved because it's something else she doesn't have to worry about and you have the peace of mind that you have spoken to the caterers yourself and there will be something you can eat. This applies to any functions you may be attending.</p>
<p>Ray & I were delighted to receive an invitation to Amanda & Darren's wedding in Liverpool. The invitation included a reply card where you could specify dietary requirements so I dutifully wrote "dairy free and gluten free". This is the first invitation I have received like this - what a good idea! Mind you, we did feel confident there would be something we could eat as Amanda is dairy-free and her mother is gluten and dairy free.</p>
<p>On the day of the wedding the sun shone- it was glorious - and as we entered the church, the first thing we saw was the "confetti" tree where we could pick up a box of confetti, courtesy of Amanda and Darren. How thoughtful as I had completely forgotten to bring any!</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR Confetti tree.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>After the church service, the newly married bride invited those with any food allergies to visit the crepe tent quickly with our orders. I thought she was joking, but when I approached Original Crepes <a href="http://www.originalcrepes.co.uk">www.originalcrepes.co.uk</a> sure enough Ray & I could have dairy free and gluten free crepes! Heaven! The crepes were made with hemp milk and Doves Farm gluten free flour <a href="http://www.dovesfarm.co.uk">www.dovesfarm.co.uk</a> . The crepes are made in front of you and you can choose from an array of fillings such as Maple Sprup and Banana - yummy!</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR gluten and dairy free crepe.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>We were ushered inside where we enjoyed champagne, a speech by the best man and a speech by Darren the bridegroom via a video link - what a novel idea! In the video, he held up a sign with "applause" written on it so we knew when to clap!</p>
<p>Then we all boarded open top buses for the trip to the reception taking in some of the sights of Liverpool such as Penny Lane (apparently the barbers' shop is the only thing remaining from The Beatles' song).</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR Flower tree with name tag.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>The reception was held in the White Star Grand Hall at 30 James Street, Liverpool <a href="http://www.signaturehotelliverpool.co.uk">www.signaturehotelliverpool.co.uk</a> This building was home to the White Star Shipping Line and where Titanic was registered. The hotel opened eight weeks ago.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR wedding flowers.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>The reception room was beautifully dressed with spectacular floral displays - well, the bridgegroom does run a floristry business. Each table had a tall purple flower tree with name tags hanging from it. You were requested to write a special message for the happy couple and put the tag back again (which we did).</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR wedding cake dairy free two top layers.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="360" /></p>
<p>The glittery multi-tiered wedding cake was on display, which Do (the bride's mother) had made, with the top two tiers dairy-free. It was a spectacular wedding cake and as another guest said "too beautiful to eat."</p>
<p>Our starter was melon with berries and raspberry jus which was delicious followed by a vegetarian dairy free and gluten free crepe filled with vegetables and tomato sance and a potato cake. This was delicious and a real treat.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR main course dairy and wheat free.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>For dessert it was fruit salad with dairy free ice cream. Normally at events like this we skip the dessert, but not on this occasion.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR fruit salad and dairy free ice cream.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>After the meal and the bridge's father's speech, Amanda the bride encouraged everyone to go onto the seventh floor terrace for champagne, only it took a while as there were 100 people and only two lifts taking four people in each.</p>
<p>But once up there, the panoramic view of Liverpool was awesome.</p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR view from the 7th floor terrace.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>When we returned to the White Star Grand Hall, the room had been totally re-arranged with an enormous dance floor and disco, where the bride and groom promptly started the dancing off.</p>
<p>The next day after I'd nursed my hangover, we went to the Mondrian exhibition at the Tate <a href="http://www.tate.org.uk/visit/taste-liverpool">www.tate.org.uk/visit/taste-liverpool</a> and as we came out, quite by chance we saw the lively colourful procession as part of the International Mersey River Festival. The waterfront was awash with visiting vessels including tall ships, Royal and Merchant navy ships, narrow boats and barges. </p>
<p><img src="/uploads/LR Liverpool Procession.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>The city is also hosting the International Festival for Business. Next month, from 23rd to 27th July, visiting giant marionettes from Royl De Luxe will explore Liverpool, evoking memories of August 1914 <a href="http://www.giantspectacular.com">www.giantspectacular.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>FreeFrom Awards 2014<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR winners.jpg" alt="" width="80" height="60" /></p>
<p>Congratulations to all the winners of this year's FreeFrom Awards <a href="http://www.freefromawards.co.uk">www.freefromawards.co.uk</a> . The winners were presented with their Awards by Antony Worral Thompson at a glittering ceremony at the Royal College of Physicians at London's Regent's Park. As one of the judges of this year's Awards, I was lucky enough to be invited.</p>
<p>It was a grand occasion and demonstrates how much the FreeFrom sector has evolved over the years which is fantastic news for everyone who suffers from a food allergy or intolerance like me (gluten free) and Ray (dairy free). This year there were 15 categories in the FreeFrom Awards and some categories, such as breakfast foods, had amazingly over 50 products entered. It is remarkable how some years ago, I had to search a supermarket for anything gluten or dairy free and if I asked a shop assistant, they looked at me as if I was an alien! Back then, you normally had to go into a health store and if you were lucky, find a gluten free loaf which, even when toasted, tasted like blotting paper!</p>
<p>How fortunate we are now that manufacturers and the retail sector has embraced the FreeFrom market and you can find designated FreeFrom aisles in supermarkets. When I asked for Genius gluten free bread <a href="http://www.geniusflutenfree.com">www.geniusglutenfree.com</a> the other day in Sainsbury's <a href="http://www.sainsburys.co.uk">www.sainsburys.co.uk</a> I was directed to the bread aisle - yes gluten free bread had gone mainstream into the bread section, not in the FreeFrom section!</p>
<p>It's not just the FreeFrom Awards winners who should be congratulated but also Michelle Berriedale-Johnson, Cressida Langlands and their team who have worked tirelessly over the years to raise awareness for the FreeFrom sector. Keep up the good work!</p>
<p>At the Awards, they both announced some exciting news. Michelle said that the FreeFrom sector was the fastest growing category and The Allergy Show <a href="http://www.allergyshow.co.uk">www.allergyshow.co.uk</a> now had two shows - London 4-6 July and in Liverpool, 25-26 October while there was a European trade show, Free From Food, from 3-4 June in Brussels.</p>
<p>Michelle also told us about Food Matters Live <a href="http://www.foodmatterslive.com">www.foodmatterslive.com</a> from 18 to 20 November at London ExCel, a new three day food event of talks, semianrs and exhibitions exploring the world of food, health and nutrition including FreeFrom.</p>
<p>"We're going mainstream," said Michelle.</p>
<p>This year's FreeFrom Awards categories included Food To Go and Vending, Pizza and Pasta, Gluten Free Beer and Children's Food covering FreeFrom foods for kids from six to 15.</p>
<p>At the ceremony, Cressida said that new FreeFrom Awards on the horizon included FreeFrom Sports drnks and a Ploughman's Lunch category - yes I would definitely be interested in a gluten free and dairy free Ploughman's Lunch!</p>
<p>This year's charity if FoodCycle <a href="http://www.foodcycle.org.uk">www.foodcycle.org.uk</a> which gathers surplus food and makes dishes for people who need them such as refugees. Around 1,200 volunteers provide 80,000 meals a year.</p>
<p>We all know how challenging it is eating out with food allergies (hence my blog of that name!) so it's brilliants news that Michelle is launching the FreeFrom Eating Out Awards this year <a href="http://www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk">www.freefromeatingoutawards.co.uk</a> which are being sponsored by Sodexo <a href="http://www.uk.sodexo.com">www.uk.sodexo.com</a> Several partners have already signed up including Brakes <a href="http://www.brake.co.uk,">www.brake.co.uk,</a> 3663 <a href="http://www.3663.co.uk">www.3663.co.uk</a> and the Sustainable Restaurant Association <a href="http://www.thesra.org">www.thesra.org</a>. The Awards open for entry in June.</p>
<p>Now to this year's FreeFrom Awards - a full list of winners can be found on the web site <a href="http://www.freefromawards.co.uk">www.freefromawards.co.uk</a> The Awards were presented by celebrity chef Antony Worral Thompson <a href="http://www.awtonline.co.uk">www.awtonline.co.uk</a></p>
<p>After the Awards presentation, a wll lifted to reveal a buffet of all the winning products, so we could taste them. What a treat!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Foccacia.jpg" alt="" width="80" height="60" /></p>
<p>The overall winner of the FAIR trophy for BestFreeFrom Food is Foccacia Mediterranean, gluten, dairy, egg and soya free by Focaccia Per Tutti. This delicious focaccia is topped with roasted red onions, tomatoes, garlic and black olives with a hint of chilli.</p>
<p>This also won the breads section. Anni Redi, who runs the company, said "I'm overwhelmed. I didn't expect to win the breads section let alone the overall award. It's so exciting that such a small producer like me should win when you think I'm up against big established companies."</p>
<p>The focaccia can be bought online and is also served at the cafes at the Osprey shops in London's Piccadilly Circus and St Alban's <a href="http://www.ospreylondon.com">www.ospreylondon.com</a> I'm sure it won't be long before it's served everywhere!</p>
<p>I haven't eatern focaccia for years so it was a special treat to sample this product at the buffet.</p>
<p>In the Store Cupboard category, I was pleased to see that Vegusto <a href="http://www.vegusto.co.uk">www.vegusto.co.uk</a> was one of the winners with its dairy free cheese sauce which I use in cooking. The other winner was Ugg Foods' Chia seed and nut bread <a href="http://www.uggfoods.com">www.uggfoods.com</a> which Ray must try as it's dairy and egg free.</p>
<p>Waitrose <a href="http://www.waitrose.com">www.waitrose.com </a>picked up the Award for the new category Food to go and Food for Vending Machines with its gluten free egg watercress and chicken salad roll.</p>
<p>In the Foods Designed for Foodservice category, the winner was The Indian Coeliac's <a href="http://www.theindiancoeliac.co.uk">www.theindiancoeliac.co.uk</a> gluten free authentic Panjabi pakors, which I have to say tasted delicious!</p>
<p>Ready-meals are normally a no go area if you suffer from a food allergy, so I was delighted to hear about Ilumi <a href="http://www.ilumiworld.com">www.ilumiworld.com</a> with its Lam Rohan Josh, gluten, dairy and nut free, which scooped the Ready Meals, Meat Based meals category. Ilumi also won the "Foods menaufactured in a nut-free environment" with its Kerala chicken curry.</p>
<p>For the Foods designed for children, Georgia's Choice <a href="http://www.georgiaschoice.co.uk">www.georgiaschoice.co.uk</a> won with its gluten free chicken bites. One of the kids said "Great - my non gluten free friends would eat them and never know!"</p>
<p>D&D Chocolates <a href="http://www.danddchocolate.com">www.danddchocolate.com</a> won the "Foods for Christmas" with its dairy free chocolate minty snowmen - wondeful to see such an innovation in dairy free chocolate.</p>
<p>One of my favourite companies Pudology <a href="http://www.pudology.com">www.pudology.com</a> which makes delicious gluten and dairy free puddings was one of the winners in the brand new "After Dinner Foods" category with its heavenly Banoffee pudding - gluten, dairy, egg and nut free. You must try it!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Free From Pudology.jpg" alt="" width="80" height="60" /></p>
<p>The other winner was Bessant & Drury's Raspberry Swirl Frozen Coconut Yogurt <a href="http://www.bessantanddrury.com">www.bessantanddrury.com</a> which is an exciting combination of coconut, frozen yogurt and raspberry - gluten and dairy free.</p>
<p>As regular readers of this blog will know, I am a fan of Venice Bakery <a href="http://shop.venicebakery.co.uk">http://shop.venicebakery.co.uk</a> for its gluten free vegan pizza bases, which are also dairy free, egg, nut, soya and corn free - so it was great to see they were given an Innovation Award, along with Newburn Bakehouse <a href="http://www.newburnbakehouse.com">www.newburnbakehouse.com</a> for tis gluten free and dairy free wraps., Udi <a href="http://www.udisglutenfree.com">www.udisglutenfree.com</a> for its cinnamon and raising bagel and Celtic Chocolates <a href="http://www.celticchocolates.eu">www.celticchocolates.eu</a> for its dairy free white rondello - "It's difficult to produce a viable dairy free white chocolate like this," said Michelle.</p>
<p>At the end of the Awards presentation, Antony Worral Thompson said the potential for FreeFrom is enormous as the market is worth £4.2 billion "and the Awards are doing an even bigger job to make it even broader. Everything is edible - now you don't have to tell people something's missing as the FreeFrom foods taste fantastic and no-one should be able to kow the difference."</p>
<p>And I agree wholeheartedly.</p>
<p> </p>New Year Review of Free From Discoveries<p>Happy New Year! I thought I would start the New Year with a review of exciting new discoveries and free from products Ray and I have chanced upon.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Sicilian lemon cheesecake.jpg" alt="" width="228" height="171" /></p>
<p>First up is Caffe Nero <a href="http://www.caffenero.com">www.caffenero.com</a> which has introduced several free from cakes in their high street cafes. Excellent news especially as Costa Coffee <a href="http://www.costa.co.uk/">www.costa.co.uk</a> seems to have discontinued its range of gluten free brownies and bakewell tarts.</p>
<p>At Caffe Nero, Ray’s favourite is Sicilian Lemon Cheesecake which he describes as “wonderful”. “It’s soft rather than crumbly, your fork slices through it. It’s a very smooth and satisfying cheesecake. I haven’t eaten cheesecake for many years. My favourite used to be Marks & Spencer <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.co.uk/">www.marksandspencer.co.uk</a> New York baked cheesecake when I could eat dairy. This Caffe Nero cheesecake is the closest thing to it. I see there is also a cherry version so I hope to try that one quite soon. Perhaps they might introduce a plain vanilla one with raisins. That would be heaven.” I enjoyed the Caffe Nero wheat free carrot and raisin cake made with rye flour, although there’s also the flourless wheat free chocolate cake. It’s a real treat to be able to go into a coffee shop and order a slice of cake to accompany your hot drink.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Healthy Cake Co mince pie.jpg" alt="" width="228" height="171" /></p>
<p>Let’s not forget the independent cafes especially The Healthy Cook Co in Kingston, Surrey <a href="http://www.thehealthycookcompany.co.uk/">www.thehealthycookcompany.co.uk</a> This café offers an array of free from freshly baked cakes and bread. We did enjoy the mince pies (gluten free, dairy free, soya and egg free) as the mincemeat, containing goji berries, mulberries and inca berries tasted fruity and moist. A real treat when compared with supermarket versions which tend to be very sweet and doughy. The pie had thin pastry and a generous filling. It looked appetising as well with the pastry star decoration and visible filling.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Mrs Crimbles jam coconut rings.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>Mrs Crimbles <a href="http://www.mrscrimbles.com/">www.mrscrimbles.com</a> has often helped me out on journeys as I can buy the gluten free chocolate macaroon on Virgin Trains <a href="http://www.virgintrains.co.uk/">www.virgintrains.co.uk</a> and on EasyJet flights <a href="http://www.easyjet.com/">www.easyjet.com</a> We recently tried the large jam coconut rings which are not only gluten free but also dairy free. Ray said “Normally I avoid desiccated coconut,” he says, “but in this case, the overall taste was good because of the moisture content. Excellent, to be recommended.” I found them chewy and moorish, the sweetness of the jam combining well with the coconut flavour.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Tiana spreadable.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="280" /></p>
<p>Tiana Organic Exquisite Omega 3 Spreadable <a href="http://www.tiana-coconut.com/">www.tiana-coconut.com</a> is a new dairy free vegan alternative to butter. As we hadn’t eaten margarine or butter for many years, it was a treat. I tried it on Genius gluten free bread <a href="http://www.geniusglutenfree.com/">www.geniusglutenfree.com</a> and the taste reminded me of butter! The added benefits of this product is that it contains Omega 3, 6 and 9. We’ll be using it to liven up dry sandwiches and to enhance cooked vegetables.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR free from cherry shortcake.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>As a Christmas present, we were given Free From Cherry Shortcake and Free From Fruit Cake Slices, both from Lovemore Free From Foods <a href="http://www.lovemore-freefromfoods.com/">www.lovemore-freefromfoods.com</a> Although the Cherry Shortcake clearly states they are gluten free, wheat free and milk free, the Fruit Cake Slices only say they are gluten free and wheat free, although we were unable to find any dairy items listed in the ingredients. The Cherry Shortcake cookies were chewy, sufficiently moist and slightly crunchy. They have an expensive biscuit taste. The Fruit Cake Slices were very rich and packed with fruit, although we couldn’t detect the glace cherries as shown on the pack. This is an excellent fruit cake, sufficiently moist (unlike other similar products).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Paddy bread and butter pudding.jpg" alt="" width="228" height="171" /></p>
<p>Always on the look out for exciting new free from recipes, our friend Patrick served up a gluten free and dairy free bread and butter pudding which was delicious – neither Ray or I had eaten this dish for many years, so we savoured every mouthful. Patrick adapted the recipe Aunt Libby’s Bread and Butter Pudding from the Genius web site <a href="http://www.geniusglutenfree.com/">www.geniusglutenfree.com</a>, using soya milk instead of cow’s milk and Alpro soya cream <a href="http://www.alpro.com/uk">www.alpro.com/uk</a> in place of regular cream.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Eating Out With Food Allergies in Bruges<h2><strong><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Bruges opening shot.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="280" /></strong> </h2>
<p>If you suffer from a food allergy, it’s always a lottery when you travel. Will there be anything you can eat or will the people serving the food know what the ingredients are and whether it is wheat and gluten or dairy free? When booking for Eurostar, London to Brussels, <a href="http://www.eurostar.com/">www.eurostar.com</a> there was an opportunity to pre-order online either gluten free or dairy free meals, so we ordered two gluten free – one for me and one for my friend, Dot, as well as a dairy free meal for Ray. The dairy free meal arrived promptly – it was sesame chicken with peas and mixed bean salad, followed by pecan and maple syrup pie made by Jeanie Marshal Foods <a href="http://www.jeaniemarshalfoods.co.uk">www.jeaniemarshalfoods.co.uk</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Ray Eurostar meal.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>But only one gluten free meal arrived – salmon with vegetables. It turned out that another passenger had ‘claimed’ the other gluten free meal. I offered to share my meal with Dot, but after much discussion and apology, a business club meal was produced – chicken tikka masala, which was gluten free so it all turned out ok in the end. So the lesson is if you have a food allergy, it’s always advisable to bring your own food or at least a snack – just in case.</p>
<p>From the Eurostar train, we transferred to a local suburban one for the Brussels to Bruges part of the journey. Fortunately there were several people doing the same, so we could ensure we got on the right train. It was a typical Friday night with crowds of commuters anxious to get home. While waiting at Brussels station, we were surprised to see so many trains decorated with creative and colourful graffiti.</p>
<p>**</p>
<p>As we walked round Bruges, we were impressed by the Flemish gable style of architecture, almost fairytale like, enhanced by the Christmas decorations. We soon discovered that when dining out, food generally costs double what you would pay in London, with main courses starting at around 20 Euros (£20) each.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Xmas tree.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="280" /></p>
<p>On our first night, close to the hotel Hotel Ter Reien <a href="http://www.hotelterreien.be/">www.hotelterreien.be</a> we visited The Belgian Chicken House, Hoogstraat 15, where we enjoyed chicken and chips at 9 Euros (£9) each. This was our cheapest meal during the entire trip.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR figs market shot.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>On Saturday morning, we visited the various markets. They were selling all manner of merchandise from clothes to food including chicken on rotisseries, olives, figs, but we didn’t see any Belgian specialities. We found a flower market selling small animals. I was assured they were being sold as pets. Round the corner, we found some independent stalls and purchased a block of marzipan – delicious.</p>
<p>Don’t forget to try the Belgian beer. You can buy some to take home (or drink while you’re there) at the Belgian Beer House <a href="http://www.belgianbeerhouse.be/">www.belgianbeerhouse.be</a> where we saw the special Hercule Poirot beer, named after Agatha Christie’s famous detective, on sale. Wonder what it tastes like?</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Hercule Poirot beer.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>Bruges is full of chocolate shops, selling every type of chocolate you could imagine. Ray was pleased as he found a dark chocolate with a vanilla fondant filling that was dairy free. He has been looking for this type of chocolate for many years with little success. We liked Truffelhuisje <a href="http://www.truffelhuisje.be/">www.truffelhuisje.be</a> where we bought some chocolates for our friends. Some chocolate shops display small statues made entirely from chocolate – everything from cats to Santa Claus!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR chocolate monkey.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>That evening, after a long walk trying to find a restaurant where we would be able to eat, we chanced upon “Passion For Food” Mediterranean restaurant, Philipstockstraat 39, <a href="mailto:sherifhasuna1760@msn.com">sherifhasuna1760@msn.com</a> specialising in cous cous and tagine dishes. When Ray explained that he was unable to eat dairy, the restaurant owner said “You have come to the right place, sir”. I had a delicious cod in sauce while Ray had grilled lamb with cous cous. According to Ray, it was one of the best meals he’d eaten because “it was simple, fresh tasting, marinated meat.”</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Ray lamb meal Middle Eastern.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>No visit to Bruges is complete without a visit to the Chocolate Museum <a href="http://www.choco-story.be/">www.choco-story.be</a> Through a series of displays, it relates the history of chocolate and how it is produced from cocoa to chocolate. There’s also a demonstration of how praline is made, as well as a shop where you can buy lots of chocolate!</p>
<p>Bruges had a festive atmosphere because of all the Christmas shops scattered throughout the town. One of the best is De Witte Pelikann Vlamingstraat 23 with the strapline “Christmas all year round”. Its festive merchandise included fantasy musical snow globes, but we thought they were too expensive at 90 Euros (£90) each.</p>
<p>On our last night, one of the best meals we enjoyed – and the most expensive – was at Old Brugge, Vismarket 7. The restaurant has a wonderful vista. As you look out, you can see a reflection of the illuminated buildings in the canal – it resembled a greetings card photograph. When we started explaining our dietary requirements, an English-speaking member of staff appeared to advise us. I enjoyed fish with a gluten free sauce, while Ray chose a chicken stir fry. I also indulged in a local Kwak beer – nothing to do with ducks apparently – delicious.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gf sauce and fish last night.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>Eating Out With Food Allergies in Liverpool<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Liverpool opening shot.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="280" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Finding gluten free and dairy free food when travelling by train in the UK is always a hit and miss affair. So we tend to take our own food or if there’s time, buy something from Pret A Manger <a href="http://www.pret.com/">www.pret.com</a></p>
<p>This is what we did on arrival at London Euston railway station. I bought a Chef’s Italian Salad, a delicious combination of chicken, salad and pecan nuts, while Ray opted for a dairy free sandwich with Wiltshire ham. What’s great about Pret is that their food is clearly labelled on the shelves so you can see at a glance what’s in it. Ray made a new discovery – dairy free Handmade Apple Cake (£1.60). He found it rather sweet, but also moist and was so pleased to find a cake he was able to eat. I had to content myself with mango and lime fruit instead of a cake! Pret has also started Miso Soup which Ray can eat, but I can’t as it has gluten in it.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR hummus Leaf.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>One of our favourite places in Liverpool is Leaf in Bold Street <a href="http://www.thisisleaf.co.uk/">www.thisisleaf.co.uk</a> it has an eclectic bohemian feel about it – a mix of Laura Ashley lampshades, wooden floors, glitter balls and benches. Tea is served in a cafetiere and soya milk is available. When we visited they’d sold out of gluten and dairy free cakes so I had hummus and salad, while Ray had toast with honey. We recommend Leaf for their cooked breakfast and porridge which can be made with water and served with soya milk. We returned on another occasion for lunch. My choice was red pepper and tomato gluten free soup, followed by gluten free chocolate and almond cake. The cake was a real treat and melted in the mouth.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Leaf gf cake.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>Ray ordered the ground beef burger before checking there was no dairy in it, but when it arrived there was melted cheese on the burger. He took the meal to the counter and pointed out the error, where they apologised. Another waitress came to the table to apologise and a ‘naked’ burger arrived, which Ray said was worth waiting for. To our surprise, the manager came to see us to apologise and give us a refund. This is the first time in our experience that any restaurant has refunded the cost of a meal because of a food allergy.</p>
<p>On our first evening, we returned to Kasbah Café and Bazar in Bold Street <a href="http://www.kasbahcafebazaar.co.uk/">www.kasbahcafebazaar.co.uk</a> , which serves Moroccan cuisine. To start with we had olives (£1.95) and hummus (£3.95) – I was given slices of cucumber and carrots instead of bread. For the main course, I ordered Tagine de Marrakesh, dairy free and gluten free, comprising chicken breast with saffron and preserved lemon confit (£8.95) while Ray chose Tagine de Fez – lamb tagine with caramelised onions, prunes, roasted almonds, apricots and sesame seeds (£9.95). No alcohol is served at this restaurant, so I enjoyed cranberry juice and Ray drank apple juice (£1.70). Service is friendly and fast and they weren’t fazed by our dietary concerns. The restaurant also sells Moroccan goods including spices or fezs!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR chicken tagine.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>At our hotel the Crown Plaza <a href="http://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/liverpool/lpluk/hoteldetail">http://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/liverpool/lpluk/hoteldetail</a> , there was a special deal on breakfast at £10 a head (usually £14.50) at weekends, so we decided to give it a try. There was an extensive buffet so you could see exactly what is on offer. Soya milk was freely available so Ray could have some cereal. I asked for toasted gluten free bread which was delicious – probably Genius <a href="http://www.geniusglutenfree.com/">www.geniusglutenfree.com</a> I opted for a cooked breakfast of egg, bacon, potatoes and mushrooms, avoiding the sausages. Ray chose to have fried bread and bacon, although he could have beans as well. To follow I enjoyed a plate of fruit from the extensive array.</p>
<p>If you have a food allergy, you’re always advised to ring up the restaurant ahead and warn them. In some establishments this really pays off, while in others it makes no difference at all. This was the situation when we arrived with a group of friends at Bistro Jacques <a href="http://www.bistrojacques.com/">www.bistrojacques.com</a> . Ray said we had phoned in advance, but the waiter looked surprised and taken aback when Ray explained his allergies. Panic ran across his face; Ray said “I’d like steak and chips – no butter or sauce on the steak.” “I’ll check with the kitchen, sir,” so off he went to the kitchen to the consternation of our friends who hadn’t ordered. “We’ve lost him,” Alan said.</p>
<p>Fortunately he did return and confirm that Ray’s order was ok and how did Ray like his steak cooked. There was a reasonable pre-theatre menu but we couldn’t see anything we were able to eat because all the dishes were covered with a sauce, normally not suitable for us as they tend to have wheat flour, milk or cream in the sauce. I opted for seabass without any sauce and chips. We were given a dish of vegetables without butter on them.</p>
<p>If you suffer from a food allergy, dining out with friends can be difficult because you don’t want to make a fuss or appear awkward. On the other hand you don’t want to get ill either.</p>
<p>Buying lunch for the journey back to London on the train was problematic. Pret A Manger in Liverpool at 10.30am had no salads and all the sandwiches had butter in them so no joy there.</p>
<p>We tried Sainsbury’s – nothing doing there either. At Marks & Spencer <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/">www.marksandspencer.com</a> Ray searched high and low for a sandwich but found they all had cow’s milk in them. How can chicken and mayonnaise or a ham and mustard sandwich have dairy in it unless it’s in the bread? Eventually he found Hoisin Duck wrap with cucumber, hoisin sauce and spring onions, but had to carefully pick out the cucumber and spinach as he can’t eat them. When I examined the salads at Marks & Spencer, it was surprising how many had wheat, gluten or cow’s milk in them, but eventually I found tuna and three bean salad which didn’t.</p>
<p>Historically we’ve found Marks & Spencer impossible to find free from foods although other people have informed us they do sell them. I think they need to offer a greater choice.</p>
<p> </p>Experimental Food Society Show<p>My big find at the Experimental Food Society Spectacular, held on 9 and 10 November at London Truman’s Brewery, was gluten free, wheat free, yeast free and soy free bread made from broccoli flour. The founder of Plan Bread <a href="http://www.planbread.co.uk/">www.planbread.co.uk</a> Paul Shackleton, a former City worker, experimented until he came up with a broccoli flour, but only uses the florets, not the stalks. He sells sandwiches made from the bread (which are delicious) with different fillings such as roast chicken with creamed corn and rocket (£4.25); cured ham and guacamole (£4.35) and mushroom and brie (£3.95) Apart from its ‘free from’ qualities, the bread is low carb as well.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR broccoli bread sandwiches.jpg" alt="" width="147" height="196" /></p>
<p>The sandwiches can be purchased online, but delivery is only in London at the moment. Dairy free options are currently being developed.</p>
<p>According to Meringue Girls <a href="http://www.meringuegirls.co.uk/">www.meringuegirls.co.uk</a>, cupcakes have had their day. Now it’s the age of the meringue. And if you’re gluten free and dairy free, that is fantastic news! Multi-coloured meringues were on sale in different flavours such as Matcha green tea, Pistachio and Rosewater and Manuka Honey. Delicious. And they’ve got a cookbook out. Buy the meringues online or at stockists such as Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and Fortnum & Mason. They are yummy!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Meringue Girls.JPG" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>To take part in the ‘breathable tea room’ we needed a long plastic transparent tube. The tea was brewed in Le Whaf <a href="http://gearhungry.com/2012/08/le-whaf-carafe.html">http://gearhungry.com/2012/08/le-whaf-carafe.html</a>, a device which vaporises the tea into a ‘cloud’ which can be inhaled. Mayanne Sorat advised us to keep it in our mouths – the result was a pleasant taste of tea. Le Whaf can be purchased online. Teas were described for the brain, beautiful skin or for aches and pains and were from Camellia’s Tea House <a href="http://www.camelliasteahouse.com">www.camelliasteahouse.com</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR breathable tea.jpg" alt="" width="147" height="196" /></p>
<p>Special mention must be given to Michelle Wibowo <a href="http://www.michellesugarart.co.uk/">www.michellesugarart.co.uk</a> , cake and sugar artist for her incredible life-like models of the Queen and one of her corgis, made entirely of sugar paste. The Queen took 65lbs of sugar paste. The attention to detail is incredible – all her jewellery glitters!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Queen in sugar.jpg" alt="" width="147" height="196" /></p>
<p> </p>The Restaurant Show - gluten free pizza bases<p>Looking round this year’s Restaurant Show <a href="http://www.therestaurantshow.co.uk">www.therestaurantshow.co.uk</a> , I was delighted to find Venice Bakery UK <a href="http://www.venicebakeryuk.com">www.venicebakeryuk.com</a> sampling its delicious range of gluten free and dairy free pizza bases, available as plain or herb seasoned in sizes 5in to 12in. What’s more, as they are both gluten free and dairy free Ray and I can both eat them which is a bonus. They are also free of wheat, eggs, corn and nuts as well. I first discovered the company at The Allergy and Free From Show in London <a href="http://www.allergyshow.co.uk">www.allergyshow.co.uk</a>. Don’t miss the Liverpool show 26-27 October.</p>
<p>I’ve tried gluten free pizzas in several high street chains but they tend to be slightly burnt, hard and biscuit-like so you can hardly get your knife through them – almost like burnt toast. With Venice Bakery’s pizza bases, the dough is soft, moist and chewy – just like pizzas should be. I can’t recommend them highly enough – you can order direct from the web site.</p>
<p>Great that they are promoting these pizza bases to restaurateurs and caterers and I hope that we’ll be able to find these pizzas everywhere when dining out. As the company points out, foodservice operators will need to comply with new EU Food Information Regulations which come into force on 13 December 2014. Under the new legislation, restaurants will need to clearly identify 14 common food allergens on menus and packaging. Or staff will need to be able to provide verbal information on the allergen contents of each food dish that is served to a customer.</p>
<p>Good news for people like us who suffer from allergies because it means there will be no doubt about what a dish contains. As things stand, the waiting staff usually have to check with the kitchen if a dish contains certain ingredients, but if it’s listed in the menu, it will help everyone. Staff education is also key to the problem of dining out with a food allergy, as some waiting staff don’t have a clue as to what gluten free or dairy free means and we have walked out of some restaurants where they haven’t understood. Other restaurants embrace allergies, such as Wagamama <a href="http://www.wagamama.com">www.wagamama.com</a> – the Kingston branch was very helpful in pointing out to us which dishes we could consume.</p>
<p>While we’re talking about food labelling, don’t get lazy about checking what ingredients are in foods. Ray who’s dairy free can eat Jacob’s fig roll biscuits because they don’t have milk in them. I didn’t check the ingredients in Tesco’s fig rolls – fortunately Ray did only to discover they contain milk. You can’t be too careful!</p>
<p>Another discovery at The Restaurant Show was Elena’s Gluten Free Way <a href="http://www.elenasgfway.co.uk">www.elenasgfway.co.uk</a>, run by Elena Buchberger. The stand was showing the complete range of dairy, gluten and wheat free Italian Dialsi pasta made from corn and rice flour. Elena, a former architect, said she’d noticed an increase in the number of chefs approaching her for gluten free products. Other products include cookies, bread, breadsticks and flours. You can order direct from the web site, which also has a wide variety of recipes.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Elen'a Gluten Free Way.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>Also enjoyed Whynut’s <a href="http://www.whynut.co.uk">www.whynut.co.uk</a> selection of lightly salted pistachio kernels, winner of a Gold Star Great Taste Award.</p>
<p>Interesting to hear the latest craze forthe Cronut in America, a croissant-doughnut hybrid. In London Bea’s of Bloomsbury’s <a href="http://www.beasofbloomsbury.com">www.beasofbloomsbury.com</a> introduced the Duffin, a cross between a doughnut and a muffin and now the Townie – a cross between a brownie and a tart. Sounds great – wonder if someone will come up with a gluten free and dairy free version? BBC Breakfast created the“Muffitt” a cross between a biscuit and muffin. I’m going to try and convert the recipe into a gluten and dairy free version. Will let you know how I get on.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>VegFest dairy free vegan exhibition in London review<p>For many years I have wanted to visit the Vegfest UK shows <a href="http://www.vegfest.co.uk">www.vegfest.co.uk</a> in Bristol and Brighton to see the latest free from foods, so it was great news to learn that the first ever show arrived in London on 5<sup>th</sup> and 6<sup>th</sup> October. When Ray and I visited, we discovered it was more of a lifestyle show than a food exhibition displaying everything from vegan shoes and bags to promoting charities and good causes. Ray was excited to find out that all food items were dairy free, although I was careful to check whether they were gluten free as well.</p>
<p>Our first stop was Freedom Mallow <a href="http://www.freefrommallows.com">www.freefrommallows.com</a> to sample its delicious dairy free marshmallows, which are sweet, light and fluffy and gelatine free. Ray described the vanilla variety as “awesome. They dissolve in your mouth – they aren’t chewy which is good”. We met David Lavelle and Louise Mark who gave us samples of the new strawberry flavour (just as tasty as the vanilla variety) and new 1000g catering packs of mini marshmallows.</p>
<p>We met Aneeh Popat, aka The Chocolatier <a href="http://www.the-chocolatier.co.uk">www.the-chocolatier.co.uk</a> and sampled his melt in the mouth Dark Salted Caramel Chocolate Spread (£7.95 a jar), dairy and gluten free, which can be used as a spread on toast – or simply eaten straight from the jar! An awesome collection of dairy free truffles were on display including his signature chilli and lime flavour.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR The Chocolatier.jpg" alt="The Chocolatier" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>“3 Omega 6” <a href="http://www.3omega6.com">www.3omega6.com</a> is a new dairy free flax drink made from flax seed oil, the richest plant source of Omega 3. It is also gluten free with no cholesterol. The flavour is creamy – something you could put on your breakfast cereal, add to beverages and drink on its own. You can also cook with it. It’s also soya free – a bonus if you have an intolerance to soya.</p>
<p>Ray enjoyed his first cream elair in ten years on the JP Turner stand <a href="http://www.jpturnerfoodservice.com">www.jpturnerfoodservice.com</a> which was a real treat. This stand was pulling the crowds with its extensive array of mouth-watering dairy free cream cakes – unfortunately they weren’t gluten free so I couldn’t indulge myself. Neil Bairstow from JP Turner explained that the cream cakes were new this week “we finally got the recipe right for the soya whipping cream”, he said. Ray suggested that they should sell the cream separately as well, as it’s so difficult to find soya cream that can be used for whipping.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR cream cakes JP Turner.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>For anyone following a dairy free diet, learning to live without cheese can be very difficult. In the past we’ve found dairy free cheese unappealing, but Vegusto’s range of dairy free cheeses are wonderful and well recommended, especially the No Moo Piquant variety. Vegusto <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/www.vegusto.co.uk" alt="" /> www.vegusto.co.uk won the Fair trophy in the 2012 Free From Awards <a href="http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk">www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk</a> and we can see why. It also offers the No Moo Sauce, the only nut free cheese in the vegan cheese range so it’s suitable if you have a nut allergy. It can be used on pizza, macaroni cheese and other pasta dishes. Or there’s No Moo Melty cheese, which can be used for cheese toasties and pizzas as it melts and spreads or cut into cubes and used in salads.</p>
<p>Sam Rogers, director, Vegusto pointed out that the products are home made in Switzerland, are cholesterol free and 50% less fat than normal cheeses.</p>
<p>Pudology <a href="http://www.pudology.com">www.pudology.com</a> was super busy with people sampling its delicious dairy and gluten free desserts. I sampled the new chocolate orange variety – wonderful! Also available in strawberry, banoffee and lemon, the puddings are now available in 32 Sainsbury’s stores as well as 23 Waitrose stores.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Pudology.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="200" /></p>
<p>“Four Girls And A Cupcake” <a href="http://www.fourgirlsandacupcake.co.uk">www.fourgirlsandacupcake.co.uk</a> is the intriguing name to a new gluten free and vegan cupcake business with a French twist started by Huguette Essome. Varieties include Apple Tartin, Fraise des Bois and Peanut Butter and Chocolate. Also on display were exquisite celebration cakes including a chocolate cake covered with summer berries.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR 4 Girls and A Cupcake.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="200" /></p>
<p>At The Honest Carrot stand <a href="http://www.honestcarrot.com">www.thehonestcarrot.com</a> we found a range of vegan crunchy falafels, sweet potato hummus, carrot burgers and Royal Greens, similar to veggie burgers, made of spinach, kale, leek and lentils with a garlic and ginger bite. Or there were London Roasts – balls of beetroot, carrot, parsnip, potato and apple. The products are all gluten free and dairy free.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Honest Carrot.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>Melissa Morgan, aka Ms Cupcake <a href="http://www.mscupcake.co.uk">www.mscupcake.co.uk</a> was busy signing her new cookbook “Ms Cupcake: The Naughtiest Vegan Cakes in Town”, but we couldn’t resist buying a couple of her flamboyant cupcakes – the gluten free banoffee and for Ray, the vegan Red Velvet.</p>
<p> <img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Ms Cupcake.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p> </p>Eating out with food allergies in Surrey<h3> </h3>
<p>It’s great to discover eateries offering dairy and gluten free food on our doorstep in Surrey. We found The Healthy Cook Co <a href="http://www.healthy">www.healthycookcompany.co.uk</a> in Old London Road, Kingston, when we visited the May Merrie event. It sells a wide array of mouth-watering dairy free and gluten free cakes – what a treat! It is run by Trisha Kelly whose Carrot and Raisin cake won the Best Free From Product in the Free From Awards <a href="http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk">www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk.</a> Imagine our delight to indulge ourselves in cakes that are not only gluten free, but also dairy free. I chose a gluten free brownie (£1.50) while Ray opted for pear and almond tart, both of which were gluten free, dairy free, egg free, vegan (£2.30 a slice). He enjoyed it so much he ordered another slice! Celebratory ‘free from’ cakes are also available. Cakes are made using Trish’s own gluten free four mix – a blend of gluten free flours – brown rice flour (70%) potato flour and tapioca flour. Soya milk is also served. Open from 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday. Needless to say we have been back and no doubt will be visiting again soon!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/gf brownie Healthy Cook Co final.jpg" alt="" width="281" height="211" /></p>
<p>Masses of publicity have surrounded Pizza Express’ introduction of gluten free pizzas, so we knew we must try it out. Long ago, before I became wheat intolerant, I used to love eating Pizza Express pizzas because of its light Italian-like pizza basses. We visited Pizza Express at Unit 5, The Rotunda, Kingston <a href="http://www.pizzaexpress.com">www.pizzaexpress.com</a>www.pizzaexpress.com. There’s a choice of pizzas – Romana (with a thinner crispier base) and Classic. I was told that all the pizzas could be made with gluten free bases except for Sloppy Giuseppe – ‘hot spiced beef’ which seemed odd. A strange alarm went off at this point, but the staff weren’t perturbed and it went off eventually. I chose the Veneziana with pine kernels, onions, capers, olives, sultanas, mozzareall and tomato with 25p going to the Veneziana Fund. Ray explained he had a problem with dairy, but also wanted a Veneziana. Please could he have prosciutto instead of mozzarella and very little tomato sauce. Our waiter said she would check and after a brief pause, returned to say it would be fine. My gluten free pizza was a bit biscuity but I could cut it. It was a pleasure to have a pizza – a Veneziana – which I haven’t eaten since my teenage years. The topping was delicious although the base was a bit hard to eat with slightly burnt edges, served on a grey board instead of a plate.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Pizza Express pizza final.jpg" alt="" width="432" height="324" /></p>
<p>At The Regent, a Chinese restaurant in Chessington, <a href="http://www.newregent.co.uk">www.newregent.co.uk</a>www.newregent.co.uk, when Ray explained his dairy allergy, the waitress was very obliging checking with the kitchen several times that his choice of beef in satay sauce didn’t have dairy in it. She thought peanut butter would cause a problem, but he assured her it wouldn’t. Then she queried coconut milk, which he also said he could eat. So it was good to see them taking so much trouble to make sure he didn’t eat any dairy.</p>
<p>I sing with Elmbridge Ladies Choir www.surreymusic.org and a group outing was arranged to visit The Clink restaurant in Sutton, Surrey <a href="http://www.theclinkcharity.com">www.theclinkcharity.com</a>. This is part of HMP Highdown Prison, Sutton, where inmates have the chance to train in food preparation, food service and qualifications. Security was tight, mobile phones aren’t allowed, so I haven’t any pictures to show you. Once we had cleared security and had entered the restaurant, we lost all sense of being in a prison – it was just like being in a restaurant. The service was great, although a couple of waiters seems a bit nervous. Out of the 30 ladies, I was the only one who was gluten free. To start with I had a tomato soup (which was gluten free) without any bread and for my main course, I visited the extensive salad bar, one of the best I’ve seen because of the choice available. For dessert, the chef put together a special summer fruit medley for me which was delicious. We did sing for our lunch, giving them a our version of “Bahaha” an African folk song which was well received.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>The Allergy and Free From Show<p>This Autumn, there are festivals and food shows galore. Future shows coming up includes Vegfest UK <a href="http://www.vegfest.co.uk">www.vegfest.co.uk</a>, a veggie food show, taking place for the first time in London next weekend on 5 and 6 October at Kensington Olympia. There will be over 180 stalls with meat free and dairy free food products on the market. There will also be tips on dairy free baking from vegan pastry chef Fran Costigan.</p>
<p>Later in October, from 26<sup>th</sup> to 27<sup>th</sup> there’s the Allergy & Free From Show North taking place at the BT Convention Centre in Liverpool <a href="http://www.allergyshow.co.uk/liverpool">www.allergyshow.co.uk/liverpool</a> showcasing an extensive array of free from foods. Here’s a review of the London show which I visited earlier this year.</p>
<p>At the Chiatica stand, <a href="http://www.lachatica.com">www.lachatica.com</a>. I discovered gluten free and wheat free cheese bread, dairy free and gluten free empanadas - South American pasties made from cornstarch not wheat, made from plantain flour. It supplies gluten free cheese bread to The Gaucho restaurant and Inter-Continental hotel.</p>
<p> On the Vi UK <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ShakeitupwithViUK">www.facebook.com/ShakeitupwithViUK</a> stand, I tried samples of gluten free nutritional shakes containing 23 minerals and vitamins and low sugar content, just launched in the UK from the USA. It can be used in any form of milk and mixed with items from the fridge such as blueberries, kale leaves, avocado – whatever you have in your fridge you add in. It’s not a diet as you use it for a meal replacement as one of the five portions of fruit and vegetable. One bag is equivalent to 30 meals. All you do is mix two scoops of the shake, add in the milk (it can be soya, rice, almond, whatever you like) and you can add crushed ice. For weight loss, you substitute two meals a day for a shake.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Vi shape nutritional milkshake final.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>If you suffer from a food allergy, ready meals are usually off the list because they invariably contain gluten and milk. Thanks to Ilumi www.ilumiworld.com, we might be able to enjoy ready meals, as its products are gluten free, dairy free and nut free. Available online, there is a range of 22 products. They are introducing a new product every week so there will be 60 by the start of next year. Examples include Thai Red Chicken Curry, Chicken Kerala Curry, Slow Cooked Beef Casserole, Vegetable and Chickpea Jalfrezi. The meals take two minutes in the microwave. Prices in the region of £2.50 to £3.35, 12 months shelf time www.ilumiworld.com</p>
<p>For anyone with a sweet tooth, a visit to the Ms Cupcake stand www.mscupcake.co.uk was a must to view, taste and buy her extensive colourful range of vegan cupcakes, beautifully decorated. The company’s brought out its first cookbook published by Square Peg (Random House). Must get a copy!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Ms Cupcake final.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>New kid on the block was Udi’s Gluten Free www.udiglutenfree.com, available in the USA and Canada, launching in the UK in October, with a huge array of gluten free products including bread, buns, bagels, muffins and breakfast bards.</p>
<p>At Deli Divine www.delidivine.co.uk, Deborah Lendrum, who has been a coeliac for 20 years, explained how she finds smaller artisan producers and sells their products online such as Devon steak pie and gluten free roll pastry, many of which have won Free From Awards www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk</p>
<p>The Genius Bread stand was serving toasted gluten free fruit bread. I discovered Café Nero is selling Genius seeded rolls with children salad and pesto except Café Nero Express stores – I shall look forward to finding them!</p>
<p>It was a pleasure to meet up with Lucy Wager from Pudology again – we met before at the Free From Awards <a href="http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk/">www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk</a> . Pudology’s banoffi pie was highly commended at the Awards – I tried some on the stand; delicious. She said this year’s show had been phenomenal. “Last year we put out 1700 samples for people to try; so far this year we’ve put out 3,000.”</p>
<p>Lucy is launching a new flavour – orange – and has succeeded in getting her chilled products stocked by 30 Sainsbury’s stores, Ocado, 20 Waitrose stores and Goodnessdirect.co.uk. It can only be a matter of time until they are stocked by all the supermarkets. These puddings are gluten and dairy free. “My biggest challenge is they are chilled so they are put in the chiller cabinet, away from the free from section and customers can’t find them.” Dairy free herself, Lucy’s vision is to create rich and delicious puddings that everyone can enjoy regardless of food intolerances. I’d say she’s succeeded!</p>
<p>New company Knead Bakery www.kneadbakery.co.uk was sampling melt in the mouth chocolate brownies which are free from gluten, dairy, yeast and cane sugar. Creator Sim Smith has multiple allergies and decided to set up her own company for others in the same boat. The seeded loaf was short listed in the Free From Awards <a href="http://www.freefromawards.co.uk">www.freefromawards.co.uk</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Knead Bakery final.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="210" /></p>
<p>For something entirely different, I tasted dairy free vanilla-flavoured marshmallows from Freedom Confectionery <a href="http://www.freedommallows.com/">www.freedommallows.com</a> – awesome! Ray particularly like these. What’s more they are fat free, gelatine free and nut free.</p>
<p> </p>Surbiton Festival<p>We enjoyed visiting this year’s Surbiton Festival <a href="http://www.surbitonfestival.co.uk">www.surbitonfestival.co.uk</a> in Surbiton, Surrey with over 200 stalls, entertainment and a carnival procession. The procession included scouts, brass bands and an impressive collection of vintage cars including an old Bentalls van.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/vintage car final.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>Several stalls sold free from food including The Home of Savoury <a href="http://www.homeofsavoury.co.uk">www.homeofsavoury.co.uk</a> with its incredible array of savoury muffins. Dairy free varieties including Garden Pea, Broadbean and Gill while the gluten free ones included Ham and Cheese.</p>
<p>Discovered gluten free and dairy free muesli, made in Surbiton by eatibbles <a href="http://www.eatibbles.co.uk">www.eatibbles.co.uk</a> in several varieties - pecan and almond, sour cherry and mixed berry and cranberry and macadamia. Expensive at £5 a bag – tried the pecan and almond variety, delicious with rice milk.</p>
<p>There were plenty of food stalls, but we were unable to find anything we could eat until we chanced upon a stand in St Andrew’s Square selling Pad Thai noodle dishes at £6 a portion, which was delicious.</p>Eating out with a food allergy and singing in Venice<p><img title="Blog LR Venice.jpg" src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Blog%20LR%20Venice.jpg" alt="Blog LR Venice.jpg" width="250" height="188" /></p>
<p>I sing with Elmbridge Ladies Choir <a href="http://www.elmbridgemusic.co.uk/">www.elmbridgemusic.co.uk</a>. It was with great excitement I travelled with the choir and our sister mixed choir, Elmbridge Choir to the Veneto region outside Venice for the first Veneto Canta choral festival in May, open to choirs of all repertoires. Altogether we were a group of 181 – although everyone flew to and from Italy independently.</p>
<p>At GatwickAirport, we enjoyed a snack at Eat <a href="http://www.eat.co.uk/">www.eat.co.uk</a>, although Ray had difficulty finding a dairy free sandwich but finally found a duck wrap. I ended up with a Rainbow Salad – prosciutto and lentils, rice, peas and sliced hard boiled eggs. Although delicious, it was a disappointment not to find something more substantial.</p>
<p>We met some of our fellow choir members in the departure lounge. On the British Airways flight to Venice I was told that on short haul flights (under four hours) special diets such as gluten free and dairy free weren’t catered for. The only meal available was a wrap, but as they both contained cheese, Ray didn’t have any. We’d brought our own goat’s cheese sandwiches (as always) made with Genius gluten free bread www.geniusglutenfree.com. Although Ray can’t eat cheese, he can eat goat’s cheese – great news! As usual, we had brought soya milk in a 100ml plastic bottle from Muji (<a href="http://www.muji.eu" target="_blank">www.muji.eu</a>)</p>
<p>At the Noventa Hotel in Noventa Di Piave, a town outside Venice <a href="http://www.noventahotel.it/">www.noventahotel.it</a> , our base for the trip, they had laid on a cold buffet which was impressive, given the lateness of the hour. So Ray and I enjoyed cold meats and salad, although Ray could eat the Italian bread which he said was delicious. I tried not to look at the bowls of pasta on the table, which looked tantalising. Another member of our party, who’s a coeliac, had sensibly brought his own gluten free bread and also had some salad and fruit salad.</p>
<p>The group was staying at three different hotels; we were at the Base To Stay <a href="http://www.basehotel.it/">www.basehotel.it</a> – yes a strange name for a hotel!</p>
<p>From the breakfast buffet, I chose ham, cheese, a hard boiled egg and rice cakes. Ray selected toast and honey, ham and olives. As he said “It was a funny breakfast”. We were pleasantly surprised by the tea – Bradley’s English Blend <a href="http://www.bradleys.nl/">www.bradleys.nl</a>, which we hadn’t come across before. Normally Liptons tea is served in Italy which is an acquired taste!</p>
<p>Ray asked Base To Stay for a map of the town and was told “There isn’t one. There is only one street.” “That’s good,” I said. “Then even I won’t get lost.” We were told there was a market in the town, but they weren’t sure whether it was taking place as it was raining so heavily.</p>
<p>As we looked outside it was raining slightly, so with our friends all armed with umbrellas, we started walking to the centre of Noventa di Piave to see the market, but en route the rain became torrential. I was wearing open toed sandals – not very sensible – and gradually we all became soaked despite ponchos and umbrellas.</p>
<p>The market sold traditional Italian produce; there were colourful displays of fruit and vegetables including white asparagus. A vast cheese stall sold an array of Italian cheeses so Ray bought some goat’s cheese.</p>
<p>Our real quest was to find McArthur Glen <a href="http://www.mcarthurglen.it" target="_blank">www.mcarthurglen.it</a> designer outlets, which we had been told “were just the other side of the roundabout”, so bravely we marched on getting wetter and wetter. My skirt was sticking to me and my legs and feet were saturated, despite my raincoat, poncho and umbrella! We arrived at the roundabout from hell – cars were being driven at breakneck speed in true Italian fashion in about six different directions. We just couldn’t see a way to cross; by then, we were so wet we were beyond caring, but someone suggested returning to the hotel and getting a taxi.</p>
<p>The taxi driver must have misunderstood because suddenly we were being driven Italian racing car style along a motorway in the opposite direction to McArthur Glen! No-one could speak sufficient Italian to query this so we just hoped he wasn’t taking us too far away. Eventually we arrived at Iper Coop Centro Piave www.centropiave.com, an out of town shopping centre, with a huge Coop supermarket in the basement. Here we were able to buy Alpro soya milk www.alpro.com.uk. We noticed there was a small “free from” section with products “senzo glutino” (without gluten).We negotiated with the taxi driver to pick us up again in a couple of hours. It was wonderful to be in the dry again, although I was unable to try on any shoes because my feet were so wet!</p>
<p>After browsing round the shops, we had lunch at El Baristo self service restaurant. We always like buffets because you can see exactly what you’re getting. I enjoyed a huge tuna salad and an exotic fruit salad with strawberries, while Ray ate chicken fillets, potatoes, beans and carrots – after checking it was “senzo burra” (without butter). </p>
<p>That evening we were whisked to Teatro Opere Parrocchiali in Thiene for the opening concert. It was like an enormous school, but the auditorium was most impressive. They had laid on a small snack of cheese, crisps, salami and cheese rolls. Many people visited the small café, but the staff were not geared up for so many people. In fact they ran out of cups so gave Ray a jug of hot water for the tea (we always carry out own decaff tea bags) and he managed to negotiate a couple of glass tumblers to pour the tea into.</p>
<p>An eclectic mix of choirs performed that night as well as Elmbridge Choir and our choir, Elmbridge Ladies Choir including a group of Glee-like youngsters who danced as well as sang.</p>
<p>The next day my choir, Elmbridge Ladies Choir, visited Duomo di Conegliano in Conegliano, where we were given a guided tour of the tapestries and frescoes. Fortunately, one of the choir members, was able to translate what our Italian guide was saying. Lunch was at Ristorazione Ottavian <a href="http://www.ristorazioneottavian.it/">www.ristorazioneottavian.it</a> in San Vendemiano, a huge cavernous restaurant with a vast buffet. I was able to choose chicken with prosciutto and mozzarella and salad. Prosecco was on tap – literally – you pressed a button and it was dispensed into a plastic glass; there was a choice of red and white.</p>
<p><img title="Blog LR Elmbridge Ladies Choir.jpg" src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/Blog%20LR%20Elmbridge%20Ladies%20Choir.jpg" alt="Blog LR Elmbridge Ladies Choir.jpg" width="250" height="188" /></p>
<p>It was here we discovered the ‘hole in the ground’ toilets which someone referred to as “squatties”.</p>
<p>That afternoon we visited the Collalto Wine Cellars where we learnt how prosecco was produced. This was followed by a prosecco wine tasting and an opportunity to buy some to take home. Giovanna Altinieri explained the process and history of the vineyard. “There are 250 hectares, 150 of which are dedicated to vineyards. We use flowers to produce new varieties of wine – male and female flowers are blended to produce sparkling rosé – normally rosé is produced by mixing red and white wine.</p>
<p>After this was the Abbazia di Follini, where we had a cup of coffee at Café Pascucci <a href="http://www.pascucci.it/">www.pascucci.it</a> - oddly, a fresh mint tea was 3 Euros whereas a cappuccino was 1.5 Euros.</p>
<p>At Miane, we were welcomed by our host choir Coro Montecimon, an all male Italian choir, who had laid on some refreshments. Someone pointed out to me the special gluten free crackers and snacks, which I enjoyed with a glass of Prosecco.</p>
<p>Then it was time to get changed in one of the classrooms and have the sound check. We sat in the auditorium and listened to two other Italian choirs. The first Corale San Marco Di Udine comprises 26 men and women who sang beautifully a capella (without a sound track). This was followed by our host choir Coro Montecimon – Miane, a superb harmony of male voices, truly exceptional, singing without accompaniment religious and choral type music. We wondered what they would make of our repertoire which included “It’s Raining Men” and “The Trolley Song.”</p>
<p>Despite technical difficulties with playing our backing tracks, the concert seemed to go well, but it was our last number “It’s Raining Men” which brought the house down with clapping and cheers – so much so we had to sing it again!</p>
<p>The male choir hosted a dinner for us at Proloco in Miane, a community restaurant run by volunteers. The food was superb – starters of polenta and mushrooms, followed by asparagus risotto then meat, chips and salad, accompanied by wine of course. Half-way through our hosts Coro Montecimon got up and sang impromptu without music or accompaniment including “Blue Moon” in English! A memorable night.</p>
<p><img title="LR blog Coro Montecimon all male choir.jpg" src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR%20blog%20Coro%20Montecimon%20all%20male%20choir.jpg" alt="LR blog Coro Montecimon all male choir.jpg" width="250" height="188" /></p>
<p>On the last day in Venice, we located Ostaria al Garanghelo, San Polo 1571, 157 Calle Dei Boteri, but despite a long wait, I was served gluten free pasta carbonara. I had been told Italy had embraced gluten free pasta, but never believed it until then.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The day culminated with all the choirs which had participated in the Festival meeting in St Mark’s Square where we all sang Italian songs – accompanied by music of course! What a way to end our tour!</p>
<p> </p>Eating out with a food allergy in Liverpool<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/blog%20lr%20museum%20of%20liverpool.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="300" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bold Street has transformed itself into a lively street with an eclectic collection of restaurants, cafes and shops like the unusual Bold Street Sweets @BoldstreetSweet selling retro sweets. Our first meal in Liverpool was in Bold Street at Kasbah Café Bazaar <a href="http://www.kasbahcafebazaar.co.uk/">www.kasbahcafebazaar.co.uk</a> . The décor and furniture at Kasbah is like stepping into a corner of Morocco. Open from 10am to 10pm, traditional Morrocan items are on sale such as a fez (£10) or organic dry figs with oregano (£6.99).</p>
<p>First up, we shared hummus and Makdous (both £3.95) – tangy aubergines stuffed with walnuts, garlic and olive. When I said I was gluten free and was unable to eat the pitta bread, they brought some crudités. After being assured there was no wheat in the tagines, I ordered Tagine Merzouga (£9.95), a vast sized lamb tagine with caramelised figs, walnuts and cinnamon, sprinkled with sesame seeds. Unfortunately there was dairy in the tagines, so Ray had lamb chops marinated with spices (£9.95). No alcohol is served here, but there’s a wide selection of juices at £1.70 a glass.</p>
<p>Staying at the comfortable and stylish Hope Street Hotel (<a href="http://www.hopestreethotel/">www.hopestreethotel</a>) which is conveniently located in Hope Street, our favourite venue for breakfast is Leaf on Bold Street <a href="http://www.thisisleaf.co.uk/">www.thisisleaf.co.uk</a> an independent teashop and bar, also named by The Times as one of the best venues for brunch. Ray’s favourite was a toasted bacon sandwich with beans, although on the first morning I forgot to tell them no butter on the bread, so it had to go back! I have to be careful with porridge as sometimes it can make me poorly, but here I was ok although I asked it to be made with water (not milk) and to have soya milk with it. Very good value at £2.25 for an enormous plateful to keep you going throughout the day. If you can’t eat porridge oats, the full English breakfast is good value at £6.50.</p>
<p>The good news is that they serve soya milk!</p>
<p>We were in Liverpool for another friend’s special birthday and as part of the celebrations, she’d organised a visit to The Beatles’ Childhood Homes – Mendips, where John Lennon lived and 20 Forthlin Road, Paul McCartney’s former family home. The tour round 20 Forthlin Road was like stepping back in time as the National Trust had restored the house to how it appeared in the 1950s, with appropriate retro furniture and fittings. Before the National Trust acquired the house, the previous owner updated the windows – the guide said it had been difficult to find authentic 1950s windows so they agreed a swop with the house opposite. The sitting room had three types of wallpaper as they were end of rolls and the carpet comprised runners sewn together. During the tour we learnt all sorts of details about The Beatles such as Paul started to play the trumpet before taking up the guitar. The songs ‘Love Me Do’ and ‘When I’m 64’ were both written here. John Lennon’s house Mendips, in contrast, seemed much more upmarket and beautifully preserved. John lived here with his Aunt Mimi and Uncle George. Apparently John, Paul and George were allowed to rehearse in the front room for two hours only, then it was in the porch or bedroom. The guide, called Miriam, revealed she had been one of their earliest fans “As kids we would stand in front of the house and scream,” she said. “When you’re young, you’re not embarrassed. We used to take the leaves off trees as mementoes. If a Beatle was having their hair cut at the barbers in Church Street, the girl fans would even pick up their hair from the floor.”</p>
<p>It’s always tricky when you go to a party if you have a food allergy. I’m normally upfront and tell people, but sometimes it isn’t possible. But we needn’t have worried because at our friend’s birthday party, held at the Liverpool Marina Bar and Grill, she had made arrangements for everyone with food allergies – so the chicken casserole was gluten free and the chef organised a special dish for Ray – chicken with vegetables. Great stuff.</p>
<p>On the Sunday we visited the new Museum of Liverpool, which tells the story of Liverpool<a href="http://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/mol">www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/mol</a> to the present day. Highlights include the Overhead Liverpool railway where you can get on board the only surviving carriage from the historic railway, learn about the route it took and its importance to Liverpool’s docks.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/blog%20lr%20chicken%20pad%20thai%20liverpool.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></p>
<p>That evening we met friends at Matou <a href="http://www.matou.co.uk/">www.matou.co.uk</a>, a pan Asian restaurant. It is at the Pier Head, opposite the Museum of Liverpool, overlooking the River Mersey. The restaurant is on the second floor, giving a wonderful view. I was concerned about the sign in the lift that asked people not to bounce up and down it will get stuck in between floors and it takes an hour to call the engineer. I said to Ray I wouldn’t be taking the lift!</p>
<p>The restaurant has an extensive menu, but we decided to play it safe and had Malaysian chicken satay (£7.90) to start with and Chicken Pad Thai (£10.90) as the main course. As we were waiting for our tea, a loud fire alarm was sounded, but to our consternation no-one rushed to leave the building. We were told someone downstairs must have set it off by mistake. After a couple of minutes, it was turned off. We finished our tea and paid.</p>
<p>As we left, down the stairs of course, a group of women were stuck in the lift, banging on the doors and shouting. We went back to tell the restaurant staff, but they could already hear it. I hope they weren’t stuck in there for long.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Eating out with an allergy in the Isle of Man<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/isle%20of%20man.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="250" /></p>
<p>The Isle of Man wasn’t my destination of choice, but a friend invited us there to celebrate her special birthday.</p>
<p>At Gatwick Airport North Terminal, I managed to find Ray a BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato) sandwich for lunch at Eat www.eat.co.uk totally forgetting he can’t eat tomatoes! Fortunately he was able to swap it for a chicken and bacon variety, while I opted for a simple tuna salad and a pot of mango and lime fruit. Very refreshing.</p>
<p>En route from the Isle of Man airport to the hotel, our taxi driver gave us an overview of the island. It is 35 miles long, bigger than Malta and six times bigger than Jersey. Celebrities live here as well as billionaires and millionaires and people only have to pay 20% tax on salaries over £20,000 per annum.</p>
<p>On the main road to Douglas, the taxi driver advised us to say hello to the fairies at Fairy Bridge. This is an old tradition going back to when a toll was paid to the fairies so your horse and cart could pass. When I asked the taxi driver what would happen if I didn’t say hello to them, he said “I wouldn’t like to say.”</p>
<p>“The island is peaceful, quiet, safe with virtually no traffic,” he said. “People don’t lock their front or back doors. When I moved here 38 years ago, the population was 48,000 but now that has doubled.”</p>
<p>Apart from the tax breaks, the Isle of Man is well known for the motorcyle TT Races <a href="http://www.iomtt.com" target="_blank"><cite>www.iomtt.com</cite></a>, which takes place 25 May to 7 June, 2013.</p>
<p>The waterfront at Douglas, Isle of Man is reminiscent of Nice especially with the giant yucca plants, giving it a colonial feel (we were reliably informed they were a palm tree variety). Sadly the weather wasn’t like Nice with gusty bitter winds cutting right through us.</p>
<p>The national emblem for the Isle of Man is the curious ‘three legs’ which can be seen everywhere. Apparently it dates back to the 13<sup>th</sup> century as the armorial bearings of three kings of the Isle of Man.</p>
<p>We met up with our friends who had flown from Liverpool – it’s only a 20 minute flight – and had dinner in the restaurant at the hotel the Best Western Palace Hotel Casino <a href="http://www.palacehotelcasino.co.im/">www.palacehotelcasino.co.im</a>. As it was a carvery operation, Ray could see exactly what he was getting and ordered lamb with vegetables (after checking that there was no butter on them). He also queried the gravy which, he was assured, didn’t have any dairy in it. I decided against the carvery and instead ordered salmon from the menu without a sauce and vegetables.</p>
<p>I’d taken the precaution of emailing the hotel in advance asking for soya milk and gluten free bread, so at breakfast the next morning I was delighted that these were available. Ray chose the breakfast buffet – a plateful of bacon, beans, black pudding and toast with honey. Special mention has to be given to the Isle of Man kippers, which were served without butter and literally melted in your mouth. They were nothing like the kippers I’ve tasted in the past. Apparently the best kipper supplier on the island is Devereau’s <a href="http://www.isleofmankippers.com/">www.isleofmankippers.com</a> and you can order them online for home delivery.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/kippers.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="150" /></p>
<p> The second day was sunny although chilly, but we walked on the beach to the bus stop to Castletown, which is dominated by Castle Rushen, a medieval fortress and former home to Kings and Lords of Man. From here, we took another bus to Port Erin, set within a beautiful bay. We were told the beach is one of the island’s finest, but unfortunately it was too cold to find out! Most of the town looked shut, but after asking someone we found our way to the Falcon’s Nest Hotel <a href="http://www.falconsnesthotel.co.uk/">www.falconsnesthotel.co.uk</a>, where Ray and I had ham, egg and chips (Ray without the eggs).</p>
<p>The next day we were told the buses were on strike, so decided to look round Douglas, stopping for lunch at Sir Norman’s at The Sefton Hotel <a href="http://www.seftonhotel.co.im/">www.seftonhotel.co.im</a> named after the late famous comedian Sir Norman Wisdom who lived on the island for many years. We were impressed to see that the menu had symbols denoting dishes that contain nuts, are gluten free and that are dairy free. Ray and I shared hummus and guacamole and a smoked salmon salad.</p>
<p>Our best meal on the island was at The Lime Tree www.limetree.im, which was also our friend’s birthday celebration meal. When I booked, I alerted them that two people were gluten free and one was dairy free. It’s a cosy intimate restaurant with excellent service. You are instantly made to feel welcome. The other advantage is that it’s BYO (Bring Your Own) alcohol and they don’t charge for corkage. We were told “The chef can convert any dish on the menu so that it doesn’t have cream and butter. For the gluten free people, you can have anything except the pasta. The food is specially prepared – even for gravy, no powder or flour is used.”</p>
<p>For starters, Ray and I had warm smoked salmon, asparagus and poached egg (Ray had his without the egg). My friend ordered the famous Manx Queenies, with crispy bacon, croutons, citrus cream and watercress. Queenies are locally caught scallops. For the main course, I ordered the catch of the day – sea bass – with garlic and bacon and a garden pea sauce (the chef omitted the butter) and Cajun dusted calamari. Ray opted for the slow cooked shoulder of lamb, braised red cabbage and instead of the lemon potato mash (he avoids lemons), he was served mashed potato with Dutch beans and without cream. For the side dishes, we were presented with bowls of glazed carrots and beans without butter. This was a truly memorable meal; the food was delicious and so much trouble was taken in accommodating our various dietary requirements.</p>
<p>On our last night, we met some friends at the Chaba Thai Cuisine <a href="http://www.chaba-thai.co.uk/">www.chaba-thai.co.uk</a>. Thai food is one of our favourites, particularly as they don’t use dairy. For starters, we chose chicken satay and peanut sauce and for the main course, Chicken Pad Thai. It was very tasty and the service attentive.</p>
<p>During our trip, we discovered that we were ‘out of season’ which explained why everywhere seemed deserted and tourist attractions like the Steam Railway, which we wanted to visit, doesn’t start until Easter. Oh well, something for next time……..</p>Eating out with an allergy in Malta<p>We were able to have an early morning snack at Eat <a href="http://www.eat.co.uk/">www.eat.co.uk</a> at Gatwick Airport. After some searching, Ray selected a tuna sandwich without butter. My only choice was a tuna salad even though I would have preferred gluten free toast. Good news that they serve soya milk so we could have some in our tea. We travel with two 100ml plastic bottles www.muji.eu with soya milk as we can’t buy any in the departure lounge – you’d think Alpro would introduce some travel sizes and sell them in one of the many outlets. As a safety measure, we had prepared some ham sandwiches (mine with gluten free Genius bread) in case there was nothing I could eat during the flight.</p>
<p>I’d been alerted that Mrs Crimbles <a href="http://www.mrscrimbles.com/">www.mrscrimbles.com</a> sells Giant Choc Macaroon on board easyJet flights. We were delighted to find that this was true – what’s more, there’s no dairy in it either so Ray was able to have one as well. Excellent! No soya milk on board though so we used our bottled supply.</p>
<p>On holiday, unless you’re in a self catering environment, eating out with an allergy is a bit of a lottery as we discovered in Malta, although overall we found a greater awareness in restaurants about gluten free diets than in the UK. Normally we choose self catering, but we wanted to take advantage of a special cheap package to Malta, room including breakfast.</p>
<p>Several restaurants in Malta served special gluten free dishes, but Ray didn’t find the same with dairy free, although they were keen to help and I think the awareness will grow.</p>
<p>On arrival we ate the sandwiches we’d made so didn’t have the pressure of having to find somewhere to eat immediately.</p>
<p>I’d e-mailed the Grand Excelsior Hotel <a href="http://www.excelsior.com.mt/">www.excelsior.com.mt</a> in advance and they had arranged for soya milk for us. When we were having tea with our travel rep, soya milk was served along with almond balls, a traditional Maltese dish which are gluten and dairy free!</p>
<p>Breakfast wasn’t a problem as the Grand Excelsior boasted a vast buffet with hot and cold food. Most mornings I chose bacon and eggs and grilled tomatoes followed by fresh fruit (every type of fruit from water melon to strawberry was available). For Ray, who avoids eggs, it was more challenging so mostly he had beans and bacon with toast and honey (he can’t eat jam because of the seeds). Some mornings he brought his own Kellogg’s Crunchy Nut cornflakes (small boxes purchased in Valletta at the Wembley Stores) as he couldn’t be sure that the unbranded varieties provided by the hotel didn’t contain milk.</p>
<p>Taking a stroll through Valletta, Malta’s capital, which will be the European City of Culture in 2018, we stopped off to view the plans for the development of the City walls and saw the work underway.</p>
<p>At Wembley Stores, Republic Street, we bought some Alpro (ww.alpro.com.uk) soya milk; we discovered Holland & Barrett is in Valleta in Merchant Street, where Ray bought Cadbury’s dairy free Frys Peppermint Cream. This store is a surprisingly good source of dairy free and gluten free foods.</p>
<p>That evening was a challenge to find somewhere which could not only cater for our special diets, but also affordable. We couldn’t find both and ended up at the expensive Guze, Old Bakery Street, Valletta (<a href="http://www.guze.com.mt/">www.guze.com.mt</a>). The menu was sophisticated with items like honey glazed quail eggs, but I opted for the sea bass which was delicious. They listened to Ray when he explained his allergies and suggested he had the lamb shanks. It was expensive but we decided to treat ourselves as it was the first night of the hotel – any excuse! Our aim thereafter was to find cheaper alternatives.</p>
<p>The concierge suggested Valletta Waterfront was the place to go for dining out, so we decided to go there the next evening. We remembered this from our previous visit – it is a very long steep walk, but then Ray recalled the short cut through the central car park tunnel which brought us right there. Valletta Waterfront comes alive when a cruise ship arrives in Malta and all the shops and restaurants are geared up for that. As there was no cruise ship that evening, it was virtually deserted and we wondered whether we’d find anything open, let alone able to cater for our dietary requirements.</p>
<p>As luck would have it, we found Bistro 316 <a href="http://www.bistro516malta.com/">www.bistro516malta.com</a> which, contrary to our expectation, was rather busy. Ray said he would have a pizza (without cheese) and I could have a salad. Imagine my surprise when I opened the menu and there was a heading “Gluten Free Menu – please ask the manager in charge of our gluten free dishes” – so I chose gluten free Spaghetti Bolognese, while Ray ordered chicken vegetable kebabs, after having checked there was no dairy in the dish. I haven’t had spag bol for years (since the gluten and wheat free problem), partly because I don’t like the taste of gluten free spaghetti available in the UK. This dish was a real treat including the experience of rolling up the spaghetti on the fork. The portion was large and I am ashamed to say I ate it all! This was one of our most successful meals.</p>
<p>Taking the ferry from Valletta to Sliema is a great opportunity to view both cities from the water, as well as being quick and inexpensive (1.50 euro per person) and a good way to avoid traffic jams.</p>
<p>In Sliema, we decided to revisit Basilico restaurant at The Waterfront Hotel <a href="http://www.waterfronthotelmalta.com/">www.waterfronthotelmalta.com</a> as on our last visit, it served gluten free pizzas. On the menu there was nothing which indicated this was the case, but when I asked I was told that all the pizzas were gluten free. So why didn’t they put it on the menu? I opted for the Quattro Stagioni – tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, boiled egg, mushrooms, olives and capers (7 euros). Although virtually impossible to cut with a knife, I enjoyed the pleasure of eating pizza even though I had to leave parts of the crust as it was so hard.</p>
<p>Marsaxlokk should always be on the agenda. We remember it as a quiet picturesque fishing village, but on Sunday, when we visited, the quay had an extensive market selling everything including items such as tablecloths, socks, as well as food and drink. Unfortunately the road through the market was clogged with traffic, which spoiled the atmosphere. We took the opportunity to visit one of the fish restaurants. The sea bream served at ir-Rizzu Restaurant www.ir-rizzu.com was flavoursome and twice the size of a fish you’d be served in the UK. Ray, who doesn’t like fish, ordered pork medallions, but unfortunately he didn’t enjoy it much, as the meat was too tough. Strictly a fish restaurant.</p>
<p>Malta Aviation Museum <cite><a href="http://www.maltaaviationmuseum.com/">www.maltaaviationmuseum.com</a> at </cite>Ta'Qali, near Mdina, is one of the island’s best kept secrets. It’s well worth a visit even if you’re not an aircraft fan and boasts a collection of aircraft related to Malta’s aviation history. This includes World War 2 aircraft such as a Spitfire and Hurricane. Incredibly, the museum is entirely run by volunteers who not only run the museum, but also carry out restoration work on the aircraft.</p>
<p>The museum is in the Ta’Qali area where you’ll also find a host of arts, crafts and jewellery shops. We discovered Exquisite Jewellery in Hut 66 where you can watch filigree jewellery being made.</p>
<p>For most of the holiday, we used Malta’s excellent bus service – 2.60 euros will buy you a day ticket which means you can use it on all services throughout the day. Malta has a “hop on, hop off” tourist bus service as well, which we decided not to pursue this as we’d visited the island several times before. This would be excellent for a first time visitor.</p>
<p>While out exploring Mellieha Bay, we couldn’t find anywhere suitable to dine out, so decided to drive to Radisson Blu Resort Golden Sands www.radissonblue.co.uk, where we enjoyed lunch alfresco with views over the sandy beach. As at the Basilico restaurant, there was no indication there were gluten free dishes available on the menu, but when I asked the waiter pointed out the gluten free pasta dishes. Yes you guessed it, I had gluten free Rigatoni Bolognese! Ray chose the “small Italian dish” expecting a small portion. He was amazed to receive a large plateful – a 12 in focaccia with capers, olives and ham. Our bill was 18.85 euros – very reasonable for a five star hotel. Afterwards we retired to the upstairs terrace for tea where we watched hang gliders soaring over a nearby hillside.</p>
<p>If you were self-catering, there are several supermarkets which offer gluten free foods in Malta. For example, in the basement of The Point shopping mall in Sliema, The Chain Foodstore sells an extensive range. We also discovered gluten free foods in The Albion Stores, Merchant Street, Valletta although curiously the shop advertises ‘souvenirs and decorations’. So don’t let that put you off!</p>
<p>Towards the end of our stay in Malta, we were getting weary of eating out not because we didn’t enjoy it, but because we were finding it difficult to find menus which would cater to our dietary needs, so I think next time we would definitely go self catering. </p>Gluten free brownies at Richmond Artisan Market<p>The trouble with many shop bought gluten free cakes is that they are tasteless and dry, almost like crumbled dry biscuits. Imagine my delight to discover wheat and gluten free brownies at <a href="http://www.duckpondmarket.co.uk/Duck_Pond_Market/Richmond_Artisan">Richmond Artisan Market</a> (Duck Ponds Market) on Sunday which are moist, flavoursome and well, incredibly chocolaty! Jill Anderson, who makes them, is wheat and gluten free herself and so she adapted this special recipe. The brownies can be frozen, so I bought four for £5 – but I’m sure they will be eaten before they reach the freezer! Jill says you can also serve them warm – a few seconds in the microwave.</p>
<p>You can find Jill and her brownies at <a href="http://www.totallyrichmond.co.uk/farmersmarket.html">Richmond Farmers Market</a> every Saturday and at Duck Ponds Market (where I found her) every Sunday. She also supplies these delicious brownies to several local cafes in Richmond such as <a href="http://www.tidetablescafe.com/">TideTables,</a> Hollyhocks and <a href="http://www.theteabox.co.uk/">The Tea Box.</a></p>
<p>I did suggest she should enter them for next year’s <a href="http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk/">FreeFrom Awards.</a></p>
<p><a style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FYb4XJQRaY/UJDkzoAsYuI/AAAAAAAAAHA/hRvsHWjQHag/s1600/gf+choc+brownies.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FYb4XJQRaY/UJDkzoAsYuI/AAAAAAAAAHA/hRvsHWjQHag/s320/gf+choc+brownies.JPG" alt="" width="320" height="240" border="0"></a></p>
<p>At the <a href="http://www.odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_times/s89/Esher/">Esher Odeon</a> to see the new <a href="http://www.skyfall-movie.com/">James Bond Skyfall</a> movie, I fancied a tub of popcorn so I asked whether it contained gluten (I am gluten free) or dairy (my husband is dairy free) and they read out the ingredients – great news – no wheat gluten or dairy! So we indulged in popcorn, while enjoying the movie! Delicious! </p>
Free From Awards 2012<p>It was an honour to be invited as one of the judges for this year's Free From Awards <a href="http://www.freefromawards.co.uk">www.freefromawards.co.uk</a>, organised by Michelle Berriedale-Johnson from Food Matters <a href="http://www.foodsmatter.com">www.foodsmatter.com</a>. Michelle is to be congratulated for putting 'free from' on the map. I am gluten free and wheat intolerant, while my husband Ray is dairy free so we are eternally grateful to Michelle and Food Matters for all the work they do in raising awareness for the 'free from' sector. On Tuesday 17 April all will be revealed and we'll find out the winners of the Free From Awards. As a journalist who writes about foodservice and catering, it was enlightening to see how free from foods have evolved in this sector. In the judging, we sampled a wide range of foods and it was rewarding to see that several manufacturers had introduced children's products - Red House Foods - Gluten Free Chicken Bites and Sauces of Choice - Sauces for Kids Tikka Sauce. These would work well in school catering where children may find it challenging to find free from alternatives. My husband can't eat mozzarella, even if it's made from buffalo's milk, so wonderful to taste Tofutti Grated Mozzarella Soya Cheese Alternative. He will be pleased. The highlight for me was tasting 20 or so different gluten and dairy free cakes. This is because normally I have to watch non gluten free people eat cakes in a tea or coffee shop because there are no gluten free varieties available. Imagine my joy at seeing an entire table of cakes, most of which I could eat (there were only a couple that were dairy free only). This category has developed beyond all recognition. Usually either a cake is gluten free or dairy free. To find both is very difficult that's why I end up making cakes. One of my favourite (gluten and dairy free) at the judging session was The Cake Crusader's Gluten, Wheat and Dairy Free Carrot Cake. If you're not careful, gluten free cakes can end up tasting like sawdust, usually sickly sweet and quite frankly inedible. Not so this one - it was moist, chewy and delicious and even had icing I could eat. The Cake Crusader's Rich Fruit Cake was also unbelievably moist and flavoursome. I'd also like to mention the superb vegan cupcakes from Ms Cupcake and Maple and Pecan Cupcakes from Sweetcheeks - I came across them at last year's Allergy and Free From Show and ended up buying a box of cupcakes for tea! Michelle and Cressida from Food Matters make the judging process effortless and fun and I do enjoy the debates that ensue among the judges about various products. I'm so used to attending functions where I can't eat anything (as canapés etc are not gluten free) it is a real treat to be among the judges of foods I can actually eat! Over 300 products were entered in the 17 categories of the Awards. When you look back 10 years or so, you'd be hard pressed to find that many - so it is good news indeed that manufacturers are embracing the free from market. I'm looking forward to Tuesday 17 April when we'll find out the winners of this year's Awards. <a href="http://www.freefromawards.co.uk">www.freefromawards.co.uk</a></p>Eating out with an allergy at The Ship Hotel Weybridge<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qent17RBXlM/TyJtzZnY3uI/AAAAAAAAAGk/0Adisjk20sg/s1600/DSCF1352.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702240808021319394" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px; float: left; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qent17RBXlM/TyJtzZnY3uI/AAAAAAAAAGk/0Adisjk20sg/s320/DSCF1352.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />I attended a friend’s special birthday party last Saturday at The Ship Hotel <a href="http://www/shiphotel.co.uk">http://www/shiphotel.co.uk</a>. Usually these affairs can be hit and miss; we always have to doublecheck that the food is gluten free for me and dairy free for Ray (plus ensuring it doesn’t contain the other foods Ray can’t eat such as tomatoes). I have to thank my friend for her part in briefing the staff so fully, but I have to say the staff excelled themselves in ensuring that we were able to eat everything. And what a sumptuous menu it was – caviar to start with (yummy) followed by pea soup with smoked salmon, which they had specially prepared for us. Soup is normally off the menu for Ray and I as there is usually wheat flour in it, milk or cream, but not on this occasion. It was delicious. The next course was Citrus and Chilli Marinated Red Mullet and spiced squash puree off the official menu. The meat dish was Roast Rib of Beef with potatoes and vegetables. Normally I don’t have any gravy as there’s wheat flour, but on this occasion we were served gluten free and dairy free gravy – marvellous. When we attend social functions we never expect dessert because invariably it has wheat or dairy in it. But imagine our delight when one of the staff discussed the options with us and served us slices of pineapple with a lemon sorbet (pictured). What a treat that was! The evening was memorable not only for the superb meal, but the sparkling conversation, dancing and entertainment from the band Barbara Snow and Richard Sutton.</p>Eating out with a food allergy at El Pirata<p><img style="float: left;" src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/el-pirata01.jpg" alt="El Pirata dish" width="320" height="240" /><img style="float: left;" src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/el-pirata02.jpg" alt="El Pirata dish" width="320" height="240" /> </p>
<p>To celebrate our friend Evie’s birthday last night, we headed for El Pirata in London’s Mayfair <a href="http://www.elpirata.co.uk">www.elpirata.co.uk</a> a Spanish tapas restaurant bar.</p>
<p>A big group of us gathered to wish her many happy returns. As someone with a gluten free or dairy free allergy, it’s always problematic when you dine out with a crowd at an unknown restaurant. Will there be something I can eat is the big question and you don’t want to make a fuss!</p>
<p>El Pirata did not disappoint; they couldn’t have been more helpful. There was a set party menu, but one of the waiters and I went through it and worked out that I (the gluten free one) could eat Jamon Serrano (cured serrana ham), Pimientos del Piquillo Rellenos Ensaladilla (Piquillo Peppers Stuffed with Russian Salad) as started and for the main course Tortilla (Spanish omelette with potatoes and onions) and Patatas Bravas (Deep Fried potatoes in chilli and garlic sauce). I could have ordered additional dishes from the main menu, but I’m glad I didn’t as the food was filling and I enjoyed large portions of tortilla.</p>
<p>Ray, with his dairy free allergy, had Jamon Serrano (cured serrana ham) to start with followed by Grilled steak and rocket, without cheese accompanied by Patatas bravas. Food was about £18 a head.</p>
<p>A fun filled evening was had by all!</p>Torrox Spain eating out with a food allergy<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2_qTO_rCr10/TlPTdO7jsuI/AAAAAAAAAFU/PokuKXmOHw8/s1600/DSCF0950.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644087257202930402" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2_qTO_rCr10/TlPTdO7jsuI/AAAAAAAAAFU/PokuKXmOHw8/s320/DSCF0950.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EDgS-YkgQqE/TlPSwy3HpKI/AAAAAAAAAFM/FO_A9P7-Ao0/s1600/DSCF0944.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644086493753877666" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EDgS-YkgQqE/TlPSwy3HpKI/AAAAAAAAAFM/FO_A9P7-Ao0/s320/DSCF0944.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8jP15k-J_ik/TlPSIpOx0BI/AAAAAAAAAFE/8EcWcHQAxxc/s1600/DSCF0933.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644085803973988370" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8jP15k-J_ik/TlPSIpOx0BI/AAAAAAAAAFE/8EcWcHQAxxc/s320/DSCF0933.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1y_Rk0-euMk/TlPRiSFqmNI/AAAAAAAAAE8/28OHrp7PdPw/s1600/DSCF0929.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644085144926722258" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1y_Rk0-euMk/TlPRiSFqmNI/AAAAAAAAAE8/28OHrp7PdPw/s320/DSCF0929.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b8Sy2i-hMMk/TlPQ_KS6GnI/AAAAAAAAAE0/Y2XndCkfyyI/s1600/DSCF0927.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644084541539359346" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b8Sy2i-hMMk/TlPQ_KS6GnI/AAAAAAAAAE0/Y2XndCkfyyI/s320/DSCF0927.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a></p>
<div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ty1p3AarViY/TlPPQd7998I/AAAAAAAAAEs/-wwjI7kaBiQ/s1600/DSCF0919.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644082639846373314" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ty1p3AarViY/TlPPQd7998I/AAAAAAAAAEs/-wwjI7kaBiQ/s320/DSCF0919.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a>
<p>We were in Torrox, Spain and needed to know the keywords for "wheat" and "dairy" so we could communicate our intolerances when eating out. We knew the following words - "leche" is milk, "mantequille" is butter and "queso" is cheese and "sin" is "without", but we had to ask people for the following - wheat is "trigo" while "gluten" is the same word in Spanish." Armed with these words, we could point at items on the menu and say "sin trigo" or "sin leche" as needed. <br />One woman told us there was no Spanish word meaning "dairy". The nearest equivalent was "lactosa" meaning "lactose".</p>
<p>Torrox is a stunning white traditional Spanish village, built by the Moors, 40 minutes' drive from Malaga. We haven't been here for eight years, so have already noticed several changes, mainly the closure of many small shops in favour of a supermarket in the high street. Sound familiar?</p>
<p>We are here staying in our friends' beautiful house with sensational views of typical Spanish terrain peppered with white buildings, giant cacti, green trees and steep roads.</p>
<p>One morning we heard the clomping of horses' hooves so we looked down from the terrace and to our astonishment saw a horse and rider emerge, managing to manoeuvre up the steep, curving narrow roads. Incredible.</p>
<p>Our charges are four cats - Michael the ginger cat who smiles a a lot; Minnie, a tortoiseshell with a curly tail, Heidi another tortoiseshell (you'd think they were sisters only they dislike each other!). The fourth cat Thomas is black and beautiful. We're reliably informed he has no claws, but dare not check this. He always arrives late for food and you can almost hear a fanfare as he runs in. It's obvious none of the others like him, so he waits his turn to feed. Occasionally he follows us home late at night for a snack. We feed them fish from the freezer, defrosted in the microwave - mind you in these blistering temperatures of 30 degrees and more, I expect it would thaw very quickly. When feeding the cats, you have to be careful not to leave any food on the floor, as tiny ants are on it in seconds.</p>
<p>It was trial and error finding a cat food they liked - the one that won is Brekkies from Eroski supermarket <a href="http://jackiem.com">www.eroski.es</a> at the shopping mall at Velez Malaga, 15 minutes drive from Torrox. Michael the ginger cat likes to eat the cardboard box in the kitchen. At first I thought he must be hungry but even after feeding him he returned to gnawing the box. Must be a form of recreation.</p>
<p>Our first quest was to buy soya milk, so we thought if we drove to Nerja there was more chance of finding it as it is an enclave for Brits in Spain.</p>
<p>On the road to Nerja we found Lidyl, not much good for "free from" foods, but we did buy our favourite apple juice, herbal tea bags and chocolate covered rice cakes (which we never see in the UK).</p>
<p>Lunch was in our favourite cafe, amazingly still there after eight years, Anahi, Puerta del Mar 6, 29780 Nerja, tel: 95 252 1457 with fabulous views of the beach and ocean if you dine outside and it has a bilingual menu. There's a mouthwatering selection of salads so I opted for number 20 on the menu, Ensalada Especial (6 euros) - special salad, an enormous plateful of lettuce, eggs, grated carrot, peppers and tomatoes which melted in the mouth (compared to UK tomatoes). Always ask about salad dressings as this comes with a cocktail sauce which I declined, choosing olive oil instead.</p>
<p>When Ray asked whether the tuna sandwich contained "leche", "mantequille" or "queso", she reassured him it didn't have these ingredients. He ordered it with no tomato (as sadly he is intolerant to them), 2.80 euros, with chips and salad on the side, 1 euro. Excellent helpful service. You can tell Nerja is a magnet for Brits as there is even a shop called "WH Smiffs" selling books and cards.</p>
<p>At the supermarket Supersol <a href="http://jackiem.com">www.supersolsupermercados.es </a>on the outskirts of Nerja, we easily found Alpro soya milk (1.40 euros). There doesn't seem to be "free from" section in Spanish supermarkets. The nearest thing to it is the health food section where we could only find different varieties of rice cakes. We did chance upon some savoury crackers Crispie de Arroz <a href="http://jackiem.com">www.keyfoods.es</a> which were labelled "sin gluten". These are thin crunchy crackers, ideal for cheese.</p>
<p>Despite being intolerant to dairy, Ray can eat goats' cheese but disappointingly we could only find one variety Queso De Cabr - cabr meaning goat. Perhaps goats' cheese isn't as popular in Spain as it is in France.</p>
<p>I'd brought Doves Farm gluten free cornflakes with me <a href="http://jackiem.com">www.dovesfarm.co.uk</a> but we managed to rustle up ham and eggs and bacon and eggs for breakfast on a couple of mornings.</p>
<p>That evening, we walked into the centre of Torrox via very steep and winding narrow streets. You can see why there are hand rails for some of the streets. Mind you it keeps you fit - no need for the gym here.</p>
<p>We are so unfit that we stopped off for a drink at Cafeteria Central where the proprietor was not pleased to see us, in fact they were downright unfriendly, thinking we thought it was a restaurant. Our command of the Spanish language is not too good! After the misunderstanding they served us a water and Coke for 2 euros - a bargain price when you think we were sitting in a bar outside in the middle of town.</p>
<p>Our friends had recommended El Figon restaurant. It did look impressive, but after one woman handed us the menu to look at, her colleague announced, "We're full". It was comical as only two tables were occupied.</p>
<p>We walked into the picturesque town square of Torrox with its selection of eateries, and after deliberation, we chose Café Bar Paco, Plaza de la Constitution, 605-874-643, a tapas bar. Sitting in the town square is a treat as this is where the locals parade up and down every evening in their best clothes, only the ritual has changed somewhat. It now includes riding round the square by car waving to your friends. All sorts of cars here including 4x4s, a strange choice given the narrowness of the streets, but ideal I would imagine in the mountainous terrain. There's also the occasional serious biker in black leather and crash helmet, even in hot temperatures of 30 degrees plus.</p>
<p>After explaining our allergies to our waiter, he told us that many dishes such as aubergine and sardines were fried in batter and the batter had wheat flour and milk in it, so we selected the following: anchovies with oil and garlic (6 euros), pork fillet with chips (5 euros), mixed salad (4 euros) and Spanish omelette (4 euros).</p>
<p>After a trip to Torre del Mar, we arrived back late and decided to find somewhere to eat in Torrox. On our way down all the winding streets (our calf muscles are slowly firming up) we found Meson la Terrazza, Calle Baja 80, Torrox, 691894805/651068403 run by an English couple, Rick and Helen Bolt (open everyday except Wednesdays; kitchen closed 4.30pm to 7.30pm), situated on the side of a steep valley. Although it was 10pm and a Saturday night, we were welcomed inside (without a reservation!). As they are English, there was no problem describing our intolerances and we were informed any sauces on the menu were made with cream. Ray ordered a gammon steak with pineapple, chips and peas (he can't eat courgettes) while I opted for the salmon steak (without sauce) and salad. We sat on the terrace watching the headlamps of cars driving up the blackened hill in the distance and the flicker of a far away TV set. Even though it was so late, it was still hot and sticky.</p>
<p>And so we returned to Nerja the next evening when the heat had died down a little to browse in the shops and walk on the beach. We found a sweetshop run by an English woman. This was where Ray made his big discovery that contrary to his belief that all chocolate bars are covered in milk chocolate and therefore out of bounds, by chance he read the label on a Frys chocolate cream bar and was astonished to see there was no dairy product in it. Nirvana! Ray will now be consuming them in great quantities. This has sparked an enthusiasm for reading the ingredients of chocolate bars.</p>
<p>We returned to Anahi café where we managed to get a table outside with the fabulous view of the beach and ocean. Even at 8pm it was sweltering and clammy - will it ever get colder we wondered? We showed the waitress our magic words and then asked for pork steak, eggs and French fries (7.20 euros) which she confirmed had no dairy ingredients. I chose the grilled sole and salad (11 euros) which was enormous - far bigger than served in England.</p>
<p>You don't have to catsit to come to Torrox. Amazingly the village boasts two hotels - La Casa<a href="http://jackiem.com"> www.hotellacasatorrox.com</a> and Alandalus hotel <a href="http://jackiem.com">www.hotel-alandalus.com</a></p>
</div>N-Ice the world's first frozen food restaurant<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XtO4RcwPlgw/TkFHyOeCyfI/AAAAAAAAAEk/zfUmSlikKS4/s1600/DSCF0913.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638867136647711218" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XtO4RcwPlgw/TkFHyOeCyfI/AAAAAAAAAEk/zfUmSlikKS4/s320/DSCF0913.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kr7iTCWmqBM/TkFHcEfYvoI/AAAAAAAAAEc/joMenMEzp1E/s1600/DSCF0910.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638866756011867778" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kr7iTCWmqBM/TkFHcEfYvoI/AAAAAAAAAEc/joMenMEzp1E/s320/DSCF0910.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KOeDbASu0qo/TkFG_wzDKVI/AAAAAAAAAEU/lW68psQfxYc/s1600/DSCF0909.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638866269689293138" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KOeDbASu0qo/TkFG_wzDKVI/AAAAAAAAAEU/lW68psQfxYc/s320/DSCF0909.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NvJH4iY8vrQ/TkFEhw8G-mI/AAAAAAAAAEM/FhdvCylyQU8/s1600/DSCF0906.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638863555307960930" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NvJH4iY8vrQ/TkFEhw8G-mI/AAAAAAAAAEM/FhdvCylyQU8/s320/DSCF0906.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a></p>
<p>Something a little different this week. I was invited to N-Ice, the world’s first frozen food gourmet restaurant at Westminster Kingsway College <a href="http://bit.ly/oTC7yO">http://bit.ly/oTC7yO</a> and what a treat it was. We were greeted with an ice sculpture with tiny white forks embedded in the ice. As you enter the ‘pop up’ restaurant, it’s reminiscent of Christmas with fairy lights and snow flake symbols hanging from the ceiling. The entire menu was created using mainly frozen ingredients including herbs and spices. Three celebrity chefs – Atul Kochhar, Simon Rimmer and Galton Blackiston devised signature dishes while the rest of the menu has been created by chef lecturers from Westminster Kingsway College, while the college’s students waited at tables.</p>
<p>The aim of N-Ice is to change the perception of frozen food, says Brian Young, director general of the British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF), which opened N-Ice, “and get the general public to think about frozen food in a different way.” The ‘pop up’ restaurant, only open for a week, is totally sold out throughout the week with 600 covers booked. Questionnaires were handed out at the restaurant asking for opinions about frozen food and the dining experience at N-Ice.</p>
<p>The BFFF will collate the findings in liaison with Sheffield Hallam University and launch the survey results in a few weeks’ time. Frozen food has been supplied by 20 members of the BFFF including Brakes, 3663, Movenpick and Pidy.</p>
<p>The service at the restaurant is impeccable and prompt. To start with, I chose Atul Kochhar’s crisp fried spicy John Dory with grokha (cucumber and chilli jam) chutney. The fish was flaky and tender and the chutney gave a zingy flavour. For the main course, I enjoyed Atul Kochhar’s fragrant Kashmiri Lamb Curry. The chunks of lamb were tender in a thick curry sauce, but not too hot and spicy that you needed to grab a glass of water.</p>
<p>I couldn’t tell that the dishes had been created from frozen ingredients. They looked good, tasted fresh and flavoursome – so perhaps that’s the point! The perfect conclusion to the meal was petit pois ice cream from Gaston Blackiston with a strong pea and mint flavour, which melted in the mouth. Very refreshing after a curry.</p>
<p>The food was well presented in white bone china, offsetting the colours of the food. For example, the mango soufflé was served in an espresso cup.</p>
<p>The students demonstrated knowledge about the menu when I asked about certain ingredients as well as a friendly, fast and courteous service – better than at some restaurants I’ve visited!</p>
<p>The survey wanted to find out whether I would avoid eating at a pub or restaurant serving frozen food and after my experience at N-Ice, the answer would be no!</p>
<p>What a pity N-Ice is only open for a week. Perhaps there is scope for a permanent restaurant using mainly frozen food ingredients.</p>The Cotswolds eating out with a food allergy<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-htw6KY4_l6E/TjEVdRTwLVI/AAAAAAAAAEE/tc6uihqpyfg/s1600/DSCF0896.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634308201423842642" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-htw6KY4_l6E/TjEVdRTwLVI/AAAAAAAAAEE/tc6uihqpyfg/s320/DSCF0896.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JaIufLeeVkI/TjEVEv3kkLI/AAAAAAAAAD8/iLqSSJZKpi0/s1600/DSCF0886.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634307780130410674" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JaIufLeeVkI/TjEVEv3kkLI/AAAAAAAAAD8/iLqSSJZKpi0/s320/DSCF0886.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_d6OzOcAETg/TjEUprm9IaI/AAAAAAAAAD0/MQiNNtc24Wo/s1600/DSCF0873.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634307315130507682" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_d6OzOcAETg/TjEUprm9IaI/AAAAAAAAAD0/MQiNNtc24Wo/s320/DSCF0873.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7TQ36rqdcDY/TjEUQ8yal_I/AAAAAAAAADs/jV0xz58GXu8/s1600/DSCF0866.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634306890245249010" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7TQ36rqdcDY/TjEUQ8yal_I/AAAAAAAAADs/jV0xz58GXu8/s320/DSCF0866.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MyxpmXW0-KM/TjETyuVBF_I/AAAAAAAAADk/u3TfIiV6SYc/s1600/DSCF0878.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634306370967771122" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MyxpmXW0-KM/TjETyuVBF_I/AAAAAAAAADk/u3TfIiV6SYc/s320/DSCF0878.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a></p>
<p>As usual, when travelling, we always take a supply of food in case we can’t find anything suitable – bottles of soya milk, as you’d be surprised how many cafes don’t serve it; Eat Natural bars; bananas and apples. I also packed some Genius gluten free bread as the owner of Holly House in Bourton on the Water where we were staying, said they didn’t have any.</p>
<p>Motorway services are always a hit and miss affair, so imagine our surprise when we chanced upon The Kings Hotel in Stokenchurch, off junction 5, on the M40 <a href="http://kingshoteluk.com">www.kingshoteluk.com</a>. Here, we sat on the terrace in the sunshine where we enjoyed chips with garlic mayonnaise and vegetable spring rolls with chilli sauce, with cups of tea, using our own soya milk. We were impressed by the quick service and the ambience of the venue.</p>
<p>Once we’d picked up our friends Shane and Evie, we stopped off at Chipping Norton for lunch. Bravely, we walked into The Fox, Market Place, Chipping Norton OX7 5DD 01608 642658 and was greeted by the landlord. I explained I was gluten free and my husband was dairy free, so he made some suggestions from the menu – mine was a jacket potato with tuna mayonnaise (£5) while Ray opted for Gammon steak, pineapple, chips and peas with no egg (£7.50). He checked with them that no butter was used in cooking or on the vegetables. Feeling tired and footsore after exploring Chipping Norton, we felt like tea and cake, but usually go without cake as it’s generally made with wheat and dairy. We were delightfully surprised to find wheat and dairy free cakes at the independent Jaffe & Neale book shop on the main square <a href="http://www.jaffeandneale.co.uk">www.jaffeandneale.co.uk</a> What’s more, they even serve soya milk. My choice was chocolate torte caprese (delicious and chocolatey) while Ray savoured a generous slice of Nigella Clementine cake, both £2.95 each.<br />For dinner, we chose the scenic Old Manse hotel in Bourton on the Water <a href="http://www.oldmansehotel.com">www.oldmansehotel.com</a> The restaurant was completely full, so we took our chances with the bar menu. When we ordered our food at the bar, we explained our allergies and the member of staff kept checking with the kitchen and was willing to help, despite people waiting to order drinks.</p>
<p>To start with Ray chose the hand-made shredded duck and hoisin spring rolls (£4.59) while I had grilled field mushrooms with goat’s cheese and rocket (£3.39). For Ray, the main course was slow cooking New Zealand lamb shank (£10.99). Instead of mashed potatoes which had butter in them, he was offered chips instead. They checked that the gravy didn’t have dairy and the petit pois didn’t have butter on the top. My main course was sweet potato apricot chickpea and red pepper kebabs (£7.59) which tasted more like vegetarian sausages. Curiously, the tea tasted metallic, so they made us a fresh pot – we wonder is it something to do with the water? Shane’s Mocha was also dubious.</p>
<p>We stayed at Holly House, Station Road, Bourton on the Water <a href="http://www.hoolyhousebourton.co.uk">www.hollyhousebourton.co.uk.</a> This is under new management and we were given a friendly welcome. I had contacted them before to inform them about our allergies and it was a delightful surprise to discover they had kindly purchased soya milk and gluten free bread. Breakfast was easy as we could pick the elements from the Full English Breakfast that we wanted. For Ray it was an egg well done, a rasher of bacon and baked beans. I had two rashers, a fried egg and grilled tomato with toasted gluten free bread. A real treat!</p>
<p>The next morning we explored Kelmscott Manor <a href="http://www.kelmscottmanor.org.uk">www.kelmscottmanor.org.uk</a>, William Morris’ country retreat. Apparently when he saw the farmhouse in an estate agent’s, he immediately fell in love with it, describing it as “a heaven on earth”. I wouldn’t disagree with that; it is an idyllic residence beautifully presented with well informed volunteer guides, who will fill you in on every detail. There’s even Morris’ top coat on display and examples of Morris’ famous designs on fabrics. Pictures of his wife, Jane, are on display including the famous “The Blue Silk Dress” by Dante Gabriel Rossetti.</p>
<p>For lunch, Ray discovered that the mouth-watering pasties and quiches on display contained butter (and wheat so no good for me either) so they suggested bread, ham and pickle for him. I chose a salad bowl. With two cups of tea (using our own soya milk), this came to £7.20. We wondered what the tea would taste like, but it was fine.</p>
<p>For our last meal in The Cotswolds, we were looking forward to a traditional English meal, but wandering round Bourton-on-the-Water this was difficult. Evie is vegetarian, so we were looking for good veggie choices, as well as dishes which Ray and I could eat. This seemed enormously difficult as most of the menus were elaborate with sauces covering the meat and poultry. From our experience, sauces usually contain wheat, gluten and dairy.</p>
<p>We were getting rather desperate so at one point, we went into the Chinese restaurant. It seemed ironic to be eating Chinese in the British Cotswolds, so we persevered and Shane alerted us to the Croft restaurant, part of the Chester House hotel <a href="http://www.chesterhousehotel.com">www.chesterhousehotel.com </a>As it was Saturday night, they were totally full, but offered us a table outside which we took with alacrity, zipping up our fleeces and jackets so we would remain warm. Evie suggested we ordered quickly so we didn’t freeze, as the temperature was falling. The service was impeccable and friendly, our waitress even offering to find a table inside if one became available. I asked whether the home-made tomato and basil soup (£4.50) had wheat in it. She checked and it didn’t – I have to say it was delicious and helped to keep me warm. My main course was Free Range Kelmscott Gammon Steak with fried egg, pineapple and chips (£8.75). The waitress had checked with the chef that there was no dairy in the dishes Ray ordered – to start with Goats Cheese and Sweet Cured Bacon served en croute with red onion marmalade, mixed leaves and balsamic reduction (£4.95) followed by Cotswolds 28 day aged sirloin steak served with chunky chips and salad (£13.50). He was assured that the vegetables would be served with no butter on them. We were too full for dessert and anyway it was getting colder by this time. This was one of the best meals we enjoyed in The Cotswolds and we would return here.</p>
<p>On the Sunday, we stopped off at Oxford on the way back and mooched around the crowded streets, admiring the buildings and looking inside the colleges where possible, although most of them were closed.</p>
<p>Again, eating lunch was problematic finding the magic combination of veggie choices and plain type dishes. We thought Ask would be possible, so I asked them whether they put dairy in the pizza dough and unfortunately they do – although they do serve gluten free pasta, which is good to know. Shane and Evie told us about this cool pizzeria chain Fire and Stone <a href="http://www.fireandstone.com">www.fireandstone.com </a>and we discovered one in Oxford. I couldn’t eat the pizzas because of the wheat in the pizza base and unfortunately, pizzerias in Britain don’t offer gluten free pizzas as yet (unlike pasta – thank you Carluccios and Ask for serving gluten free pasta!) but I adore salads and Fire and Stone offer a wide selection. Before we sat down, we asked the crucial question “Does your pizza dough contain dairy?” and to our relief, it didn’t! The menu is arranged under different countries, so you can choose a pizza according to the country, whether it’s Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia or The Americas or create your own. For example, under “Australia”, the pizzas are named after cities, Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and so on.</p>
<p>After all that, Ray decided to order something completely different – Charcuterie board (£11.25) with parma ham, Napoli salami, garlic and fennel, smoked ham, hummus, kalamata olives, comichens (like gherkins) taramasalata and grilled pitta bread. I opted for the classic Nicoise salad, one of my favourites (£9.25).</p>
<p>So it was back to sunny Surrey after a restful weekend in The Cotswolds. Where to next I wonder?</p>Isle of Wight eating out with a food allergy<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VDzy6hWuftA/ThGGFXE5-_I/AAAAAAAAADc/nUv9rLQWnjg/s1600/Isle%2Bof%2BWight%2Bscenic%2Bshot.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625424836214520818" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VDzy6hWuftA/ThGGFXE5-_I/AAAAAAAAADc/nUv9rLQWnjg/s320/Isle%2Bof%2BWight%2Bscenic%2Bshot.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></p>
<div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gTNzA-pfT3U/ThGF0RaDaqI/AAAAAAAAADU/QzubBmgBeZ4/s1600/Olivo%2BSpalla%2Bdi%2BMaiale.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625424542634830498" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gTNzA-pfT3U/ThGF0RaDaqI/AAAAAAAAADU/QzubBmgBeZ4/s320/Olivo%2BSpalla%2Bdi%2BMaiale.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />
<div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QDuD_eE7QiM/ThGFjCEfE_I/AAAAAAAAADM/P74FZk9WyjU/s1600/Octopus%2BCafe.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625424246460060658" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QDuD_eE7QiM/ThGFjCEfE_I/AAAAAAAAADM/P74FZk9WyjU/s320/Octopus%2BCafe.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
<div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DNDRYeE6qCo/ThGFOxqwUuI/AAAAAAAAADE/Qxx-FDX3YVA/s1600/dairyfree%2Bpizza.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625423898459788002" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DNDRYeE6qCo/ThGFOxqwUuI/AAAAAAAAADE/Qxx-FDX3YVA/s320/dairyfree%2Bpizza.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>
<p>Travelling to the Isle of Wight, the best we could do was to stop off at McDonald’s outside Portsmouth for a bag of chips. Waiting to board the ferry at Portsmouth, I was able to nip out of the car and buy two teas with soya milk from Costa Coffee, but food-wise there was nothing wheat, gluten or dairy free.</p>
<p>Luckily as we were going to self catering accommodation, we had a supply of Eat Natural bars and rice cakes to keep us going.</p>
<p>We are staying at the West Bay Club, Yarmouth <a href="http://www.westbayclub.co.uk/">http://www.westbayclub.co.uk/</a> , an idyllic complex of self catering cottages with a Country Club, equipped with a swimming pool, beauty salon, restaurant, gym and exercise studios. For the more energetic, there are tennis courts and even somewhere to play football! Starving hungry on a Friday night, we checked out the restaurant to find the only items on the menu were rump steak and Bearnaise sauce and beef stroganoff. So not fancying a plain steak, we ventured forth to Newport where we tried Olivo, but they were fully booked, so we ended up in Pizza Express, Providence Corner, Pyle Street, Newport <a href="http://www.piazzaexpress.com/">http://www.piazzaexpress.com/</a>. Ray checked there was no milk in the pizza dough and was assured there wasn’t. As he says, Pizza Express, is pretty consistent and we can both eat there. For gluten and wheat free customers, there is a good selection of salads such as Nicoise Salad (£9.15). Ray’s dairy free pizza was a Veneziana, but instead of mozzarella, he asked for prosciutto and had red onions, capers, sultanas and pine kernels on the top. What’s more, 25p goes to the Veneziana Fund. Ray asked for a small amount of passata. For him, passata is less likely to cause a reaction as fresh tomatoes, probably because there are no pips in it. We discovered the PizzaXpress iPhone app being advertised which you can use to find a restaurant, book your table and pay your bill with Paypal. Sounds a great scheme.</p>
<p>Ray asked for some olive oil: “A sprinkle of olive oil on the pizza makes all the difference because it replaces the fat you would’ve had from mozzarella,” he said.</p>
<p>I enjoyed my Nicoise salad; sadly Pizza Express don’t offer gluten free pizzas as yet. Why not, I wonder when Carluccio’s can serve gluten free pasta and sell it in their shop?</p>
<p>At Yarmouth, we stopped off at The Gossip’s Café at the end of the square – the only waterside café. Nothing dairy or gluten free here, but enjoyed a cup of tea (with our own soya milk) admiring the views of the Solent and watching the Yarmouth/Lymington ferry boats. It has an unusual wooden pier you can stroll down for more sea views.</p>
<p>Monday was the wrong day to visit Ventnor as many of the shops were shut. We had been recommended to visit as it’s an old fashioned place, like stepping back in time to the 1950s, with its independent, quirky shops dominating the high street. We found The Ventnorian, 5 Spring Hill, Ventnor, PO33 1PE, a traditional toy shop selling gluten free and dairy free products at the back of the shop – not many, but good to know about. Some highly individualistic teddies on sale as well.</p>
<p>Our visit to Osborne House, East Cowes <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/osbornehouse">www.english-heritage.org.uk/osbornehouse</a> wouldn’t have been complete without a cup of tea. Fortunately we’d brought our own soya milk, but I was able to enjoy a gluten free macaroon – delicious. As there was a cream filling, Ray was unable to eat any, so nothing available for dairy free folk. This grand residence was once the seaside retreat of Queen Victoria. Well worth a visit to see how they used to live back then. Very opulent and well maintained. Queen Victoria’s bedroom has been kept exactly as it was following her death. Take a stroll in the beautiful walled garden.</p>
<p>Wandering through Cowes, we chanced upon the British Legion Club, which welcomes visitors. Despite the 1950s décor, it boasts fabulous views of the Solent and boats. We had a cup of tea (90p each) using our own soya milk. The food looked good value – gammon, ham, eggs, chips and peas £5.25 or a jacket potato with tuna mayonnaise £4.95.</p>
<p>Cowes’ best kept secret is The Octopus Garden, which is a shrine to The Beatles. All the walls are decorated with Beatles posters, photographs and LP covers. There’s a cabinet with incredible lookalike puppets of The Beatles dressed as Sgt Pepper and of course, Beatles’ music plays all the time. The café has a 1960s feel about it to be sure. Most importantly we could both eat there and chose Chris’ breakfast (named after the owner) with a couple of adjustments, at £4.25 each. Ray ordered Isle of Wight sausage, bacon, egg, slices of toast, but no tomato. He asked whether the sausage had milk in it and the owner said he couldn’t be 100% certain, so Ray took a chance. I had the same but with no sausage or toast.</p>
<p>Fortunately they told us that the toast was spread with “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter” so he asked for strawberry jam instead.</p>
<p>The menu gives details under the heading “our guarantee” of where ingredients come from. For example, the sausages, gammon ham and bacon comes from Hamilton’s Butchers, Cowes, while Hovis or Kingsmill bread is used for toast. It said Heinz Baked Beans were served, important for Ray to know as they don’t contain milk (like some other makes).</p>
<p>We had deliberately chosen self catering accommodation, so mostly we prepared our own meals, which was a relief because we knew what the contents were. Staples we’d brought with us included soya milk, rice cakes, Eat Natural bars and Marigold’s bouillon, which can be used in so many ways. We discovered the large Sainsbury’s superstore near Newport which has an extensive “free from” section so was able to buy Genius gluten free bread, as well as gluten free pasta (heaven). One tip I’ve been told is to cook gluten free pasta for at least 20 minutes rather than the ten minutes suggested on some packs – it works! There’s also Morrisons in Newport, but it has a tiny ‘free from’ section.<br />Walking into Yarmouth for lunch, we chose Jireh House Yarmouth <a href="http://www.jireh-house.com/">http://www.jireh-house.com/</a>, where the owner Jan was very welcoming and accommodating. Sitting in the back garden, after having explained his allergies, Ray asked for a smoked salmon sandwich (£3.90) without butter (crucially), lemon, tomatoes or cucumber. When he asked her about milk in the bread, she brought the Hovis packaging for him to look at, so we were able to verify there was no milk in it. I opted for a smoked salmon salad (£10.95). We noticed there was a sign warning people about “Falling Apples” from the impressively large apple tree.</p>
<p>She asked me to send her recipes, as she likes to serve gluten free cakes, so I will do so.</p>
<p>At the Deli in Yarmouth (just along the road from Jireh House), we saw several gluten free products on sale such as Hale & Hearty gluten free porridge and Mrs Crimbles’ gluten free cakes, but they don’t sell soya milk. We found that in nearby Cost Cutters.</p>
<p>For a treat on our last night, we visited Olivo Bar & Caffeteria in Newport, 15 St Thomas Square, PO30 1SL, tel: 01983 530001. This restaurant is always busy, so it’s important to book. Even on a Thursday night, two large parties arrived and they had to turn away a party of 14. When I made the reservation, I mentioned the food allergies Ray and I had and was impressed that they had made a note of this.</p>
<p>To start with, we ordered Pincho (£4.50) – hummus, chorizo, olives and flat bread. They checked to see if there was no milk in the flatbread, but couldn’t be 100% certain, so Ray took a chance. Being gluten free, I didn’t have any bread. At their own volition, they checked the chorizo sausage ingredients, discovered there was milk powder and came and told us. This is the first time that any restaurant has gone to such trouble to check the ingredients of a sausage. They put the chorizo sausage in a separate bowl and gave it to me, so Ray wouldn’t be tempted.</p>
<p>For the main course, Ray asked if he could have Spalla di Maiale (£14.50) – pan fried pork spare rib steak with shallots and chestnut mushrooms and new potatoes. The staff checked with the kitchen and they said they would give him a different garnish, with no butter. I enjoyed sea bass with sauté potatoes and tsikali. (£14.95). Both were delicious and well presented. Top marks Olivo!</p>
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</div>Brighton eating out with food allergies <img style="" align="left" alt="" src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/2%20jojo%20vegan%20cake%20sale.jpg" /><img height="320" width="427" style="" align="left" alt="" src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/2%20wai%20%20kika%20moo%20kaw.jpg" /><img style="" align="left" alt="" src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/wai%20kika%20moo%20kaw.jpg" /><img style="" align="left" alt="" src="http://jackiem.com/uploads/the%20dittons%20dessert.jpg" /><br clear="all" />
<p>Following a tweet alert “can you recommend any vegan restaurants in Brightonâ€, Vegan in Brighton <a href="http://www.veganinbrighton.blogspot.com/">http://www.veganinbrighton.blogspot.com/</a> tweeted back that she was running a vegan cake sell to raise money for Sea Shepherd and the East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service, so that was a must on our recent visit to Brighton.</p>
<p>First off, we dropped in on The Manor, Gardner Street, <a href="http://www.themanorbrighton.co.uk/">http://www.themanorbrighton.co.uk/</a> for some breakfast and was delightfully surprised that they served soya milk, but no gluten free bread. Otherwise it was an enjoyable experience, chatting to the staff. Ray asked for bacon and a well cooked egg and it was perfect, while I opted for bacon and egg.</p>
<p>Jojo’s vegan cake sale was a great success with a mouth-watering array of cakes and pastries. When Ray asked whether they were dairy free, she proudly announced they all were – so he was delighted!</p>
<p>So what did we end up buying? It was a difficult choice, so we bought gluten free and dairy free banana bread (which we’ve frozen), a dairy free cupcake and a delicious slice of gluten free and dairy free coffee cake with a creamy filling. The most unusual option was a courgette muffin, chewy and moist with a real courgette taste!</p>
<p>JoJo runs Operation Icing, Brighton’s not for profit vegan bakery <a href="http://www.operationicing.co.uk/">http://www.operationicing.co.uk/</a>The biggest discovery was the Wai Kika Moo Kaw café 11a Kensington Gardens, Brighton, BN1 4AL - Tel: 0871 2071890, which Jojo recommended. We had walked past this restaurant on countless occasions, not realising it was vegan.</p>
<p>Its menu usefully has symbols – v for vegan, vo – vegetarian option and gf – gluten free. We met owner Faruk Bulut who explained how the restaurant started as a primarily vegetarian venue, but his wife Aga who is vegan, introduced vegan dishes. Special mention has to be given to the unusual but delectable drinks. Ray ordered the Breakfast Smoothie, consisting of banana, honey, wheat germ and soya milk at £3.75, while I opted for the Chai Shake, a mango and passion fruit smoothie (£3.75).</p>
<p>For the main course, Ray chose the Kicking Kau Burger, a sweet potato and soyabean burger topped with homemade hummus and beetroot and horseradish salsa at £8.25. I had the gluten free, vegetarian Steaming Veggie Bean Chilli, served with aromatic rice, nachos topped with homemade salsa guacamole (£7.75). The menu boasts highly creative dishes such as Kicking Kau Curry with roast buttermilk, squash, courgettes, coconut and tomato or there’s the vegan and gluten free Risotto Rosso – risotto with roast beetroot, sundried tomatoes, rocket and pesto (£6.95). If you’re gluten free, check with the waiting staff that the dish is gluten free. Just because it’s vegan, it isn’t necessarily gluten free. We were too full for dessert, but there’s the Vegan Cake of the Say at £3.70.</p>
<p>OTHER DISCOVERIES THIS WEEK</p>
<p>Ray had lunch at Thai Ming restaurant <a href="http://www.thaiming.co.uk/">http://www.thaiming.co.uk/</a>, 1-5 Windmill Row, Kennington, London SE11 5DW where he enjoyed Kaeng Kiew Wahn, a traditional green curry with fresh herbs and Thai Aubergines with chicken (£6.90) – crucially there was no dairy. A friend suggested going to The Dittons, 64 Ditton Hill Road, Long Ditton, <a href="http://www.theditton.co.uk/">http://www.theditton.co.uk/<br /></a>This must be one of the best kept secrets in Surbiton, Surrey. The menu advises you to speak to a member of staff if you are allergic or avoiding certain foods, so I immediately informed them that I was gluten free. I ordered the pork loin with bubble and squeak (£9.95), but was told that the sauce had wheat in it so I was offered two alternatives – red wine sauce or rhubarb and stem ginger. I’ve always liked rhubarb so chose the second option, which complemented the pork beautifully. For dessert, I was reliably informed I could have Banana Pavlova (although there was cream in it, so no good for dairy free) or Fizzy Fruit Salad – Cava over classic fruits which I enjoyed. Still water with lime cordial is a refreshing alternative to wine. Thank you Amanda for the suggestion.</p>
<p>AND FINALLY</p>
<p>Read in the paper about all these alternative milks on the market – wonder what camel milk tastes like? </p> Caffe Culture and the Great Taste Awards<p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4cjb3Y713pA/TdkmEQV-bUI/AAAAAAAAACY/RJN3kxkdFKM/s1600/DSCF0728.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609556665415134530" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4cjb3Y713pA/TdkmEQV-bUI/AAAAAAAAACY/RJN3kxkdFKM/s320/DSCF0728.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /></p>
<div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x6IWTkk05gw/TdklMS6dEEI/AAAAAAAAACQ/WdXtJzqcE6Y/s1600/Caffe%2BCulture%2BPourtoi.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609555704032333890" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x6IWTkk05gw/TdklMS6dEEI/AAAAAAAAACQ/WdXtJzqcE6Y/s320/Caffe%2BCulture%2BPourtoi.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
<div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-daZCKgMS9tE/TdkkymBiUII/AAAAAAAAACI/YCFA2cKsy8s/s1600/DSCF0516.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609555262485713026" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-daZCKgMS9tE/TdkkymBiUII/AAAAAAAAACI/YCFA2cKsy8s/s320/DSCF0516.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a>
<p>It can be embarrassing when you’re at a celebration for someone’s birthday when you have to refuse a slice of cake because you have a wheat or dairy intolerance. That happened to me twice this week. Luckily I met Sarah Jones who runs Especially Delicious <a href="http://www.especiallydelicious.co.uk/">http://www.especiallydelicious.co.uk/</a> a gluten free bakery and was able to make me a wheat and dairy free cake for my last birthday. Sarah asks you what special interests you have and incorporates them on the cake. Thus I had a fountain pen made of icing (to depict the writing), ‘la, la la’ to represent the choir I sing with and a silhouette of a woman doing Pilates exercises! All very clever – but what was wonderful is that Ray and I could eat the cake! And we’ve frozen what was left, which we serve to friends as and when. Visited Caffe Culture this week and it was good to see Pourtoi Artisan Chocolatier <a href="http://www.pourtoi.co.uk/">http://www.pourtoi.co.uk/</a>, winner of the Sweet Biscuits Category of this year’s Free From Awards <a href="http://www.freefromawards.co.uk/">http://www.freefromawards.co.uk/</a> for its Raisin Double Choc Chip Cookie, which is gluten free, dairy free, wheat free and lactose free. What’s more, the company received three Gold Awards from the Guild of Fine Food’s Great Taste Awards last year for two other varieties of cookie. I tasted their new gluten and dairy free muffins – banana double choc chunk and orange double choc chunk, all beautifully moist with a strong chocolate flavour. Claire Rose started up a chocolate company with her husband Ian. A family member was a coeliac and so they decided to explore gluten free options. “The market has grown,” says Claire. “The focus of our company is to create products which are treated as a mainstream product, suitable for everyone.” Miraculously, at the show, I found a wheat-free sandwich at the Crussh Juice Bar <a href="http://www.crussh.com/">http://www.crussh.com/</a> at London’s Olympia exhibition centre. Normally at these events I go hungry or take my own, but not this time! It was made from wheat free bread, avocado, spinach, crunchy peppers, beansprouts, hummus, sun-dried tomatoes. Delicious! On Thursday I met Sally-Jayne and Corinne for lunch at Lola Rojo Spanish restaurant and deli, 78 Northcote Road, Clapham Junction <a href="http://www.lolarojo.net/">http://www.lolarojo.net/</a> We had the lunch special – three tapas $8.50. There was plenty of choice for wheat free options – my favourite was crispy aubergine with blossom honey. Other choices included Serrano ham, cod gratin and Spanish omelette. Don’t know how Ray would have fared here.Meanwhile, Ray had lunch at Pizza Express in Kennington (316 Kennington Road, SE11 4LD) <a href="http://www.pizzaexpress.com/">http://www.pizzaexpress.com/</a>. “They were very helpful,” he said. “They assured me there was no milk in the dough. I ordered a Venezia pizza with very little tomato, no mozzarella and extra anchovies.” On the web site if you click on “allergies” there is a chart giving details on each menu item as to whether it contains gluten, dairy, nuts and so on and whether it would be suitable for a coeliac or vegan. If only more restaurants did this you could go to the restaurant knowing which dishes you can order. And so to Friday and the judging of the Great Taste Awards – what fun! The Great Taste Awards, organised by the Guild of Fine Food <a href="http://www.finefoodworld.co.uk/">http://www.finefoodworld.co.uk/</a>. This year there were 7,432 products entered with a panel of 300 judges. Our job is to advise how the product could be improved, to be positive at the outset and be encouraging. It was an illuminating morning. We blindtasted everything from salami, lamb, dark chocolate, jams, marinades and ice cream. You’ll have to wait until the results are announced in July to see who won.</p>
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</div>Ipswich eating out with food allergies<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ssDxKlILRs/TcbWisPTxmI/AAAAAAAAACA/-m7VNM-vLZQ/s1600/DSCF0682.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604402677788427874" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ssDxKlILRs/TcbWisPTxmI/AAAAAAAAACA/-m7VNM-vLZQ/s320/DSCF0682.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></p>
<div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xd7aDF2_gkQ/TcbWMBVaobI/AAAAAAAAAB4/rOX3zeu6yIs/s1600/DSCF0680.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604402288314196402" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xd7aDF2_gkQ/TcbWMBVaobI/AAAAAAAAAB4/rOX3zeu6yIs/s320/DSCF0680.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />
<div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xc1T6EEzawc/TcbV1W1r3QI/AAAAAAAAABw/HjuZx3ZzYJw/s1600/DSCF0665.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604401898949696770" style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xc1T6EEzawc/TcbV1W1r3QI/AAAAAAAAABw/HjuZx3ZzYJw/s320/DSCF0665.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a>
<p>In stark contrast to New York, we found ourselves in Ipswich in East Anglia. We arrived by train at lunchtime and explored the town for somewhere to eat. Everywhere seemed to be full of paninis, sandwiches or pizzas or else, rich food covered in creamy sauces - no good for gluten free or dairy free. When I asked a couple of locals for some ideas, they agreed that there were few lunchtime places in Ipswich that didn't just serve sandwiches and bread-based fare!</p>
<p>We spent an hour trailing the streets until the only outlet we could find was Just Spuds in the Buttermarket shopping complex. I had tuna mayonnaise baked potato and Ray had plain tuna - after we reiterated we didn't want any butter on the potatoes.</p>
<p>Are there any restaurants serving gluten free and dairy free dishes at lunchtime, we wonder?</p>
<p>After lunch, we wandered round the market where there was a huge stall selling bread and cakes. Ray asked whether the apple strudel had any dairy in it and the man showed him the cardboard box listing all the ingredients and amazingly there was no dairy! When I asked whether there were any gluten free products, he said no and added "It doesn't taste nice". So Ray lucked out and enjoyed his apple strudel while I had a banana.</p>
<p>That evening we attended a friend's special party at the Christchurch Mansion, Christchurch Park, a spectacular venue for a party with lots of dancing! Fortunately we had no problems with the food as there was plenty of sushi and salads. We had to pass on the birthday cake.</p>
<p>We were staying at The Salthouse Harbour Hotel <a href="http://www.salthouseharbour.co.uk/">http://www.salthouseharbour.co.uk/</a> a swish modern boutique hotel with fab views of the harbour. The harbour was so picturesque, it felt we were somewhere like Nice, France, rather than Ipswich. Everything was idyllic except at 2am when someone had set off the fire alarm. So we ran down six flights of stairs (me in my nightie and raincoat) and stood about for 20 minutes while a member of staff tried to turn it off - he eventually managed this with the aid of a screwdriver!</p>
<p>At breakfast, I asked whether they had any soya milk and was told no, but that if I had contacted them in advance, they would have arranged this.</p>
<p>Ray wanted the Suffolk Grill, but asked whether the mushrooms were sauteed in butter and whether there was any dairy in the sausage which she checked and fortunately there wasn't any. The Suffolk Grill comprises Denham Estate rare breed sausage and bacon, fried bread, grilled tomato, mushroom and fried egg.</p>
<p>I had local cooked ham with poached egg and sauteed potatoes, as well as fruit salad.</p>
<p>Ray asked them to check whether the bread had milk in it and was told they couldn't guarantee it as it comes from a baker who supplies it cling wrapped but they didn't think so. Ray decided to risk it - but all was ok.</p>
<p>On the rail journey back, all we had was a packet of crisps and an Eat Natural bar (which we'd brought with us) as everything in the National Express buffet bar was bread-based. C'est la vie!</p>
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</div>The Allergy and Gluten Free Show May 11<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BnSNI6heSuI/TcQRmR3eyUI/AAAAAAAAABo/NctmPpCgFz0/s1600/Sweetcheeks%2Bcakes.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603623185684547906" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px; float: left; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BnSNI6heSuI/TcQRmR3eyUI/AAAAAAAAABo/NctmPpCgFz0/s320/Sweetcheeks%2Bcakes.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></p>
<p>As a gluten free person, when was the last time you bought a sandwich to go for lunch? For me it was years ago so what a delightful surprise to be able to buy one today at the Allergy and Gluten Free Show at London's Olympia. The gluten, wheat and dairy free "hoomoongooes crunch" comprised coriander, houmous, red pepper, celery and cucumber in gluten free bread, courtesy of <a href="http://www.freshnaturallyorganic.co.uk/">http://www.freshnaturallyorganic.co.uk/</a> - more please!</p>
<p>Being at the show was like "nirvana" because, as a wheat, gluten and dairy free person, there was so much I could sample and eat!</p>
<p>Hurrah! I've found the UK equivalent to Babycakesnyc in New York - it's Sweetcheeks <a href="http://www.sweetcheeksltd.co.uk/">http://www.sweetcheeksltd.co.uk/</a> with its tantalising display of gluten, wheat and dairy free cupcakes at the show with funky and glittery icing - one cupcake even had a giant red button on it (see picture)! Business owner Catherine Rose says she wants to diversify from cupcakes and had already sold 36 doughnuts when I caught up with her. "Cupcakes are beautiful and they sell but I want to offer hearty British food like banana bread, pies and crumbles and carrot and onion muffins. I'm currently looking for premises so I can open a tea room." All I can say is Catherine - bring it on! She describes herself as 'a self diagnosed coeliac' and found it a shock switching to a gluten free diet. "I missed sweets so when I visited Babycakesnyc I was inspired by their creations and thought I could introduce something like that here." After developing her recipes, she set up on her own in September 2009. "Some companies make gluten free cakes by just substituting wheat four with gluten free flour, but we don't do that. Our cakes mostly use on saturated fats and use agave nectar."</p>
<p>Catherine sells her wares at Brick Lane on Sundays and Marylebone High Street on Saturdays. She will also be at the forthcoming Hampton Court Foodies Fair <a href="http://www.foodiesfestival.com/">http://www.foodiesfestival.com/</a></p>
<p>Another great find was the Golden Bread Mix from WAGfree Bakery in Brixton Village Market, London. This comprises brown rice, tapioca, almond flour and flaxseed. Just add live yogurt, egg, sunflower oil and water to make gluten free bread. Dairy free alternatives to yoghurt are given -for example soya yogurt. WAGfree Bakery <a href="http://www.wagfreefood.com/">http://www.wagfreefood.com/</a> was started by David Scrace who was diagnosed as a coeliac four years ago. "I looked around at what was available and it was unpalatable," he said. He joined forces with Edward Barrow, a chef and developed a range of products and opened the cafe in November 2010. "Anyone can make gluten free cakes," he said," but pastry is very difficult and that's what we excel at. We also make fresh filled pasta and pies. I'd like to see a WAGfree on every street corner." You can buy the mix from the web site - or better still, visit the Bakery at 26 Brixton Village, London SW9 8PR.</p>
<p>Dairy chocolate is usually very difficult to find, but at the Show there were several options. Celtic Chocolates <a href="http://www.celtichocolates.eu/">http://www.celtichocolates.eu/</a> was showcasing its range of dairy free chocolate including the delicious Caramel flavoured chocolates under the 'Choices' brand - truly scrumptious. No wonder they were highly commended in the Free From Awards <a href="http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk/">http://www.freefromfoodawards.co.uk/</a> The Awards had its own stand where I caught up with Michelle and Cressida, took part in a survey and sampled a Clearspring tamari and black sesame rice cake - yummy!</p>
<p>First time exhibitor Moo Free <a href="http://www.moofreechocolates.com/">http://www.moofreechocolates.com/</a> sampled its chocolate, made with rice milk, which was very creamy. Started up by Andrea and Mike Jessup, they have introduced a range of child-friendly chocolates including a forthcoming advent calendar and chocolate Santa for Christmas.</p>
<p>On the Genius Foods stand <a href="http://www.geniusglutenfree.com/">http://www.geniusglutenfree.com/</a> it was great to hear that the new Genius range of gluten and dairy free seeded rolls and teacakes will be in Tesco as from 16 May. A new range comprising gluten free sausage rolls, shortcrust pastry, peppered steak slices, Cornish slices and steak and ale pies is on the horizon. These are all gluten free, but not dairy free. Newcomer Fria <a href="http://www.fria.se/">http://www.fria.se/</a> was making an impact with its delicious gluten free cinnamon buns, mini baguettes and dark loaf with linseeds. Fria is the biggest Swedish gluten free company and wants to establish itself in the UK. Monika Agorelius, who is a coeliac, said "It's common in other countries to sell gluten free bread frozen, but not here, but it makes sense to buy it frozen as you can use it as you go along and not waste any of it." Fria products can be purchased from <a href="http://www.gffdirect.co.uk/">www.gffdirect.co.uk</a> and from Scandinavian Kitchen <a href="http://www.scandikitchen.co.uk/">www.scandikitchen.co.uk</a> as well as John Lewis food halls in Oxford Street and Bluewater.</p>
<p>It was good to see Sainsbury's giving 'free from' demonstrations of recipes such as Asian Fishcakes and chewy flapjacks. To my astonishment, Marks & Spencer had a stand - I found the bread dry, a bit like blotting paper and the cake unfortunately has dairy in it, so no good for my husband. It's good to see they are trying to participate in the 'free from' arena.</p>
<p>The Allergy and Gluten Free Show is on over the weekend - a visit is well recommended!</p>New York eating out with food allergies<p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TAKkK8F4OTE/Tb6H_vysf5I/AAAAAAAAABg/m-mWAKw5Lcs/s1600/DSCF0645.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602064515726081938" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px; float: left; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TAKkK8F4OTE/Tb6H_vysf5I/AAAAAAAAABg/m-mWAKw5Lcs/s320/DSCF0645.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-emXMgznYgHA/Tb6HeKfs7ZI/AAAAAAAAABY/vo0VshAuDas/s1600/Lilli%2Band%2BLoo%2Bsteamed%2Bdumplings.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602063938778623378" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px; float: left; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-emXMgznYgHA/Tb6HeKfs7ZI/AAAAAAAAABY/vo0VshAuDas/s320/Lilli%2Band%2BLoo%2Bsteamed%2Bdumplings.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o93iDnAQi2Y/Tb6HMq12wMI/AAAAAAAAABQ/9fOr62LX5Gw/s1600/DSCF0626.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602063638223831234" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px; float: left; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o93iDnAQi2Y/Tb6HMq12wMI/AAAAAAAAABQ/9fOr62LX5Gw/s320/DSCF0626.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-64Kbgwq7t9Q/Tb6GyGUc29I/AAAAAAAAABI/xXBe3U2KnKo/s1600/Babycakes%2Bmotto.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602063181743446994" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px; float: left; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-64Kbgwq7t9Q/Tb6GyGUc29I/AAAAAAAAABI/xXBe3U2KnKo/s320/Babycakes%2Bmotto.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-twRR1hxgMpA/Tb6Gii31DPI/AAAAAAAAABA/JQ7mzHf33gw/s1600/Babycakes%2Bcupcakes.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602062914530118898" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px; float: left; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-twRR1hxgMpA/Tb6Gii31DPI/AAAAAAAAABA/JQ7mzHf33gw/s320/Babycakes%2Bcupcakes.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lu0LXwtD8sY/Tb6GPkxDRsI/AAAAAAAAAA4/Kn8Mei1frJc/s1600/Candle%2B79%2Bherbed%2Btofu.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602062588621047490" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px; float: left; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lu0LXwtD8sY/Tb6GPkxDRsI/AAAAAAAAAA4/Kn8Mei1frJc/s320/Candle%2B79%2Bherbed%2Btofu.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></p>
<p>Travelling when you have a food allergy or intolerance, whether you are gluten free, wheat free or dairy free, is always a lottery situation.</p>
<p>Ray and I always travel with two 100ml plastic bottles of soya milk (bottles obtainable from Muji <a href="http://www.muji.eu/">http://www.muji.eu/</a> ), Eat Natural bars, rice cakes and Hob Nob biscuits (plain not milk chocolate) – just in case there are problems finding food we can eat.</p>
<p>We lucked out on the flight to Virgin Atlantic <a href="http://www.virginatlantic.co.uk/">http://www.virginatlantic.co.uk/</a> as we had pre-booked our meals. My gluten free option comprised vegetables in a tomato sauce, white and wild rice and roasted vegetables. There was even a gluten free bread from www.gfdiet.com, as well as salad and fresh fruit. It tasted scrumptious. The only down side was that there was no soya milk available on the plane for our tea.</p>
<p>On arrival at a new destination, there is always the challenge of finding a supermarket or grocery store that sells soya milk. I had been told that it’s generally easy to eat out in New York if you’re gluten free or dairy free, but we didn’t find it so.</p>
<p>Our first meal in New York was a total disaster. We were badly jet lagged and the waiter looked at us as if we were from another planet when we said that Ray was allergic to dairy. In the end we ordered mediocre salads……….</p>
<p>At my cousin’s apartment, we enjoyed a Chinese take out so no problems there and Ray found soya milk (called soy milk in New York) at her local supermarket in the Upper East Side – small 50ml sizes which are easy to carry around. Alpro, please take note!</p>
<h2> </h2>
<h2>Sunday</h2>
<p>Breakfast was definitely a problem. Our hotel the Flatotel <a href="http://www.flatotel.com/">http://www.flatotel.com/</a> only served cakes, croissants and bread – or fruit. I felt like something more substantial than just fruit, so called into the local Lindy’s on 7th Avenue. When we began explaining our problems to the waitress, she didn’t want to listen; she simply asked us what we wanted. I ended up with a dried up egg and some bacon. Is it the New York way to serve bacon so brittle and crispy so it has no flavour? Ray fared better with the bagel. What always amuses me in these situations is that after explaining that we are dairy free, they serve a jug of milk with the tea! It cost us U$18 (around £10) in all.</p>
<p>Later in the day, at Starbucks <a href="http://www.starbucks.com/">http://www.starbucks.com/</a> we enjoyed a cup of tea with soya milk. I asked whether they sold the gluten free sandwich, which is available in the UK, but apparently there is so little demand, it wouldn’t be cost-effective, they said.</p>
<p>For lunch, we met my cousin and her family at the New York Athletic Club, an impressive building with gold ceilings. She had kindly alerted them in advance about our allergies, so they were prepared. We both enjoyed Smoked Atlantic Salmon to start with, followed by Half Cornish Game Hen with spring vegetables and for Ray, Rack of Lamb. Delicious and a wonderful way of celebrating Easter Sunday – with a live violinist who went round the tables serenading everyone!</p>
<p>That evening, my cousin cooked a mouth-watering lamb stew. I was at hand in the kitchen to read all the ingredients on the packets and jars of stock, spices and so on to check they were gluten and dairy free. As Ray is intolerant to many vegetables including courgettes, peppers and tomatoes, it was quite a challenge, although we got there in the end. She served us Tofutti milk free ice cream which was delicious and again, from the local supermarket. Thank you Janine.</p>
<h2> </h2>
<h2>Monday</h2>
<p>After our Lindy’s experience, we chose to have breakfast in our hotel. I opted for the fruit, while Ray checked with staff whether the bread and pastries had dairy in them. Lo and behold, they all did so Chef Ismail at the Flatotel rustled up some bacon and fried potatoes for us – the bacon, though crispy, tasted much better than the previous day. Thank you Chef Ismail – he also said to ask for him the next day and he would prepare something different.</p>
<p>We took the Metro to 14th Street – Union Square – and discovered a farmers market <a href="http://www.unionsquarenyc.org/">http://www.unionsquarenyc.org/</a>– not only that, there was a stand selling gluten free and dairy free cakes! Counter <a href="http://www.counternyc.com/">http://www.counternyc.com/</a> is an organic vegetarian bistro 105 First Avenue (6th and 7th St) with a gluten free and vegan menu. We didn’t have time to visit but their cakes were wonderful.</p>
<p>If you’re looking for free from foods in New York, Wholefoods <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/">http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/</a> is the place to go. This is the only store we found which had a separate ‘gluten free’ section which was extensive including raisin and pecan bagels, fudge brownies and non dairy chocolate cakes. In most stores, we found you had to hunt for any ‘free from’ items. What’s more, Wholefoods has published a “Guide to Gluten Free Shopping” to help shoppers identify items with hidden gluten.</p>
<p>At the wonderful Strand Book Shop <a href="http://www.strandbooks.com/">http://www.strandbooks.com/</a>, which is similar to what was Borders in the UK, I chanced upon the “Babycakes Covers The Classics” recipe book, created by Erin McKenna, founder of Babycakes NYC, which sells dairy, gluten, egg, soy and refined sugar free cakes and desserts. The very same bakery that Glutenfree Mrs D <a href="http://www.glutenfreemrsd.com/">http://www.glutenfreemrsd.com/</a> had told me about.</p>
<p>After buying the book, we decided then and there that the bakery was worth a visit. Anyway I needed to get the book signed.</p>
<p>Playing it safe for lunch, we opted for Pret A Manger at Union Square <a href="http://www.pret.com/">http://www.pret.com/</a> where Ray chose a tuna mayonnaise sandwich with lettuce, but crucially no butter, while I enjoyed a chicken, avocado salad with dried cranberries and tomatoes. All up this cost U$16.40. What we like about Pret is that they list all the ingredients so you can see at a glance whether you can eat a particular item.</p>
<p>We got chatting to a New Yorker (as you do) who explained how to travel to Babycakes <a href="http://www.babycakesnyc.com/">http://www.babycakesnyc.com/</a> on the Lower East Side by bus and this was a fabulous adventure taking us through parts of New York you don’t normally see. Visiting Babycakes was like heaven as when you step inside, you know you can eat everything on the menu! Not only are they dairy, gluten, egg and soy free, but also refined sugar free. Most desserts are sweetened with agave nectar, a low-glycemic syrup. So it’s very difficult to make a choice. We opted for the chocolate mint cupcake and the banana cupcake, both of which were delicious. Normally I don’t like icing, but this icing, which they call frosting, tasted divine. Interestingly, they said that many people, who don’t have any food intolerances, eat their cakes because they love the taste. We also bought a gluten free doughnut and a slice of banana cake to go – needless to say they were delicious too. I asked for Erin as I wanted the book signed, but she wasn’t there – probably in LA where they have two branches. It has to be said this was one of the highlights of our trip. I will enjoy experimenting with the recipes in the cookbook.<br />Meanwhile I had purchased The Vegan Guide to New York by Ryan Berry and Chris Abreu-Suzuki <a href="http://www.vegsource.com/berry">www.vegsource.com/berry</a> and we chose to visit Lilli and Loos, Lexington Avenue, at 61 and 62 Streets, <a href="http://www.lilliandloo.com/">http://www.lilliandloo.com/</a>, an Asian restaurant, which offers a special gluten free menu. To start with, we had satay chicken (US$8.95) and oriental pork dumplings (US$8.50) (a treat as I normally can’t eat the dumplings). For the main course, I enjoyed Pad Thai noodles (US$12.95) while Ray had Singapore chicken noodles (US$12.95). Excellent service and delicious food.</p>
<h2> </h2>
<h2>Tuesday</h2>
<p>Chef Ismail wasn’t there, but the Flatotel served us sausages split down the middle, fried potatoes and peppers – is this breakfast? Still you’ve got to feel grateful that they have offered us an alternative. I just ate the potatoes. We then accessed the Internet at the hotel’s business centre downstairs, but can’t book our airline seats as yet. This is the best kept secret in the hotel – free Internet access and you can even print off material!</p>
<p>We ask where the nearest supermarket is and are told it’s Ernst and Stein, 7th Avenue between 55 and 56 streets. By this time, the temperature had soared and although it’s only April, the heat is unbearable and it’s only 10.30am. The forecast says 27 degrees and yet we were told 18 degrees with rain! We buy water and bananas; they is no ambient soya milk. As it is so hot, we decide taxi is the only way to travel and go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and view a guitar exhibition with iPod multimedia accompaniment accessing us to commentary and music played by various guitarists. Paul Simon’s guitar was even on display!</p>
<p>For lunch, we go to the cafeteria, a real “free for all” reminiscent of a school meals approach. You have to get your tray, cutlery and napkins before you select the food. We opted for the safe choice – the salad bar although labelling was minimal so it was a case of recognising what the food was, but at least there were items we could eat. We couldn’t see any signs or anything geared up for people with food allergies. They weigh the salad and then tell you the cost. Our bill was US$23.83, plus US$3 for chips.</p>
<p>As we left the museum, the hot sun pulsated down as if it was a desert so we hailed a cab and took refuge in Barnes & Noble which has moved to 82nd and Broadway. It is air conditioned!</p>
<p>At Le Pain de Quotidien at Broadway and 91st Street, we met Penny Hammond, who runs the <a href="http://www.chewinfo.com/">http://www.chewinfo.com/</a> site all about food issues. I’d always dismissed the UK branches of this eatery thinking they only served breads and pastries, but was delightfully surprised when I was told they served gluten free and dairy free coconut macaroons and almond meringue, so we ordered one of each – the meringue was enormous so we took half away in a goodie bag. The menu has symbols indicating vegan choices. For example, Quinoa and Orugula with chick peas, artichoke and basil pesto. Soy milk was available for our tea.<br />Our friend Robin had gone to great trouble that evening to serve a meal we could eat – it was delicious - baked cod with mushrooms and artichokes. We discovered how to cook and eat artichokes. Thank you Robin.</p>
<h2> </h2>
<h2>Wednesday</h2>
<p>Chef Ismail at the Flatotel excelled himself today and gave us ham, fried potatoes, courgettes (or zucchinis as they called in America) and green beans in olive oil – delicious – thank you again, Chef.<br />We headed back to Soho and Greenwich Village, our favourite neighbourhoods for more browsing and shopping. Down Bleecker Street, there were plenty of bakeries but none serving gluten or dairy free items. In fact when I asked Amy’s Bakery whether they served gluten or dairy free, the shop assistant looked aghast as if I’d spoken a foreign language. We passed the famous Magnolia Bakery, but it was so crowded, moved on quickly.</p>
<p>We chanced upon Hummus Place, which is listed in The Vegan Guide to New York, on 7th Avenue south between Barrow and Bleecker Streets <a href="http://www.hummusplace.com/">http://www.hummusplace.com/</a> This restaurant, as you’ve probably guessed, is devoted to hummus, which is one of our favourite foods – as it’s both gluten and dairy free.You can order two difference styles of hummus – one made from fava beans and chickpeas and one from whole chickpeas. We opted for the Lunch Special at US$7.95 which included a dish of hummus and one appetizer. So for appetizers, we ordered falafel and tahini and for the mains, hummus masabacha with whole chickpeas, olive oil and spices and Ray had hummus with mushrooms. I explained I was gluten free, so instead of pitta bread (which doesn’t have milk in it so Ray was ok), I was given crudités of carrot and cucumber. The hummus is served on a medium-sized plate with the mushrooms or chick peas inside a circle of hummus. We found it filling so were unable to sample the vegan desserts such as vegan almond raspberry chocolate brownies.</p>
<p>If you’re homesick for Old Blighty, there’s Myers of Keswick on the corner of Horatio Street and Hudson Street selling British items like PG tips, Hob Nob biscuits and Crunchy Nut cornflakes. They’d sold out of Wills and Kate Royal Wedding postcards!</p>
<p>That evening, my cousin had booked a table at Candle 79 154 East 79th Street at Lexington Avenue <a href="http://www.candle79.com/">http://www.candle79.com/</a>. A well known vegan eatery, again listed in The Vegan Guide to New York. The guide says that Seitan Piccata (US$23) with steamed spinach, savory potato cake and lemon caper sauce is Sir Paul McCartney’s favourite dish. So what is seitan? It’s gluten which has been boiled in a gingertamari broth. Being gluten free, I gave this one a miss, but my cousin and husband ordered it and said it tasted great. It has to be said our waiter, John, was extremely helpful and patient, taking time to explain the various dishes.</p>
<p>They have a special gluten free menu. For starters, I chose vegetable quinoa nori rolls – pickled ginger, avocado wasabi, chipotle aioli and tamari ginger sauce (US$14) which was similar in presentation to sushi, although tasted more spicy. Ray ordered smoked hummus (US$13) – he can’t eat enough! For mains, we both enjoyed Herb Baked Tofu with roasted fingerling potatoes, garlic sugar snap peas, mint fava bean sauce and pickled carrot salad (US$22). Normally I find tofu bland tasting like blotting paper, but this was flavoursome and tasty. Dessert was a treat – dairy free ice cream for Ray and I chose the Key Lime Parfait (US$13) a nut granula lime cashew cream cococnut ice cream. Bliss – it’s so rare that we can have dessert in a restaurant!</p>
<p>And so our trip came to an end. We were so pleased to have discovered so many ‘free from’ establishments in New York, but they aren’t easy to find. Wake up New York supermarkets – we need you to introduce ‘free from’ sections as in UK supermarkets.</p>
<h3> </h3>
<h3>NEW YORK GLUTEN FREE AND DAIRY FREE EATERIES</h3>
<p>Starbucks <a href="http://www.starbucks.com/">http://www.starbucks.com/</a> – serve soya milk, but nothing to eat here</p>
<p>Wholefoods <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/">http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/</a> – sell ‘free from’ foods</p>
<p>Pret A Manger at Union Square <a href="http://www.pret.com/">http://www.pret.com/</a> – list ingredients so you can see at a glance what you can eat</p>
<p>Babycakes <a href="http://www.babycakesnyc.com/">http://www.babycakesnyc.com/</a> – nirvana - dairy, gluten, egg and soy free, but also refined sugar free cakes, cupcakes, desserts, doughnuts. Get the recipe book.</p>
<p>Lilli and Loos, Lexington Avenue, at 61 and 62 Streets, <a href="http://www.lilliandloo.com/">http://www.lilliandloo.com/</a> – special gluten free menu</p>
<p>Hummus Place <a href="http://www.hummusplace.com/">http://www.hummusplace.com/</a> – several restaurants devoted to hummus and vegan desserts</p>
<p>Candle 79 154 East 79th Street at Lexington Avenue <a href="http://www.candle79.com/">http://www.candle79.com/</a> vegan restaurant with gluten free menu</p>I'm SO glad you went to BabyCakes and enjoyed ...
I'm SO glad you went to BabyCakes and enjoyed it! Yay! My best friend is currently on secondment to NY with work and I'm trying to get out and see her in the summer. BabyCakes will definitely be top of my list. <br /><br />Sorry to hear you had a few troubles in New York, I'm surprised and thought it would've been easier to eat gluten free out there. I also find breakfast really difficult when I'm away. Fruit just doesn't cut it as preparation for a day of sightseeing! But it really sounds like your friends and family made a great effort in cooking at home or taking you to interesting places to eat. And well done for them calling in advance to check on catering options. <br /><br />I really like the look of the hummus place you found and I will definitely visit that on my next trip to NY.
If you have a food allergy, eating in can be just as challenging as eating out<p>If you have a food allergy, eating in can be just as challenging as eating out - although you can control exactly what you are eating. Having friends over to dinner is always an interesting experience because you imagine they must be worried as to what you will serve up. Previously, I always explained each dish as I served it as "dairy and wheat free" - especially desserts and everyone would always opt for the "normal" dish and only Ray and I would end up eating the wheat and dairy free dish. So I learnt over the years not to say anything. Just serve up everything normally and hope they enjoy it.</p>
<p>What I found it that guests ate the wheat and dairy versions without any qualms and were amazed to later discover that yes they had indeed eaten custard made with soya milk, while yes the gravy was wheat-free.</p>
<p>So when we had friends over on Saturday night, I served up dairy free fish pate (Ray's creation made with goats' butter) as a starter. For the main course, I adapted one of Gordon Ramsay's lamb cobbler dishes substituting wheat-free flour and alcohol-free wine. I sometimes think these chefs would be appalled if they knew how I used alternative ingredients, but actually the finished course tasted excellent. To end up, I served an apple and ground almond dessert recipe from Delia Smith, using Pure soya margarine instead of butter accompanied by soya milk custard.</p>
<p>And you know what? Our friends enjoyed it - all the plates were empty anyway. Of course I know what you're going to say - that they were being polite, but I don't think so!</p>
<p>Imagine my delight when I chanced upon Nigella Lawson's gluten free and dairy free Venetian carrot cake in the Mail on Sunday's YOU magazine. It's in her new book "Nigella Kitchen". Immediately I made up the recipe and it is truly scrumptious! If only more celebrity chefs would publish "free from" recipes.</p>The challenge of eating out with food allergies<p>Welcome to the first world “eating out with allergies” challenge. Take one fifty something man with over 20 food intolerances – Ray - and his wife Jackie (that’s me), who is wheat intolerant, as they face the challenge of eating out, whether it’s a coffee shop or five star dining. What about eating at friends’ houses or, even more scary, being invited to a wedding or social occasion with a sit down dinner or buffet? So we have begun our journey into how to cope with eating out with these food intolerances and I don’t just mean in restaurants – I mean at friends’ houses, at functions, weddings, work events, everywhere.</p>
<p>Have you ever tried eating out with a food allergy? Ray suffers from food intolerances, but most people don’t know what “intolerances” are, let alone waiting staff in restaurants. So we generally use the term “allergies”, which seems to be understood universally.</p>
<p>The foods Ray can’t eat include lemon, oranges, grapes, melon, strawberries, blackberries, rhubarb, gooseberries, celeriac, parsnips, raspberries, apricots, blackcurrants, cherries, peaches, broccoli, celery, spinach, cucumber, peppers, tomatoes, ice cream, eggs, butter, milk, cream, margarine, cheese.</p>
<p>So you might ask – what exactly can he eat?</p>
<p>Fruit – only apples, pears, bananas, dates and figs (but only cooked figs); Olive oil instead of butter and salad dressing. Generally he can’t have any sauces because they tend to have cream in them.</p>
<p>Eating out in restaurants in a real lottery situation – some are sympathetic, while others clearly don’t care. I will always ring up in advance and explain the challenge. There are two extremes – either total incredulity at the end of the phone or someone who understands totally and assures me they can cater for these food intolerances.</p>
<p>When we turn up at the restaurant, however, it’s often a different story. They can deny all knowledge of the phone call. You learn from experience which restaurants to avoid – like the ones who serve Ray a steak with butter (after having been told Ray is intolerant to butter). We sent it back again – only for the same steak to reappear again minus the butter. We know the butter has simply been scraped off. How? Ray has to gallop to the lavatory after 20 minutes after the leaving the restaurant!</p>
<p>Enough said. It’s got to the point where I will taste something on his behalf and see if I can identify whether there is any butter remaining!</p>Eating out with a food allergy in Surrey and Brighton<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Costa wrap.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>I managed to sample a gluten free wrap in Costa Coffee <a href="http://www.costa.co.uk">www.costa.co.uk</a> in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey. I'd heard that Costa was offering this, but I'd not been able to find a branch that sold it. As it was, I bought the last one. It was a chicken and basil salad gluten free wrap with basil mayonnaise, tomato and wild rocket. It was a joy being able to eat lunch in Costa; normally I have to go elsewhere as there is nothing I can eat. Kepp up the good work, Coata!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Salmon Teriyaki Donbu.jpg" alt="" width="220" height="294" /></p>
<p>In Kingston Market-Place <a href="http://www.kingstonfirst.co.uk">www.kingstonfirst.co.uk</a> I visited the Namu Japanese street trader and indulged in Salmon Teriyaki Donbu - grilled salmon with boiled rice, vegetables and teriyaki sauce. You can watch the world go by sitting on the wooden tables and chairs. Ray enjoyed Pork Katsu Donbun - pork katsu with boiled rice, vegetables and katsu sauce. He's been here before and recommends it.</p>
<p>Joanna Fuertes-Knight graphically wrote about the flatulence she experiences as a result of her lactose intolerance in The Guardian <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/uk">www.theguardian.com/uk</a> She mentioned that Orseo biscuits are dairy-free. Yes Joanna that's right but they aren't gluten free which is a pity. Ray loves Oreos as well as fig biscuits by Jacobs <a href="http://www.123healthbalance.com,">www.123healthbalance.com,</a> but you have to be careful about the ones called "fig bars" as they always seem to have milk in the pastry. He can also eat Bourbons and Hobnobs without chocolate.</p>
<p>When it comes to cereal bars, you have to examine them carefully because of milk, gluten or wheat content. One of our favourites is Eat Natural <a href="http://www.eatnatural.co.uk">www.eatnatural.co.uk</a> date and walnut with pumpkin seeds bar (which we can both eat!) Also beware yogurt coated cereal bars if you're dairy free. Eat Natural's seasonal varieties are worth looking out for.</p>
<p>Now to some new "free from" discoveries:</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Heck sausages.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>Heck sausages <a href="http://www.heckfood.co.uk/sausages">www.heckfood.co.uk/sausages</a> All their sausages are gluten free. Ray & I enjoyed sampling the Smoky Chorizo-style sausages which are also dairy free. They have a succulent flavour, but aren't too hot and spicy. Compared to other gluten free sausages on the market, there was much more flavour. We'll definitely be having these again. The web site lists stockists or you can buy them online.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR gluten free doughnut.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="270" /></p>
<p>I can't remember the last time I ate a donut - 15 years maybe? So it was with great delight I ate gluten and wheat free frozen donuts from Feel Free for Gluten Free <a href="http://www.feelfromfoods.co.uk">www.feelfromfoods.co.uk</a> Keep them in the freezer and thaw one by one. Leave the donut for about an hour at room temperature to defrost and enjoy! They are sugared ring donuts with four to a pack. Yummy! You can buy them from their online shop <a href="http://www.glutenfree-direct.co.uk">www.glutenfree-direct.co.uk</a> A pack of four donuts costs £3.99. I'm sure it won't be long before supermarkets stock them. I've kept them hidden from Ray because they contain dairy.</p>
<p>And so to Brighton...</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR Brighton.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>Arriving early and ravenous we visited Iydea Vegetarian Kitchen, 17 Kensington Gardens, Brighton <a href="http://www.iydea.co.uk">www.iydea.co.uk</a> Its menu carries symbols for gluten free and vegan. Several dishes offer gluten free or vegan options. I enjoyed Avocado on Toast - avocado, hummus and cherry tomatoes on gluten free bread (£4.75) while Ray had the vegan version of Banana Nut on Toast - peanut butter and bananas on wholegrain toast, washed down with tea and soya milk.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR avodaco on toast.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>For a reviving cup of tea we revisited Chocaffinitea, Gloucester Road, Brighton <a href="http://www.chocaffinita.co.uk">www.chocaffinitea.co.uk</a> which offers 17 varieties of loose leaf tea. We opted for Assam which was beautifully presented in a transparent glass tea pot with a timer giving options of 3/4/5 minutes. We were advised to leave the tea for 4 minutes. This cafe also offers an astonishing array of chocolate. Most importantly it serves gluten free and dairy free cakes. Its web site has a recipe for a dairyfree cheesecake - I'm definitely going to try that one.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR chocaffinita.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>After wandering through the lanes of eclectic shops, we found Food For Friends <a href="http://www.foodforfriends.com">www.foodforfriends.com</a> which we hadn't visited in years. It's a relaxing haven away from the hustle bustle of Brighton. Its menu usefully carries symbols - V vegan, VO vegan option, GF gluten free, GO gluten free option; N contains nuts; S contains sesame seeds; LF low fat, LC low carb.</p>
<p>It's so refreshing to see this on menus and makes life so much easier for all concerned. I chose fresh fig basil and smoked ricotta salad, N, GF, VO, LC - vegan option is crispy tofu. I ordered the cheese version and was delighted with the combination of flavours - the sweetness of the figs contrasting with the cheese.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR fresh fig salad.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>
<p>Ray selected "Duo of Sweet Tofu Pockets" V, LF, GF, N. The first pocket contained shitake rice and pine nuts, while the second had butternut squash, tofu and miso served with pickled ginger, wakame and sesame mirin dressing. The entire meal was a real treat. Ray says this was one of the best meals he's enjoyed - but he always seems to say that!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.jackiem.com/uploads/LR sweet tofu pockets.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="220" /></p>