The Eagles are going to Super Bowl LIX! If you’re planning to be in Philadelphia to soak up the energy, catch the game at a local bar, and celebrate with fellow fans, you won’t want to miss out on some incredible gluten-free eats while you’re there. Here’s my itinerary from a spontaneous 72-hour trip, packed with safe and delicious gluten-free food and drinks.

Get ready to rack up some steps—these spots span multiple neighborhoods!

A Boutique Hotel in the Heart of Old City: Society Hill

We checked into a cozy boutique hotel in Old City: Society Hill, a newly renovated historic gem. Built in 1832, this building is full of character, but a quick heads-up—there’s no elevator, similar to many historic hotels in Europe. There’s also no front desk; check-in and check-out are done via a code. Aside from those logistics, it was perfect for us! The bed was incredibly cozy, and the bathroom featured a high-end toilet with a heated seat and bidet.

What’s great about Old City is its central location—close to amazing restaurants, Center City, and Queen Village. If the weather had been warmer, we probably would have walked to Fishtown too!

Check out their website or Instagram for photos (somehow I didn’t get any!)

First Stop: A Cozy Wine Bar with a Focus on Natural Wines

Le Caveau Bar à Vins (Website)
Located above The Good King Tavern in Queen Village, Le Caveau is dimly lit, intimate, and incredibly romantic. It’s known for its curated selection of natural wines from around the world, making it a fun place to explore unique varietals like Aligoté—or to pre-game before dinner.

Gluten-free food options were minimal since they don’t have a dedicated fryer, but I opted for the Comté cheese, which paired perfectly with our French white wines.

Gluten-Free Dinner in Queen Village

Bloomsday (Website)
Love fish and chips? You’re in for a treat! Bloomsday has a dedicated gluten-free fryer, so you can safely enjoy their crispy Fish and Chips alongside the patatas bravas. Their fried fish comes with a curry aioli that takes the dish to the next level. Plus, the staff was incredibly kind and accommodating!

If you’re a natural wine fan, the list is full of options. Personally I am not the biggest fan so I paired my meal with a Bees Knees cocktail, and it was perfection.

A New(er) Café in Old City

Almost Home (Website)
If I lived nearby, this would be my go-to work spot every day. It’s the epitome of cute, Instagrammable charm—think a giant bookshelf, cozy vibes, and an inviting atmosphere. The energy here was incredible!

I ordered an iced matcha with pistachio mylk, and it was chef’s kiss.

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Making Our Way Downtown…

We ventured to Center City to explore bars and restaurants before heading to the winter village in the afternoon.

An English Pub in the Heart of Philadelphia

The Dandelion (Website)
This British-inspired restaurant and bar is a unique maze of cozy nooks, each with its own vibe. Whether you’re saddling up to the bar (which we did), enjoying a cocktail by the fire, or finding a snug corner for brunch, there’s a perfect spot for every mood.

I started with the Citrus Punnet (Irvine’s Vodka, blood orange, grapefruit, rosemary, peychaud’s) and then took the bartender’s recommendation: the Pimm’s Deluxe (Bombay Dry Gin, Pimm’s #1, lemon, and muddled cucumber). Both were spot-on choices!

100% Gluten-Free in Center City

Mission Taqueria (Website)
If you’re a gluten-free foodie, Mission Taqueria in Philadelphia is a dream come true with its entirely gluten-free menu—including life-changing churros. From the flavorful Birria Quesadilla to the fresh Green Juice Margarita, every bite is packed with bold, unforgettable flavors. The hospitality was top-notch, the prices fair, and the atmosphere a hidden gem—earning top marks on my HYPE scale. If you’re in Philly, this spot is a must-visit for a safe and delicious Mexican feast!

Dinner in Fishtown: The Best Bite of 2024

Suraya (Website)
Nestled in Philly’s Fishtown, Suraya brings Levantine flavors to life with a dynamic menu and warm hospitality. The Kawarma was the kind of dish that lingers in your memory, and a surprise Madeira flight at the bar made the night even better. Behind it all, Nathalie Richan and Chef Nick Kennedy’s culinary mastery shines. Best of all, their team made gluten-free dining completely stress-free. Check out more from my “Best Bites of 2024” substack here.

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This appears on the bottom of the Mission Taqueria Menu: “All our tortillas are handmade from fresh masa, ground from heirloom corn imported from Mexico. This means that our entire menu is GLUTEN FREE. Even the churros. :)”

When I read this—before I even had the food—I was already doing the happy dance!

Okay let’s talk food…and if you only read this: save room for the gluten free churros they are worth it!

Let’s talk about the Green Juice Margarita—because when I saw kale, ginger, cucumber, and pineapple in a cocktail, I knew this place was meant for me. One sip in, and I was hooked. If you are that girly who loves a green juice or ginger shot in the morning you’re in the right place! I call it a detox before your retox, ha!

We went all in and ordered: Check out the reel here!

• Borracha Salsa & Chips
• Birria Quesadilla
• Lamb Suadero Tacos
• Esquites
• Gluten-Free Churros

The HYPE Breakdown: Mission Taqueria

I rate restaurants on my HYPE scale to see if they’re truly worth the buzz. Here’s how Mission Taqueria stacks up:

• Hospitality: We sat at the bar and had the best time chatting with our bartender—turns out we grew up just a town apart! A friendly, welcoming vibe makes all the difference.
• Yum Factor: Every dish was chef’s kiss perfection. The seasoning? On point. The flavors? Unforgettable.
• Price: Super fair for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Worth every penny!
• Environment: It’s got that cool, hidden-gem feel. You enter through Oyster House, go upstairs, and boom—you’re in a festive, casual, and Instagrammable space.

Final Verdict: Mission Taqueria is a Must-Visit!

If you’re in Philadelphia and on the hunt for gluten-free Mexican food, Mission Taqueria needs to be on your list. Whether you have Celiac Disease or just love great food, this spot delivers on all fronts.

I’ve finally realized why I’m so indecisive—it’s because when you have Celiac Disease, most of the time, your decisions are made for you. Traveling and dining with this condition means you’re usually stuck with a handful of ‘safe’ options.

But every so often, you stumble upon a unicorn: a restaurant where you can eat almost everything on the menu. Suddenly, you’re like every other diner, with a menu full of choices—and it’s like, “WTF do I even order?”

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It’s one of the most exhilarating moments for someone like me. I might be exaggerating (okay, I’m definitely exaggerating), but when you’re used to limited choices, it’s a pretty magical feeling. This was exactly how I felt when I pulled over on the side of the PCH in Bodega Bay, CA, expecting to scrape by with some random snack at a fish market, and instead finding myself staring at a menu full of gluten-free options at Fishetarian.

Seriously, I was overwhelmed—in the best way possible. From a gluten-free bread bowl filled with clam chowda to gluten free churros (yes, churros), I could eat almost everything! The only thing off-limits was the crab cakes. I ended up ordering the “Gluten-Free Beer Battered Fish” with sweet potato fries and a side of their “Asian Kale Salad.” They even have a separate fryer just for gluten-free items. It was like hitting the lottery! And the cherry on top? They had gluten-free beer in the fridge and an ocean view from their picnic tables.

The staff was amazing, answering all my typical Celiac-related questions with patience and a smile. Fishetarian is a hidden gem for anyone with dietary restrictions. They even label vegetarian and vegan options, making it super easy for everyone to find something delicious.

Now, a little backstory: Shane and Dana Lucas started Fishetarian in 2012, inspired by their love for fishing and healthy, delicious food. They’ve created a “Bummer Free Zone,” meaning if you’re not 100% satisfied with your meal, they’ll either refund you or remake it until you’re happy. How cool is that? Shane’s 40 years of fishing experience and their commitment to sustainable seafood practices show in every dish. All the tableware is recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable, and they source ingredients locally whenever possible. Before Fishetarian, finding healthy food in this remote beach town was almost impossible. Now, it’s a must-stop for foodies and health-conscious diners alike.

HYPE Scale: See the Reel Here

Hospitality:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The staff was so friendly and helpful with all my gluten-free questions. I never felt like I was being a “high-maintenance” customer.

Yum Factor:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The crispy, gluten-free batter took me back to when my mom would pick up fish n’ chips during Lent. The dipping sauces were top-notch, from their homemade Maui Wowie to chipotle mayo. The Asian Kale Salad was a healthy, refreshing side, and their GF beer and cider selection was the cherry on top.

Price:
⭐️⭐️⭐️
The three-piece fish was $22—not bad for locally caught seafood, and honestly, the portion was huge. You could probably get away with ordering two pieces instead.

Environment:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved the casual vibe and picnic tables overlooking the coast. It’s what I call “luxurious casual”—the perfect spot for a laid-back yet gourmet experience.

Fishetarian truly is a Bodega Bay treasure that makes dining with Celiac Disease not just safe but special. If you’re ever cruising down the PCH, trust me—you need to stop here. Just be prepared for that “WTF should I order?” moment.

2024 began with al fresco dining under the stars in Botswana, transitioned to summer explorations in the charming streets of Bruges, and brought me back home to the heart of Napa Valley. Each destination offered its own flavor and unforgettable moments. Narrowing down the list wasn’t easy, but these standout restaurants and bites truly left their mark. Here’s the countdown to the most incredible meals that made my year unforgettable. Let’s dive in!

1. Bistro Bruut – Bruges, Belgium

Creative cuisine and natural wines in a cozy environment.

About the Restaurant
Chef Bruno Timperman’s Bistro Bruut offers a warm, intimate dining experience tucked away on a quiet side street in Bruges, accessed through a charming red door. A celebration of creativity and local, seasonal products, the space feels like stepping into Chef Bruno’s personal home kitchen.

About the Chef
Chef Bruno and his team have earned their spot on Gault Millau, recently achieving a stellar 16/20 score. Their approach is rooted in storytelling through food, connecting diners to nature in every bite.

The Food + Wine
Every dish at Bruut comes alive with Chef Bruno’s creativity, paired impeccably with natural wines by sommelier Rob Meulebrouck. Two standout moments for me? Trying eel for the first time and savoring the best beef tartare I’ve ever had. Rob curates pairings that enhance Bruno’s creations, often asking, “Why this food with this wine?” Let me tell you, he has some seriously good answers.

Gluten-Free Sitch
Though dietary accommodations aren’t typical in Belgian restaurants, the team made an exception for me. They carefully crafted a safe and memorable gluten-free experience, showing extraordinary care and attention.

📍 Address: Meestraat 9, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
📞 Phone: +32 50 33 20 10
🌐 Website: bistrobruut.be
📸 Instagram: @bruutbrugge
🎥 See the Reel Here

2. Rebelle – Kortrijk, Belgium

Fine dining with a Michelin star and heartwarming hospitality.

About the Restaurant
Husband-and-wife duo Martijn Defauw and Tessa D’haene have created an approachable yet refined space at Rebelle. You’ll never see white tablecloths here, but you’ll find thoughtful touches and elevated details. Their youthful and fuss-free style earned them a Michelin star, perfectly matching their mission to make every guest feel at home and valued.

About the Chef
Chef Martijn’s standout creations, like his famous Lobster XO, blend global inspiration with local Flemish ingredients. His “sidecar bites”—small, complementary dishes—elevate the dining experience to a new level.

The Food + Wine
A highlight of my meal? The foie gras sandwich: onions transformed into waffles, filled with a foie gras patty, and paired with Champagne. It was a genius twist on liver and onions that I’ll never forget. Sommelier Michael Thieys, an exciting young talent, collaborates with Chef Martijn to create pairings so seamless they sometimes inspire the dishes themselves.

Gluten-Free Sitch
The team went above and beyond to make their signature dishes gluten-free, and their care and thoughtfulness truly stood out. CARE is the key word here—they have it in abundance.

📍 Address: Rekkemsestraat 226, 8510 Kortrijk, Belgium
📞 Phone: +32 56 32 77 23
🌐 Website: restaurantrebelle.be
📸 Instagram: @restaurantrebelle
🎥 See the Reel Here

3. The French Laundry – Yountville, California

The pinnacle of fine dining, with an unforgettable twist.

About the Restaurant
Thomas Keller’s iconic, 3-Michelin-starred restaurant is a bucket-list experience. This was my third visit, and yet, it felt like the first all over again.

About the Chef
Ara Jo was recently named Chef de Cuisine, but on the night we dined, Chef Isaac Galan led the kitchen. Chef Isaac and his team created a bespoke experience inspired by my friend’s request to see the “culture of the chefs.” Each course was a reflection of their diverse backgrounds, with every chef personally presenting their dish.

The Food
From Vadouvan curry to “Mexican BBQ,” each plate told a story. The grand finale? Dessert enjoyed in the kitchen with the team—a perfect example of unreasonable hospitality. Pro tip: Ask for the truffle chocolates and extra gluten-free donuts to go. You’ll thank me later!

Gluten-Free Sitch
The French Laundry’s gluten-free adaptations are unmatched. Their GF Coffee & Donuts are life-changing—if you’re gluten-free, you know exactly what I mean.

📍 Address: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, CA 94599
📞 Phone: (707) 944-2380
🌐 Website: frenchlaundry.com
📸 Instagram: @_tfl_
🎥 See the Reel Here

4. Duba Plains Camp – Botswana

An unforgettable safari dining experience.

About the Experience
For the past three years, I’ve been lucky enough to go on safari, and Duba Plains under Great Plains Conservation is a standout. Known for its great game and “test kitchen” dinner experiences, Duba Plains is more than a camp—it’s a family. Since 2022, we’ve built friendships that feel like home. After a day of exploring, we gather for meals under candlelight, surrounded by the sounds of the bush. It’s magic—an experience I hope everyone has at least once in their lifetime.

About the Chef
Assistant, the head chef, creates multi-course meals using ingredients delivered by boat and sourced locally. His creativity shines in dishes like gluten-free breads, chicken tenders, and even heart-shaped cakes.

The Food
Each meal is a celebration of local flavors and community. Candlelit dinners under the stars are as much about the people as they are about the food.

Gluten-Free Sitch
The chef rises to the challenge of gluten-free requests, making everything from fried chicken to flapjacks safe and delicious.

📍 Address: Great Plains Conservation, Botswana
🌐 Website: greatplainsconservation.com
📸 Instagram: @greatplainsconservation
🎥 See the Reel Here

5. Suraya – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Levantine flavors and bar-side hospitality.

About the Restaurant
Nestled in Philly’s Fishtown neighborhood, Suraya blends restaurant, garden, and market into one vibrant space. The menu celebrates Levantine flavors and traditions.

About the Chef
Co-owner Nathalie Richan and Chef Nick Kennedy bring global expertise to each dish. Their other projects, like Kalaya and Picnic, are just as exceptional.

The Food
The Kawarma was my standout bite of 2024—so flavorful it’s making me drool just thinking about it. Dining at the bar added a personal touch, capped off with a surprise Madeira flight from the bartender.

Gluten-Free Sitch
Knowledgeable and accommodating, the team ensured my dining experience was seamless.

📍 Address: 1528 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125
📞 Phone: (215) 302-1900
🌐 Website: surayaphilly.com
📸 Instagram: @surayaphilly