It hit me in the Biergarten. We were sharing a table with a couple of other attendees, each of us drinking some gluten-free cocktail or another (Bards for me, Boyd & Blair Potato Vodka and cranberry for my sister and Magners Irish Cider for our buddies). There was a bowl of Snyder’s gluten free pretzels within reach and we were exclaiming over sandwiches – yes, sandwiches! – made from The Grainless Baker rolls and Dietz and Watson cold cuts and condiments. There was an air of festivity in the Biergarten which had nothing to do with intoxication. In a flash, I realized it: we’re all just normal people in here. No“Sorry, I can’t eat that,” or “Do you know if that has gluten in it?” or “(sigh) I’ll just have a glass of water, please.” We were regular people enjoying a regular day out, eating and drinking whatever we wanted, because it was all safe. And although the gourmet fare served up by the restaurants and caterers was incredibly delicious, it was the “normal” food we were in awe of.
The longest line of the day belonged to Tonya’s Gluten Free Kitchen, whose gluten free soft pretzels' aroma was amazing. The workers behind the table couldn’t keep up. It was interesting to see the excitement of the people in line. One woman enthused: “This will be my first soft pretzel in 16 years!”
Rudi’s gluten free bakery was turning out the most amazing grilled cheese sandwiches I have ever tasted; I’d forgotten they could be so scrumptious.
Sweet Christine’s baked the most amazing, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chip cookies and surprisingly yummy baked donuts.
I’m a little embarrassed to admit that I tried every single cupcake in the Navy Yard that day, but there it is. And I’m not a bit sorry. Among some of the stand-outs: French Meadow Bakery, Philly’s own Sweet Freedom, and The Grain Exchange from Doylestown.
Shabtai blew me away yet again with their Ring Tings, Mini Black and White cookies and Swiss Rolls. Michael, whose dad is behind all of Shabtai’s delights, was on hand sharing his sweets and proudly showcasing their glossy Devil’s Food Seven Layer cake.
I think we all left the Navy Yard that day feeling happy and satisfied; full of gluten free treats and a nice healthy dose of “normal.”
Comments
Sounds like an amazing day! Have to try to make the next one!!! :-)
It was a delicious day and that's saying alot from a someone who doesn't have to eat GF!!
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