HEALTH
SPOKANE IS
GLUTEN FREE-EASY May is Celiac Awareness Month; use this guide to find tasty and safe local dining options for gluten-free food
Wiley’s gluten-free duck confit.
YOUNG KWAK PHOTO
BY MANDY BRAVIROFF
B
eing diagnosed with celiac disease in 2009 after struggling through some serious health issues was a tough hit. While getting the diagnosis saved me from a future filled with the pain and agony I’d already been through, it inadvertently destroyed most of my personal life. Meals with friends and family were previously quite common, but my diagnosis brought that to an immediate halt. With the added fear of getting sick — and after actually getting sick a few times — I began avoiding eating at their homes, including on holidays. I felt lost, with no guidance for how to be “gluten free.” Today, celiac disease, a genetically inherited condition, affects about 1 percent of Americans, or 3 million people. It’s estimated that up to 80 percent of people who have celiac disease, which can present itself through a wide range of symptoms or none at all, are undiagnosed. When I was diagnosed in 2009, “gluten free” wasn’t a common term in restaurants or grocery stores. After struggling to find dining experiences I was used to, and trying to understand exactly what gluten was, I began
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researching and educating myself. Almost a decade later, in 2017, I launched the Spokane Gluten Free Eats food blog (on Instagram @spokaneglutenfreeeats) after noticing a frequent question on social media: How can one eat gluten free in Spokane? I had found many supportive places to eat, and figured I could further help local gluten-free foodies find a safe place to eat, too; especially those struggling like I once was. The Spokane-Coeur d’Alene area now has some of the best restaurants whose owners and staff truly understand the needs of people living with celiac disease, including the crucially important need to avoid crosscontamination on cooking surfaces and utensils. Their continued support has helped make it possible for those of us with the disease or gluten intolerance to enjoy eating out again. In recognition of May as Celiac Awareness Month, I’ve compiled a list of some favorite local eateries I’ve safely eaten at in the Inland Northwest. Remember, there’s always a chance for cross-contamination if a
kitchen is not dedicated to being completely gluten free, so eat at your own risk. I always try to speak to chefs, owners or general managers ahead of any new visit to understand my risks better. Also remember to always let your server know of your allergies or of any concerns Find more resources from before ordering so they can make sure to give you the best Spokane Gluten Free Eats at spokanegfeats.weebly.com experience possible. and on Instagram Now, get out there and @spokaneglutenfreeeats eat, explore and enjoy!
SPOKANE
COCHINITO TAQUERIA
Tucked in the center of downtown and adorned with a colorful south-of-the-border vibe, Cochinito offers some of the best tacos in Northwest. Their handmade corn tortillas, savory twists on traditional recipes and vibrant fresca margaritas make Cochinito a solid choice for gluten-free diners. For dedicated GF fried tortilla chips,