Nelson is renowned for its thriving café culture, which can make dining out a daunting experience if you live with a gluten intolerance and need to eat gluten-free. But worry not – with a few of the right places in mind, enjoying a wonderful meal out can be quite easy. Below is a comprehensive guide to the best restaurants for delicious gluten-free options in Nelson.
1. Taste of India Nelson
Taste of India Nelson is widely known as a go-to spot for authentic Indian cuisine. But, unknown to many, many of their dishes are also gluten-free. Some of their recommended gluten-free dishes include their Butter Chicken and Tikka Masala, both of which pack a delicious punch of flavor. The all-important naans can be swapped for their gluten-free Rice and Lentil Rotis – a perfect accompaniment to any Indian dish.
2. Café Kitsch
Café Kitsch is a classic Nelson café with a twist – their menu also offers delicious gluten-free options. Breakfast is a great time to visit Café Kitsch, as they offer gluten-free french toast with berry compote, which is a real treat. But it’s not just breakfast – their lunchtime menu also offers a variety of salads and gluten-free items, such as their homemade soups and sandwiches.
3. Third Place Café
Third Place Café is another great place to visit if you’re looking for delicious gluten-free food. Whether you’re after breakfast, lunch or dinner, they’ve got something to suit everyone. They specialise in healthy, locally-sourced dishes, which also happen to be gluten-free. Their savoury offerings include a variety of salads and spelt flatbreads – the perfect nourishing meal.
4. Junction Café and Bar
Junction Café and Bar is the perfect stop for lunch or dinner – if you’re looking for gluten-free options, they have plenty of them. Many of their dishes are marked as gluten-free, making it easy to pick out options for those with gluten intolerances. Their menu items include local seafood, homemade pizzas and delicious desserts.
5. Captain & The Crow
Captain & The Crow takes brunching to the next level, with some of Nelson’s best brunch dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. Many of their dishes are marked as gluten-free, including their breakfast burrito, creamy mushrooms and scrambled eggs. If you’re looking for something sweet, their delicious gluten-free waffles will do the trick.
6. India Today
India Today restaurant is Nelson’s favourite for Nepalese and Indian food. With many of their dishes being gluten-free, there’s something to please everyone. Their menu offers a range of vegetarian, chicken, lamb and seafood dishes, all of which are marked gluten-free. Some of their classics include their Tandoori King Prawns, Paneer Tikka Masala and Palak Paneer.
7. The Beached Whale
The Beached Whale is a great option for those looking for gluten-free options in Nelson. Their menu includes a range of gluten-free items, such as their smoked fish chowder, Thai Green Curry, salads and gluten-free bread. They also offer a range of gluten-free beer and cider, making it the perfect place to unwind with some friends.
Making Gluten-Free Dining Easier in Nelson
No matter what your taste buds are in the mood for, Nelson offers a wide range of delicious gluten-free options.
- Taste of India Nelson
- Café Kitsch
- Third Place Café
- Junction Café and Bar
- Captain & The Crow
- India Today
- The Beached Whale
Each of these restaurants will provide you with a great dining experience while allowing you to stick to your gluten-free diet. With a range of delicious dishes, where you choose to eat will be the hard part!
Travelling with a Gluten-Free Diet
For those travelling in New Zealand with a gluten-free diet, it’s worth noting that gluten-free food is becoming easier to find in restaurants and cafés. Many of the eateries in Nelson offer gluten-free options, making it easier for those with gluten intolerances to enjoy eating out.
If you’re travelling abroad with a gluten-free diet, it’s important to do some research before leaving. Knowing ahead of time what foods are gluten-free can help you find the best options for dining out.
Here are some tips for eating gluten-free while travelling:
- Check restaurants and cafés in the city you’re visiting for gluten-free options
- Learn the language – it will help you to ask questions about your meals
- Pack your own snacks or bring gluten-free baking with you
- Opt for street food vendors – as long as you know what’s in your food, this can be a great way to try local cuisine
Eating gluten-free while travelling doesn’t have to be hard. With a bit of research, you can find delicious dishes in any destination worldwide.
Conclusion
Nelson is a great destination for those looking for delicious gluten-free options. With a range of eateries offering gluten-free dishes, you can enjoy a great meal without worrying about cross-contamination. So, next time you’re looking to sample some of Nelson’s café culture, try out one of the eateries mentioned above for a great gluten-free experience.
