Ike’s Love and Sandwiches

I’ve eaten here before without issue, but got glutened today. They asked about allergy or preference, but there’s some issue with cross-contamination or not following directions in the kitchen.

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Not at all

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu

This location is terrible. They gave me regular bread more than once. Their locations in Concord and Danville do an amazing job of taking precautions against cross contamination and never make me sick. Go there instead!

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Not at all

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— No gluten-free information on the menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Some

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Average

Horrible. I tell the cashier I have celiac, a severe gluten allergy and I asked if they could change the gloves. While she did ask if i ordered the gluten free bread for preference or for allergy and of course I said allergy, after receiving and finishing my sandwich I look at he receipt and it says “gluten free bread preference”. When at other locations it always says allergy (because that’s what I ordered). Then I ask the cashier if they changed the gloves and she says something like no but if you said it was an allergy it wouldn’t have made any difference because there’s breadcrumbs everywhere like in the sauce.... never going there again. Do not recommend unless you just have a gluten free preference

Celiac friendly?

No

First time I went to Ike's in Oakland was all-around amazing -- great ingredients, fresh and with fantastic taste, and the folks at the storefront (2204 Broadway Street Oakland CA 510-338-6789) took great care: I ate, I enjoyed the taste and texture, and I had zero reactions. <3

This time I went to the location in Walnut Creek, and although I gave them clear instructions and stressed I would get very sick, someone back in the kitchen did not know or did not care -- I developed a reaction immediately after eating, and have the usual tingly hands/feet, dull neck pain, headache rising, gastrointestinal problems, with only God knowing how I will feel tomorrow.

It is fine if you are not safe because you are too busy or too crowded! But I would prefer eateries not to lie to me about food safety and make the next 24 hours hell for me as a customer that trusted them.

Celiac friendly?

No

The first time I went there was great--amazing sandwich, and the "dirty sauce", a garlic aioli I believe, was a delicious addition. When you order a sandwich on a GF bun, they ask if your GF-ness is a preference or an allergy, which I appreciated.

The second time, however, I got the same sandwich and a day later, I felt those tell-tale cramps and pains.. I'm betting what happened was they didn't wipe down the counters enough while making the sandwich, resulting in some gluten crumbs on my GF bun.

Almost two weeks later, I'm fully recovered and exercising more caution and skepticism.

Overall, I'd say Ike's is good for people who mainly stick to a GF diet as a preference, and a big risk for folks with celiac.. :(

Celiac friendly?

No

Best gluten free baguette I've ever had. I actually took it back because I thought they made a mistake! Sandwich was tasty but a little pricey ($10). Only con: all chips have MSG and other bad ingredients. I would suggest a different brand of chips for this chain. Also-they ask allergy or preference, which I like.

I have a wheat allergy, not celiac, so I can't vouch for the kitchen safety. Contamination risk seems high if you are very sensitive because it's a tight space. Their GF bread is delicious--so soft with a great texture. The staff usually ask if you have an allergy if you order GF, but not always, so be sure to point it out. Also, the staff has told me on two occasions that their vegan meats are wheat-free, but they aren't marked GF on the website so I'm not sure I trust the answer.

They were very careful and knowledgeable. No issues afterwards. One of the best sandwiches I've had! I had the Menage A Trois. Delicious! The only problem is there isn't an Ike's near me!

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Somewhat

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Some

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Excellent

I have gone to various Ike’s locations for years, and I am a sensitive Celiac. I have yet to get sick. They take extra precautions, so your food will take 15 extra minutes on top of a normal sandwich time. I recommend ordering in advance through the app or online. Also, the bread is incredibly dry, so order extra sauce on the bread. I normally order Italian dressing and ask it to be put on both sides of the bread before the toppings. It is a $3 upcharge for gluten free and then extra for the sauce, so know your sandwich will be pricey. So. Delicious. And. Worth it.

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Somewhat

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Most/All

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Excellent

Other Characteristics

• Good for dairy-free
• Good for kids
• Good for lunch
• Good for takeout
• Good selection of healthy options
• Good vegan options
• Good vegetarian options
• Good with other allergies
• Offers online ordering
• Offers outdoor seating

This is the best sandwich shop ever! While offering gluten free options for celiac, they also offer regular food. Staff is nice and organized. Food takes a little too long to prepare. But delicious. Definitely recommend.

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Very

Safety Feature Ratings

• Staff is knowledgeable and can answer questions
• Dedicated gluten-free space in the kitchen
• Staff will clean kitchen space or change gloves if asked

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Most/All

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Excellent

Other Characteristics

• Good for dinner
• Good for kids
• Good for lunch
• Good for takeout
• Good selection of healthy options
• Offers delivery
• Offers online ordering

Great gluten free sandwich options!!

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Very

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Most/All

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Excellent

Catered to my celiac properly. went and washed her hands and changed her gloves. Got the Matt Cain extra dirty with a rice crispy treat. With no reaction! Bread fell apart but that’s to be expected. Lots of options to choose from!

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Somewhat

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Most/All

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Excellent