Parkside Cafe

I got the GF empanada platter. I told them I had celiac disease and was dairy intolerant. They assured me the empanada had no cheese in it and that the plantains could be cooked in a separate clean plan rather than in the regular frying oil. The food was good except that the kitchen had put feta cheese on the mixed salad greens that came with the meal. I can use dairy pills to be able to eat dairy so I just used those.

In terms of safety it seemed safe-ish with them making the plantains in a separate pan, etc. But it didn’t seem that it was communicated that I was dairy intolerant. I would be curious to hear more about people’s experiences who get symptoms. I was heartened by the previous reviews but if I come again I will make sure to also ask about not having cheese on the salad and might try to call ahead or to talk to the kitchen staff directly to make sure the communication happens well.

They do have a decent number of GF options listed up front on two different signs.

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

— Somewhat

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Separate gluten-free 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?

— Excellent

Other Characteristics

• Good for dairy-free
• Good for lunch
• Good vegetarian options

I just found my new favorite lunch place. True empanadas and they are gluten-free! The empanada platter was two huge empanadas so I will get two meals out of this one. I look forward to going back and trying other items.

Because I don't speak any other language, there was a bit of difficulty in my understanding the questions as I ordered but it just confirmed that there folks were preparing authentic foods.

Next up will be trying their carnitas.

Multiple gluten-free options of foods that are naturally GF, not substituting ingredients. I look forward to trying more. It is a small place so I doubt they can completely avoid cross-contamination but I am willing to risk it for this deliciou food!!

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Separate gluten-free 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 breakfast/brunch
• Good for kids
• Good for lunch
• Good for takeout
• Good selection of healthy options
• Good vegetarian options

I’ve eaten here three times. The first two times I specified that I had a serious intolerance and I was fine. The third time I went, I forgot to specify, and I became very ill. They can make any sandwich with gf bread. Sometimes they have gf Mexican food options, which I’ve heard is very good. The lemonade is great. They make it fresh and serve it in a giant deli container with a hole poked in the top for a straw. I’ve stopped a few times and gotten lattes and don’t like them—too weak-tasting.

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

— Somewhat

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?

— Good

Gluten-free arepas, tacos and sandwiches. As well as salads

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?

— Excellent

Other Characteristics

• Good for dairy-free
• Good for takeout