While yes they have gf options, it is not intended for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerances. I first tried their goods when they opened and while I loved the taste of the food, it did not go well for me after. I unexpectedly tried them today at a restaurant with HIGHLY recommended reviews for celiac but they didn’t indicate their gf desserts are from somewhere else. The restaurant I went to made it sound like it was made in house until I researched the dessert they served and it came up across the street and I asked if it was from there and they admitted it was. I’ve been in the bathroom for the last hour, and I’m deeply regretting trying the restaurant across the street from Carina’s… I support the visually impaired community but however don’t believe celiacs can entrust the safety of the product unless the business is dedicated GF, celiacs, gluten intolerant people should avoid as cross-contact is nearly impossible at this establishment. Try at your own risk!
Love visiting Carina’s Scandinavian Bakery, which has many GF options for sweet & savory treats. However all treats are vegan. My favorite is her mini Swedish almond loaf. Pistachio loaf is pretty fantastic, too. Craveable. Have never had a reaction. Storefront is actually on 1st not Lombard.
As others have said this place isn't safe for Celiacs. I figured I'd give it a shot to see how my gut faired because it's the closest place to me that has GF food.
They had gluten containing food in the same display case as the gluten free food, though off to one side. Then, after we told the person behind the counter I had Celiac, we waited for about 20 minutes while they microwaved my biscuit because we ordered it warm. It seemed like a long time but as someone who's also Disabled I figured the employee just needed a little extra time.
My attention had strayed while I waited and grabbed the bag with my order and left. I didn't register that there was only one bag, and my partner had ordered something with gluten. They put them in the same bag, without containers to separate them, just paper.
This is a business model I'd love to support but it's just not geared to a customer like me.
We were pleasantly surprised at how good all the things we tried were. My husband and I both thought the Strawberry Tarta ice cream was the most complex and satisfying ice cream we’ve ever had. We’ll probably go back at least once a week to get even just that.
But all the GF Everyday Cookies we tried were also great. I especially loved the raisin cookie, the vanilla lime sugar cookie, and the pistachio shortbread, which had a lovely hint of cardamom. My husband got the chocolate peanut butter Girl Scout Cookie-inspired ones and he said they were really good. I can’t believe we ate all that in one go, but we did!
I am celiac and I have alpha-gal syndrome, an egg-allergy, sesame allergy, and a severe soy allergy. Truthfully I was a bit nervous when she told me that she didn’t have a dedicated gluten-free kitchen area. And then I also worried when I saw chocolate-coated items because almost all chocolate contains soy and Carina’s is said to be a soy-free bakery. But when I discussed it with her, she told me she sought out a soy-free line of chocolate to use. And then she let me know that she has other celiacs who come in regularly and don’t get sick. So I thought I’d risk it. So far, I feel absolutely well. I’m so impressed with her knowledge, her creativity, and her commitment to the mission. I would totally recommend.
Not safe for people with Celiac or highly sensitive to cross-contact with gluten, as they are not a dedicated gluten free bakery. While they do their best, the risk for ingesting gluten is still there. Having said that, I am NOT saying don’t eat there. Each person must decide what level of risk is appropriate for them or their kid or kids. Some prefer taking no risks. Some choose to take this risk. Review gives 5 stars because I choose not to eat there, so I can’t judge their food.
Amazing food and absolutely delicious! Opened in 2017 and is a local owned business so please support! Very safe for most gluten free needs and a vegan bakery all around!! My gluten free wife was fine and loved it but super sensitive celiac may wish to be wary, as I confirmed the kitchen is not fully gluten free.
Carinas is awesome!! A 100% vegan bakery with tons of GF options, all unique and delicious. It is owned and operated all by people with disabilities. Be sure to look through the window under the counter to see the owners service dog! Love this place and a great way to support local!