Review of Northstar House

Edit: Since first posting this review a few years ago, Northstar House has become my go-to place to take visitors. They can accommodate several food allergies (eg dairy, nuts) on top of having a mostly GF or can-be-made GF menu. Highly recommend supporting this local business!

A good place to go in Ithaca for an enjoyable GF meal. This restaurant was great both in terms of range of gluten free offerings and in terms of the helpfulness and knowledge of the staff about celiac. They clearly understood cross-contamination, and many of their dishes were already GF and celiac safe or had an easy substitution (e.g. rice for couscous, and corn/rice pasta for gluten pasta). GF items are not marked on the menu (except for GF pasta being listed) so you do have to ask the server; our server was incredibly helpful. Was told burgers can be made GF without cross-contamination using a separate pan and GF bun. Unfortunately the fryer is shared, so no fries and no appetizers were safe (appetizers could change as seasonal menu changes), but some things that stood out on the menu: in addition to several flavorful rice bowls and a tofu curry (fried tofu can be exchanged for pan-cooked), they had a GF option for Mac and cheese (I didn’t order this so I didn’t ask if the roux sauce had flour - make sure to ask if you want to order it), and for spaghetti bolognese, and an “Im-pasta” impossible burger-based bolognese - definitely vegetarian / pescatarian friendly too. Their menu is seasonal, but they were really aware and accommodating and had a wide range of safe things. Looking forward to going back.

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

— Very

Safety Feature Ratings

• Dedicated gluten-free fryer
• Staff is knowledgeable and can answer questions

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