Review of Terracotta Red

This restaurant had a dessert on their menu marked “gluten free.” I questioned it, as it contained lady fingers, and they reassured me several times that it was gluten free, even going so far as to tell me the popular organic grocery chain that sold them. Feeling adequately convinced, I ordered it. After eating about 5 bites, the server came running out of the kitchen and told me to stop eating it because it was not gluten free. But the damage was done, it caused a significant flare of celiac symptoms and my dermatitis herpetiformis, which are finally resolving almost 2 months later.

They were apologetic and assured me they would fix the menu. It is still listed as GF on their online menu.

They also do not have a dedicated fryer, so anything fried is not celiac safe, even if it doesn’t contain gluten ingredients (honey walnut prawns, etc.).

They took the $8 dessert off my bill. Great. I saved $8 and it only cost me 2 months of illness and misery. I will not eat here again, and would encourage people with celiac to be very careful. The food itself was delicious, but the personal cost was very high for me.

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

— Not at all

Safety Feature Ratings

• 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