by Jerrica B.

We all know that Ouachita Parish is home to some of the most delicious food. Our local restaurants boast a wide variety of flavors and cuisines. However, there are some whose options are limited. For those of you who have Celiac’s disease, gluten intolerance, or who just prefer a gluten free diet, there are several restaurants in our area who are happy to cater to your needs. Check out these great places:

Gluten free Chicken Pot Pie at For His Temple Foods

1. For His Temple Family Foods (315 Wood St., West Monroe)

The beauty of this restaurant is that you can walk right in, order anything off the menu, and it is guaranteed to be gluten free. This place boasts a 100% gluten free menu. From their delicious chicken pot pie—made with gluten free pie crust—to their pecan chocolate chip cookies, all of their food is organic. Their goal is to serve only healthy, delicious meal alternatives to your everyday menu. This place is pick-up only, so it’s great for a quick stop!

Wagyu Burger at Vieux Carre Gourmet Market

2. Vieux Carre Gourmet Market (1623 N 18^th, Monroe)

Satisfy your burger cravings here! This restaurant offers a gluten-free burger that is to die for! The Wagyu Burger is 6 oz. house ground with onion, pickles, American cheese, lettuce, and tomato all wrapped in steamed collards in place of a bun.

Cilantro Organic Bistro

3. Cilantro Organic Bistro (1211 N 18^th, Monroe)

This restaurant offers many gluten-free options on their menu. Most of their menu changes daily, but the delicious roasted turkey sandwich can be served on gluten free bread, and it is almost always available! Also, be on the lookout for their delicious gluten free peanut butter or chocolate chip cookies. Check their website for weekly menu updates.

Roma Italian Bistro

4. Roma Italian Bistro (400 Trenton St., West Monroe)

People visit this restaurant for their amazing pasta dishes and Italian cuisine, but also for their casual, chic atmosphere. For their gluten free options, any pasta dish can be prepared with gluten free pasta.

Paw Paw’s Pizza

5. Paw Paw’s Pizza Factory Buffet  (3426 Cypress St., West Monroe)

This relatively new restaurant in West Monroe has been making big impressions on pizza lovers throughout the area. They have a gluten free pizza crust that can be used with any of their delicious toppings. It is not available on the buffet, but it is made to order. Call ahead and check availability, though, because they sell through them quickly!

Daily Harvest

6. Daily Harvest (1105 Forsythe Ave., Monroe)

This restaurant always has healthy foods ready to eat. Call one day ahead to order gluten free muffins, brownies, or cookies! This gives the kitchen the ability to avoid cross-contamination and it gives you the ability to enjoy a delicious, gluten free dessert!

BONUS:

Gluten free cakes by Butter Bakery

For all of your celebrating and party needs, Butter Bakery, a home-based bakery, bakes and decorates gluten free cakes! They can do single or multi-tier for office parties, weddings, or birthdays. Try their cupcakes and cookies as well. Check out their Facebook page for a look at all of their amazing creations.

All of these local places offer great alternatives for gluten-free eaters, and they don’t skimp on the flavor! Give them a try next time you are looking for a delicious, healthy meal.