I think it’s safe to say that gluten-free eating is here to stay. Either by choice or due to allergy or intolerance, choosing a gluten-free lifestyle is a growing trend. For health reasons, I’ve been eating gluten-free for over five years and it’s amazing to see how the market continues to grow. In fact, according to Forbes.com it’s estimated that over 3.1 million Americans follow a gluten-free diet—a number that’s tripled in the last ten years. Finding choices at the grocery store, restaurants, coffee shops, farmer’s markets and beyond is easier than ever. Did you know there is even a gluten-free concession stand now at Ohio Stadium?
Admittedly, I have a major sweet tooth! And lucky for me, there is a growing number of easily accessible, decadent gluten-free dessert and treat options available throughout Central Ohio. I’ve rounded up a list of some of my favorite Columbus area bakeries and pastry shops with gluten-free offerings where I visit when the craving strikes. And frankly, ingredients aside, I believe the goodies from these tasty sweet shops hold there own when stacked up against their gluten-filled counterparts.
Places in Columbus to get Gluten-Free Treats
Bake Me Happy
This completely gluten-free bakery was started to provide easier access to quality gluten-free foods and to help bridge the gap between gluten-free and non-gf consumers alike. You can visit the bakery in Merion Village and find a variety of their baked goods at retailers throughout Columbus. From Moon Pies to Zebra Canes and Oatmeal Creme Clouds, they’ve updated some old school favorites with a gluten-free twist. They also carry a variety of classics including cupcakes, brownies, cookies and pies.
Belgium Iron Wafel Company
This Belgium wafel shop opened earlier this year in the Short North boasting menus of both sweet and savory gluten-free wafel options. These authentic Belgium wafels are made “Liege Style” including some imported ingredients. A variety of toppings are available, my favorite being the Lemon Cream. And if the craving hits and you don’t want to leave your home, delivery options are available.
Food for Good Thought
This ten-year-old establishment is a totally gluten-free bakery which provides employment opportunities for individuals with autism. They stock muffins, pies, cookies and other dessert bars plus offer a wide variety of goodies available for special order. Popular items sell out quickly in their Clintonville storefront, so it’s best to call ahead to reserve your treat of choice. My favorite? Their Buckeye candies!
Pistacia Vera
With locations in North Market and German Village, this French-inspired bakery has goodies that look just as beautiful as they taste. A highlight are their Parisian Macarons in a bounty of authentic flavors and vivid colors. Also, don’t miss the delicious Pistachio Cherry Chocolate Flourless Dacquoise for a flavorful treat!
Cherbourg Bakery
This gluten-free Mecca is located in the heart of Bexley. The bakery is completely gluten, wheat and nut-free, using minimally processed and local ingredients when possible. They offer a variety of baked goods with rotating features like Twinkie Tuesday and seasonal donuts. Egg dishes are available in the morning until they sell out as well as pour-over coffee. I absolutely cannot leave the store without a s’mores bar, chocolate donut or cream puff.
Pattycake Bakery
This strictly vegan bakery is a Clintonville favorite. This worker-owned cooperative uses 100% all-natural ingredients. They keep a variety of regularly stocked gluten-free products as well as baked goods containing wheat. Their gluten-free cookies, cakes and Buckeye bars are among my items of choice. You can also find their baked goods throughout town in coffee shops and local grocers.
Soodles Bake Shop
Located in the Worthington area, this allergy-friendly bakery is free of gluten, wheat, egg, dairy, soy, fish/shellfish and peanut/tree nuts (excluding coconut). They have a wide variety of offerings, including custom cakes and specialty cupcakes, pies, muffins, breads, cake pops and more! Their products can be found at various Central Ohio restaurants as well as local grocery stores and the Worthington Farmer’s Market. Don’t miss their chocolate covered graham crackers and best-selling coffee cake!
Dough Mama
Pies and pastries and pancakes oh my! This Clintonville gem serves up a tasty breakfast and scratch-made goodies to go with it. Serving gluten-free and non-gf consumers alike, they source high-quality local ingredients featuring hearty Americana cuisine. I can’t resist the gluten-free lemon poppy seed muffins!
Eban’s Bakehouse
Founded by two professional chefs, this gluten-free dedicated bakery is committed to helping those with wheat and gluten allergies enjoy the very best tasting and finest quality breads and baked goods. You can shop their retail location in Columbus (with limited hours) or find their products at major grocers, local markets and coffee shops throughout Central Ohio and the Midwest. Their cinnamon raisin bread is delicious, but my pick from here are the organic, vegan CoCo nutballs.
