Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Being on a gluten-free diet used to be a challenge, but now---thanks to the more widespread knowledge of the wheat allergen---it's become much easier for people who have this condition to enjoy eating a wide variety of foods. The charming town of Bar Harbor, Maine has a few eateries that don't just cater to a gluten-free diet; they make it enjoyable.
Just 20 minutes outside of Bar Harbor proper, the Jordan Pond House Restaurant is one of the area's most loved cafes, and it's also gluten-free friendly. The restaurant is in a house that dates to 1847, and became a restaurant in the 1870s. In the late 1970s, a fire destroyed the original structure, but the community banded together and created a new Jordan Pond House soon after. During the warmer months, diners can eat al fresco and enjoy the view of the pond and the surrounding mountains. The restaurant has a variety of lunch and dinner items, including salads and traditional stews, that can all be prepared gluten-free.
Jordan Pond House Restaurant
Park Loop Rd.
Seal Harbor, ME 04675
207-276-3244
www.jordanpond.com
What was once a rarity---gluten-free baked goods---has become the norm at Bar Harbor's Morning Glory Bakery. Many of the baked specialties produced daily are friendly to not just gluten-free diets but also locavores: the bakery focuses on using organic, locally produced ingredients in its delicacies. Some of the baked goods offered are not just gluten-free but also sugar- and/or dairy-free. The bakery makes bread, muffins, pastries, specialty occasion desserts and all types of breakfast rolls. The soup is made on-site and is both vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free. Savory items are also available, including bread sticks, pretzels and onion bread. A selection of salads and quiche are available daily for breakfast, brunch or lunch.
Morning Glory Bakery
39 Rodick St.
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
207-288-3041
www.morningglorybakery.com
At Side Street Cafe, the emphasis is on fresh, local cuisine. A garden out back provides both fresh herbs and edible flowers during the summer, and the menu features a wide variety of gluten-free items. Any of the restaurant's sandwiches can be transformed into a lettuce wrap, and soups and salads are made with a wide variety of flavors and ingredients, leading to truly diverse choices. A loaded baked potato, hummus plate and guacamole served with corn chips are also options for a light lunch or appetizer. In the morning, Side Street offers a wide variety of coffee-based drinks. In the evening, sample some of the wine and beer, among other non-alcoholic beverages available.
Side Street Cafe
49 Rodick St.
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
207-801-2591
http://www.sidestreetbarharbor.com/