How often do you go into a restaurant, being a Celiac individual or gluten allergic individual, and feel REALLY comfortable? I can’t say I feel very comfortable when I get an answer such as “I think it’s gluten free…” or “Uhhhh .. it should be.” Well you know what, “should be” doesn’t count when I will be gagging on your floor, I say to myself all too often.
Going out to dinner was always one of my ABSOLUTE favorite things to do! And being restricted to ordering plain steamed brown rice or a plain grilled something isn’t the real experience of what dining out is. What I miss so much is experiencing what the chef is making that night, how he or she combines the flavors, and what their interpretations of whatever they are is making is. THAT is what I miss!!
So when you do go to a place and ARE able to have something that is the chef’s creation, and the servers know exactly what you are talking about when you say “I can’t have gluten”, and for me I can’t have dairy… and “is there soy in it?” and so on. When you find that place, you want to do a dance, and many times I have done a dance!
I found that place to my surprise the other night, with My Friend Ralph- a place called Goat Town. And OH MY GOAT is it good! It is in New York City on 5th Street between avenue A and B. Goat Town. And the name comes from a negative term, goats were what they called the settlers… so goat town… then it morphed to gotham. It’s a real throw back to an old era with really great white tiled seats and great tiled walls, a beautiful bar, mirrors that are haggard, it’s just a great great great looking room.
And you sit down and wonder “ok- what is going to happen here” as you cautiously look at the menu. I loved that there was not too much to choose from, you know they know exactly what is in every item – something I find VERY important when choosing a restaurant. To go somewhere that there is not 50 things on the menu because then you are taking a chance there, that they are not going to know exactly what is in what. This menu looked so amazing and everything seemed fresh and seasonal, and it said “organic” on the menu. But you know, still, I was nervous…
Before I ordered I took a walk to the bathroom that is past the completely open kitchen, which was so awesome to see these two ladies cooking their butts off and you saw everything that was happening. As I’m waiting to get into the bathroom I turn to look out the back restaurant door and I noticed they have a garden where they grow their own herbs, and veggies, and tomatoes, and OH MY GOD I was happy!
So, I was VERY excited but I’m still always cautious.
When I got back to the table and spoke to our server, I said “listen”, I always start off with “listen”, “I have a really serious serious gluten allergy and very bad dairy allergy. I can not have either.” And I always say, “if you can’t do it just tell me you can’t, because I’d rather sit here and just have a glass of wine than try and eat something that I will then be really sick from later.” Well, not only did she know what gluten was, which is part of the battle, but she understood how severe this all is. She went back twice to talk to the chefs, and the ladies who were cooking the food knew exactly what they could and could not do. And to my surprise she came back and offered me something that I had been eyeing on another table.
It was, I swear one of the best chickens I have ever had. With fresh carrots, and would normally come with this beautiful sauce on it but I did not want to take any chances, so I just asked for a little olive oil and they added fresh herbs from the garden. And I know it sounds really simple but it wasn’t. It was still their beautiful creation! It was just a little bit of a different version and I still got to taste something that wasn’t just a plain steamed something, it was this creation they wanted to give me and it was AWESOME! And to top it all off, for an appetizer I had a tomato (from their garden) and watermelon salad that was insane, best tomatoes I have ever tasted! If you have never tasted tomatoes fresh from a garden you need to go and do that asap because it just makes you smile.
After all that, I thought “hey, I feel good…” I didn’t feel anything wrong from that meal. And for me, if I get even the smallest bit of gluten I feel it instantly. But I felt good! I felt nourished, and I was SOO happy!
the heavenly chocolate sorbet
And then the server comes around to offer desserts. Now, if your a Celiac you know there is nothing for you. There is nothing, because there is pretty much gluten everywhere on the dessert menu- just as there is on a regular menu but even more so. And when you have a dairy allergy as well you are pretty much looking around at everyone smiling eating their desserts while wanting to kill them all. So I sat happy with my meal as she said, “Would you like to try the chocolate sorbet?” And as I was ready to say “no I can’t, I have allergies…” she stops me and says no it has nothing in it but water and fresh cocoa, dark chocolate, and it’s made in this machine that the owner got from Europe that stirs it so much that it becomes this creamy lovely beautiful decadent sorbet, almost like the thickest gelato you have ever tasted. And after she swore up and down, and because I trusted them with this chicken they just made me, I said you know what I am going to give it a try. And when I tell you WOW! I am going to try to make that thing at home, even if I have to whip that thing up for 4 hours… It was ABSOLUTELY delicious!
So, my friends, if you are in Goat Town, Gotham, the old city of Manhattan, you must go to try a restaurant called Goat Town. Not only is it a cool atmosphere and just beautiful to look at, but you can actually eat a beautiful meal and feel safe. What a great evening that is!
Goat Town
511 East 5th Street
New York, NY 10009
It makes ms SO HAPPY to read about how great your experience was here. Definitely, must try Goat Town soon.
What a great post! I suffer from a range of food allergies myself (anaphylaxis to peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish) and you are absolutely right – eating out is always feels like I’m playing roulette and finding those hidden gems is so exciting. Sounds like Goat Town is a place I will be visiting. FYI – I had an amazing experience at MAS in the West Village – I was actually able to participate in a 6 course tasting menu where I had NO idea what was coming out next. First time ever.
Cool post. I think we are finally making great progress. When I was first diagnosed with Celiac, it was impossible to find a restaurant that would take my condition seriously. Glad to know about Goat Town. Thanks.
I eat vegan, no soy or gluten . this makes it hard to find recipes , I was so glad to see you on DrOZ. the scones sounds fab .what is a good egg replacement? I miss bake goods. I can not wait for you cook book to come out. Blessings Donna A.
You can use flax seeds as a supplement for eggs. Not sure the exact amount but i’m sure if you google it you will find it. Try my scones, no eggs! i love them, think you will too!
jennifer
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A good egg replacer is “Egg Replacer” by Energy Foods. Or you can also use apple sauce or ground flax seeds soaked in hot water. Here is a response that someone emailed me when I asked about replacing eggs:
In response to your question about a guideline of what egg replacer to use: I have to say that I don’t have any hard and fast rules. Here’s what I do:
Powdered egg replacer: This is what I usually use in my baking (there are directions on the box on how much powder to use with water). I don’t like to use more than two “egg replacers” as it makes things really chewy.
Applesauce: I use this when I want a cake-y texture and when I want a bit of flavour (more so than powdered egg replacer made with water). Don’t worry, it doesn’t add any apple-y flavour.
Flax or chia seed egg: I use this if things are more fibrous and dark in colour. I wouldn’t use these in light coloured items (like the hot cross buns) as they do add little specs of colour.
If something requires more than one egg, sometimes I use more than one type of egg substitute to get the best of all worlds. Unfortunately, if something calls for beaten egg whites to provide the structure of the dish or is essentially just eggs (like quiche), I don’t know of any adequate substitute.
I hope you found that helpful!
October 21, 2011
Hi, Jennifer,
Just viewed you online on Dr. Oz, and was so impressed with your scone receipe. I, too, am a celiac and was diagnosed 38 years ago (no dairy, eggs or soy). Same story as yours in how long it took to be properly diagnosed. Found a wonderful and knowedgable doctor that pinpointed my problem. It was a long hard journey, but worth every step.
Another gal and I started a support group here in the Coachella Valley. We had a few attend and eventually stopped having the meetings.
It is good to have you a spokesperson for Celiac. Thanks for your story.
As an aside, we are huge fans of Blue Bloods. Great writing and great acting.
Sincerely,
Suzy Kahn Walker
Palm Desert, CA
Much thanks. Tons of new Gluten,Dairy,Soy free recipes to come!!
Ever Onward
Jennifer
You were diagnosed 38 years ago?? That’s fantastic! I’m 39 and I was diagnosed only 2 years ago. They couldn’t figure out what was wrong with me as a child – my Mom basically had to force feed me as a child because I didn’t like food (only now I know why). I wish I had your doctor.
Hi!
Read article “G -Free to Be” in WebMD Magazine featuring you and celiac. Just found 1 month ago no celiac but immune system close to dangerous from genetically engineered food, wheat, barley, rye,fruits and vegies, and lactose intolerant. Fighting to get well–lots of supplements and hi doses of Vit. D. Endocrinologist finally solved the problem after years of various illnesses. Nutritionist gave me lists of foods can/cannot eat. I’m a fan of “Blue Bloods.” Last nite you took a leave of absence. You looked so devastated. Hope you feel better & can return soon. Can you recommend a deodrant? I need fragrance free. Tried one and broke out in terrible rash. Also tried baking soda–same result.
I live in Texas, but my son is at his first year at NYU. When I come to New York to visit him, I will try Goat Town. Don’t know where else I can eat out in NY other than Chipotle. Thanks!
I will posting about my favorite and SAFE places to eat on the next couple of weeks. Besides Goat Town try Pala! Absolutely delicious gluten free, dairy free pizza options as well as a ton of other GFree options!!
Oh and don’t forget to go to STOGO. Ice cream place, gluten free, dairy free, soy free delicious options!
Enjoy
Jennifer
Where is Pala? My genetic test for celiac was inconclusive (my dr. said it was positive/negative, which he said most likely I am since there is one positive). Based on my other symptoms, thyroid disease, osteoporosis, reflux, gall bladder stopped functioning & was removed, dairy & soy intolerance it appears I am Celiac. I would love to try out restaurants that are both gluten & dairy free. Any help is greatly appreciated.
Hi! Mar . Have you had a biopsy, with a prior 4 preparation? that is the only exam appears to be the most cloncusive. because the doctors extracts a little tissue of you instentine.
Jennifer,
Thank you so much for your terrific site! I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease this year. It’s been a hard year, although I know it will get easier, and I am already feeling a little better.
Reading about your journey has been helpful, and I LOVE learning of NYC spots that are safe. I have a favorite place in Hoboken where the chef takes the time to talk with me about the menu. He also stocks GF pasta! Bin 14, try it if you are on this side of the Hudson!
Again, thank you for taking the time to bring attention to this disease. It helps to hear how others cope.
All best,
Kathryn
It gets easier Kathryn but is always something we have to deal with. Its better that you know though, trust me.
Know that you have many people out there that share your road!
Feel Well
Ever Onward
jennifer
Go Blue Bloods! Have always been a fan but now I’ll be watching and saying, “Yeah, Jennifer and I are buds.”
On the serious side, I’ve only been diagnosed a few months but I’m adjusting well to the diet. I live in a small town in the south and it’s not always easy to find good GF or much variety…but…I’ve had great experiences with people being willing to prepare something special for me if I can just tell them what I need.
BTW, I love being GF! I am feeling so much better! I will never go back! Ever Onward, girlfriend!
If you are ever back in good old Staten Island, there is a new GF restaurant in Great Kills called “Joe’s of Avenue U.” I hear it is very good. There is also an ice cream shop on Forest Ave that makes a bunch of non-dairy ice creams from coconut, hemp, rice, etc.
As for the fancy European machine you mentioned….go to Bed, Bath and Beyond and buy the “Yonana” for fifty bucks! It turns bananas into a yummy soft serve ice cream. You can also use potatoes and add hypoallergenic flavoring that you can find online.
My son has an autoimmune disease called “Eosinophilic Esophagitis” or “EoE” for short. He is allergic to almost all food. Right now, he only has 4 safe foods: banana, rice, potato and corn. It is similar (in a way) to celiac, but the esophagus is what is mistaking the food proteins for parasites. My son was diagnosed 15 months ago. At that time, he was only the 5th person on Staten Island to ever be diagnosed with this condition. Just over a year later, his GI is diagnosing a new case almost once a week. I am desperately trying to raise interest and awareness in the hope that it will generate funding for research and hopefully a cure will be found. My lil guy will be 3 in October and I am so afraid of what lies ahead for him. What will his quality of life be like? Jennifer, you see how frustrating it is for you to avoid your 3 triggers…just imagine only having 4 foods. An added challenge for my son is that he is a twin and his sister does not have the disease and can eat anything. I wish we had more answers as to what is causing the drastic increase in auto-immune disease in this country!!! Thank You for doing your part to raise awareness for celiac and also for providing support to others who have to live with restrictions.
Hi Andrea, just wanted to say I also have EoE. I was diagnosed about 4 years ago and was surprised to see what little was out there for EoE. The allergist I was seeing had no idea what to do with me and just keep giving me all kinds of drugs. I really don’t like taking any kind of meds so needless to say I have found another doc. Luckily I live in the Chicago burbs so I have some choices.
I’ve been keeping with an organic diet and staying away from the majors (wheat, milk, soy), but it gets so boring because I am limited, and like your son I have been cooking regular meals for my family and then I sit down with my boring special meal. So seeing everyone eat the good stuff is fustrating.
But the upside to all this is that it really has opened my eyes as to what is out there and what is in our food and now my family is also eating healthier because of my EoE.
So just wanted to give you a virtual hug and say I understand what you are going through
This is just another reason to visit New York again
I would love to be able to have dessert again!
That restaurant sounds amazing!! I live in Boston but I can’t wait to try it when I visit my brother in NYC. As I read your restaurant experience I want to cry for 2 reasons – 1 because I know how frustrating that is and 2 because I am so glad someone else feels the way I do. I was diagnosed with 2010 but suffered my whole life. I miss the flavors in food. If I pay for a meal I don’t want anything blend. I bring my gluten free bread when I go to brunch and I always have my gf soy sauce.
Thank you for sharing Jennifer!!!
Forgot one thing. Great gluten-free bakery and restaurant in Encinitas, CA. Owners have interesting educational and work backgrounds. The name is “To Good to Be.” I live in lovely Oceanside, CA.
Thank You so much for all of the information you share. It took years of being “sick” to finally figure out I have Celiac. I can’t believe making the lifestyle change could make me feel normal again. I’m in California and look forward to visiting NY just to try these restaurants. I’m thankful for great doctors, acupuncturists, and you for sharing knowledge!
I have a family member who was diagnosed recently and now we are wondering what we are going to prepare for Thanksgiving dinner. Also, if you or your followers perhaps know of a restaurant in no.calif that would be good for the celiac diseased family member.
This lady replacing you is less than nothing compared to your version of Jackie…
This fan couldn’t care less about what seems to be a discourse on your motives and/or responsibility regarding work… I only see a terrific actress who is tailor made for the part and it is a shame that the Network has to behave as it seems to be doing.
I too have a congenital disease which immobilizes me…and I totally sympathize with you. I was fortunate to have a boss who said “get well”…we’ll take care of things until you get back on your feet…
I only wish you were as well treated by the Morons at CBS. As a Network they suck totally, but for a couple shows like Blue Bloods.
You will be missed. God bless and get better…an actress like you will ALWAYS find work.
Warm Regards,
GAL
Hi Jennifer,
My husband and I caught a show last night with you on it all about Celiac Disease.
I was finally diagnosed with this last January, and like you had the endoscopy and blood result. The doctor said it was one of the highest he had ever seen. My kidney’s and Thyroid started failing. I have been misdiagnosed since a child and I am 53 years old now.
What I use to call my family, they never believed me when I told them I did not feel well, they do not talk to me anymore. I am not included in family functions, and have been depressed about it. They use to laugh at me and saying that it was all in my head to get attention. If only they now knew what I did go through and how lucky I am not to be alive and living healthier. I figure it is there loss, I have a heart of gold.
My husband has always been true to me and since I was diagnosed he too follows this diet for the last year with me.
I have been feeling so much better, but I am on Thyroid medicine because it no longer works. But I thank GOD every day that I did have one doctor that listened to me and my symptoms and finally did the biopsy.
I use to love the show “Blue Bloods” and my husband and I watched it faithfully, because we loved you as an actress, and that fact that show was of great family value. Now that I know they basically replaced you because of this illness, WE WILL NEVER WATCH BLUE BLOODS again, until they bring you back.
Know that we support you and your cause, so many of us are out there and the word needs to be spread.
Love you always,
Tammy
That is a really good tip especially to those fresh to the blogosphere.
Short but very precise info… Appreciate your sjaring this one.
Amust read article!