I’ve said it before, I’m a huge fan of the Chicago Diner. www.veggiediner.com (Where I can eat free of worry and also have a huge variety of foods/drinks to choose from.) Since Bradley moved to New York last year, we haven’t been back to Chicago or the Chicago Diner. I’ve been craving the Chicago Diner.
In stepped my friend Kimmy to the rescue. Last month, she introduced us (Kevin and Bradley were with me) to the restaurant that was able to satisfy that craving – right here in Michigan! Let me introduce ‘Marie Catribs’, located in Grand Rapids’ Eastown. We arrived at the restaurant and found a table outside. Our server was great. We told her I was allergic to dairy, egg and wheat and that Bradley was allergic to egg and wheat. She listed all of our food options. She also suggested we go into their deli area; where they had many of their offerings in a deli case, clearly labeled regarding food allergens. We went inside. While looking everything over, Kimmy saw the owner and asked if he could also offer some suggestions. He went through the menu, detailing each sandwich or salad and it’s ingredients. He offered to come outside to our table to take my order himself, if I would feel more comfortable with that. I told him that wasn’t necessary; his wait staff seemed very well-versed in their menu items. (I’m always a bit of a basket-case when I go to a restaurant for the first time; I think he sensed it. lol)
We went back to our table and ordered. I chose the ‘Russian’. A turkey sandwich drizzled with vegan Russian dressing and topped with Marie’s (vegan) coleslaw – all served on a gluten-free, vegan, rye bread. (With a dill pickle on the side.) The sandwich was awesome; I enjoyed every bite. After I polished off my sandwich, I dug into my slice of vegan/gluten-free chocolate cheesecake. Yum. Kevin had a BLT, Bradley the Russian (with Swiss cheese) and Kimmy, a Reuben. They also ordered dessert: g-f, vegan chocolate cheesecake and peanut butter pie. While we were eating; the owner came to our table to ask if everything was alright. We said yes, thanking him for his concern and also for serving food that allows people with food allergies the opportunity to enjoy a meal out.
He then told us this story about his mother. Years ago, before the term gluten-free had been coined and certainly before cooking without gluten could be researched online, a diner came into their restaurant mentioning they were unable to eat gluten. It bothered his mother, Marie, that someone who’d come to her restaurant hoping to enjoy her food, now felt excluded because of their dietary limitations. She made it her mission to learn to bake gluten-free bread she could serve her customers – and she succeeded! They serve dishes with meat as well as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
If you’re in the Grand Rapids area, check out Marie Catribs. They offer a sit down restaurant, along with outdoor seating during the warm months, as well as a deli with take-out. Check out their website for a look at their menu. www.mariecatribs.com Be sure to read their “about” section for a nice bit of history on Marie and the restaurant.
I forgot to take a picture of my Russian sandwich, which was definitely picture worthy. I was so excited to try it, I just started eating. I did take a picture of the cheesecake. No worries, I will be returning to Marie Catrib’s and I will take a picture of my entrée as well as my dessert.
Thanks for stopping!
Brenda
Disclaimer:
These recipes and tips are not guaranteed to work or be safe for everyone. Allergies are extremely complicated and vary for each individual. It is still your responsibility to read labels to ensure your safety. I cannot be held liable for any ill effects from using my tips to avoid your allergies. (Sorry guys, I don’t foresee any problems, but Momma’s gotta cover her backside, ya know? Just read your labels! Do your research!)