With the popularity of my previous blog about Panera Bread, I decided to continue this series, writing about cafes and restaurants that I wish were gluten free.
Before my diagnosis, one of my favorite spots to write at was Starbucks. The atmosphere, the smell of coffee. Sipping a hot coffee, or tea. Eating a pastry, as I brainstorm ideas. These were things that really got me inspired to write. As a blogger/online writer, it is important for me to be in an environment that inspires me.
With having Celiac disease, surely I can still sip a hot coffee or tea, and take in the atmosphere. However, they do not have any fresh gluten free goodies, or sandwiches. Some Starbucks locations do offer Lucy's chocolate chip cookies, or KIND bars. Sadly, none of those are satisfying, and you can't keep purchasing those items if you are going to spend a good portion of the day at Starbucks.
What I have noticed with some bakeries/cafes, is that they offer gluten free items that are sealed and stored away from regular food. They keep things separate, some are even frozen. If only Starbucks could join the ranks of these bakeries/cafes, and offer some of these frozen gluten free products. They will end up seeing an increase of customers, and an increase in revenue. Everyone wins!
I hope, one day, we will be able to patronize any restaurant/bakery/cafe we please, without being worried about being 'glutened.' It is unfair that we cannot be like everyone else, and enjoy these places.
(photo courtesy of: http://pixabay.com/en/cup-cartoon-hot-free-coffee-drink-35112/)
