Technically not a restaurant, the deli case at the Main Market Co-op (the exact spot my car would sit for an oil change when it was a Goodyear auto shop), is full of some gluten free favorites. On my last visit I gently asked what was gluten free. Since the gf indication on the signs is spotty, I wanted a little clarification. The response was, well, not the warmest reaction, but at least the lady with the little tight hair bun didn’t flinch at the question. She said anything that did not have obvious gluten, like the pasta, is gluten free.
Ok, but what about the soy braised tofu cutlets? Gluten free soy sauce? Hmmm, I was a bit wary. I asked about the tofu and was returned a quick “yes, it’s gluten free”, but the sign did not indicate the sauces used are gluten free. I stayed away from this one.
But the Sausages & Peppers looked safe, and I secured a second confirmation about the gratin potatoes being gluten free. Sure, I’ll try that. The flavors and textures were good. The warmth of the food was nice in my stomach, especially on a cold day.
Sausages & Peppers
Potato Gratin
After I cleared my table, I asked a sweet lady passing by the counter with brownies in hand, if they do anything special to make sure the gluten free foods are not cross-contaminated. The response, with a sweet smile, was “well, we know what we are doing back here.”
Next time I will try the Shepard’s pie, and the Chocolate Hazelnut Meringue Cake.
Three Stars: Good Food, Value, Staff
3 comments
thekeedys says:
January 26, 2011 at 12:25 am (UTC -8)
Really good review. You said it about the service – they often give you the feeling that you’re asking for state’s secrets when inquiring about their food items. While it is laudable that they have gf choices, I really wish they would take other coop’s examples and go for simpler food choices. Rather than copying huck’s and putting heavy cream, sugar, and vinegar in every dish, why not have steamed veggies or plain meat (with no sugary substances)?
BFPierce says:
February 3, 2011 at 9:29 am (UTC -8)
I am a member @ the Main Market Co-op. I am also vegan and gluten free. I shop there once a week and have lunch there at least three times a week. This Co-op is the best thing to happen to downtown Spokane…EVER. How can someone that has Celiacs and is living a gluten free lifestyle never hear of Tamari…..it’s gluten free soy sauce…the tofu is completely gluten free. It’s no wonder you got a cold response from the counter person. You basically assumed they were stupid and called them a liar. I always get prompt and friendly service when I stop in there for lunch. And with so many great vegan and gluten free dishes to choose from I have something different every day. As for the last posted comment I applaud the Chef for not wasting time with dishes like plain steamed veggies. If you want that type of food go check yourself in to a retirement home. I want flavorful exciting food. Next time try being friendly and less self absorbed and condescending and maybe you”ll receive a “warmer” reception.
shallan says:
February 3, 2011 at 10:52 am (UTC -8)
I am proud to say I am also a member, a founding member in fact. I like seeing my tile on the floor when I go through the deli. I agree that the market is the best thing that has happened to Spokane in a long while. Their selection of food, including GF stuff, is quite amazing, and the deli is getting better all the time. While I respect your opinion and right to call things like you see or read them, your comment about my post being condescending surprised me. As someone who has celiac, I disagree that asking questions, even to the point of annoying or hurting the pride of a server or chef, to avoid the rashes, digestive problems, and other effects of ingesting even the smallest traces of gluten, is being self absorbed; it’s smart self preservation. Although Kikoman has just started making a gluten free soy sauce, and any good store worth its salt (including the market) carries clearly labeled GF tamari, most soy sauces have gluten, and many people learning about GF living don’t figure that out right away. I am glad you have great experiences at the Market, I hope everyone does.