Restaurant Review

Review: SouthHouse (Philadelphia, PA)

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A Gluten-Free Friendly Stop in South Philly

⭐ Rating: 3 out of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

After picking my daughter up from the airport, we made a much-needed dinner stop at SouthHouse in Philadelphia, and I’m really glad we did.

SouthHouse describes itself as a neighborhood dive-style sports bar, and that vibe comes through right away: casual, welcoming, and perfect for comfort food after a long day. What stood out to me most, though, was how thoughtfully they accommodate gluten-free diners.

Gluten-Free Options That Matter

We ordered cheesesteaks and burgers, and I truly appreciated that SouthHouse offers:

  • Gluten-free buns for their smashburgers
  • Gluten-free hoagie rolls for cheesesteaks
  • A dedicated fryer, which is huge if you’re gluten-free

Knowing that cross-contamination was taken seriously made the experience much more relaxed and enjoyable.

The Real Standout: Fries & Tater Tots

While the sandwiches were solid and filling, the real stars of the night were the fries and tater tots. Perfectly cooked, well-seasoned, and fried in that dedicated fryer – they absolutely delivered. Portions were generous, too; we all ended up taking leftovers home.

If I’m being completely honest, I’d go back just for their app menu. Those fries and tots alone are worth the visit.

Service & Food Notes

Although the restaurant was not very crowded, the service was slow. We did take some time deciding what to order since we had so many gluten-free choices available – something that doesn’t happen often, but even factoring that in, the wait felt longer than expected.

The cheesesteak was a bit dry and definitely needed more Cheese Whiz. In hindsight, I should have asked for extra Whiz, as the portion provided wasn’t quite enough to balance the meat and roll.

Final Thoughts

SouthHouse earns 3 stars from me. While the sandwiches didn’t fully stand out and the service lagged, the gluten-free options, dedicated fryer, and standout fries and tater tots make this a place I’d still return to, especially for appetizers. For anyone eating gluten-free in South Philly, it remains a solid option, just not a must-visit.

SouthHouse
2535 S. 13th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19148
📞 267-314-5937
📧 southhousephilly@gmail.com

🔗 Learn more: https://southhousephilly.com/

Review: Ninethai Kitchen 2 – Pennsville, NJ

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Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆

For over a year, my kids and I have been on a mission to find authentic gluten-free Pad Thai on the East Coast. We tried multiple restaurants in Newark, Delaware, and while some were good, none captured the flavors we remembered from living in Lake Tahoe, California. Gluten-free options often compromise taste, and we weren’t willing to settle for “just good enough.”

In June, we officially moved to Maryland, but we had already spent time at our new house in October and February before getting everything settled in June. We discovered Ninethai Kitchen 2 in Pennsville, NJ, just last week, and happy we stumbled across it. From the moment we walked in, it was clear this was a small, family-run operation. At the time of our visit, the restaurant was being run entirely by one person—hosting, serving, and cooking all at once. While this meant that getting attention could be a little slow, it also made the experience feel personal and authentic. You could see how much care and effort went into every dish.

We ordered the Pad Thai and the Tom Kha soup, both gluten-free. We requested spice level 3 out of 5 for the Pad Thai, and it was perfectly balanced with just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the flavors. The Pad Thai itself was rich, fresh, and perfectly balanced, with the sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors we had been longing for. The Tom Kha soup was equally delicious, creamy with just the right touch of lemongrass, coconut, and lime, which is a comforting and flavorful start to the meal.

Although service was limited due to the solo operation, the quality of the food more than made up for it. The cozy atmosphere and the dedication of the chef made the experience feel unique and authentic, and it was clear that every dish was prepared with love and expertise. Sharing this meal with my kids was a joy, and we all savored each bite and appreciated the flavors that reminded us of our Lake Tahoe days.

Overall, I would give Ninethai Kitchen 2 four stars. The food is outstanding, and the flavors are truly authentic, especially for gluten-free options. The only reason I didn’t give a full five stars is that service can be limited when one person is running the entire operation. However, the Pad Thai, with its perfect heat, and the Tom Kha soup were so delicious that they more than made up for any wait.

If you’re in Pennsville, NJ, craving authentic Thai food with gluten-free options, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit. It’s a small, cozy spot with incredible flavors, and we are already planning our next trip. Whether you’re a family, a Thai food lover, or gluten-free, Ninethai Kitchen 2 delivers an authentic experience you won’t want to miss.

📍 Location:
Ninethai Kitchen 2 (previously sang tong thai – Located in: Cranberry Plaza)
233 S Broadway • Pennsville, NJ 08070
📞 (856) 726-2803

You can also order online at: orderninethaikitchen.com

Review: The Salt House – New Hope, PA

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Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆

I went to New Hope, PA, for my cousin’s birthday, and we decided to dine at the Salt House, a charming, historic restaurant nestled in the heart of the town. Built in 1751, this stone landmark exudes old-world character with its cozy, intimate interior that feels like stepping back in time.

The Salt House offers seasonal dishes crafted from local ingredients, described on their website as “creative and elevated pub fare served in a 1751 stone building that feels straight out of a fairytale.” My cousin and I are both Celiac, so we asked plenty of questions and appreciated how patient and accommodating the staff were. We both ordered the Maine Salmon with Mango, Bell Pepper, and Haricot Verts green beans, but requested it without the Mango/Bell Pepper chutney since it contained bell peppers, which I have a major sensitivity to.

I have to say, kudos to the chef since I’ve never had restaurant salmon cooked so perfectly before. Crispy edges, tender center, and incredible flavor. The portion was generous, and I left completely satisfied.

I gave The Salt House 4 out of 5 stars because the gluten-free menu options were limited, but what they do offer for those with dietary restrictions delivers big, bold flavors that make it worth the visit. It was a lunch to remember, and if I ever find myself back in New Hope, the Salt House will absolutely be on my list again.

📍 Location:
Salt House
7 East Ferry Street, New Hope, PA 18938
📞 (267) 740-7908
📧 info@thesalthouse.com

Review: P.F. Chang’s – Christiana Mall, Newark, DE

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Rating: 5 out of 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My daughter and I had a full day of errands and found ourselves near the Christiana Mall. Back when we lived in Tahoe, we had several favorite restaurants — one in particular made an amazing Gluten Free Pad Thai that became our go-to dish. Since moving to the East Coast, though, finding good gluten free Asian food has been a real challenge.

We tried a restaurant back in February that left us unimpressed — the Pad Thai was just “meh.” So the search continued… until now.

I recently discovered that P.F. Chang’s offers a dedicated gluten free menu, and to my surprise, Pad Thai was on it. That alone was enough to convince us to give it a try. From the moment we sat down, the staff was patient, kind, and knowledgeable about gluten free dining. They made sure to answer all of our questions and took great care of us throughout the meal.

The Pad Thai itself was absolutely delicious — perfectly balanced flavors and just the right texture. It was everything I’ve been searching for since leaving Tahoe. While I had originally hoped to find a small, local spot that could satisfy my craving, I’m perfectly happy knowing I can count on P.F. Chang’s whenever the craving strikes.

Menu Description:
A classic approach to rice noodles wok-tossed with egg, tofu, green onion, peanuts, cilantro, and bean sprouts. Protein options include Vegetable, Chicken, Beef, Shrimp, or Combo.

📍 Location:
P.F. Chang’s
331 Christiana Mall
Newark, DE 19702

Review: CAVA – Newark, Delaware

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Rating: 5 out of 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Walking into CAVA instantly gave me a Chipotle vibe, but with a Mediterranean twist. The setup is similar, but the flavors are all their own. I decided to build my own Grain Bowl to keep things gluten-free and started with Saffron Basmati Rice as my base. From there, I added their Tzatziki and signature Crazy Feta® dips, chose the Grilled Steak for protein, and topped it off with Fiery Broccoli, Pickled Onions, and Cherry Tomatoes. A drizzle of Garlic Dressing tied everything together beautifully. The flavors were aromatic, fresh, and perfectly balanced.

Most of CAVA’s menu items are naturally gluten-free (with the exception of the pita bread and falafel), and they offer plenty of gluten-free sauces, dressings, and toppings to choose from. You can even check their website or ask a team member for their gluten-free list.

Overall, the food was absolutely delicious, and the experience was easy, fast, and flavorful. I’ll definitely be back to try one of their salads and probably the lamb next time.

Review: Oishii Sushi & Ramen (Newark, DE)

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My kids and I had the pleasure of visiting Oishii Sushi & Ramen in Newark, DE, and it turned out to be a delightful experience from start to finish. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was inviting, clean, and comfortable, making it a perfect spot for a casual family meal.

I decided to try the ramen, and I was genuinely impressed. The broth was mild yet packed with flavor, and the gluten-free rice noodles had a fantastic texture that made each bite satisfying. The portion size was generous, leaving me feeling full and content without being overwhelmed. Every component of the dish felt thoughtfully prepared, and the balance of flavors was excellent — the kind of meal that keeps you savoring every bite long after you’ve finished.

Meanwhile, my teenagers decided to try the sushi, and they were absolutely thrilled. They couldn’t stop talking about the wide variety of options available, from classic favorites to more creative rolls. Each piece they tried was fresh and bursting with flavor, and they remarked several times on how delicious everything was. Watching them enjoy their meal so much really added to the overall experience for me as a parent.

What I especially appreciated about Oishii Sushi & Ramen is how well they cater to different tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of ramen or want to explore the art of sushi, there’s something for everyone. The quality of the food, the generous portions, and the inviting atmosphere all come together to create a dining experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Overall, our visit to Oishii Sushi & Ramen was a true pleasure. Between the hearty ramen and the fresh, flavorful sushi, it’s clear that this restaurant takes pride in its food and in providing a great experience for its guests. If you find yourself in Newark, DE, looking for a place that delivers both quality and variety, I highly recommend stopping by. You won’t leave hungry or disappointed.

Oishii Sushi & Ramen
129 E Main St, Newark, DE 19711
Website: https://www.oishiisushiramende.com
Phone: (302) 366-8882

Review: Gluten Free Dining at Klondike Kate’s (Newark, Delaware)

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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 out of 5 stars for:

  • Food Quality: Excellent overall, with standout dishes like the Sweet Bourbon Salmon and the Margherita Pizza. Minor notes (slightly salty bisque, slightly overcooked broccoli) don’t detract from the overall experience.
  • Gluten Free Awareness: Outstanding – Jaime McCardell, the GM, ensures the kitchen takes every precaution for gluten free diners.
  • Service: Attentive, knowledgeable, and welcoming from start to finish.
  • Atmosphere & Value: Generous portions, inviting environment, and fair pricing.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to visit Klondike Kate’s, a Newark landmark located right on Main Street in Downtown Newark, Delaware. I was invited to review their gluten-free offerings, so I brought Alex and Evan along to join me for lunch. We were excited to see what this iconic spot had to offer – and we weren’t disappointed.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted warmly by Alli, our server, and Jaime McCardell, the general manager. They were both attentive, knowledgeable, and went out of their way to make sure our experience was smooth, especially when it came to gluten-free dining. That extra care immediately set the tone for the afternoon.

Crab Bisque

Cream-based, minced vegetables & fresh lump crabmeat, dusted with Old Bay

We started with the Crab Bisque, and it was a pleasant surprise. So often, cream-based soups are thickened with wheat flour, making them off-limits for gluten-free guests, but not here. The presentation was lovely, with a gentle dusting of Old Bay on top. The flavor had definite hints of Old Bay, and while it leaned a little salty, the overall taste was very enjoyable—rich, creamy, and not overly “fishy.” It felt indulgent and comforting without being heavy.

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Review: Del Pez Mexican Gastropub (Newark, DE)

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Rating: 4 out of 5 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

I was recommended to try Del Pez Mexican Gastropub while craving Mexican food, but unfortunately, it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. Having grown up in the Bay Area of California, I’m very particular about Mexican flavors, and I found their gluten-free options to be limited and lacking the authenticity I was hoping for.

However, I ordered the Street Taco Flight (pick & choose 3) and went with Grilled Steak, Carnitas with salsa verde crudo, and Shrimp with chipotle aioli. Out of the three, the Shrimp taco stood out — absolutely delicious, full of flavor, and perfectly balanced. I honestly wish I had ordered all three as shrimp because the Steak and Carnitas just didn’t hit the mark.

The staff was absolutely attentive and very accommodating with us being gluten intolerant, which made the visit much more pleasant.

Del Pez Mexican Gastropub
501 Grove Ln
Newark, DE 19711
📞 (302) 273-3788

Note: This review was written before my diverticulitis diagnosis — which now means avoiding corn, so sadly most Mexican food is off my plate (literally). Whaaa!

5 places where to eat Gluten Free in New Orleans

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1. Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar

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My husband and I headed over to Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar that is located on Iberville St one afternoon.

I asked the waitress if they had a “Gluten Free” menu. Although she said no, she pointed out many of the grilled items were GF.

Nevertheless, I ordered their Blackened Louisiana Alligator as an appetizer and their Blackened Gulf Shrimp for dinner.

Oh my goodness!! The Alligator was spectacular and the Shrimp was cooked to perfection! The Blackened spice was flavorful and not too over powering to the point that I over ate and waddled myself on out the door!!

It definitely isn’t the fanciest place around but the food was really tasty and the service was great. AND your meal was out quickly, so you didn’t have to wait forever and a day to eat your meal.

Anyhow, if I have time on my schedule, I may try and head back over to try something else out on their menu.

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Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar
739 Iberville St.
New Orleans, LA 70130

Call: (504) 522-4440

Sunday – Thursday: 11a -10p
Friday & Saturday: 11a – 11p

 

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Sierra Gourmet Grill – Restaurant Review

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Sierra Gourmet Grill Sign

From the road Sierra Gourmet Grill looks like a little house set back among a huge parking lot yet when you step inside the restaurant is quaint and rustic with prompt service.

Dining RoomOnce inside my husband and I were instantly greeted by Kevin who was standing behind the bar. Since the restaurant wasn’t crowded we were able to handpick our table. I was drawn to their picnic table and asked to be seated there. Unfortunately my husband who is 6’4” and had back surgery a year ago couldn’t get quite comfortable in the table so we eventually asked if we could move.

Without a blink of an eye, Kevin moved us to a more comfortable spot so my husband could have a regular chair with some back support. If you have any back issues, I would suggest not being seated at their very beautiful picnic table. In fact, all their tables were beautiful. According to their website, the tables and bar top are cedar plants made from repurposed trees from the Angora fire that occurred in South Lake Tahoe just up the Mountain.

Salad MenuWhat the little restaurant lacks in seating, it makes up with BIG flavor through their food! The menu choices were very appealing from sandwiches and burgers to steaks, chicken and seafood. And an added bonus they have a kids menu as well.

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