When choosing the title for this article I wanted to express freedom: from gluten, from work, from stress. I spent last weekend in small gem Dublin and I thought to write some lines to inspire those gluten-free travellers who wants to visit the Irish capital.
Let's face it: when travelling, one of my fears is that I won't find a place where to eat without problems. The smallest is the place I am going to visit, the more are the chances to struggle with options. I didn't expect to struggle in Dublin, but I didn't plan to be that impressed with a wide selection either!
1. The Pepper Pot
When choosing the first meal of the day I decided to step in a really cute café at the second floor of a stunning building: The Pepper Pot at Powerscourt Town Centre.
Their gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu made my brunch - together with Mar, whose company was fundamental to enjoy the beauty of this city...and its food!
I went for a special of the day which included: gluten-free toast, wild roasted salmon, eggs, spinach and a green salad with radish and rocket. By mistake, I got some fried halloumi cheese on top, which I really enjoyed and didn't ask to change... because I would rather be fat than picky when it comes to such a good mistake!
As a side? Roasted potatoes did the job. I could also use a cup of peppermint tea to warm up my gluten-freelings.
2. Cornucopia
Dinner: what a great moment of the day, especially when travelling. Tired from all the wandering, when it came to enjoy a hot tasty gluten-free dinner the option was right in the heart of the city: Cornucopia.
The plate might look like a mess, but what a delicious mess! The menu was displayed behind the counter with a clear indication of the allergens, but what was really helpful (despite the fact that the place was nearly closing) was the advice of the staff - really kind and welcoming!
I went for a special of the day main: rice with a puree of spinach, sweet potato, tofu, zucchini, coconut and green chilli. As a side I chose two salads (greedy): lentils, carrot and green beans mixed with sprouted beans, ginger, lemon & coriander.
What do I think? Waiting till the evening to finally get in "the place with the long queue outside" was worth it. Feel free to bring your vegan buddy with you, they will love it!
3. Kilkenny Café and Restaurant
For the last coffee break before leaving Dublin, I visited the place which makes the tastiest gluten-free scones I have ever had: Kilkenny Café.
When checking the counter, though, the temptation to get a full lunch deal was so big that I ended up ordering roasted salmon (again) cooked with cherry tomatoes and black olives and served with green vegetables, carrots, mash and roasted potatoes.
Can you believe it was so delicious that I couldn't even manage to take a picture? GONE, in my stomach, in less than 10 minutes.
These are my suggestions to help you enjoy the best gluten-free food in Dublin but, I am ready to travel again towards Ireland to find out more about irish gluten-free food!