Get ready for some of my recent gluten free finds – that are absolutely worth a try!
Although I’m lucky enough not to be affected by gluten, both my Mum and my Nan are – and, to really pack a punch, they both discovered this later in life. So after years of enjoying fresh cobs, fluffy cakes and creamy bowls of pasta… they suddenly couldn’t go back!
We are a carb-loving family – so realising that this was what was giving them sleepless nights, enormous amounts of pain and generally just wiping them out, was a real blow!
Because of this, we’ve made it our mission to hunt down the very best gluten-free alternatives. From restaurants and cafés to bakeries, home-cooked meals and weekend baking sessions, we’re forever on the lookout for treats that taste just as good as their wheat-filled originals.
And recently, we’ve found some brilliant bits (plus I may have baked a rather delicious cake… if I do say so myself) that definitely deserve a shoutout.
1. The Lounges🏊🏻♀️
This place is a total classic for coeliacs — and easily one of our favourite spots for both brunch and dinner.
Their gluten-free menu is extensive (and actually delicious), offering so much choice that everyone can enjoy something amazing, no matter their dietary needs.
We’ve been to our local Portello Lounge more times than I can count, working our way through everything from the Full English, to the flatbreads, to the salads, to the sweet treats — and honestly, we’ve never had a single complaint.
They also cater for vegan diets better than almost anywhere else, which makes it the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy a meal together.
There are so many Lounges about, that you are sure to have a local one near you. We definitely recommend going and trying it out for yourself!
2. M&S Café✨
Every time I ask my Nan, “Where should we grab something to eat or drink?” when we’re out and about, her answer is always instant, and always the exact same… “Marks?”
Like most older people, she absolutely loves the place! And honestly, I can’t blame her – who can beat a bit of Marks & Sparks?🫣
While the gluten-free options are a little limited in my opinion, there are still a few reliable favourites she can enjoy. The classic chicken and bacon sandwich is always a winner, and don’t even get me started on the scones — she’s a total sucker for them.
So, when in doubt, Marks truly never lets you down for a quick, cosy pit stop.
3. Yubi Protein Bars🍫
This one might seem a little rogue… but honestly, me and my mum are obsessed — gluten intolerance or not!
I first discovered yubi protein bars when I started my own weight-loss journey. They quickly became my staple snack with not only containing 10g of protein, but also only being 99 calories each.
(I know — unbelievable!)
And in a world where some “high-protein” bars are now creeping up to nearly £4 a pop, yubi were refreshingly affordable and actually delicious, when I was at uni.
You’ll be able to see my obsession as you will struggle to find a ‘WIEIAD’ TikTok that does NOT contain a yubi bar from back then!
My favourite flavour? Hazelnut OR the Peanut flapjack.
Mum’s favourite flavour? Caramel.
Mike’s favourite flavour? (Because – yes – we have also converted him now) Peanut OR S’mores.
(You’d think picking a protein bar would be easy… but trust me, these choices took us both far longer than they should’ve 😂)
Whether you’re into fitness, trying to find a ‘better’ snack choice, or need gluten-free options yourself, these bars are definitely ones to try.
And… I’ve just seen they’ve launched a new festive flavour box — so naturally, we will be snapping that up very soon for a taste test.
4. Local Bakers
Over the last week, me and Mum have discovered two brilliant local gluten-free bakers — and they definitely deserve a shoutout.
Brew and Bakes💚
Tucked away in plain sight in West Bridgford, this little gem is absolutely not one to miss. Their menu is packed with both sweet and savoury treats, and the best bit? It’s 100% gluten free, almost entirely homemade from scratch, and — most importantly — 100% delicious.
We tried a ham and cheese panini, a sausage roll and a cinnamon sponge cake. Everything was genuinely lovely, and even I couldn’t tell it wasn’t the “real” wheat-filled version.
If you’re nearby, head over to Wilford Lane and show them some love — it’s well worth the visit.
Instagram: @wlbrewandbakes
The Marriott Gluten Free Kitchen💙
We were lucky enough to stumble across The Marriott Gluten Free Kitchen stall at West Bridgford Market last week — and honestly, we’re so glad we did!
Mum picked up a cinnamon cookie (yes, we’re unapologetically big cinnamon fans) and a Kinder Bueno dessert… and they were AMAZING.
Soft, fresh, sweet and genuinely delicious — the kind of bakes you go back for again and again.
And trust me, we absolutely will… maybe even with Nan next time😂
Instagram: @_themarriottglutenfreekitchen_
5. My Cake🎂
Speaking of bakers…
Okay, I’m definitely not on their level — but I do try! I honestly think it’s so important to experiment, have a play in the kitchen and see what delicious creations you can come up with yourself.
My latest attempt? A Pineapple and Coconut Cake 🍍🥥
Let’s just say… I’ll keep practising 😂
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