The gluten-free people of the capital don’t have it easy. So many fellow Canberrans have to carefully consider what’s in their meal in order to avoid the dreaded gluten.

Full disclosure: I have a intense love of bread and no head for gluten hunting, but as I am discovering it’s not just gluten that’s being avoided. Read on!

Here is the good news – the situation in supermarkets (and even restaurants) is improving. By first focusing on health and making sure taste doesn’t come too far behind, Elemental café is a friend to the non-glutenites. By promoting good digestion and simple dishes, these believers of the paleo philosophy are here for you if you’re a hungry celiac. The great news is that you can put your brain away because there is no need to worry about what’s in your food every time you pick up their menu.

Paleo is popping up here and it’s popping up over there in Kingston. The Paleo Perfection Espresso Bar is doesn’t believe in over-processing food. Cakes, chocolate and other delectables can be picked up and taken away in this kiosk-style café without a thought (or a care) for the future. You deserve a treat and you deserve for it to be free of any hidden things that you don’t get on with. Avoiding gluten is one thing, but you don’t have to miss out on the other great stuff!

There is safety in Indian food and we have so many restaurants around Canberra. Traditional Indian food doesn’t have a high reliance on grains (as many western dishes) do and with so much spice you’re not missing out on anything. Places such as Blue Ginger and Delhi Six cater to Canberrans with specific dietary requirements.

In every corner of our city you will find Thai food and you don’t have to look far to find Chong Co. Their outlets are a haven for contemporary Thai and have clearly marked gluten-free options. There are several choices, which are already free of the G- word and others, which can be made that way on demand. There are dishes for vegetarians and meat eaters, proving that eaters of many persuasions are welcome at the tables of Chong Co.

To all those who have chosen the gluten-free life, or who have been chosen by the life, these are just a few places you can eat without stress… and even bring your friends like me who insist on having bread at every meal!

Image via: Food Porn Journal.