A brew-pub may seem like an unlikely option for celiacs, but, as North by Northwest Restaurant and Brewery (NXNW) in Austin describes itself on its Web page, it is “famous for its unique and inspired menus”. In other words, ignore the specialty brews and set your sights on the gluten-free menu. If you feel the need to try a beer because you are in a brew-pub, go ahead. NXNW stocks Redbridge.

There are a few items on the gluten-free menu that are in the process of changing and have not yet been updated on the Web site. The smoked pork tenderloin is marinated in soy sauce and is not gluten free. There is a lot of discussion in celiac circles about the gluten-free status of blue cheese. If the cheese is made in the traditional fashion with a bread mold starter it would not be gluten free. If the cheese is made with a chemical process it would be gluten free. NXNW was unable to determine which process is used when making the blue cheese in their Cobb salad. Chef George Powell recommends that if you order the Cobb salad ask to substitute cheddar cheese. The gluten-free salads will all be served without croutons. But it does not hurt to remind your server of this when ordering.

There is no dedicated fryer at NXNW. So none of the deep fried options, like French fries on the children's menu, are gluten free.

I spent some time on a recent afternoon with manager Cury Dodson and Chef George Powell. I came away with the belief that they truly understand the gluten-free diet, cross contamination, and the needs of celiacs. That said, they wanted to stress that in any kitchen situation there are many people involved, and things can get very busy. They suggest that even though you are ordering from the gluten-free menu that you alert the server that your meal needs to be gluten free. Make sure that the server has notified both the chef and the manager of your gluten-free needs. Finally, they wanted to make sure that the celiac diner understands that the NXNW staff will take special care to ensure your gluten-free needs are met; however, that care will take time. So, please be patient and realize that your gluten-free order may take a little extra time. (OM 06/07)