Eddie Papa's in Pleasanton, California
Wow, what a lovely experience. I was initially reluctant to try Eddie Papa's in Pleasanton after finding out that they now offer gluten free options on the menu. I had been there prior to going GFCF and was not thrilled. Well, my opinion has now changed. I was impressed immediately when I informed the waiter at Eddie Papa's that we are gluten and dairy free and he actually knew what to do. He went over the menu with us clearly educated on the menu’s gluten free options and knew exactly how to handle our table. The only question he could not answer was if the hot dogs on the menu were gluten and dairy free. Within five minutes the owner came over to the table with the package in hand to review the ingredient list with us. We discovered together that the hot dogs are gluten and nitrate free but are not casein (dairy) free. Darn. Casein is milk protein.
The waiter immediately brought my son, Sammy, a plate of gluten free rice Chex and raisins to snack on while waiting for our food. He did mention that they normally melt cheese over the Chex so always be sure to mention to the waiter that you are dairy free. He also brought waxy twist sticks for Sammy to play with while we waited for our food. Clever!
I am very impressed with their gluten free options. They offer gluten free chicken tenders made with a tempura type batter. Sammy loved them and was elated to actually eat chicken tenders in a restaurant. The French fries are also gluten free, fried, upon request, in clean fresh oil uncontaminated with gluten. Sammy let me try one and I have to admit, they were very good. They serve Udi’s bread for a gluten free sandwich option. All their salad dressings are gluten free and they have gluten free breadcrumbs and soy sauce. For breakfast, they also make gluten free pancakes and waffles. They even serve Red Bridge gluten free beer.
Another thing that impressed me at Eddie Papa's was that they focus on local produce and products. They buy from Terra Bella Farms in Pleasanton, Lone Oak, Olivina Ranch in Livermore, Cloverdale Dairy, Humboldt Creamery and Numi Organic tea in Oakland. I love this!
I ordered the strawberry salad with balsamic type dressing. It was pretty tasty. Sammy loved the chicken tenders saying they were, “awesome!” Currently, Eddie Papa's does not offer any GF or CF desserts. The waiter did say that they may add some dessert options on the spring menu. The owner said he’s considering Udi’s gluten free hamburger and hot dog buns for the spring as well. I think it may be worth a trip back in the spring to check and see if they have them yet!
Another nice touch at Eddie Papa's is the cotton candy they bring with your check. It is GFCF but is full of sugar and color dye. We took one small bite and left it on the table. Cute idea though. I'm glad to add this restaurant option to our GFCF places to dine. What a treat!
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