Navigating The Stillery's Menu with a Gluten-Free Diet
For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, dining out requires careful consideration. The Stillery, a popular restaurant known for its American fare and cocktails, has received attention from the gluten-free community for its potential offerings. The availability and safety of these options can vary depending on the specific location you visit.
Documented Gluten-Free Food Choices
Based on reviews and specific location details, some Stillery restaurants have made notable efforts to provide gluten-free food options. These often include modifications of standard menu items. For example, some locations in the Grafton, WI area have been positively reviewed for providing:
- Burgers with Gluten-Free Buns: Several reviews mention the availability of dedicated gluten-free buns for their burgers, making a classic comfort meal accessible.
- Tacos: Tacos, a naturally corn-based dish, can often be safely consumed, provided there is no cross-contamination during preparation.
- Pizza: Some Stillery locations advertise a pizza selection, and specific locations have offered gluten-free pizza crust options.
- Salads: Most restaurants can prepare salads with gluten-free dressing and without croutons, as long as the kitchen staff is careful about cross-contamination.
The Gluten Status of Spirits and Cocktails
One of The Stillery's signature features is its bar. For those managing gluten intake, understanding the gluten content of alcoholic beverages is essential. The general rule is that most pure distilled spirits are gluten-free, regardless of the grain used for their fermentation.
- Distillation Process: The process of distillation separates alcohol from larger, non-volatile protein molecules like gluten. This means spirits like whiskey, vodka, gin, and moonshine are considered safe for most people with celiac disease, even if derived from wheat, barley, or rye.
- Flavored Spirits and Mixers: The risk lies in flavored spirits or mixers that are added after distillation. These can contain gluten-based ingredients, thickeners, or dyes. Always ask about the specific brands and components used in cocktails to be certain.
Table: Gluten Status of Common Stillery Beverages
| Beverage Type | Gluten Status | Potential Risks & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pure Distilled Spirits | Generally Gluten-Free | Distillation removes gluten, but check for flavored varieties. |
| Wine & Cider | Naturally Gluten-Free | Made from fruits, but be cautious of any flavored or fortified additions. |
| Cocktails with Mixers | Often Risky | Mixers and ingredients like syrups or bitters may contain gluten. Always confirm ingredients. |
| Beer (Craft Brews) | Likely Contains Gluten | Most traditional beers use barley. The Stillery may offer a specifically labeled gluten-free beer, but confirm. |
| Moonshine | Generally Gluten-Free | Distilled and usually made from corn or sugar, but inquire about flavored varieties. |
Cross-Contamination: A Real Concern
While a menu may list gluten-free items, the risk of cross-contamination in a shared kitchen is always a possibility. One review of a Nashville Stillery location highlights this, with a customer feeling that dietary needs were not taken seriously. For individuals with a high sensitivity or celiac disease, taking the following precautions is advisable:
- Communicate Clearly: Inform your server about your dietary restrictions and, if necessary, explain the severity of your allergy. Ask if they have a dedicated allergy protocol.
- Request Precautions: Ask for meals to be prepared in a separate area with clean equipment, such as fresh pans and utensils. Request that kitchen staff change gloves.
- Stick to Simpler Dishes: Choosing naturally gluten-free items, like a salad with grilled chicken and simple oil and vinegar dressing, can reduce the risk compared to a complex dish with many ingredients.
Making an Informed Decision
Ultimately, whether you can safely eat at The Stillery depends on your sensitivity level, the specific location's menu and kitchen practices, and your willingness to communicate your needs. For those with mild sensitivities, the explicitly marked options may be sufficient. For individuals with celiac disease, a detailed conversation with the staff is non-negotiable. Checking recent reviews for the specific Stillery location you plan to visit can also provide clues about how well they handle allergy requests.
This information is intended to provide guidance based on publicly available reviews and general knowledge. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your visit, it is always best to contact the specific Stillery location directly and ask about their gluten-free menu and cross-contamination policies. For authoritative health information on Celiac disease and dietary management, refer to reliable sources like Coeliac UK.
Conclusion
While The Stillery's menu can include gluten-free options like burgers with special buns, tacos, and salads, it's not a universal guarantee. Because restaurant protocols and offerings can differ, guests with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance must proactively communicate with staff to confirm safety procedures and ingredient sourcing. For beverages, most distilled spirits are safe, but exercise caution with flavored liqueurs and complex cocktails. By being informed and vocal about your needs, you can increase the chances of a positive and safe dining experience at The Stillery.
