Navigating the Stack & Still Gluten-Free Menu
For those seeking delicious and safe gluten-free options, Stack & Still is a standout choice. The restaurant offers a dedicated gluten-free pancake mix that is also vegan and dairy-free. Their 'Build Your Own Stack' system allows for immense customization, with many toppings and sauces also being gluten-free. This variety makes it possible to create both sweet and savory gluten-free meals tailored to personal taste.
Ordering and Allergy Communication
One of the most reassuring aspects of dining at Stack & Still is their proactive approach to allergy awareness. Staff are trained to ask customers about any dietary requirements, including celiac disease, intolerances, or preferences. For those with serious allergies, it is crucial to communicate this to a member of staff directly, rather than relying solely on the online ordering system. This ensures the kitchen team can take extra precautions to prevent cross-contamination. Some locations even have a dedicated QR code on the menu that links to a detailed allergen list, allowing customers to check ingredients themselves.
Reducing the Risk of Cross-Contamination
Stack & Still has implemented several measures to minimize the risk of cross-contamination for their gluten-free customers. These practices are frequently praised by the gluten-free community and include:
- Separate Prep Areas: At several locations, gluten-free pancakes are prepared in a dedicated area of the kitchen to minimize exposure to gluten-containing flour.
- Dedicated Equipment: Some locations use a separate griddle specifically for cooking gluten-free pancakes.
- Colour-Coded Plates: To prevent confusion, gluten-free dishes are served on a distinctive yellow plate. This visual cue helps both staff and customers to identify the GF order at a glance.
Build Your Own Gluten-Free Pancakes
The most popular gluten-free experience at Stack & Still is creating a custom stack. Here’s a typical journey:
- Choose Your Base: Select the gluten-free pancake mix. It's often both vegan and dairy-free, catering to multiple needs.
- Add Your Toppings: Browse the extensive list of gluten-free toppings, which can include fruits (strawberries, blueberries, bananas), sauces (maple syrup, chocolate sauce), and savory items (bacon, pulled pork).
- Include Extras: Options like hash browns, scrambled eggs, and various creams are often available in gluten-free versions, but always confirm with staff for serious allergies.
Sweet vs. Savoury Gluten-Free Stacks
The flexibility of the menu at Stack & Still is a key highlight for gluten-free diners. The pancake base works well with both sweet and savoury toppings, offering a wide array of options that are often limited in other pancake houses.
| Feature | Sweet Gluten-Free Stacks | Savoury Gluten-Free Stacks |
|---|---|---|
| Pancake Base | Vegan and dairy-free gluten-free mix. | Vegan and dairy-free gluten-free mix. |
| Popular Toppings | Strawberries, blueberries, bananas, Nutella (check allergens), honeycomb, chocolate sauce. | BBQ pulled pork, smoked salmon, avocado, bacon, fried egg, cheese (check if GF). |
| Customer Feedback | Praised for being fluffy and flavourful, a rare find in GF pancakes. | Some reviewers find the texture of the GF savoury pancakes less ideal, so flavour pairing is key. |
| Best Practices | Double-check toppings like sprinkles, sauces, and biscuit crumbs for hidden gluten. | Ensure all savory additions and accompanying sauces are verified gluten-free by staff. |
Concerns and Caveats for Celiacs
While Stack & Still takes impressive precautions, it is important to remember that they are not a dedicated gluten-free facility. The restaurant itself openly states that due to the open kitchen environment, they cannot guarantee a 100% allergen-free environment. Therefore, individuals with severe celiac disease must assess their own risk tolerance. Speaking directly with a manager and asking about their specific practices for that location is highly recommended. Some customers have reported excellent experiences with staff who are highly knowledgeable about celiac disease and cross-contamination.
What To Do Before You Go
To ensure the best possible experience, especially for those with celiac disease, it's wise to take a few steps before your visit:
- Call Ahead: Contact the specific Stack & Still location you plan to visit and inquire about their current gluten-free procedures. Confirm if they have a dedicated griddle and prep area.
- Review Allergen Menus: Look at their online allergen menu via the QR code or website, which can provide a comprehensive list of what is safe.
- Communicate Clearly: When ordering in person, explicitly state that you have a gluten-free requirement and whether it is for an allergy or preference. This helps the staff to take the appropriate precautions.
Conclusion
So, do Stack and Still do gluten-free? The answer is a definitive yes, with a strong commitment to catering to gluten-free diners. They offer a dedicated GF pancake mix, a wide variety of compatible toppings, and specific procedures like separate cooking areas and color-coded plates to minimize cross-contamination risks. While they cannot guarantee a 100% allergen-free environment due to their open-kitchen setup, the care and protocols they have in place make them a highly recommended option for many gluten-free customers. With proper communication, you can enjoy a delicious and worry-free stack of pancakes, just like so many happy reviewers before you. For more information on UK restaurants and gluten-free dining, consult resources like the Find Me Gluten Free app for community-reported reviews.
