When I first began following a gluten-free diet I was a bit worried that I’d have trouble finding someplace to eat. As I was doing research, I discovered that Thai food is a great option, since rice noodles are often used in this type of cuisine. Since then I’ve discovered a few restaurants in the area that provide excellent options for those with a gluten-free lifestyle.
Royal Thai Orchid
I’ve been coming here for years (before I realized I was gluten sensitive) and have enjoyed many delicious entrees. This Frazer mainstay can accommodate some gluten-free requests, since it has gluten-free soy sauce, and many of the entrees have rice-based noodles. When I went to Royal Thai recently, I also tried a new appetizer, steamy crepes, which include steamed delicate and thin rice crepes that are filled with chicken, turnips and ground peanuts; topped with crispy garlic; and served on a bed of lettuce. There are four crepes in the serving, so it’s easy to share. The crepes are normally served with a sweet sauce that includes regular soy sauce, but the server brought out a side of gluten-free soy sauce for me.
For my entree, I ordered pineapple fried rice (jasmine rice with eggs, mixed vegetables, and fresh pineapples) with beef. Royal Thai Orchid has always had lovely plate presentation, and my last visit was no exception. The chef cut a flower out of a carrot, and the orange slice contributed a pop of color. Another gluten-free option is the mussaman curry (sauteed tender beef or chicken in a rich red curry and peanut sauce with coconut milk, onions and potatoes), which is a little on the spicy side. The curries are served with a generous bowl of white rice. 309 Lancaster Ave., Malvern, (610) 240-9930
Asuka
Asuka in West Goshen has a marvelous gluten-free menu that is available online, including soups, salad, appetizers, sushi, fried rice and noodles. The restaurant also has entrees for poultry, seafood and beef. You can even get the Chinese chef’s special menu, which looks amazing. I’m tempted to try the Dragon and Phoenix, but it’s spicy!
I had given up eating fried rice because so many restaurants only use regular soy sauce, which has wheat in it. I was thrilled to discover Asuka, and now I can go back to enjoying pork fried rice. The restaurant has both Chinese and Japanese cuisine, and you can eat in or take out. 1502 West Chester Pike, West Chester, (610) 738-8888 or (610) 738-9888
Kooma
This restaurant in downtown West Chester has extensive options for patrons looking for gluten-free alternatives. In addition to the pad Thai, some of the stonepot entrees can also be modified. The sushi can also be gluten-free, with the exception of the tempura and crab stick. If you select the king crab instead, you’ll be set! For the hibachi entrees, the chef can make some sauce substitutions since the restaurant carries gluten-free soy sauce.
I ordered takeout (pad Thai, with beef), which is made with stir-fried rice noodles, mixed vegetables and egg in a tangy coconut sauce. It was a generous portion, and I had plenty of leftovers. You can have your choice of tofu, chicken, beef, shrimp or combo.
If you’re looking to enjoy a nice night out in West Chester, head to Kooma. There’s a parking lot right around the corner, and the restaurant is spacious with a full service bar. 123 N. Church St., West Chester, (610) 430-8980
Umami
Umami offers classic dishes such as pad Thai and gluten-free curries. Recently I ordered the red curry (my usual), which is simmered in coconut milk with pineapple, potato, onion, bell pepper and fresh basil. I also enjoyed a side of the Tom Kha Gai soup, a delicious coconut milk soup with lemongrass, chicken and mushroom. The restaurant carries gluten-free soy sauce, so you can order some sushi as well.
Located in Lionville, Umami does a steady stream of in-person and takeout dining. The restaurant has a sushi bar, as well as traditional seating. Umami is a BYOB, so be sure to stop into the Giant a few doors down if you want a last minute adult beverage. Soft drinks and tea are also served. 150 Eagleview Blvd., Exton, (610) 594-1510
Mikado Thai Pepper
The Thai Pepper location used to be a separate entity, but a few years ago it was connected to its sister restaurant, Mikado. This Ardmore staple has several gluten-free options, including Pad thai, curries and fried rice. When I went for dinner, I ordered Thai coconut soup with chicken and pineapple fried rice. The rice was an enormous portion, served in a carved-out pineapple. I was tempted to eat the entire thing!
The restaurant offers wine, sake, soft drinks and desserts. You have your choice of either side for seating. 64 Lancaster Ave., Ardmore, (610) 642-5951
- Photos: Diane Cooney
