Newaygo Bookstore & Gluten Free Creperie
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Located in downtown Newaygo Michigan, the Newaygo Bookstore has an impressive collection of new and used books.
However, for those of us with Celiac Disease and gluten sensitivities, it’s their gluten free crepes that will win us over. In fact, all the food in their cafe is gluten free, including their coffee, teas and other beverages.
Where is Newaygo Bookstore?
Newaygo Bookstore is in Newaygo, Michigan in Newaygo County. This small city, situated on the Muskegon River, is located approximately 40 miles north of Grand Rapids. You’ll find it near the intersection of M-37 and M-82.
Who Owns Newaygo Bookstore?
Krystal Johnson owns Newaygo Bookstore. When she and her late husband Eric opened the business in 2022, it was called Flying Bear Books. At the time, the store specialized in used books.
“We had a vision of expanding it by adding a gluten-free creperie and showcasing local artists and musicians. Our goal was to diversify the bookstore, create a gathering place for the community, and bring more people through the doors.”
The Transition from Flying Bear Books To Newaygo Bookstore
In June 2024, Eric died suddenly. “After losing him, I was determined to keep the bookstore going in his honor. It hasn’t been easy. Becoming a single parent and the sole proprietor of a business that we both loved has been incredibly difficult.”
Krystal renamed it “The Newaygo Bookstore” in honor of this community – “a community that loved my husband and has continued to show that love by supporting both me and our little bookstore through some of our darkest days.”
Newaygo Bookstore Sells Used and New Books
Newaygo Bookstore sells just about every genre of books imaginable. When my husband and I walked in through the back door, we were surprised to see French literature!
There’s a selection of children’s books, as well as a Michigan author section, a Manga section, and even selection of “sprayed edges” books with beautifully colored pages.
Crystal also offers a discount for all teachers and those who homeschool. *Note- Crystal does not buy used books at this time.
What Makes Newaygo Bookstore Unique?
Newaygo Bookstore sells more than just books. Crystal likes to support local artists, and sells artwork and handmade items from other people in the area.
She also hosts book signings with Michigan artists, and has hosted musicians at the bookstore in the past.
Newaygo Bookstore Offers “Blind Date with a Book”
One of Crystal’s signature items is her “Blind Date with a Book” selections. Each wrapped book comes with a bookmark, stickers, tea bags or drink mix for the kids, and a wrapped snack. Blind Date with a Book collections include children, young adult, and various adult book options.
Why Did They Decide to Open a Gluten Free Creperie?
For Krystal, it was personal. “My mother and several other relatives follow a gluten-free diet. Anytime we go on vacation or leave town, it is almost impossible to find a place that is truly safe for them to eat. There have been many times when food was cross-contaminated and they ended up very ill.
I wanted to create a safe place where people like my family could enjoy a nice, sweet treat without having to worry about getting sick.
Are ALL of the Crepe Ingredients Gluten Free?
“Yes. Our kitchen is completely gluten-free. We wanted to create a space where people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease could enjoy a treat without worrying about cross-contact.
For our crepes, we use a flour blend from a brand called Namaste. It’s a one-to-one substitute for traditional wheat flour and is made from a blend of sorghum flour, brown rice flour, tapioca starch, arrowroot flour, white rice flour, and gums.
In addition, all of our crepe toppings are made from scratch in our gluten free kitchen to ensure there is no cross-contact.”
What Are Their Most Popular Crepe Offerings?
Currently, Newaygo Bookstore offers 4 sweet gluten free crepe combos on their menu. At this time, there are no savory crepes. All the gluten free crepes are named after Woodland Animals – Flying Bear, Spotted Owl, Fluffy Bunny, and Soaring Eagle.
By far, their Flying Bear crepe is the most popular. My husband and I ordered one to share and it was AMAZING. It consists of a thin gluten free crepe filled with vanilla cream, nutella, bananas, strawberries, and powdered sugar.
Does Newaygo Bookstore Accommodate Other Food Allergens?
“While we take great care to provide a safe environment for those with gluten sensitivities and celiac disease, we do use other allergens, including nuts and dairy, in our kitchen.”
Does Newaygo Bookstore & Creperie Offer Any Beverages?
Yes, Newaygo Bookstore offers coffee, lattes, teas, and hot chocolate. For those looking for something cool and refreshing, they offer a delicious Strawberry fresca and lemonade. My mother-in-law ordered their “Sunrise,” which is the strawberry fresca mixed with orange juice.
What About Places to Sit While at Newaygo Bookstore?
If you’re ordering food, there’s plenty of tables and chairs, which are also available when musicians are performing.
In addition, there are little cozy reading nooks around the bookstore. So curl up with a book and a cuppa tea and just unwind.
Where Should I Park When Visiting Newaygo Bookstore?
While there is some street side parking, there is a parking lot behind Newaygo Bookstore. You’ll turn between River Threads and The Boutique to access the parking lot.
The building has a back door with a ramp, which is great for those with a walker or wheelchair.
Where Else Should I Visit While in Newaygo?
Stop in at Market 41 to find a variety of items from local vendors, including Newaygo Bookstore’s “Date With a Book” combos.
Visit the Newaygo County website for information on outdoor hiking, golf and more. Root & Rise is a dedicated gluten free restaurant opening soon in nearby Fremont, Michigan.
Newaygo Bookstore is located on M-37. You can take this route 100 miles north all the way to Traverse City. You’ll also drive through Mesick on this route, which is where you’ll find De Food Truck, which is 100% gluten free.
Newaygo Bookstore Address, Hours and Contact Info
Newaygo Bookstore
79 W State Rd, Newaygo, MI 49337
Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 10 am – 4pm
How To Find More Gluten Free Food in Michigan
Looking for other places to find gluten free eats and treats? Check out my list of Michigan restaurants with gluten free options. If you need to satisfy your sweet tooth, check out my list of gluten free bakers in Michigan.
Because many of them are cottage law bakers, make sure to read my Michigan Gluten Free Farmers Market post as well, so you can buy their treats on our Pure Michigan journeys.