Brinstar Arcade Bar & Grill Gluten Free Options
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Brinstar is Midland’s most unique restaurant and bar. Why? Because it’s also an arcade, full of pinball games and video games. Added bonus? Brinstar offers lots of gluten free options, included fries cooked in a dedicated fryer.
Brinstar – Video Game Arcade + Bar and Grill
I had the pleasure of chatting with Brinstar’s owner, Belle Fawcett. I asked her why she chose to open a restaurant with arcade games. She replied “My boyfriend liked beer and video games. And thought other people do too.” She was right, because they keep pretty busy. Read my blog post to learn more about what this unique eatery has to offer.
Why do you choose to offer gluten free options at Brinstar?
I dined with friends and family who have dietary restrictions. I noticed how often gluten free and vegan options simply didn’t exist for them. At our restaurant, I wanted to make sure customers didn’t feel left out.
In addition, I realize that offering safe gluten free options isn’t just a “trend.” People rarely eat out by themselves. By offering gluten free options, we allow families and friends to enjoy each other in community, like everyone else. We’ve even been asked to provide food for local conferences, when their kitchen staff didn’t have options for guests.
Is your menu also free from any other allergens?
We offer Impossible meat for burgers and dairy free cheese for our vegan customers.
What kind of oil do you use for frying/ cooking?
We cook all our gluten free fried foods in soybean oil.
Do you have a separate gluten free menu?
All gluten free menu items are noted on our main menu. We offer Udi’s buns for gluten free burgers. Out kitchen maintains a dedicated fryer for fresh cut french fries, chicken strips and our homemade falafel. We offer gluten free gravy for our poutine. Most days we prepare at least one gluten free soup.
What steps do you take to prevent cross contact in the kitchen?
While we don’t have a separate gluten free prep space, we take pretty strict precautions. We cook gluten free orders in a separate pan instead of using the flat top. Staff know to change gloves, use separate cutting boards, and grab different utensils. We store all gluten free stuff ingredients on top shelves, to prevent cross contact with gluten from other items
What training do your staff receive on preparing GF meals safely?
Not only do I train my staff on all the steps to safely prepare a gluten free order, I also train them on WHY it’s important. Again, we know this is not just a fad. The staff here really take it to heart, and are proud of the gluten free food we serve. You can often hear them shout out allergy orders in the kitchen, and they know the steps to take.
I also maintain separate “cheat sheets” near the kitchen. One list includes all of our gluten free options. Staff know to double check that list if they’re unsure or have questions.
Do you have picks or special plates that denote a GF meal?
We don’t currently use special plates or picks for gluten free meals. The gluten free buns look very different than standard buns.
What’s your most popular gluten free menu item?
Our gluten free chicken tenders are pretty popular with our gluten free clients. We offer some great burgers too.
Do you offer gluten free beer or hard cider?
We maintain a full bar, and offer many gluten free alcohol options. We serve Neff gluten free beer, Unity Vibration Hard Kombucha, B. Nectar Mead and Angry Orchard Hard Cider.
Do you have patio seating? Are dogs allowed outside?
While we do have some seating outside where you can dine, we don’t take orders or serve guests outside. (It’s a licensing issue.)
In the summer, Downtown Midland blocks off a section of Main St, from Ashman to Rodd street. The Commons Pedestrian Plaza offers tables and even outdoor games for the whole family. Customers often order their meal to go and enjoy the outdoors with their family. During the summer months, one can attend many free concerns in that area.
What unique events do you have at your restaurant?
We offer Pinball tournaments on Mondays, and Trivia on Wednesdays. Brinstar offers Bingo as well. As we share on our Facebook page, “escape the insanity of the “real world” and enjoy quality time with family and friends in a fun and entertaining atmosphere.” We suggest calling to reserving a table on Trivia nights, because it’s really popular.
What add’l things would you like my followers to know about your Brinstar?
We offer what I proudly call “Kids Happy Hour.” During Spring Break and all Summer long, we offer $5 kids meals from 11 am to 4 pm. Kids meals options include your choice of choose chicken strips (gluten free), grilled cheese* or hot dog* with fries and hot chocolate, Sprite, Barq’s root beer or Coke. (*not gluten free). We sometimes offer it during other holidays as well.
Do you have parking on premises? Any tips on traveling to your Brinstar?
While customer parking is available along Main St, we suggest using public parking lots. You can find parking lots near us on the Downtown Midland Parking article. As far as traveling to our restaurant, we’re about 4 miles from US-10, and less than a mile from the Midland Loons Dow Stadium.
Other Places to Visit in Midland, Michigan
As mentioned above, we’re close to the Midland Loons Minor League Baseball Stadium. We highly recommend visiting the Midland Center of the Arts, and the canopy walk at Dow Gardens. Make sure to visit Off the Wheaten Path, Midland’s own dedicated gluten free bakery!
Restaurant Location, Hours and Contact Information
Brinstar
415 E Main St
Midland, MI 48640
Hours – Open at 11 close at 11pm except Fri and Sat open until 2
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Brinstar is one of many Michigan gluten free dining options I recommend on my blog. Looking for options in bigger cities? Check out my suggestions for Detroit, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids and Traverse City. Plus, check out my Michigan gluten free baker list!
As a reminder, no matter where you dine, make sure to ask thorough questions about gluten free food preparation.