Vinsetta Garage – Gluten Free Berkley, MI
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CookLocated down the street from the Detroit Zoo, Vinsetta Garage is a fantastic joint to indulge in a gluten free meal.
Vinsetta Garage- A Union Joint Restaurant
I think I’m in love with Vinsetta Garage. Is it possible to love a restaurant? I mean, see an image from your last meal and actually have your heart go pitter-patt? That leaves you speechless? I’m sure that one may think I’m going a bit overboard. But after visiting my third Union Joint restaurant, I love this place with all my heart.
A Restaurant That Preserves History
If you’ve never been to a Union Joint restaurant (which includes Clarkston Union and Fenton Fire Hall), you’re really missing out. It’s more than just the food. Eating at one of these restaurants is an experience.
In a world where people are eager to tear things down, Ann Stevenson and her husband are in the restoration business. For example, the waiting area at Vinsetta Garage is lined with old repair tickets from when this garage was in actual operation. (Look for one with Chelios‘ name on it!)
The Oldest Mechanic Shop in Michigan
Vinsetta Garage is the oldest car repair garage in the state of Michigan. Actually, it’s the oldest garage east of the Mississippi.
It opened in 1919 and serviced generations of families who drove along Woodward Avenue. Mechanics still repaired care here, until Union Joints purchased it in 2012. A photo hangs on the wall of some of the original Vinsetta mechanics.
I love that Ann personally found every piece of decorative hardware, and repurposed them for this restaurant. There really isn’t anything else quite like it. There’s an old hot rod up on the wall, and car-related paintings by famous artists grace the walls.
The Best Time to Visit Vinsetta Garage
When we arrived, executive chef Aaron Cozadd greeted us at the door and showed us to our seat. We arrived at 1:45 on a Wednesday. This appeared to be a great time, any other time of the day you’ll likely experience a wait. After 5 p.m. they even have valet parking. Friday and Saturday nights, they have a live DJ spinning tunes while you dine.
Vinsetta Garage’s Gluten Free Menu
The phrase in the center of the menu really sums up the food theme here – Custom Detroit Eats. More than any other Union Joint, the meals here are customizable. This is great for those of us with Celiac Disease and other food allergies. Don’t eat meat? There are lots of vegetarian options too. Of course, Vinsetta Garage serves their famous macaroni and cheese, which they now offer gluten-free!
Unique Gluten Free Burgers
Try their 3 a.m. burger, spread with “homemade bacon jam, sriracha mayo, a sunny side up fried egg and chives”. That’s right- bacon jam. Think of pate only way better, because chefs prepare it from house made bacon.
Vinsetta Garage also offers the famous Gluten Free Mac and Cheese that the Union Joints for which they are famous. In addition, you can also order one of their pizzas on a gluten free crust.
These Milkshakes Will Bring All the Boys to the Yard
Vinsetta Garage offers multiple gluten free milkshakes. While you can order a simple vanilla milkshake, I recommend the Salted Caramel. Or order their famous Faygo ice cream! In addition, they also offer gluten free key lime pie.
Other Union Joints Restaurants
Vinsetta Garage is just one of the many Union Joints restaurants. Other venues include Clarkston Union, which is the first Union Joint ever opened. They also own Honcho in Clarkston and Union Assembly in Detroit. While no longer with Union Joints, I will always be grateful for Aaron Cozadd, pictured on the right, who used to be their main chef.
Other Places With Gluten Free Options in Berkley, MI
I’m a huge fan of Republica, especially now that they’ve added brunch to their menu. For dessert I like Bombshell Treat Bar. In addition, if you’re around during the weekday, check out the Lunch Cafe, where most of their soups are gluten free.
Restaurant Location, Hours and Contact Info
Vinsetta Garage
27999 Woodward Avenue
Berkley MI 48072
Monday – Saturday 11am – 11 pm, Sunday 11 am – 9 pm
Website / Facebook/ Twitter / Instagram
Vinsetta Garage is one of many Michigan restaurants I’ve visited. You can view a list of them on my Michigan gluten free dining post. Please remember to always ask any restaurant about their food preparation practices.
**A big thank you to Chef Aaron Cozadd and his crew for making us a great gluten-free meal. Vinsetta Garage did not charge us for our dinner. All my thoughts and opinions are my own.**
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