Sandwiches Made from Greens? 

I will be the first to admit that I wasn’t sure I was going to like Breadless. I’m a girl who loves her carbs. And while I like spinach and lettuce, I’d never really eaten turnip or spinach greens, let alone chard or Dino kale. However, my husband and I were pleasantly surprised at just how much we LOVED our meal. 

After dining at Breadless, I reached out to LaTresha Howland, one of the co-founders of Breadless. I was so intrigued about their concept, and wanted to be able to share more about their mission with my readers. The text that follows are direct answers from her. 

Why Did Breadless Choose to Open a 100% Gluten Free Restaurant?

As a blogger, I’m just as interested in the “why” as the “what.” All too often, we see companies offer gluten free “options,” that may not be prepared in the safest manner. Therefore, I’m very appreciative that Breadless is a 100% gluten free atmosphere. 

LaTresha shared why they opened a dedicated gluten free restaurant. “Breadless was created because our CEO, Marc Howland, struggled for years to find healthy food options that would fit his lifestyle. He had trouble digesting bread, worked long hours in corporate America, and also attempted to stay fit at the same time.

For over 10 years, Marc was the guy going into every restaurant and making special requests. He would ask for a lettuce bun or lettuce wrap instead of bread, and what he got back were “side-eyes” and sloppy iceberg lettuce wraps. Sometimes he just received a protein on a bed of lettuce, that looked like an afterthought.

(Read more about their mission & vision in this Detroit News article.)

Frustration Leads to Inspiration and Innovation

“Marc got so fed up that in early 2019, he texted his then-fiance & now wife & Co-Founder, LaTresha Howland, photos of the lettuce buns, and candidly vented how it was ridiculous that there wasn’t a better alternative to the traditional sandwich. Marc knew that a place needed to exist that was specifically focused on sandwiches that are healthy & delicious without all the carbs and calories as a core product, not an afterthought.

LaTresha agreed that it was a great idea and that she wanted to help, because such a place needed to be accessible everywhere. Up to this point, Marc and LaTresha were just making lettuce sandwiches at home. Both quickly realized they needed someone to help take the menu and concept to the next level. Therefore, they reached out to their friend Ryan Salter, an experienced executive chef, caterer, and restaurant owner.

Ryan came on board and the product evolved completely away from iceberg lettuce to savory sandwiches made with leafy super greens like red swiss chard, turnip greens, kale, & collard greens. He also tailored each sandwich so that the taste profiles were different (and delicious!). We had (3) core sandwiches then: The Garden of Eatin’ (eggplant on collard), Bird is the Word (turkey on turnip), and Chardi B (chicken on swiss chard).”

What Ingredients Does Breadless Use? Are they Certified Gluten Free? Halal? 

While we knew our vision was to have a 100% gluten-free sandwich option that tasted good, Ryan’s culinary background allowed him to take this concept to the next level with a curated, chef-inspired menu aimed at offering something better, premium-even, to future customers.

We all decided to use the freshest, highest quality ingredients, from our partnership with Boar’s Head for our sliced meats, to working with local farms and suppliers for our leafy super greens, produce, and Halal chicken. A majority of our sauces are made in-house. The ones that are not, are kept to the same standards we employ to all of our products (low-sodium, low-sugar, gluten-free).

(Also, all packaging and straws are Eco Friendly.) 

What’s On the Menu at Breadless?

They offer a variety of sandwiches, plus bowls and entrees. All sandwiches can also be served as heated bowls. Find their entire menu on their website.

• SANDWICHES
  • Jerk Chicken & Mango – oven-roasted jerk chicken, peach mango salsa, no added sugar bbq, pepper jack cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, fresh mango slices, onions, wrapped in swiss chard.
  • Avocado Turkey- fresh sliced turkey, avocado spread, champagne vinaigrette, white cheddar cheese, tomatoes, sweet pickles, onions, chopped romaine, wrapped in romaine.
  • Chicken Bacon Ranch – oven-roasted chicken, pork bacon, truffle buttermilk ranch, buffalo hot sauce, white cheddar cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet pickles, arugula, wrapped in swiss chard.
  • Spicy Falafel- smashed falafel, spicy aioli, pickled turnips, arabic pickles, tomatoes, onions, chopped romaine, wrapped in swiss chard.
  • Pastrami Classic – sliced beef pastrami, stone ground mustard, reuben sauce, cheddar cheese, tomatoes, sweet pickles, onions, coleslaw, wrapped in swiss chard.
• BOWLS
  • Southwest Rice Bowl – oven-roasted or jerk chicken, falafel, or house-braised beef, black beans, avocado spread, sour cream, white cheddar cheese, roasted peppers, caramelized onions, brown (or cauli -170 cal) rice.
  • Sweet Potato & Squash Bowl – roasted yellow & green squash, sweet potato, vegan blue cheese, roasted peppers, arugula, braised collards, brown (or cauli -110 cal) rice.
  • Braised Beef & Goat Cheese Bowl – house-braised beef, au jus aioli, honey whipped goat cheese, roasted peppers, caramelized onions, arugula, braised collards, brown (or cauli -120 cal) rice.
• Entrees –
  • BBQ Chicken Plate – oven-roasted chicken, no added sugar bbq, baked beans, roasted peppers, caramelized onions, chopped bacon, brown rice, braised collards.
  • Falafel & Hummus Plate – falafel, homemade hummus, garlic crema, arabic pickles, pickled turnips, roasted peppers, brown rice, fresh greens mix.
  • Braised Beef Plate – house-braised beef topped with au jus, baked beans, roasted corn salad, brown rice, braised collards.

Does Breadless Offer Any Sides?

As far as in-house offerings, we have vegetable chips, potato chips, coleslaw and more.

As for beverages, Breadless offers 2 agua fresca flavors; Pomegranate and Cucumber. They also serve LaCroix and Brix Sodas.

Where is Breadless Located in Detroit?

Breadless is located in Downtown Detroit, on Jefferson, near the Riverfront. (Parking is on Larned St.) It’s located on the Joseph Campau Greenway Connector. The Joseph Campau Greenway extends from the Riverwalk to Vernor Highway, creating a trail for biking and walking. It includes “recreation and play features,” benches and outdoor power stations.  It’s about a quarter mile east of the Dequindre Cut Greenway. 

My husband and I visited Breadless after attending an event at the Eastern Market. Breadless is located about 2 miles from the market, less than a 10 minute drive. It’s a straight 6 min drive from Breadless to the Spirit of Detroit statue. From there, one can get on the Q Line or the People Mover and explore more parts of Downtown Detroit. 

I Wish Breadless was Closer to Me. Do They Have Plans to Expand?

LaTresha answered, “Though we’re highly focused on this location to start, what gets us particularly excited is our vision to create hundreds of entrepreneurs via affordable franchises, including lowering barriers to access to money, all while bringing leafy greens to communities everywhere.”

Breadless opened a second location in Rochester Hills in 2023.

Things to See and Do in Detroit

Detroit is a hub of entertainment and sports. Check out the Detroit Lions (football), Detroit Tigers (baseball), Detroit Pistons (basketball), or the Detroit Red Wings (hockey.) Attend a concert at Fox Theater or the Detroit Masonic Temple. Go to the Detroit Visitors Bureau website for even more ideas.

Other Gluten Free Dining Options in Detroit

I have an entire blog post about gluten free options in Downtown Detroit. Restaurants on that list include Folk Detroit, Frita Batidos, and Buddy’s Pizza.

Breadless Locations, Hours and Contact Information

Original Detroit Location
2761 E Jefferson Suite A,
Detroit, MI 48207
(313) 488-4091

Mon- Sat 10:30 am – 8 pm, Sun 11 am – 6 pm

Rochester MI Location

181 S. Livernois

Rochester Hills Mi 48307

Mon- Sat 10 am – 8 pm, Sun 11 am – 7 pm

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Email

They offer delivery through their website (order.eatbreadless.com), their Breadless app on IOS and Google Play, and also deliver through 3rd parties such as DoorDash, UberEats, GrubHub and EZCatering.

Breadless is one of many Michigan restaurants I’ve visited. You can find a list of them on my Michigan gluten free dining post. Please remember to always ask any restaurant about their food preparation practices.

** I paid full price for my meal. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

The post Breadless – Dedicated Gluten Free in Detroit appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

100% Completely, Absolutely Gluten Free

Follow a gluten free diet? You can eat everything on the menu at Papa Chops Eatery. Owner Aaron Muller, lives with Celiac Disease. After struggling to find safe dining options for himself, he decided to roll up his sleeves and create a restaurant without wheat, rye or barley.

However, Muller’s background was in printing and commercial real estate. Therefore, he decided to attend culinary school at the Secchia Institute for Culinary Studies at Grand Rapids Community College. There he met Thaddeus Whorley, who functions as the restaurant’s executive chef. Together, they created the menu for which they’re famous.

Learn more about the background of the restaurant in interviews with Wood TV 8, ABC 13, and the Grand Rapids Business Journal.

What’s On the Gluten Free Menu at Papa Chops Eatery?

Papa Chops Eatery is your typical burger joint, just free from gluten. Muller wanted to offer all the things he missed when he was diagnosed. This includes simple burgers, French fries, and classic American fare. The menu also offers pizza, salads, even a Bluegill sandwich! Soon, they plan to offer wraps, and continue to experiment with menu items.

When I visited with my husband and my niece, we all intentionally ordered different items to try. My (non gf) husband ordered the fried bluegill sandwich, which he thoroughly enjoyed. I ordered the fried chicken sandwich, with onion rings. My (non gf) niece ordered the BLT, and we all shared an order of fried pickles. 

Does Papa Chops Offer Gluten Free Desserts? 

When we visited, baked goods from both Kind Crumbs and Bliss Bakery (a grain & sugar free business) were both available for purchase. I asked Aaron Muller about this business partnership, and he stated he hopes to rotate between some of the local bakeries. In the future he hopes to showcase products from Rise Authentic Baking to showcase some of the amazing products local kitchens are making.

Does Papa Chops Accommodate Additional Allergens? Which Oil Do They Use for Frying? 

Delicious gluten free options is Muller’s primary goal. However, in the future he hopes to make his restaurant as food allergy conscious as possible. For instance, no peanuts are used in his kitchen, and he has attempted to minimize corn and dairy. Currently, the restaurant uses canola oil in their fryers. 

Does Papa Chops Allow Outside Food in Their Restaurant? 

Absolutely not. Muller desires to create a 100% safe gluten free atmosphere for his customers. Staff cannot bring gluten containing items in the kitchen, either. Furthermore, vendors and delivery drivers must wash their hands before entering his establishing. Muller takes the risk of cross contact very seriously. Outside seating is available.

Does Papa Chops Eatery Have a Liquor License? 

At this time, they do not. While Aaron Muller would like to pursue one in the future, it’s not currently an expense he wants to take on. That being said, he’s also not sure how the presence of alcohol will impact the atmosphere of his restaurant. In the meantime, Grand Rapids is home to Michigan’s first dedicated gluten free brewery, Brewery Nyx. Visit them at their taproom, and find their beer in cans at several Grand Rapids grocery stores. 

Does Papa Chops Eatery Deliver?

Great question. First, Papa Chops does offer online ordering. However, delivery is a bit tricky. He feels the large delivery companies (Uber Eats, Door Dash, GrubHub) don’t take care to prevent cross contact with orders from other businesses. That concerns Muller, and he’s looking into other, safer options. 

What’s Next for Papa Chops Eatery? 

I asked owner Aaron Muller what new things he hopes to add to the menu. “I plan on exploring all kinds of food options, from different walks of life and bringing them to Grand Rapids. Our wraps are the next menu item we will be releasing. Finding a good gluten free tortilla wrap is harder than it might seem. Many have a “gummy” aftertaste, or are too brittle to actually wrap anything in. But I’ve found a winner and I’m excited to introduce it soon!”

More Grand Rapids Dining Options and Attractions

Grand Rapids is a magical city if you don’t eat gluten. Visit my article about Grand Rapids Gluten Free Dining Options to find more places to dine. This post also includes over a dozen ideas for activities and sights to see while you’re in town. Visiting during the Art Prize in the fall is still on my bucket list of things to do. 

Other Dedicated Gluten Free Eateries In Michigan

You can find a list of other 100% gluten free restaurants in my Michigan Gluten Free Dining Guide. While many are familiar with Tru Pizza (formerly Renee’s Gourmet Pizzeria), there are more than a dozen lesser known Gluten Free restaurants. That includes Little Mustard Seed Cafe, Outside the Box, The Rage, Nourish Juicery Kitchen, and more.

Location, Hours and Contact Information

Papa Chops Eatery
2222 28th St SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
(616) 284-8800
Tuesday – Friday 11 am – 8 pm, Saturday 11:30-8 pm. Closed Sunday & Monday
Website | Facebook | Instagram

Papa Chops Eatery is one of many Michigan restaurants I’ve visited. You can see a list of them on my  Michigan gluten free dining post. Please remember to always ask any restaurant about their food preparation practices.

**I was given a small discount for our meal. All thoughts and opinions are my own. **

The post Papa Chops Eatery- 100% GF in Grand Rapids, MI appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Where is Wheat’s End Cafe? 

Located in the Park West section of Chicago, Wheat’s End Cafe moved to Diversy Pkwy in 2022. (It was formerly located at 2873 N Broadway.) Owned by Susan McMillan and Amelia Fonti, it formerly operated as a fine dining restaurant called Senza. It won Michelin stars and was rated one of the Top 100 restaurants in the country.

Encouraged by Meni Mizrahi, general manager, the restaurant shifted their menu. Still amazingly delicious meals made in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen but just a bit simpler. From foie gras to homemade yogurt. From oysters on a half shell to half an omelette on a house made English muffin. And still with the same love and care from the cafe family that makes them noteworthy. 

What Gluten Free Options Does Wheat’s End Cafe Offer? 

Everything. In addition to a dedicated gluten free kitchen, customers are asked to refrain from bringing gluten containing items into the restaurant. Their menu includes breakfast and brunch items. Start the day with gluten free pancakes or waffles (both of which are dairy free), or stop in for lunch for their turkey cranberry panini or grilled cheese on vegan housemade sourdough, served with a side of tomato soup.

Do non gluten eaters like the menu?  Manager Meni Mizrahi says that over half of his patrons don’t even need to eat gluten-free. They just love the food. But for those who MUST dine gluten-free, he says he could write a book full of stories of their expressions of gratitude. Grateful hugs from clients. The joy of a child being able to eat her first donut, EVER. This restaurant truly is a place of joy. 

Does Wheat’s End Offer Dairy Free or Vegan  Options? 

Absolutely. Their online menu includes a dietary key, highlighting which items are dairy free or vegan. The dietary key also indicates which menu items can be altered to be dairy free or vegan. They offer soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk , and oat milk for hot beverages. Please note that eggs, dairy, nuts and soy are used in their kitchen. 

What Baked Goods Do They Offer?

Just want to stop in for a quick treat? Wheat’s End Cafe offers an assortment of baked goods. That includes donuts and cinnamon rolls, as well as scones, vegan brownies, chocolate chip cookies, and more. They also offer drip coffee from Bridgeport Coffee, locally roasted in Chicago. Not a coffee drinker? They also serve tea and hot chocolate, and offer dairy free chocolate milk. 

What Do You Like to Order?

My favorite thing to order is their Open Faced Egg Sandwich. It’s basically an omelette, served on top of two toasted English Muffins or bagels. I always get the English muffins, because they are THE BEST. In the past they also served this amazing popover, topped with your choice of gravy and two poached eggs. It’s not currently on the menu. If it comes back, make sure to order it with the mushroom gravy. 

Other items of note in their menu include Spicy Chicken and Waffles, and Bagel and House Cured Lox. From the pictures on their website, I think the next time I visit I defintely need to try the Chocolate Chip and Banana Belgian Waffle. 

Do They Sell Pre Packaged Items? Do They Ship?

Right now they do NOT ship their products. However you can pre-order some of their packaged goods for local pick-up. Packaged items available for pick up include bagels, English muffins, Sourdough bread, pizza crusts and pancake mix. 

More Than Just Great Food

I’ve been blessed to get to know owner Susan McMillan and her staff through the years, and definitely consider them friends. Whether it’s eating at the restaurant, or seeing them at events, I’m always greated with hearty hellos and wonderful hugs. Thank you Susan. Amelia and Meni, for loving your community through delicious food, hugs, and the willingness to cater to those that often get overlooked.

Restaurant Location, Hours and Contact Info

Wheat’s End Cafe
543 W. Diversey PKWY
Chicago Illinois 60657
(773) 770-3527
Pick up & Delivery Only – Tuesday thru Sunday: 10 am – 3 pm

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Menu

Wheat’s End Cafe is one of many  restaurants I’ve visited. On my first trip there, I did not pay for my meal. However, I’ve been a faithful patron of this establishment every time I visit Chicago. You can more Windy City dining recommendations in my Gluten Free Chicago  post. Please remember to always ask any restaurant about their food preparation practices.

The post Wheat’s End Cafe – 100% Gluten Free Chicago Restaurant appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.