Who Owns Mama Alana’s Pantry

Alana Stamper is the owner of Mama Alana’s Pantry. She is “a first-generation American of Italian descent, who knows firsthand the challenges of living with chronic illness including a rare bone disease, Lyme Disease and dietary restrictions due to Celiac Disease. You can learn more about her in this interview she did with Voyage Michigan.

Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by your business?

I just love when customers find me and are so happy they found good and delicious food that is safe for them to eat. It makes my hard work seem worth it. I have a rare bone disease which is hard to manage. When I get the calls or emails telling me how happy my customers are, it makes me want to keep going.

What would you like consumers to know about Mama Alana’s Pantry?

I have a small business and everything is made to order. The products we have in stores are made and packaged in my bakery to protect it from any cross contact with gluten. I take pride in everything I do, and am so thankful for all my customers.

I’m hoping in the future to put together online baking courses to help my customers bake their own gluten-free products. I’ve had many inquiries for sourdough baking, and am interested to know what other types of gluten free baking courses people are looking for. 

How should customers place a special order? Do you ship?

My website is the best way to place a special order. If customers have a special order or any questions they can email me at mamaalanaspantry@gmail.com or call (248) 531-8088. In addition, we request 2 – 4 weeks notice for special orders.

Customers can pick up orders at our commercial kitchen. We also ship our mixes, and many of our baked goods such as donuts, bagels and bread. We cannot ship cakes or cupcakes.

Mama Alana’s Pantry Contact Information

Mama Alana’s Pantry is one of many gluten free bakers across the state of Michigan. Visit my blog post to see a comprehensive list of all the gluten-free bakeries in Michigan, complete with interactive map! Looking for more local eats? Check out my list of gluten free baked good options at Michigan Farmers Markets.

The post Mama Alana’s Pantry – Gluten Free in Linden, MI appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

While Smash House Gourmet in Flint is strictly to-go, Social House in Flint offers ample seating in a wonderful atmosphere. Their gluten free fine dining options include Lobster Mac and Cheese, Short RIb, Arancini and more.

Read my blog post below to learn how their staff are trained to prevent cross contact. In addition, I share about their brunch menu, special weekly deals, and more. NOTE- The Table of Contents below is collapsible / expandable. Just click the > below.

Why has Social House/ Smash House Gourmet chosen to offer gluten free options?

Our owner and his family are require a gluten free diet. Because of this, we researched recipes and different ingredients. We found some great products that allows us to make the majority of our options gluten free.

Is your menu also free from any other allergens? I.e, nuts, dairy, shellfish?

We can cater to dietary restrictions with at least 1 or 2 dishes!

What kind of oil do you use for frying at Social House?

We use 100% additive free beef tallow.

Do you use gluten free wheat starch or oats in your gf meals?

In house we use corn starch and rice panko. Our pastas are made from brown rice.

Do you have a separate gluten free menu?

Most of our menu is gluten free and labeled on the main menu. For the few items that don’t come naturally gluten free, we offer substitutes.

Do you have a separate prep area for gluten free dishes?

We have dedicated fryers, cook tops, ovens, cutting boards, and tools!

What steps do you take to prevent cross contact in the kitchen?

• Do staff change gloves for gluten free orders?
  • Of course!
• Separate cutting boards/ knives/ utensils
  • Yes
• Separate pots for boiling water?
  • We only offer gluten free pastas.
• Dedicated gluten free fryer?
  • Yes, in fact we have TWO dedicated gluten free fryers!
• Dedicated toaster/ waffle maker?
  • Not applicable
• Are orders cooked in a clean pan vs shared griddle top?
  • Our main grill top is dedicated to gluten free. 

What training do your staff receive on preparing GF meals safely?

We offer hands on training. We spend our day alongside the team, teaching and improving every day. Our Front Of House staff went through a 5 day detailed classroom training. All are well versed in what we have that is not gluten free, as that list is much shorter than what is gluten free!

Do you have picks or special plates that denote a GF meal?

We do not feel this is necessary as only a couple items are not gluten free.

Do you have gluten free vegetarian or vegan options?

Yes we do! We are currently working on an updated menu that will offer more vegetarian options, so stay tuned!

Is there an upcharge for gluten free items, and is it noted on your menu?

Our pretzel, burger bun, and hot dog buns are not gluten free. They do have substitutes available, and the prices are listed on the menu.

What’s your most popular gluten free menu item at Social House?

Our egg rolls or arancini are the most popular on menu items. Other big hits have been the fried mozzarella chips and the fish and chips.

We recently introduced our weekend brunch menu. Gluten free options include

• Build Your Own Breakfast Sandwich
• French Toast
• Pancakes
• Eggs Benedict
• Steak and Eggs
• Chilaquiles and more

Do you offer gluten free desserts?

Yes, we recently hired a gluten free baker to make our desserts each week.

Do you offer gluten free beer/ hard cider/ wine?

We have 4 ciders on draft, which are on dedicated cider only lines. For those looking for gluten free beer, we offer Green’s gluten free beer in cans. In addition, we offer a wide variety of delicious cocktails.

Do you have patio seating? Are dogs allowed outside?

We do not have patio seating at our Fenton Rd. location at this time.

What unique events does Social House offer?

Check their Facebook page for special events.

Do you offer weekly deals? Kids half off? Lunch deals? Happy Hour? Any other deals?

Do you have parking on premises? Any tips on traveling to your business?

We have ample parking on premises. We are located on Fenton Rd in Flint, not too far from the Hill Rd exit on 475. Our restaurant is located in a plaza, along with other businesses.

What add’l things would you like my followers to know about Social House in Flint?

We do not have any wheat flour in our building. The only items that contain gluten on our menus is the pretzel, burger bun, hot dog bun, grilled cheese bread, onion rings and mac and cheese bites.

Our buns and bread are toasted on their own flat top. The onion rings and Mac and cheese bites have their own dedicated fryers and fryer baskets! We take pride in our guests feeling safe eating thing they have not been able to enjoy for years!

Social House Flint & Smash House Gourmet Flint

5516 Fenton Rd

Flint, MI 48507

(810) 869-2838

Social House Flint Hours: Tuesday – Thursday 12-10pm \ Friday 12-11 pm \ Sat 11 am – 11 pm \

Sun 11 am – 9 pm (Closed Monday)

Smash House Flint Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 12pm-8 pm (Closed Monday)

Social House Website | Facebook | Instagram

Smash House Flint Website | Facebook | Instagram

(Flint location only. Fenton location does not have celiac safe kitchen.)

Social House Flint 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 myMichigan gluten free baker list!

The post Social House Gluten Free Options appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

While people like to talk smack about Flint, we have a lot of great things to offer. From science and art museums to auditoriums and more, there are so many reasons to visit Flint. One of the highlights of our downtown area is the Flint Farmers Market, which everyone should visit. Make sure to stop at Hills’ Cheese Stand!

Where is the Flint Farmers’ Market?

The Flint Farmer’s Market has been located in many places in its 150 year history. It moved to downtown Flint in 2014, and it wow located at 300 E. First St. Readers named it “America’s Most Loved Farmers’ Market” in 2011. In 2021, CNN named the Flint Farmers’ Market one of the Top 10 markets in the country.

The market offers ample parking and is located near the MTA Transit Station. It is situated close to the University of Michigan – Flint campus, and I- 475.

When is the Flint Farmers’ Market Open?

Regular market days are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, year round. Some businesses are open on additional days, such as Steady Eddy’s and The Market Tap.

Other Market Features

The Flint Farmers Market building also houses the Hurley Children’s Center, which is open Monday thru Friday. They offer well child visits, vaccinations, nutrition counseling, post-operative follow up, and much more.

The market also offers a hall for rental, and a demo kitchen used to teach about healthy eating. In addition, there is a commercial kitchen that allows vendors to prep for their stalls.

What Vendors Offer Gluten Free Options?

I spent some time interviewing some of the inside food vendors at the Flint Farmers’ Market, asking about their gluten free options. I did not talk to outside market vendors, as they mostly sell produce. Below I share some of their answers with you.

Lori’s Clean Cuisine – 100% Gluten Free

1) Why did you choose to offer a completely gluten free menu?

I try to eat gluten-free most of the time because it makes me feel better all the way around. For me, it was hard to find true gluten-free/clean options that I wanted. That was the main reason I chose to be a farmers market gluten-free Vendor. Not to mention, there were very few options here at the market as well.

Another service, I take pride in, is offering to work with customer dietary restrictions. I can do this by substituting ingredients when needed. That’s also why I do not pre-make my bowls.

2) I know that everything is gluten free, and that you offer vegan options. Is your menu also completely free of any other allergens,such as soy?

I try very hard to avoid soy. Whenever I have a recipe that calls for soy sauce, I will always use Braggs amino liquids or coconut aminos

95% of what I do is also dairy free. All of my bowls are dairy free unless a customer chooses to add cheese or they choose one of my homemade dressings that has a Greek yogurt for a base. And the only freezer meal that contains dairy is my ranch chicken chili.

I also use all organic ingredients, as much as I possibly can. Non GMO, for sure. Lastly, I have a little “grocery store” filled with organic & gluten free products.

3) What steps do you take when preparing meals with other allergens, such as peanuts?

Since my number one seller is my Pad Thai Bowl (which contains peanuts) I can never say that I’m peanut free. However, if someone lets me know of a peanut allergy, everything is wiped down, new gloves and utensils are used, etc

4) Do you use oats or oat milk in anything you prepare?

I use organic gluten free sprouted oats when needed. My go to milks are unsweetened almond and unsweetened coconut milk

5) Do you have any desserts at your stall (I think i noticed other snacks like chips, etc.)

I just started selling my Chia Fruit Salsa, Pineapple Mango Pico de Gallo, sweet and spicy Mango Salsa and Rainbow Fruit Cups.

Late spring thru Fall I’ll have gourmet chocolate covered frozen bananas. Dairy free options are available too.

Follow Lori’s Clean Cuisine on their website / Instagram

Sweet Peaces Vegan Bistro

At Sweet Peaces we offer a gluten free bakery, pantry staples, snacks, and daily soup. I follow a vegan diet, and opened Sweet Peaces to cater to people who do not eat animal products. We added more gluten free friendly items as demand grew over the past 10 years.

To avoid cross contact, we use tongs and gloves. We wipe down all prep areas thoroughly 3 times. Our bakery case contains only gluten free baked goods, which are prepared in a dedicated gluten free space.

Follow Sweet Peaces on Facebook / Instagram

Say Cheese 810

Instead of offering gluten free pasta, they allow you to build your own Cheesy Potato Bowl. While they do not have a separate dedicated gluten free prep space, they do take precautions for gluten free customers. When preparing a potato bowl, they change gloves, use separate utensils, and cook gluten free orders in a separate pan. They do state that gluten free items are cooked in a shared convection oven.

“Thank you for messaging me! We try our best to keep potatoes from cross contact of any other food source. Gloves and utensils are all new and clean for guests with a gluten allergy and only used once. The next bowl gets clean utensils.” There is no upcharge for gluten free orders.

Follow Say Cheese 810 on Facebook / Instagram

Steady Eddy’s – Sit Down Restaurant

Gluten free options at Steady Eddy’s include omelettes and sandwiches made on gluten free bread. They do charge extra for gluten free bread, which is noted on the menu. My favorite sandwich is their veggie club.

They do not have a dedicated prep space for gluten free meals. However they do change their gloves and use separate utensils. They also have a separate toaster for gluten free bread. In addition, they offer many vegetarian options.

Follow Steady Eddy’s on Facebook / Instagram

SOS Ice Cream (Scoopful of Sweetness)

We offer several ice cream flavors that contain no gluten. S.O.S. Ice Cream serves Hershey brand ice cream, plus a few flavors from an independent dairy. For those who can’t eat dairy, we also serve Hershey’s Oatmazing ice cream.

We have designated and sanitized scoops. We do not double scoop (which means we don’t scoop 2 different flavors with the same scoop). If a customer prefers, we will open a new container. We personally have gluten dietary restrictions in our family, and we want everyone to feel comfortable.

We have gluten free cookies, cones and starting soon we hope to carry homemade gluten free waffle cones. Homemade ice cream cakes are in the future as well.

We carry gluten free cake pops and can accommodate special orders as well.

We offer gluten free milk shakes, and clean/sanitize every blender after each milk shake is made.

Follow SOS on Facebook / Instagram

Market Tap

I love visiting the Market Tap. Located upstairs at the Flint Farmer’s Market, they offer delicious adult beverages and often have live music. They have many hard cider options, either on tap or in cans. In addition, The Market Tap offers wine and spirits, including Michigan made Gypsy vodka.

They offer extensive outdoor patio seating, with a gorgeous view of downtown Flint. **Note, The Market Tap is also open on Friday, in addition to the regular Tuesday / Thursday/ Saturday schedule.

Follow Market Tap on Facebook / Instagram

Other Flint & Genesee County Gluten Free Options

There are many neat place to visit in Genesee County. That includes the Capital Theater, Sloan Science Museum, the Flint Children’s Museum, and so much more. I’m a huge fan of the many murals around the Flint area.

As for gluten free dining options, Flint Crepe Co. offers gluten free crepes. The Social House on Fenton Rd offers many gluten free options, and Teta’s Grill in Flushing has an extensive gluten free menu. Brothers Brunch House in Burton makes amazing gluten free pancakes, and has a dedicated prep space.

Stay tuned for a later blog post about more Flint gluten free dining options.

Address, Hours and Contact Info

Flint Farmers Market

300 E 1st St, Flint, MI 48502

Open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday

Market Tap is open on Fridays. Steady Eddy’s is open on additional days.

Website | Facebook | Instagram

The Flint Farmers Market 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!

The post Flint Farmers Market Gluten Free Options appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Not every city offers a public gluten free bakery. For instance, I live in Flint, Michigan. For me, the closest dedicated gluten free bakery is located at least 30 minutes away. Which is why I appreciate small home-based bakers. They open their home to make holidays possible.

Little G’s Bakery, located in Grand Blanc Michigan, offers special order cakes, prepared in a dedicated gluten free kitchen. Owner Gretchen Wallace loves being able to use her baking skills to make others feel special, especially those with dietary restrictions. Read more about this cottage law business, through my interview with Gretchen, below.

1. What inspired you to become a dedicated gluten free baker?

I have always loved the creative aspect of decorating cakes. My focus shifted to creating gluten-free cakes after my Celiac diagnosis. Now, my youngest is following in mom’s footsteps with gluten issues. Therefore, I work hard to make sure we get to enjoy fun cakes on all of our birthdays.

2. Are there other highlights of your baked goods? Dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free etc.?

The other top 8 allergens are present in my kitchen. I make vegan cakes upon request.

3. What steps do you take to guarantee your products are gluten-free?

All of my cake ingredients are certified gluten free. I don’t use any gluten free wheat starch. I never use oat flour in my cakes. I do occasionally use oats in other things, but I only use oats that are labeled gluten free.

I am a dedicated gluten-free baker and no longer use wheat flour in my kitchen. The space I make my baked cooks is 95% gluten free. I do have a High Functioning autistic son who has two (pre-packaged) foods that he eats that are not gluten free. Those items are always put in bowls for him that are not used for baking.

4. Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by Little G’s Bakery?

A couple families have become repeat customers. They express how happy they are to have something cute, and something they and/or their family can all enjoy. They have always commented that other family members haven’t even realized they were eating gluten free cake.

5. What would you like consumers to know about Little G’s Bakery?

I love pouring my heart into creating a custom design, with the customer. Even though they eat gluten free, they should still enjoy a fun cake on their special day. Many of us with gluten issues do not get to indulge on special days. Therefore, I love that I can be the one to provide a little indulgence for all of us as well.

Little G’s Location, Hours and Contact Info

Home Based Business in Grand Blanc, MI

Preferred Method of contact – 989-239-2692 or email

Facebook | Instagram | Email

Little G’s is one of many gluten free bakers across the state of Michigan.  Click this link to see a comprehensive list of all the gluten-free bakeries in Michigan, complete with interactive map! Looking for more local eats? Check out my list of gluten free baked good options at Michigan Farmers Markets. 

The post Little G’s Gluten Free Cakes & More- Grand Blanc, MI appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

What Gluten Free Options Does Teta’s Grill Offer?

Teta’s Grill gluten free options include all meats except the gyro meat (which contains bread crumbs) and the breaded chicken fingers. (They fry their falafel and French fries in the same oil as breaded items. Therefore, they do not suggested those with Celiac Disease eat these items.) The pita and desserts are off limits too.

What Other Food Allergies Do They Accommodate?

Their menu goes beyond gluten free offerings, though. All meals are absolutely egg free. No mayonnaise used at all in this establishment! In addition, they use no butter or artificial ingredients. All entrees are cooked FROM scratch. (Bread is bought premade in Dearborn.) Everything is cooked fresh, and made to order.

Teta’s Grill Gluten Free Appetizers

I started my Teta’s grill gluten free dinner with Lentil soup. They slow cook lentils in homemade vegetable stock (no bouillon) for a Lebanese food that hits the spot. (If you’d ever like to try making it at home, I suggest this Red Lentil Soup recipe from The Kitchn.) 

I also ordered Teta’s Grill gluten free grape leaves. Rarely do I get get to eat these things. I cannot imaging the time and energy it takes to soften the leaves and wrap these. This requires patience i do not have. Therefore, grape leaves are definitely a treat!

Teta’s Grill Gluten Free Entrees

After consuming our Teta’s Grill gluten free appetizers, we dove into our entrees. My husband ordered the  Lamb Shish Kabob, while I ordered the Deboned Chicken. I do not exaggerate when I say my husband commented “this may be the best lamb I’ve ever eaten.”

I tried a bit of his lamb, and I agree that it was juicy and delicious! My deboned chicken was delicious as well. I cut mine up into small bites and mixed it into my rice, dipping it into their homemade, vegan garlic sauce. I let my husband enjoy the house made pickled turnip on my plate.

Just Like Mom Used to Make

The owner spent time talking to us about the story behind his restaurant. He named it after his mother. She was instrumental behind the yearly “our Lady Of Lebanon Mideast Festival.

He learned all he knew about cooking from her. My husband and I have visited this local festival many times. Knowing that his family remains connected to this great event made this meal experience even better.

How Teta’s Grill Prevents Cross Contact

While this picture isn’t the best, I hope you notice the different color knives. Teta’s Grill designates each color knife for different types of food. The green knives and matching green cutting boards are used only for vegetables. There’s a dedicated cutting board and knife for bread, so those gluten filled crumbs don’t inadvertently find their way into your food.

The yellow and red knives are for different types of meats. In addition, they change their gloves with every meal they prepare, to prevent any chance of cross-contact. I find this level of forethought simply fascinating.

The owner was very open, totally okay with me taking this picture, and proud to show just how clean and neat they maintain their kitchen. They have exemplary notices from the health department, and they even post them proudly for customers to see!

So, if you find yourself in Flushing for their Summer Festival or their Christmastime Candlewalk, stop in for a delicious Teta’s Grill gluten free meal. Just know that they close on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4 pm, and are closed on Sundays. Let me know if you decide to stop in, and what you order!

Restaurant Address and Contact Information

Teta’s Grill
6429 Pierson Rd #13
Flushing, MI 48433
(810) 487-9799
Hours Open Mon/Wed/Fri 11 am – 8 pm, Saturday 2-8 pm, CLOSED Tues/Thurs/ Sunday
Website | Facebook | Instagram

All thoughts and opinions are my own. Teta’s Grill is one of many Michigan restaurants I’ve visited. You can 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 not paid or compensated in any way for this meal.

Originally Published July 2018

The post Teta’s Grill Gluten Free Lebanese Cuisine appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.