Clarkston Union Background

If you’re unfamiliar with Clarkston Union, they are the original restaurant in the Union Family of Joints. Curt Catallo and wife Ann Stevenson opened Clarkston Union over 20 years ago. Their vision of renovating an old baptist church into a restaurant started a legacy of unique restaurants.

It’s been a huge success. They’ve gone on to open other restaurants, such as Union Woodshop, Vinsetta’s Garage, Fenton Fire Hall, and Honcho. They renovate each building to keep the character of the original structure and breathe new life into it. I think the interior of Vinsetta Garage is my favorite.

The Most Macked (Gluten Free) Mac N Cheese

In March of 2016, Clarkson Union messaged me with an invite. They wanted to let me know they had finally perfected their take on a gluten-free version of their famous  Mac N’ Cheese. This is no ordinary mac n’ cheese. Featured on Food Network, Esquire, and even television shows in Canada, this dish is notorious. 

After a quick half hour drive from Flint to Clarkston, we arrived at the restaurant and directed to a booth seat. (They made booths from repurposed church pews!)

Gluten Free pasta, pizza, burgers and sausages on a bun were all available to me. Dessert too! I learned they source their gluten-free products locally, including buns from Rumi’s Passion in Plymouth. They utilize local meat and produce as well.

“It Tastes the Same”

So the moment of truth. My husband tried his regular mac, then he tried a bit of mine. A look of pleased surprise crossed his face. “It tastes the same,” he stated. (He was even more amazed with our leftovers, and that it still tasted the same, and the noodles didn’t disintegrate.) If I hadn’t ordered other items, I would have inhaled the whole dish right there.

Why Does Clarkston Union Offer Gluten Free Options

When I first went to Clarkston Union in 2016, their executive chef Aaron Cozadd was personally familiar with Celiac Disease and food allergies.

The head chef at Clarkston Union is now Becca Townsend. She too has a personal connection to dietary restrictions. Her mom lives with Celiac Disease, not to mention many staff members have to eat gluten free. Chef Becca fully believes that everyone deserves to eat safely.

*Note, they no longer have a separate gluten free menu. They note Gluten free options on the main menu.

Do they Accommodate Other Food Allergens?

“We offer lots of dairy free & vegan options especially with weekly specials. We have some tree nuts on our menu (walnuts, almonds & sometimes cashew). We are careful when guests have tree nut allergies & keep the staff trained on how to navigate that.”

What Kind of Oil Do They Use for Frying?

For starters, they do NOT use peanut oil. They use canola oil for fried foods. For cooking, they use a canola olive oil blend. Their pan spray contains sunflower seed & canola oils.

How Does Clarkston Union Prevent Cross Contact?

Because safe dining options are important to them, they take several steps to try to provide a safe gluten free meal.

Do they maintain a separate prep area?

“We do not, but we do store our gluten free macs, buns & pizza crusts on their own separate shelves. We also sanitize thoroughly in between prep tasks. The Commissary prep kitchen (where we get our mac & cheese) has specified areas where gluten free mac & cheese is made.

When making allergy dishes: line cooks change gloves, get cleaned utensils/knives/cutting boards from the back & get all items from the back cooler. Plus they prepare gluten free dishes in a separate pan instead of on the flat top.

What training do staff receive on preparing GF meals safely?

Our Sous Chef is allergen certified. In addition, all servers have a laminated card that lists allergens for every menu item, including weekly specials. In addition, they train all staff to ask each customer if they have any food allergies.

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

Yes, we use red dishes for our gluten free mac & cheese. For other gluten free dishes, staff include a tooth pic.

Does Clarkston Union Offer Vegetarian Options?

Pictured above is their bacon cheeseburger with onion jam. HIGHLY recommend. However, they also have a portobello burger, which I believe is vegetarian. When we first visited in 2016, we enjoyed an amazing vegetarian pizza. Their pizza options rotate.

They also offer pork free items, including sausage. On our first visit, my husband enjoyed his sausage so much he was almost moved to tears. Their sausage immediately took him back to the flavors he missed from his childhood. To say that Clarkson Union has won us over as patrons is an understatement.

The Union Joints Family

As we closed our evening, we took some time to talk to our waitress, Yvonne. I asked about her background with the business and her reasons for working there. She said she’s been there over 9 years, practically half the time the restaurant has been in existence. I asked her what kept here there for so many years. “We’re family.” She stated that the staff and owners all celebrate life together, going to each other’s birthday parties, weddings, and funerals.

More Than Just a Customer

I asked our waitress if she had an stories of customers that left a lasting impression up on her. She immediately told us the story of a particular elderly woman. This older woman came into the restaurant on a busy day, wanting to sit in one of the very large booths, all by herself. They thought it odd, but obliged.

The elderly woman thanked the wait staff, and explained it was the first time she left her house since her elderly husband recently passed. This couple had been married for 50 years and ate there frequently. She just needed to sit in “their booth.”

Important Tips on Parking!

While there is parking on premises (including handicap parking), it can get cramped! Utilize Depot Park for parking if lot is full. For Sunday brunch, Saturday lunch & Friday/Saturday dinner, it is highly recommended that you make a reservation.

Restaurant Location, Hours, and Contact Information

Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen
54 S Main St
Clarkston MI 48436
(248) 620 – 6100

Monday – Saturday 11 am – 9 pm, Sunday 9 am to 9 pm

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Have you been to the Clarkston Union? What’s your favorite dish there? Which Union Joint is your favorite place to get a meal?

** Although Clarkston Union provided us with a free meal, all thoughts and opinions are my own. We’ve become loyal Union Joint fans after this, taking friends and family to experience their meals, time and again.**

Clarkston Union 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.

Originally published March 2016

The post Clarkston Union Gluten Free Options appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Paul Swanson, on the right, is the man and vision behind this line of gluten-free sauce bases. Their products makes it easier for life to “go back to normal” after a Celiac Disease diagnosis.  Green Bean Casserole becomes easy again with their Cream of Mushroom Sauce Mix. Their cream sauce allows my pork-free husband to easily have biscuits and gravy again. Simply put, they help bring the joy back to cooking

Read further for the background behind Paul and his company, in his own words.

1. What inspired you to become a food producer? Why the focus on gluten-free?

Well, here is the “short” story:  We have a long family background (over 100 years combined) in the creation of  commercial soups, sauces and gravies.  My mother discovered her intolerance to wheat/ gluten almost 50 years ago.  She felt frustrated about the lack of quality options at the grocery store, so we started making our own. As the gluten free industry grew, we felt there might be real interest in quality soup, sauce and gravy choices like ours.

2. Are there other highlights of your products? Low sodium, fat free, etc?

Full Flavor Foods products are free from gluten, egg, nuts, MSG, hydrogenated oils, and trans fats.  They contain no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.  In addition, the majority of our products contain no soy. (The beef gravy is the exception.) Our 4 gravies are also dairy-free.  In addition, our Mushroom and Cream Soups/Sauces are also lactose free! (We use coconut oil instead of cream in our cream soups and sauces.)

3. What steps do you take to insure that your products are truly gluten-free?

A company independently tests every batch of Full Flavor Foods mixes before we ship them for sale.  We have never received a result indicating a trace of gluten, using the very best testing, which tests for less than 5ppm. (“parts per million”). Our products are also third- party certified as being gluten-free by the Gluten Free Food Program. (Which is endorsed by the National Celiac Association.)

4.  Do you have any stories of customers who reported back to you how important your products have been in their life?

I had a woman in Texas literally break into tears after tasting our Southern Style Breakfast Sausage Gravy (made with our Cream Soup/Sauce Base mix).  She had not enjoyed it in years because she could not find anything GF or make it correctly without using wheat flour. So, it feels like we are make a small difference in people’s lives, helping them recreate many of those comfort foods they miss.

5.  What would you like consumers to know about your products and your business?

We want consumers to know our products are safe for those with Celiac Disease. Not only that, but they are quite delicious, very versatile (check out our GF Recipe Booklet) and better than most similar products found in the marketplace. Why? Because we care about quality.  Where other companies make “brown gravy,” our beef gravy mix is made from real beef.

To us, this company is more than just a business.  We understand (from firsthand experience) about the challenges faced by those with Celiac Disease or Gluten Intolerance . We know they still want, and deserve, great tasting food.  Being gluten-free does not mean consumers have agreed to settle for substandard food!

We also want to spread the word that our mixes now come in bulk for food service customers and larger families. Our larger bags can make up to a full gallon of sauce or gravy. Orders have mostly been from grocery chains (with commissary operations), nursing homes, schools, and hospitals. However even larger families love our bigger, resealable bags.

You’ll find Full Flavor Foods products on their website, in many stores, and at many events nationwide. Some of their products are also available on Gluten Free Mall. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to see where they’ll be next as well as recipe ideas!

**Full Flavor Foods sponsored this post. I adore them regardless, and all of my thoughts and opinions are my own.**

The post Full Flavor Foods Gluten-Free Sauce Mixes appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

When Did Aldi Start Offering Gluten Free Products?

Aldi launched the LiveGfree product line in spring of 2018. New Aldi’s gluten free products have ebbed and flowed over the years. In addition, each year, they stock their shelves will “Special Buys” or “Aldi Finds” that make us run to the store in excitement.

Are Aldi and Trader Joe’s the Same Company?

No. As I explain in my post about Trader Joe’s, People often (incorrectly) assume Trader Joe’s and Aldi have the same parent company. The two businesses were separately owned by two German brothers. Originally the brothers jointly owned Aldi in Germany. However, after a difference of opinion, they amicably split the company into Aldi Sud and Aldi Nord.

Aldi Nord acquired the Trader Joe’s chain that started in California. Aldi Sud operates the Aldi locations in the United States. Confusing?  The Kitchn further explains the Aldi and Trader Joe’s connection, for those who want to dig deeper. However, like Trader Joe’s , Aldi relies on separate manufacturers to make their products, placed in Aldi packaging. The practice is often called “private label.”

Does Aldi Have a Gluten Free Section?

Years ago, Aldi did have a separate gluten free endcap. However, that no longer exists. Gluten Free products at Aldi are now spread throughout the store.

Does Aldi Label Their Gluten Free Products?

Aldi gluten free products bear their own labeling. However, not all products that are gluten free may bear that label. Also, while Aldi offers a gluten free product line, LiveGFree, they sell other gluten free products that are not part of the LiveGFree line.

ALDI knows that a lot of our customers have special dietary needs and are looking for clear, easy–to-understand ingredient information on the products we sell. The best way to be certain a product is gluten-free is to look for products with the certified gluten-free seal, like our exclusive liveGfree product line. All of the products in our liveGfree line are required to be certified by an approved organization that verifies each product’s levels of gluten is less than 10 parts per million.

From the Aldi FAQ

I emailed Aldi asking for further clarification about their products that have a gluten free label, but are not part of their LiveGFree product line. Below is the (very prompt!) reply they sent me.

Thank you for contacting us.

ALDI knows a lot of our customers have special dietary needs and are looking for clear, easy-to-understand ingredient information on the products we sell. The best way to be certain a product is gluten-free is to look for a gluten-free seal on the packaging. ALDI products with a gluten-free symbol not included in the liveGfree product line must meet FDA regulations by containing less than 20 parts per million of gluten.

What Gluten Free Certifications Does Aldi Use?

Additionally, all products within our liveGfree line are certified by an approved organization that ensures less than 10 parts per million of gluten is present within the finished product which exceeds the FDA’s regulations. liveGfree products are certified by one of the following three independent certifying bodies which is listed on the packaging:

• The Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) (Gluten Intolerance Group)
• Gluten-Free Certification Program (GFCP) (Beyond Celiac)
• Celiac Sprue Association (CSA) (It is now called the National Celiac Association.)

What About “May Contains” Statements?

Please note, if a product is labeled as gluten free but has a “may contain wheat” statement on the ingredients label, this means the product does not contain wheat, but wheat is present in the manufacturing facility. The “May Contain” statement is not required by law; however, the FDA requires strict allergen control programs to prevent cross contact for the top 8 allergens, which includes wheat.

To help you determine if other products contain gluten, look at the ingredients list and the “contains statement,” located under the ingredients list. In many cases, the list will specifically state whether the product is “gluten free.”

Does Aldi Sell Name Brand Products?

Yes, they sell quite a few name brand products. While many are “Aldi Finds,” some name brand products are available all the time. For instance I can buy Crest toothpaste and Dawn Dish soap there. My most frequent brand name purchase is my Lifeway Kefir.

Does Aldi Take Manufacturer’s Coupons?

No, they do not. Aldi takes great pride in their low prices. They often run sales, which you can find on their website. Aldi shelves now have digital price tags. Tags with a red background are sale prices.

What Other Things Should I Know About Shopping Gluten Free at Aldi?

First, know that you’ll have to use a quarter to retrieve a shopping cart. It will be returned to you when you return your cart. Secondly, know that Aldi is a large store. They aren’t multiple brands of products. For example, you won’t be able to choose between multiple brands of butter. There is simply Aldi’s house brand of butter. It really makes shopping faster and easier, IMO.

Third, know that many of the items available at Aldi are sold as “Aldi Finds.” These products are available for a short period of time. When they’re gone, they’re gone. PLEASE DON’T HOARD ITEMS. Take only what you need, so that more people are able to try products.

Everyday Aldi’s Gluten Free LiveGFree Products

While some locations may carry certain Aldi’s Gluten Free products, others may not. I chose to share first what I can find in my store all the time. 

Aldi’s Gluten Free Baking Mixes

They carry chocolate, yellow and pancake baking mixes. (Sadly, the recipe I used to make these strawberry shortcakes is no longer on the back of the box!) In addition, they also stock a cornbread mix of which I failed to take a picture! All mixes are free of soy as well!

Snacks and Crackers

One note about these crackers. They do contain oat fiber, although they are certified gluten free through GFCO. Aldi also sells grain free pretzels, that are on an end cap. Aldi recently started selling more grain free and Keto items, and offers almond crackers as well.

Aldi Gluten Free Granola

You’ll find Aldi’s gluten granola stocked near the cereal. I am unaware of whether these are made with purity protocol oats. They are however certified gluten free. They come in three flavors – Raisin Almond , Apple Almond and Cranberry Cashew.

Aldi’s Gluten Free Pasta

For those looking for more whole grains in the pasta, Aldi’s gluten free and organic quinoa blend pastas taste fantastic!

Aldi’s Gluten Free Frozen Section

There are four sections where I find specific LiveGFree items. The first aisle houses the baking mixes and snacks. The second aisle stocks the pasta. The third location to find Aldi’s gluten free products is the freezer section. Gluten free pizza is a must, right? They offer cheese and pepperoni pizzas. I don’t think I’ve ever eaten one. Have you tried them?

Chicken Nuggets. Every (small and big) kid’s favorite! Aldi’s gluten free chicken nuggets are certified gluten free through GFCO.

Bread Aisle

Many swear that Aldi’s gluten bread is their favorite, over any other brand.] It comes in white and whole grain.

My store carries the LiveGFree General Tso’s all the time. Personally, the sauce is too spicy for me. Sometimes I buy this and add my homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce instead.

That’s the end of what I would call the “everyday” Aldi’s gluten free finds. However, every May, Aldi releases some fun and exciting products. I’ll start with the biggest draw!

May Gluten Free “Aldi Finds”

Every spring, usually in May, Aldi offers many gluten free “Aldi Finds.” This is in connection with Celiac Disease Awareness Month. Here are just a few of the products that seem to return every year. Miss them when they’re gone? Most Aldi gluten free products are “private label,” meaning another company makes them and they’re sold in Aldi packaging. Read my post on Gluten Free Aldi Finds Alternatives to be able to find these products year round.

Aldi Gluten Free Cheesecake Sampler

Every year people go CRAZY over Aldi’s gluten free cheesecake. Certified gluten free, it includes four separate flavors.

Aldi LiveGFree Frozen Skillet Meals

Aldi’s Gluten Free Skillet meals were new this May. Did you buy any? They are certified gluten free through NSF, which is located in Ann Arbor. Did you read about my visit there? 

Aldi LiveGFree Ravioli

When Aldi’s gluten free line launched 4 years ago, they sold individual frozen ravioli meals. This may they sold a large bag, theoretically big enough to share with someone else. I bought the Spinach and Cheese ravioli. Did you try it?

LiveGFree Empandas

So true story, the other day my husband made lunch. I asked what he was cooking, and he said “empanadas.” I replied, “the Aldi’s gluten free ones in the freezer?” Ironically, no, he had made his from scratch. Which means I get to eat these another day!

Other Seasonal Aldi’s Gluten Free Items

Gluten Free Stuffing and French Fried Onions

I can still find the Aldi’s gluten free stuffing at my store. I think it’s a hold over from Easter. However this, and gluten free French Fried Onions, show up every year around Thanksgiving.

A few other Aldi’s gluten free items I found include Gluten Free Bites (which I’m sure are made by The GFB) and cheese crackers. I also find them on the shelves of my local Aldi at other times of the year.

Shopping Gluten Free at Other Stores

Looking for more information about shopping gluten free? You can check out my articles about shopping gluten free at Trader Joe’s, Kroger, Meijer, Horrocks and Plum Market. My friend Sandi has excellent posts about shopping gluten free at Walmart and Costco.

Are there items that your Aldi stocks that mine does not? What are your favorite Aldi’s gluten free finds? Leave me a comment below!

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