I know I don’t normally write about restaurants here, but I’m compelled to write about my experience at Fleming’s Steakhouse because I really want to share this with you, my readers, who might have a tough time eating out in restaurants.

A Brief Review of Fleming’s Steakhouse

A few weeks ago, I had dinner at Fleming’s Steakhouse. At first I was a little trepidacious – despite the fact that I tell restaurant managers beforehand that I have a gluten allergy, I usually end up cobbling together some sort of Franken-dish once I get there while the servers give me the frightened “oh crap she’s got a food allergy” look.

That’s not what happened at Fleming’s. I was completely surprised when I arrived and found that not only have they created a complete gluten-free menu, but it’s so informative that they even explain what sauces are gluten free so that gluten-free diners can change sauces with confidence that they won’t be glutened. The menu is broad and exciting, with delectable options that really piqued my appetite. A few examples: double-thick pork chop with a julienne of apples and jicama, apple cider and horseradish mustard; New Zealand lamb chops; mashed potatoes with blue cheese, parmesan-peppercorn or roasted garlic; roasted baby carrots tossed with golden raisins and toasted California Mission almonds.

Besides the primary dishes on the gluten-free menu, the following sauces are also gluten-free:

• Peppercorn
• Madeira
• Béarnaise
• Lemon Butter
• Lobster Sauce
• Jalapeño Pepper Sauce
• Horseradish Cream
• Horseradish Mustard
• “F17” Steak Sauce
• Champagne Mint
• Porcini Mushroom Sauce
• Smoked Jalapeño Aioli

I had the main filet with the carrots and mashed potatoes that I mention above. My friend had the special, which was a filet that came with perfectly-cooked prawns and a colorful salad. Both of our meals were superb, and the wine pairings recommended by the server were dead-on. We both really enjoyed our meals and left so full that we nearly had to roll ourselves out of the place.

The Verdict

Like I said, I don’t review restaurants often. It’s just not part of my blogging gestalt. But if you’re a gluten free diner and you’re looking for a great dinner and a lovely wine selection, I recommend you check out Fleming’s. If you do follow me recommendation and go check it out for yourself, please comment here and let me know what you think.

A note on gluten free dining

As always, it’s always a good idea to call a restaurant beforehand to let them know you have special dietary needs, and you need to be sure to explain your food sensitivities with your server to let them know you’ll need your prepared with clean equipment. Just because a restaurants has a gluten free menu doesn’t mean that you can skip the necessary steps to keep yourself from getting sick.