Pancakes, waffles, eggs on toast. Breakfast has always been my favorite meal of the day but it sure isn’t the easiest meal being Gluten Free from Celiac. Thankfully, living around Portland, Oregon there are more than a few amazing spots to make up for that while staying strictly safe in a dedicated environment (no knock on shared spaced, but when it can be dedicated and great, why not).
While my list has plenty more to get to, it’s hard to leave tried & true, tasty options behind. Here’s a few of my favorites so far presented in order of where I go most — and yes, this will be updated as I get to new places too.
Mikiko Mochi Donuts: It’s hard to find a good GF donut just about anywhere, especially fresh and done with different flavors (S’mores! Matcha! )sold in their stores and at some PDX & Vancouver farmer markets seasonally. Mikiko Mochi does that oh so well of course but why they really make this list is their breakfast sandwiches. I’ve had a couple variations but the principle is all the same: donut style bread, egg, cheese, a meat of some sort, and sauce and they are good! They also serve up fried chicken & waffles on the weekends but I’ve yet to try that.
Kirari West: Serving up egg melts, stuffed rolls, and toast in the morning, this may be the best French Toast I’ve had anywhere and don’t even get me started on the trays of breakfast pastries they offer up. A very thick slice bread served with fruit (my favorite) or banana nutella, it almost feels like being back to my gluten eating days, and even my gluten eating friend was a fan, though we could tell the difference of course. Pair it up with a side of eggs or a ham & cheese roll to get some protein in (or a cinnamon roll, and carb load away).
Harlow: With a couple locations around Portland, Harlow is a solid spot all day and evening but it’s their Banana Walnut Pancakes (note, these are oat based) that have drawn me in for repeat visits. The menu is Vegan forward but not exclusively Vegan, so you can get eggs for a scramble plate, Vegan biscuits and gravy*, Maple Waffles*, a New Cascadia avocado bagel, and Smoothie Bowl or Parfait to round out the morning options.
** Their menus vary a bit by location so check which one you’re going to if you have something in mind.
New Cascadia Traditional: While not my favorite GF bagel (NYC & LA’s Modern Bread and Bagel takes that spot for me), it is my favorite local option. From a simple cream cheese spread to egg & cheese (also done vegan style, it’s PDX after all), there’s just something magical about having a breakfast bagel every time. They also offer up some delicious scones, muffins, and other breakfast-appropriate pastries.
Gluten Free Gem: Speaking of pastries, rounding out my list is my go to quick bakery. While I’ve never had a proper breakfast here but have stopped in for a pastry plenty of times (they’re also sold at New Seasons for about a $1 more each).
Still high on my list to try out is Griddly Bear and Verde Cocina en la Perla. Hopefully soon so I can add my take in.
What do you think? Share your favorite PDX breakfast spots or experiences with mine in the comments.