Episode #19 - People's Market Co Op in Portland

My friend and colleague, Andrea Nakayama of Replenish PDX, takes us on a tour of some of her favorite spots in Portland. One of which included People's Market Co Op, a community-owned market providing organic, local, sustainable, raw, vegan, gluten free and bulk health foods. It was a real treat getting a tour from Portland's health coach!

We knew that if we were staying in Portland on our RV trip, we would definitely stop by the headquarters for Bob's Red Mill (one of our favorite products) and go on the factory tour. So, we did and it did not disappoint!  The gluten free facility was pristine and the tour was given by a highly enthusiastic and educational guide, Christy.  As Christy was speaking about the "hows" of the factory, Bob Moore himself walked into the crowd and started telling stories of how the company was started and the challenges that he ran into along the way. It was a real treat listening to the stories of a true entrepreneur and someone who genuinely cares about people and the quality of the food that we eat.

After the factory tour, we enjoyed our visit and lunch at the Bob's Red Mill Store.  My family has truly enjoyed these products over the years and will continue to enjoy them.  I just wish their store was in San Diego near us!

Episode #17 - A Portland "Find," Abby's Table - a community dining experience

After researching the many options available in Portland for gluten free restaurants, markets and bakeries, I stumbled across Abby's Table, a family-style restaurant (and shared co-op space) that serves dinner two nights per week.  After reading their website, I quickly made reservations for that evening for my daughter, Ashlyn, and I.  This was truly a "find" in Portland. Not only was Abby's Table a delicious 4-course gluten free, dairy free, soy free dinner but it was also full of ambiance, community and like-minded people.  I highly recommend this "find" as a reason to visit Portland or as an event that should be on the "top of your list" if you have plans to visit the area. I would also highly encourage those of you considering local based restaurants with sustainable food interests to pick the brain of Abby, a kind soul, entrepreneur and chef. Thank you Abby's Table for a fantastic dining experience in Portland!

Episode #16 - Gluten Free Japanese Style

We visited the Japanese gardens in Portland, Oregon today and then decided to celebrate with lunch at Yuki Japanese restaurant in Nob Hill.  Sushi is a nutritious and delicious way of eating while traveling.  Try packing some San-J Organic Tamari Soy Sauce as this soy sauce is made without gluten. The sauce is available in 20 oz bottles or in small travel "to-go" packets.  I always carry some in my bag for sushi stops!

Episode #15 - Quick & Easy Gluten Free Grilled Pizza

What are some quick & easy grilling recipes while camping? Udi's makes a delicious pizza crust that grills beautifully.  I topped it with some Trader Joe's pizza sauce, some shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced mushrooms and topped it with fresh arugula.  The grilling took about 8 minutes and it was one of the quickest and easiest dinners that I have ever made.  Delish!

Episode #14 - Yosemite's Raging Rapids and Gluten Free Options

Do you wonder if you can go to a National Park and stick with your gluten free diet? Well, this year, the Merced River is at its best, raging with full force and white caps, so head on out!  Yosemite has several gluten free dining options and keep watching for upcoming videos for delicious gluten free grilling meals during your travels.

Episode #13 - Garlic Capitol of the World, Gilroy, CA

Have you ever wondered why garlic is so good for you and where it is grown? South of San Francisco, there is a rural area called Gilroy that specializes in the growing and selling of garlic.  Elizabeth explains the nutritional and health benefits of garlic as she stops by a local Farmer's Market stand and picks some up for the road.