Can a Gluten-Free Bakery Actually Be Delicious? Why Yes It Can.
And calories don't count when they're gluten free
As an avowed carb lover, the idea of gluten-free anything sounds about as appealing as meat-free meat. But as a food writer, I also have to keep an open mind, which was how I found myself wandering into Dora’s Bakery and Bistro on Calle Ocho in Coral Gables which, according to its Instagram, is Miami’s only 100% gluten-free bakery. Maybe it was just dumb curiosity, but I wanted to see how a gluten free bakery could make anything even remotely appealing, or if it would just be a big, dry emporium full of crumbly banana bread.
I’m happy to report that Dora’s can hold its own with any of Miami’s best bakeries. Not that I’m clearing all the flour out of my house like it’s the night before Passover. But if for some reason I discovered a late-life gluten intolerance – like everyone I’ve ever met who has a “naturopath” – it’s good to know that there’s a place with gluten-free baked goods that are pretty close to the real thing.
The space: Is a narrow little bakery wedged into a strip of shops on SW 8th Street, right before Ponce. It sadly misses the alluring smell of a traditional bakery. But what it lacks in smells it more than makes up for in aesthetics, with a big case of fresh pastries beckoning you from the front door. There’s also rows of gluten-free packaged goods, ranging from the usual gluten-free pasta to Oreo cookies and other classic snacks.
What to eat and drink: Dora’s excels in baked goods, and its banana bread was the big winner for me. But this is Miami, so obviously the bakery has empanadas, which I’m happy to report are indistinguishable from their gluten-laden counterparts. The breads are good, though they’re more like focaccia than the fluffy loaves you’re used to. It makes for a nice base for Dora’s avocado toast, a simple preparation of sliced Avo and olive oil on toast packed with good fats.
The pizza was the only disappointment. If you ever had the misfortune of wandering in Rey’s Pizza and had that regrettable mix of bitter cheese and thin sauce, it’s a lot like that but with better crust. The chocolate chip cookies are decent, too, but can run a little dry. There’s also a full menu of sandwiches on gluten free bread, which I wasn’t able to try.
Perfect for: Lunch for the gluten-intolerant.
Expect to pay: About $30 per person. Removing gluten is apparently highly labor intensive.
Pro tip: If you’re planning a meal here, get a bunch of little things and split them. Dora’s smaller items are its best ones.
How’s the parking: Trickly. Nearby lots look public but are not, so you’re best to find a street space nearby.
@doraglutenfree // 3822 SW 8th St., Coral Gables
