Thanks to the suggestions from friend Tom and Freedom to Dine reader Nina, I made a trip to the Green Land Cafe in Salem, Ma.  I’d been wanting to try this place for quite sometime and, after discovering that they began noting gluten-free and vegetarian dishes on their menu, the time was right!

Upon mentioning my food needs, the server made note and the manager soon sat down with us to go over the choices. She was clear to ask about any other food issues and quelled any concerns by stating that my meal would be carefully prepped and separately prepared using designated items.

We began our meal by sharing one of the Warm Tapas. We chose the Seared Nantucket Jumbo Scallops and “Bacon” which included two perfectly cooked scallops, crispy pork  belly and a fennel puree, and when eaten together tasted amazing!  For an entree, we chose the Grilled Berkshire Pork Chop which was served with whipped potatoes, sauteed spinach and a not too sweet brandied cherry relish.  It was so fulfilling that we didn’t have room for dessert, but it was nice to know there were options available. Vanilla Mascarpone Panna Cotta (contains dairy), a Fresh Fruit Plate, which on our visit was a collage of fresh berries, and a variety of Gelato and Sorbetto are offered for dessert.

Besides the clearly marked gluten-free choices listed on the menu, there are actually other dishes that, with minor alterations, also qualify as gluten-free.  For instance, the Grilled Rack of Lamb is served with a cherry vermouth sauce, dandelion greens and a sundried tomato and basil couscous. By switiching out the couscous for another side such as rice or potatoes, the dish becomes gluten-free.  Keep in mind that the menu is seasonal and you may find different foods offered, but I’m confident you’ll be pleased with the choices!

Just as we were leaving the entertainment arrived!  How surprised were we to see this on a Monday night!   Whether sitting at the bar (they have gluten-free beer) or at a window side table, this place gets busy!  Reservations are recommended.

Well, it’s no wonder that the Green Land Cafe was nominated in the Salem Chamber of Commerces’,  ‘Celebrate Salem Awards’   event.   This restaurant is clearly a winner!