Three weeks, one birthday landing, and a full-on GF food mission through Inverness.
In just a few days, I’ll be jetting off to spend three whole weeks in Inverness—and yes, I am landing on my birthday, because why not have a dramatic entrance. I am ready to hit the ground running with my endless curiosity for finding every gluten-free menu within a 20-mile radius.
One of my all-time favorite things about traveling? The hunt. I treat tracking down gluten-free spots like a full-on treasure hunt. Think Lara Croft meets Google reviews. I made a emoji pin Google Map list of every gluten-free place I could find in and around Inverness. I always use the baguette emoji cause I think it’s ironic. (Link at the bottom if you’re nosy, curious, or also intolerant of the dreaded gluten.)
Will I hit every spot on the list? No. Am I still going to romanticize the hell out of it and pretend I’m on a personal culinary mission? Absolutely.
The Tools of the GF Trade
TikTok and the Find Me Gluten Free app are my usual go-tos, but Inverness isn’t really popping off on TikTok yet. (Hey, maybe I’ll change that?) So this round, the app really came through. Shout out to the unsung gluten-free girlies, gays, they’s and dudes leaving helpful reviews in small towns across the world. You are my people.
I’ll definitely be doing a post-trip update to spill the tea on which places were worth it and which ones were just vibes with no follow-through.
First Stop: Birthday Date Night
Barry and I have a dinner planned the night after I land. We’re going to Hou Hou Mei, which does a modern spin on traditional Asian cuisine.
Their menu online actually labels the gluten-free dishes—praise be—so I won’t have to interrogate the waiter like I’m doing an episode of Kitchen Nightmares.
Asian food is my weakness in the best way. I never get tired of it. If I could live on Thai curry, sushi, and perfectly balanced sauces for the rest of my life, I would. So starting the trip off with that kind of comfort food feels very on-brand for me. And perfect to have a belated celebration for my birthday.
A Few Spots I’m Hyped About:
- The Castle Tavern
This one is giving “classic pub with a view” energy. It’s right by River Ness, and the reviews say there’s a dedicated gluten-free fryer. That’s like finding a unicorn. People are raving about the fish and chips being light and crispy. Say less. - Utopia Cafe
Okay, real talk, I’m in this one for the vibes. It looks like the kind of place you stumble into, order an decaf iced almond milk latte with vanilla (lol my order is insane I know), and suddenly you’ve spent hours writing blog posts like it’s your job. They’ve got a few GF options, and I’m a sucker for a pretty coffee shop with cozy lighting and pretty latte art.
Scotland = Unexpected Gluten-Free Heaven?
One thing I’ve found kind of amazing—especially for a country known for meat pies and battered everything—is how good Scotland is at labeling gluten-free options.
Even in the middle of nowhere, where I half expect a sheep to walk in off the road and take my order, there’s often a clearly marked menu or a staff member who knows exactly what I can eat.
It’s like this quiet, consistent kindness I’ve felt every time I’ve traveled through Scotland with Barry. Some of the best GF meals I’ve had were in tiny, random villages. I swear it’s part travel, part fate.
Grocery Store Girlie Pop Era
Not gonna lie, one of the things I’m also really looking forward to is just wandering around Tesco while Barry works from home. Does that mean I am officially old? Something about grocery shopping in a different country hits differently. I love seeing what brands they have, what weird snacks exist, what flavor combos are popular, and what gluten-free finds I can smuggle back in my suitcase.
My fave UK brand? Free From. Those little chocolate cake bars?? I’m feral for them. Barry knows they’re my fav and always surprises me with a pack or two when we reunite. Pro tip: they slap hardest when eaten straight out of the fridge. Trust me.
To Be Continued…
I’ll definitely be snapping pics, taking notes, and reporting back on what GF gems I find while I’m exploring Inverness. I’m manifesting cozy cafes, warm meals, and a digestive system that doesn’t betray me.
Until then, here’s the Google Map list of all the gluten-free spots I’ve got my eye on if you want to follow along or plan your own little Highlands foodie adventure. If you have any gluten free spots you loved in Inverness comment those below!
Catch you on the flip side of customs 💁♀️✈️
— Laura
The Roaming Rebel 
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