May is Celiac Disease Awareness Month! Senza Gluten Restaurant was founded with the belief that individuals with celiac disease should be able to enjoy a relaxing and beautiful meal with loved ones without fear of getting sick, and we have always been passionate about increasing awareness regarding this serious autoimmune condition. 

Teona (our owner and co-founder) emphasizes the importance of safety through meticulous training of our staff, in depth research into ingredient sourcing, and of course maintaining a 100% gluten free kitchen and dining room. In the past we have collaborated with local organizations/groups such as the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University and the NYC Celiac Disease Meetup Group. We also have several books and educational resources about celiac disease for guests to pursue.

But we also recognize that increasing awareness often is done one person at a time. Here at our restaurant, this happens often. Teona and our team members frequently have discussions with guests who offer to tell us their stories about living with celiac disease. While our staff members receive regular training and team members with celiac disease volunteer to be included in discussions, everyone with celiac disease has a different story, and we are always happy to learn more.

We’ve also spoken with guests who have brought their non-gluten free loved ones to dinner with them. Just by dining at a 100% gluten free restaurant, this can create the opportunities to both realize that gluten free food can taste just as good as non-gluten free counterparts while also perhaps giving loved ones a chance to witness how easy and relaxing it can be to dine at a restaurant without worry. While it can be hard for others to understand the physical, mental and emotional tolls of celiac disease, witnessing that joy and sense of normalcy can also be a form of education.

And we’d like to continue to open up space for more discussion – how do you advocate for celiac disease awareness? Please feel free to leave a comment on our social media pages.

Buon appetito!

The Senza Gluten Family