Gluten Free - Victoria, B.C.

Recently, I have been travelling to Vancouver Island (Victoria) from Vancouver. I have spent quite a few weekends there and as a result I have been checking out the gluten free scene in Victoria. Turns out, it is quite a gluten free friendly place. Here are a few of the places that I have tried and recommend.


Origins Bakery: There are two locations as you will find on their website. I am also dairy free so there are only a few options in terms of treats. There is a chocolate chip cookie bar, these are quite good and remind me of eating raw cookie dough. They are rectangular and are individually wrapped. Not the best gf cookie that I've ever tried but still yummy. They also sell meringues with dark chocolate chips, these are on top of the counter in a glass jar, they are big, sweet and delicious! We also tried their "staple loaf", this bread has a very good texture, similar to regular wheat bread. In addition, we purchased a baguette, it had a great texture and taste. My only complaint was that it left a bit of a weird after taste. The customer service here is great and the bakery staff is always friendly and helpful. Hours are Tuesday-Saturdays 7:30AM-5:30PM at the Pandora location. The hours are the same at the Island Hwy location except that they open a half hour later each day at 8:00AM.
Update: they have an amazing lemon tart and a delicious mocha tart, both are really rich and creamy.

Tonolli's Deli: in Central Saanich has some great gluten free options. (this is not a gluten free establishment) I was told that any gluten free baking is done on a separate day, away from their regular baking but is in the same location. I have tried their almond cookies dipped in dark chocolate. In addition, I've had their made to order gluten free/dairy free pizzas, these are quite good. Breakfast can be done gluten free as they offer gluten free english muffins. I recommend this homey, busy little establishment, though be extra careful when asking about ingredients, I found that different staff gave me different answers and I did not feel confident as to what was in certain cookies, so I chose not to buy them for fear getting sick from milk ingredients. A staff member told me that you can special order gf desserts if you require dairy free, vegan etc.

Sassy's Family Restaurant: 
Is a great gluten free family/diner style restaurant. I have been here several times,for breakfast and lunch. They offer gluten free english muffins or toast and a gluten free bun for the chicken burger. I recommend this restaurant to my fellow gluten free/dairy free diners looking for a weekend brunch spot.