Dining out gluten-free can be a challenge, and for those with celiac disease, ensuring food safety is paramount. This review focuses on a recent experience at 2 Cats Bar Harbor where, despite the availability of gluten-free options, significant concerns arose regarding kitchen practices and the quality of gluten-free dishes. While the coffee was appreciated, the overall food experience left much to be desired, particularly for diners requiring gluten-free meals.
The initial order of gluten-free pancakes immediately presented issues. Upon arrival, they appeared visually appealing. However, cutting into them revealed a disconcerting texture. Instead of the expected fluffy consistency, the pancakes were remarkably soft and mushy, akin to overly milky mashed potatoes. Furthermore, the taste was disappointingly bland. Initially suspecting they were undercooked, the pancakes were sent back to the kitchen. The waitress, seemingly knowledgeable about gluten-free needs, explained that the unusual texture was inherent to their gluten-free pancake recipe due to the absence of gluten. While acknowledging the challenges of gluten-free baking, the texture and taste were far from acceptable, especially when compared to the numerous delicious gluten-free pancakes available elsewhere. Despite receiving a fresh order and confirming the consistency with the waitress, the fundamental issue of the pancake quality remained unresolved.
Seeking a safer option, an omelette was ordered. However, this choice also proved problematic. The omelette arrived accompanied by a roll – a clear source of gluten – and home fries of questionable gluten-free status. Even with a simple request for just an omelette, the inclusion of gluten-containing sides indicated a lack of caution and awareness in the kitchen regarding cross-contamination. This incident heightened concerns about the kitchen’s attentiveness to gluten-free orders and the potential for cross-contamination. While no immediate gluten reaction occurred, the experience instilled a strong sense of unease and distrust in the food preparation practices at 2 Cats Bar Harbor.
Ultimately, while the reviewer did not report getting sick, the experience at 2 Cats Bar Harbor raises significant red flags for diners with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. The issues with both the gluten-free pancakes and the omelette service point towards potential gaps in kitchen protocols and staff training regarding gluten-free food safety. For individuals prioritizing safe and enjoyable gluten-free dining, exercising caution and perhaps exploring other dining options in Bar Harbor might be advisable based on this experience.
Gluten-Free Considerations at 2 Cats Bar Harbor:
- Gluten-Free Menu Information: No dedicated gluten-free information was available on the standard menu, suggesting a lack of formal gluten-free program.
- Dedicated Fryer: The absence of a dedicated fryer further increases the risk of cross-contamination for fried items, which was already a concern with the home fries served alongside the omelette.
