Gluten Free Chicago: Bakery for Healthier Living

Chicago Bakery Near You!

In recent years, the popularity of gluten free food products has skyrocketed. What once used to be seen as west coast trend has now gone national. Powerhouse companies like Betty Crocker and Pillsbury have all jumped on the bandwagon, offering a variety of products that cater to customers looking for healthy options. Many people in Chicago have begun to hop on to the gluten-free train, picking up products at their local grocery.

But did you know Chicago has its own gluten free bakery? We sure do and it’s located right in the heart of the city’s Ravenswood neighborhood! What’s more, their baked goods are available online.

Because the therapists at 2^nd Story Counseling believe in a wholistic approach to health, we decided to conduct a quick interview with the folks at Cookie Bar Chicago and learn more about gluten free products and their organization.

What follows are some quick Q and A’s with Joe Bova and Jeff Steinberg, joint owners and operators of Cookie Bar. At the end of the interview, we have included this unique Chicago bakery’s contact information (click the plus sign after interview).

Are you ready to learn more about gluten free? Let’s jump right in!

What do you see as the relationship between nutrition and mental health?

The old cliché is true…you are what you eat. The more natural, and more body-attuned foods you eat, the better you’ll feel, both physically and mentally. With the exception of the occasional candy bar, everything we use at Cookie Bar is all natural.

Why are gluten-free products considered to be a healthy food option?

A gluten free diet, for both those with celiac, and even those without, will have a wide range of benefits, such as increased energy, weight loss, or a better night’s sleep.

The gluten free grains we use, like quinoa, amaranth and sorghum, are minimally processed, which is a sharp contrast to wheat or corn, which have chemical additives and are often genetically modified, The feedback we have received is overwhelmingly positive.

As Chicago’s only independently owned gluten-free bakery, what buying trends do you see happening with your customers?

Things trend seasonally. In the summer, our fruit desserts (like Peach Upside Down cake) fly off the shelves, but in winter people seem to like heartier desserts and definitely chocolate.

How can gluten-free type foods help a person trying to lose weight?

The gluten free grains we use are high in fiber and protein, which are building blocks of a healthier diet.  The fuller you are, the less you eat.

What do you think might surprise people about gluten-free products?

They can be just as tasty as “regular” baked goods.  The high protein, high fiber flours we use at Cookie Bar are instrumental in creating light, delectable, desserts.

Unfortunately, Gluten free get a bad rap from bakeries that use potato starch and white rice four, which tends to make things heavy and starchy.

What inspired your business for Chicago?

Chicago is a great food town. People really appreciate food here.

What products are available that are gluten-free that might surprise people?

People are thrilled to see our selection of layer cakes, which look and taste like the real thing.

What products does Gluten Free Bakery Chicago (Cookie-Bar) offer that are unique?

Our Salted Caramel Nutella Brownie is one of our newest items, but is now our top seller.  Most people can’t believe it’s gluten free!  

Any trends you have picked up on with customers?

The one thing we’ve noticed is an increase in non-celiac customers, who see positive effects when they stay away from wheat.