Great tapas restaurant with a marked gluten-free menu. Just check with your server about cross contact issues. I love the brussel sprout salad and the chirizo wrapped dates!
We were in Chicago for business. My friend has severe allergies, gluten, nuts, strawberries, eggs. We selected Mon Ami Gabi based on options for gluten free. We made reservation and arrived about 20 minutes early. Entrance to the hotel is gorgeous. Front desk was friendly and helpful. Making sure we parked at the correct valet location (there's 2 one for residence one for restaurant. They brought us to the bar while we waited for seating. Barkeep was very friendly and very efficient. We didn't wait more then 20 minutes for our table. We were seated and we ensured they were aware of the concerns for gluten and other allergens. Waiter already was aware thanks to OpenTable reservation, I'd added a comment so they'd know ahead. They were extremely considerate pointed out the dishes that are GF. We skipped an appetizer and ordered dinner. The wait staff were friendly without being overly. Food was delivered quickly and cooked to perfection. I ordered medium rare beef and my friend ordered salmon almondine(without the almonds). Food was flavorful and delicious. Not only was our server attentive but the other staff ensured we were comfortable, well taken care of, and had everything we needed. They cleared dishes and glasses quietly while you ate without being distributive and made sure the water glasses were always full. I'd highly recommend the restaurant if you're in the area. For a Thursday the place was Busy. Reservations highly recommended. A mixture of date nights, family dinners (with younger kids) special occasions. Some folks were dressed up others in flannels and it all worked.
I am so happy we stopped here for dinner. The staff were knowledgeable and so kind to me when I told them of my gluten and dairy allergies. Service was amazing and the food was sublime. I missed eating Italian for fear of cross contamination but they reassured me pasta were cooked separately. What a lovely place! I will be revisiting when I'm back in town.
Edit: Forgot to add, my husband got an Amaretto sour and he said it was the BEST one he's had.
Food is excellent, lots of gluten free options suitable for someone with celiac. Service is great, but it's very loud and overly crowded. Tables are extremely close and people are often yelling at each other, which isn't how I like to brunch. If you go early it's not as bad.
Boka - A Good Dining Experience with Some Limitations
Boka, situated in Lincoln Park, is known for its upscale ambiance and innovative menu. While the experience was pleasant, it fell short of the high expectations often associated with this Chicago favorite.
Food & Menu:
The menu, crafted by Chef Lee Wolen, presents modern American cuisine with some creative touches, including a few vegetarian and gluten-free options. One of our friends is gluten-intolerant, and the restaurant was able to accommodate this seamlessly, which we appreciated. While the food was well-prepared and enjoyable, it didn’t leave a lasting impression—good but not remarkable for the price point.
Ambiance, Accessibility, & Family-Friendliness:
Boka’s chic and serene interior makes it an appealing spot for an adult night out, but it’s not particularly suited for families with kids. Accessibility is a downside, especially when it comes to the restrooms, which could be challenging for guests with mobility needs, even though they were spotless.
Service & Valet:
The service was attentive and courteous, adding to the refined experience. We also took advantage of the valet service, which was $17 and cash-only—something to keep in mind if you plan to drive. While I didn’t try the wine and can’t comment on the pairings, the cocktail and non-alcoholic options looked appealing.
Final Thoughts:
Boka is a solid choice for a special occasion or an upscale meal in Chicago, with an elegant ambiance and good, accommodating service. However, given the price point and reputation, it didn’t quite achieve the “wow” factor. If you’re looking for a memorable, top-tier culinary experience, other Chicago spots may leave a stronger impression.
DinnerItalianOpen Late NightTake AwayVegetarian OptionsVegan OptionsPastaPizzaDairy FreeLunchDeliveryOutdoor SeatingKid FriendlyRestaurant
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Victoria Winslow
We chose this dinner spot for the gluten-free options and it did not disappoint! The service was friendly, we were seated right away on a Saturday night, and they had plenty of celiac-safe food options. The pizza was some of the best I've had. We'll definitely be back!
Call in an order to go for four people. Got home and realized the labels on several of the trays were wrong so then had to do a mix and match to figure out if we actually got what we ordered. I'm come to find out that we actually had the food we ordered they just mislabeled the lids. Thank goodness we didn't have to walk the 25 minutes back to the restaurant from where we live. The food was good that chicken was amazing it was a tender and soft my husband's snake was great on his bowl it just seems that they put quite a lot of rice rather than the vegetables in order to make the bowl full. It would be nice if there was more vegetables in the bowl than just so much rice. I was thankful for the gluten-free naan it was rather hard and even microwaving it with a soft wet towel did not bring it back to life. The yogurt sauce on the side was best rather than putting it all over the salad. Would eat here again. is a bit spendy.
They were able to accommodate Celiac and had gluten free and vegetarian/pescatarian options! My dad also can't eat shellfish or pork and they could accommodate that as well. The atmosphere was great, and the servers were very well informed and attentive. I don't want to discourage anyone from trying this restaurant, some of the food wasn't exactly my taste, but I was also trying some new foods that I haven't had before. I really enjoyed the scallops and chocolate dessert pictured. The more important thing to me is I'm gluten free with Celiac and I didn't get sick, it's safe for those with gluten allergies!
We got Gallery. Exceptional food and unforgettable performances! Extremely considerate of our multiple allergies, gave different foods for gluten and fish-free options. The excavation dish was so unique and delicious! Of course the helium apple taffy and paint were quite the fun experience! Waiters were so nice in helping us take pictures.
I attended a baby shower held in the private back room of The Range. A delicious gluten free brunch buffet was served. Everything was hot and tasty. Especially loved the turnip omelets. I love trying new dishes. The service was spot on.
Recently diagnosed Celiac and was very excited to see that most items were either gluten free or able to be made gluten free. I had their version of a Big Mac and some fries and buffalo cauliflower. Everything was fantastic
One of the best restaurants for Middle Eastern food. The staff and owners make you feel comfortable and welcomed and there are many dietary friendly options (vegan, vegetarian, gluten free). Lovely restaurant!
BrunchAllergen FriendlyDinnerOpen Late NightOutdoor SeatingVegan OptionsVegetarian OptionsDedicated GF FryerBeerCiderDessertsPastaLunchDeliveryTake AwayRestaurant
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Marcia Cooley
Went with our adult kids for birthday celebrations. Delighted that all the appetizers that needed bread were enjoyed by all with their toasted gluten free bread brought alongside the naan and sourdough. Even the delicious Truffle Bucatini was prepared with gluten free pasta. The Chicken Tikka Masala and Steak & Ale Pot Pies were amazing. Service was attentive and friendly. Wish we could have had a table in the small room next to the bar area instead of being right by the bar but it the end we thoroughly enjoyed our meals
Great experience! I eat gluten free for an allergy/celiac reasons, and the food here was great. I told the waiter I had an allergy, and he assured me that they could avoid cross contamination during preparation if I needed it, which i did need. I am so grateful, as I know sushi can sometimes not be done gluten free and I felt very safe and happy here! Thank you so much !
One of the best vegan burgers that I've ever had! They don't have much vegan options, most of the add-ons and sauces have dairy ingredients but the ones available won't disappoint you. The patty had a really nice crust on the outside and was not mushy like most bean-based patties. It would be wonderful to see gluten-free bun as an option, I had to eat in a lettuce bun but still wasn't bad. The staff is super friendly and care about your experience!
Such a good neighborhood spot. My boyfriend and I went here twice on our week visit to Chicago. We appreciate that they took a lot of care for his gluten allergy.
First time tried this ramen place and feels totally underrated. As you know, it’s very hard to find a good ramen place in Chicago or suburbs nearby, especially you have tried the one in Japan. Tanaka’s noodles and broths are great combination. Love their spicy bowl. What a surprised that they have a Gluten Free option. Highly recommended for anyone! Definitely will come back!
The sandwiches are incredible! Gluten free bread available also (win). I'll definitely be coming back here regularly. Great portions and pricing is very fair
Wonderful service!! We came from out of town to grab a quick bite before going home and they were sooooo accommodating with our child. They brought us a plastic cup, served us so we didn’t have to leave our little one, and just all around wonderful service! Excellent gluten free options as well! Highly recommend.
Amaaaazing Gluten Free Pizza!! I went there with my husband last night and I had their GF Pepperoni and Hot honey pizza, while he had their Macaroni pizza (forgot the exact name) and he raved about his as well. Great atmosphere, very friendly servers, highly recommend!
Great spot for GF Mexican food!! Almost everything on the menu is or can be made gluten-free using corn tortillas. The only exceptions are quesadillas and burritos! They have a dedicated fryer for chips! The staff is very knowledgeable about the menu!
Quite pricey for very simple dishes (some of which were only just okay). There were a few standouts that I would definitely go back for though! My boyfriend who has celiac disease (gluten free) was able to eat here without an issue. Small menu with only a few gluten free options, but our server was very helpful and careful about his situation.
Ordered to go and pleased with the over the phone service and suggestions.
The gluten free arancini were our favorite and had perfect texture.
The ceviche was less convincing. Was disappointed that it wasn’t served with a chip of some kind and the best part was the oyster mushrooms but they were just a couple big piece’s on top of the beets rather than incorporated evenly.
Dates were good, so was the caesar salad although a little wet.
The strawberry cheesecake was disappointing. It tasted as if it was made with a puree rather than fresh strawberries and was okay at best texture/flavor wise.
The restaurant looked really inviting inside and I would go back to try other items on the menu.
Great service. A fun space with a classic Italian flare. Nice big tables for parties and welcome for families. The food was tasty with gluten free menu options and a decent vegetarian selection.
Reservations are a must! Fun cocktails and busy atmosphere. Gluten free pasta available upon request. Will cook pasta in separate water for those with celiac or sensitive allergies to gluten. GF Bolognese 🤤
First time at this location and was blown away. Food was great especially at the price point and open windows created a cool vibe. Also appreciated the gluten free options that were delicious.
Dinora greeted me with a great smile & created a delicious PB l& J protein shake. Gluten free and vegan. Delicious! I’ll be back for the great service and tasty treats!
Some of the best tacos (fish and non-fish) I’ve ever had and MY FAVORITE MARG EVER! Awesome atmosphere and service - one of my fav places to come and sit inside or out!! Gluten free friendly!
Just had their plant-based Pulled BBQ made from hibiscus flowers - DELICIOUS!!!! I love the flavor and texture and the whole combination is just amazing! Staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about gluten free. They are trying to work on a gluten free empanada dough that can freeze and thaw well - I really hope they can come up with something. Smoothies and drinks look good. Plan on coming back for their other bowls (wish they had more than just 3 options).
GLUTEN FREE BITES
GREAT patio space, service was quick and kind, which is what I needed.
Food was good, I prefer limes over lemons 🍋 salsas were great!
I always am looking for a good place to read and this cafe/bar felt like a home away from home.
Bustling and vibrant with cozy nooks and reading corners, I found myself forgetting I was in America all together. I recommend for a journaling afternoon, meeting old friends, or needing to escape from modern coffee shop.
And they have gluten free bread for all their sandwiches on the menu!
Celiac friendly
