A Baltimore Brunch Favorite

Miss Shirley’s Cafe has earned a revered spot on the Baltimore-area food scene. Known by most people for it’s elevated southern comfort food, brunch at Miss Shirley’s is a special occasion. Luckily, for those of us with dietary restrictions, Miss Shirley’s is serious about making special meals available to all. Their gluten free brunch is a favorite with my family.

Gluten Free/Celiac Safe Options

There is a reason Miss Shirley’s is on my short list of celiac safe places to eat: they take it seriously. Typically, as soon as our waiter greets us, he/she asks if there are any food allergies. That has been the case at every visit but if your waitstaff doesn’t ask, please mention it right away. As well, many times the manager stands by when we ordered and oversees execution.

The menu at Miss Shirely’s is large and gluten free options (at the time of publication) are noted on the menu. It’s not easy to find gluten free pancakes dining out (that are safely prepared), and Miss Shirley’s pancakes are what keep us coming back again and again. With speciality griddle cakes like Cinnamon Danish, Banana Chocolate Chip, Raspberry White Chocolate and house made whipped cream, it’s no wonder people will wait for substantial periods of time to indulge. My family likes their pancakes with fruit or the plain with the swirl of raspberry sauce. These very large pancakes (about 8 inches in diameter!) come with a dusting of powdered sugar. The pancakes are vegan as well, a boon for those who are dairy or egg-free.

The reason I love Miss Shirley’s gluten free brunch? Their omelets and egg dishes. My favorite: The Healthy Hot Mess Scramble. This breakfast is a hot mess but so delicious! It’s chock full of goodness: egg whites, broccoli, spinach, avocado, sweet potato, peppadews, quinoa and sprouts. With a side of hash browns and gluten free toast, it’s my definition of a gluten free brunch treat.

Cross Contamination Protocol

* Gluten free orders are prepared in a separate kitchen area

* Pancakes are prepared on their own griddle

* Bacon is oven baked

* Bread for toast is oven baked

* Omelettes and egg dishes are prepared in a separate, dedicated area

* Hash browns are made in their own clean pan

Miss Shirley’s has 3 locations in Maryland:

Roland Park (410.889.5272): 513 W. Cold Spring Lane, Baltimore, MD 21210.

Inner Harbor (410.528.5373): 750 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD 21202

Annapolis (410.268.5171): 1 Park Place, Annapolis, MD 21401

As always, this review is based on the information I have at the time of review. Changes in ingredients and item availability can occur. As always, please communicate with the restaurant directly for up-to-date information. I was not compensated for this review, it is a reflection of my personal thoughts and opinions.