I am an odd duck, I like unique things that others may not like and I will admit that I was a bit of a punk with crazy hair colors in my teenage years. That being said: Witches Brew, in Hempstead Long Island NY, has been a favorite of mine for over 10 years. A simple tea house, this place consists of an alternative atmosphere. This place has held many comforting and happy memories and has always calmed me with it’s unique decor (antiques, dried roses, colorful lighting), comfortable seating (couches, chairs etc.), great music but most importantly a fantastic menu. Their specialty is homemade teas (of every kind), coffees, Italian sodas and cream sodas. Ingredients are mixed on site to make a wide array of all of the above.
In addition to their drink specialties they have a limited food menu. To my recollection they have always offered vegan items, before it was a craze, that were purchased from a vegan company. However, I had never seen a gluten free items so I had avoided the place I since going gluten free. Two weeks ago I decided to swing by again because I was in the neighborhood. BUT,I was delighted to find that they had a line of gluten free food. Apparently the vegan line they purchase from, Smart Treats, has also made the transition to catering to the gluten free population. On Witches Brew’s menu from this company was: Gluten Free Carrot Cake, Peach Cobbler, Blueberry Cobbler and a mix of mini cookies. All items are also vegan and dairy free.
After much pestering of the waiter I confirmed that items were processed in a dedicated plant, had no gluten ingredients and did not risk cross contamination as they came individually wrapped and were taken out of the container with wax paper. So, I ordered the creamsicle Italian soda (orange flavor, vanilla flavor, sugar and seltzer) and the carrot cake to the left.
Can I just say, YUM! I was a bit hesitant at first, having had bad experiences of vegan items in the past, but I can say I was please. It had a bit odd of a flavor as I am not used to eating vegan, I would say the taste just seemed to lack a buttery flavor/egg flavor, but I got used to it. A bit dense but still sweet and moist, with a hint of cinnamon, the cake was all I could ask for from a vegan gluten free cake. It wouldn’t be on the top of my ‘to-eat’ list but it’s worth a shot if it’s available and you have limited options. I suggest you try it if you’re in town. I look forward to making Witches Brew a part of my agenda again and hope to try the other items soon.
Celtic Celiac @ http://celtic-celiac.blogspot.com/