Review: Mimi’s Cafe Gluten-Free Options

Last year we wrote a post about Mimi’s Café Gluten-Free Menu. It was nice to see the menu written out, as each time I have been to one of their restaurant locations, I am presented with a notebook with confusing information inside. The other night was no different.

Hannah and I headed out to have a girly dinner and then try a new frozen yogurt place in town (which ended up being packed and we settled for Coldstone). We wanted to hit the new Jason’s Deli up the street, but they don’t open until later this week.  Mimi’s was the next choice on our list. I have dined at Mimi’s many times in the past, but it has probably been over a year since the last time I was there.

I was hoping that they would have improved their menu delivery since the last time that I was there, but that was not the case.  The notebook was brought out, which I don’t mean to complain about, as it is more than some places offer.  I would just think that with as common as gluten-free dining has become if you are offering it, you should have a printed menu to hand out.

There are lists inside the notebook that are meant to follow the menu, which they do somewhat.  The problem I found was conflicting information throughout the list.  For example, one place would mention that the ginger/honey glaze contained gluten, while another area of the list/menu didn’t.  I was reassured when the manager came over to see if I had questions about the menu and we talked about some of my questions and the procedures at Mimi’s.  They seem to have a good understanding of cross-contamination and have good procedures in place to try to avoid it at all costs.  They are willing to work & modify dishes as needed.

I chose to order the Broiled Chicken & Fruit plate with a side of brown rice.  The chicken is not marinated (the marinated chicken contains gluten).  None of the dressings are gluten-free, so I had olive oil & balsamic vinegar.  If you don’t like O & V, consider bringing your own.  This was a good size portion, though it wouldn’t have been enough for me had I not ordered the rice.  I might ask for extra salad or fruit if I were to order this again.  Aside from that, the chicken was flavorful and moist.  The fruit was tasty and not bland, which is sometimes the case in restaurants.

Mimi’s Café has locations across the  US.  Ever wonder how Mimi’s Café came to be?  Read on…

In 1944, an American airman named Arthur J. Simms fell in love with the beauty, foods and flavors of France. It was to become a passion that would change his life.
Stationed there during the final days of World War II, young Arthur J. was taken by the friendly neighborhood bistros and warm, inviting cafés. Arthur J. loved the simple yet charming meals. He savored the aroma of freshly baked breads, café au lait and the company of good friends raising toasts all around. Equally captivating was a mademoiselle he met by chance, who went by the name of Mimi. Arthur J. Simms never forgot his days in France. In 1978, he opened the first Mimi’s Cafe® – a neighborhood bistro inspired by his memories of Mimi and passion for good food, wine and camaraderie that he remembered so fondly.

Have you dined at Mimi’s Café?  If so, what did you order?  Share your thoughts in the comments section below.