A GF Foodie’s Guide to the North Shore

You’ve heard of the Jersey Shore, but have you heard of the North Shore- a cluster of coastal New England towns above Boston? The (perhaps lesser known) shore is made up of towns like Gloucester, Ipswich, Manchester by the Sea, Essex,... (and now maybe you can understand why they call it New England!) With so many seaside towns tucked together, the area is begging to be explored- bring a bag of Tucker & Co Granola to tide you over, and hit the road for a scenic (and delicious) adventure!

Known for lobster rolls, handmade ice cream, fried seafood, chowder, and family owned candy shops, the area isn’t at first-thought friendly to those of us who are gluten and dairy free; but I’ve been excited to find just how many options there are! In this area, driving feels less like a chore and more like a tour: of the quaint homes, mini town squares asking to be included in a hallmark movie, and of course the coves, beaches, marshes and quintessential new england coast-lines along the way. In short, throughout the North Shore, it’s always worth the drive- specifically if the destination is one of these tasty stops!

1. Kane’s Donuts- Saugus, MA. If you’ve been craving one of those grocery store cake donuts you used to pick out of the case as a little kid, Kane’s will warmly welcome you with more than just a couple gluten and dairy free options! They are committed to serving celiac-safe (made in a dedicated facility) impressively delicious, kettle-cooked donuts that live up to your food memories, in flavors like blueberry blast and maple bacon. You can also try their GF/DF Apple Cider and Pumpkin Spice donuts through the fall season.
2. Woodman’s of Essex- This iconic seafood “shack” dating back to 1914 (and still in the Woodman Family) actually was used in a movie- “Grown Ups”! Fried clamstrips, scallops, and baby maine shrimp, you name it- they have it and ALL their batter is Gluten Free (sans onion rings, sorry). You can pick your own boiled lobster, or enjoy their (also gluten free) Clam Chowder. A great stop for a hearty lunch or dinner to watch the sunset over the marshes of Essex, Woodmans is a prerequisite to the must-see list.
3. Holy Cow Ice Cream, Gloucester, MA. Started by a local business owner who wanted to scoop ice cream in the summers, the owner decided he’d try making his own ice cream, and, spoiler alert- he’s really good at it! The walls are lined with certificates for his award-winning flavors- including flavor of the year “Ritzy AF”- a salty ritz cracker ice cream with toffee chunks. Thankfully the gluten and dairy free among us are not left out- with the menu always holding space for at least two vegan flavors. Sometimes non-dairy options are an “after-thought”, but not at Holy Cow. Creamy and Delicious, be prepared for a moment of anxiety after first lick, wondering, “is this actually dairy free?” Their vegan coconut cookies and cream is made with gluten free oreos, gf/df peanut butter and jelly is another must-try! The rotating flavors are clearly listed with allergens but call ahead to find out which they’re scooping.
4. Bob Lobster, Plum Island, Newburyport. After spending a day on the public beaches of Plum Island, stop in before crossing over the causeway for an outstanding lobster roll-served warm and buttery or cold with mayo- on a toasty bun (they have gluten free!). I mean you really can’t come to MA without sampling the local freshly caught lobster!
5. The Black Cow, Newburyport, MA, if you’re looking for a nice dinner with upscale yet casual vibes, and  plenty of surf and turf options- including freshly rolled sushi, go to the Black Cow! An expansive array of gluten free options, clearly marked on the menu- just be sure to book a reservation in advance.
6. Nichol’s Candy, Gloucester, Ma. On your tour of the North Shore, you’ll likely find yourself on route 128, and when you do, keep your eye out for the little red building with the letters “Nichols” on the side. In its 94th year of candy making, this family-owned jewel offers a look back in time. As you step through the doorway you’ll be met with sweet smells of cocoa and piles of chocolates carefully sorted atop dozens of tables. Milk or dark, caramels, honey crunch and solid squares topped with sugar flowers, the minimally processed candies are created in house with allergen friendly options. It was always a tradition to stop at Nichols on the way to vacation for my family growing up, maybe just a motivator to leave PA early enough to make it before closing, but one I think will continue to be replicated by families for years to come.
7. Little Sister, Rockport, Ma. Located on “Bearskin Neck,” a strip of shops and food that gradually leads to a 360 degree panoramic ocean view, Little Sister, a gourmet burger shop just opened this year. Offering a plethora of burger combos, the star of the menu may just be the gf fried local haddock! The Fish and chips (or sandwiches with gf bread) made with a homemade gluten free batter and served with housemade coleslaw and tartar sauce is delicate, flakey, and one thing I never expected to find gluten free! Fried haddock is a north shore staple and now that I know where to find it, I’ll be going every chance I can get. 

As the days of summer wind down, embrace every bit left, like a new englander,  knowing full well just how long and cold the winters last. Use this guide to eat (gf) like a local. Thankfully for us all, these spots are open year round!