There’s a new spot in my neighbourhood and no I’m not talking about that cool Mexican, rustic Italian, trendy tapas or burger spot. Instead it’s exactly what the neighbourhood was really missing – a gourmet food spot that EVERYONE can shop at, regardless of food allergies.  Feast opened up earlier this summer in Trinity Bellwoods Park with an assortment of prepared and frozen foods, pantry items and baked goodies.  Bonus: they’re all free from the most common food allergies of wheat, dairy, soy, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish.

Located right across from the park, it’s the perfect shop to cater to the Trinity Bellwoods set. You can pop in and pick up a gourmet pocket pie (more on that later), a frozen avocado popsicle, or a loaf of bread for the week. A little bit grocery, a little bit bakery, and a lot awesome.

It’s a bright and sunny spot with a bakery counter that just lures you right in.  If you’ve got multiple food allergies, it’s can be a bit tricky to find gluten-free treats.  Gluten-free treats always seems to have some eggs, nuts and/or dairy but not here at Feast.  They make their treats on site in their in-house gluten-free kitchen and favour ingredients that are local, organic, and non-GMO.  So not only gluten-free and allergen-free, but practically guilt-free too.  I tried some of those coconut milk caramels ($2 each).  There are two kinds to choose from: Tropical, chewy, delightful, pineapple topped with a sprinkle of smoked sea salt; and Chocolate Krispies made with raw organic cacao nibs and crispy rice cereal.  Very tasty.  I also got one of the ‘On top of Coconut Mountain’ donuts (top right) and it was moist and decadent ($3.50).

Beyond the bakery, there’s a nice selection of pantry items to stock your kitchen.  Goodies include lots of options for dried and frozen pasta, baking mixes, jams and more.  Manager Liz told me that it’s a collection of the owner’s favourite things so they recommend everything personally.  Their freezer is also stocked with more pasta, and their best-selling avocado popsicles.

Their signature items are their pocket pies which are moist, flaky, and yes, gluten-free.  They have a few varieties to choose from including jerk chicken, beef, and vegan curried black bean ($5 – $7 each).  I tried the jerk chicken and I really liked the pastry and the filling was moist and not too spicy, though I like my jerk with more heat.  Manager Liz mentioned that they’ve already got a strong pocket pie following, a pocket pie posse if you will, who shop weekly and some daily.    And finally they have lots of gluten-free bread to choose from in varieties that are harder to find like pumpernickel, buns, and my fave gluten-free bagels from Kinnickinick.   So if you’re in the west side of Toronto, have food allergies, or just like gourmet food, stop by Feast and feast on some deliciousness.  I’m all about supporting local businesses that have a great vision and positive vibes, offering great gluten-free, allergen-free  goodies for all to enjoy.

Feast is located at 881 Queen Street W. Toronto, ON M6J 1G5 right across from Trinity Bellwoods Park