Omnivore Atlanta

Eat organic and/or gluten-free pizza for a good cause. Jeffrey Melnick writes:

On Wednesday, August 19, Pizza Fusion (2233 Peachtree Rd., 404-351-9334) will host a fundraiser for the Marcus Autism Center. From 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., 10 percent of all proceeds from the evening will go to support the not-for-profit organization.

The Marcus Autism Center provides information, services and programs to children with autism and related disorders, their families and those who live and work with them.

Melnick notes that evidence suggests a gluten-free diet is helpful to kids with autism.

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Chef Shaun Doty of Shaun’s is continuing his dinner series for those with celiac disease on Sun., July 13. The prix fixe, gluten-free and wheat-free menu is $45 and $65 with gluten-free beer pairings. Whole Foods Briarcliff will provide a gift bag with gluten-free products for diners. According to a press release:

The appetizer will feature Eggplant Salad with Poached and Spicy Vinaigrette. The intermezzo will include Fig Tempura with Sweet Potato, Vanilla and Tahini. The entree will be Vegan Zucchini Lasagna with Heirloom Tomatoes and Pinenut Ricotta. Dessert will consist of a Black Rice Pudding and Coconut Sorbet.

Call 404-577-4358 for reservations or more information.

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Almost 3 million Americans suffer from the autoimmune digestive disease known as celiac disease, according to the website for the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness. Celiac is triggered by gluten protein found in wheat, rye and barley, and damages the small intestine and interferes with the absorption of nutrients from food.

As someone who has battled a similar digestive illness for 15 years, I know about being perceived as a “picky” eater because there is no other option, and how a restaurant menu can be an enemy in disguise if you aren’t careful.

Now at least one night of every month celiac sufferers have a dinner menu planned just for them. Due to the success of its first gluten- and wheat-free dinner, Shaun’s will be hosting the event the second Sunday of every month. The next dinner will be Feb. 10 and will feature a prix-fixe menu for $45, and $65 with beer pairings. Check out the menu here. For gluten-free diners this event offers a little peace of mind, knowing that they will be covered from appetizers to dessert.

The NFCA website has a 15-page, downloadable Celiac Disease & Gluten-Free Survival Guide that discusses symptoms, dietary options and restaurant chains that offer gluten-free items such as Outback Steakhouse and Bonefish Grill. Find it here: www.celiacentral.org.

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