EAT: Put some Mojo in your BBQ (Jacksonville, FL)!

Looking for an allergen friendly dinner in Jacksonville, FL, but don't want to go to the usual chain restaurants? Then, head over to Mojo BBQ (www.mojobbq.com)! There are four locations in the Jacksonville area. I took a trip to Mojo no. 4 (only a few minutes from Sweet Theory Baking Company (see earlier post)).  I was not disappointed.  They have BBQ, soups, salads, sandwiches, and southern platters.  A quick chat with my server and she brought me a list of menu items that contained gluten.

Being from North Carolina, I am a little particular about my BBQ. To my surprise, the menu offers North Carolina pork, as well as just about any BBQ sauce you can think of.

Since I have several different food allergies, I decided on a Jumbo Pulled Pork Sandwich (no bun and no slaw) and a side of collard greens.  Pretty tasty!

Mojo Bar-B-Que - "A Southern Blues Kitchen"
1607 University Blvd. West
Jacksonville, Florida 32217
(904) 732-7200

Mojo Kitchen - "BBQ Pit and Blues Bar"
1500 Beach Blvd.
Jacksonville Beach, Florida 32250
(904) 247-6636 

Mojo Smokehouse - BBQ & Blues
1810 Town Center Blvd.
Fleming Island, FL 32003
(904) 264-0636

Mojo No. 4 - Urban BBQ & Whiskey Bar
3572 St. John's Ave.
Jacksonville, Florida 32205
(904) 381-6670

EAT: Breakfast of Champions at the Sawgrass Marriott, Jacksonville, FL

How can a food allergy sufferer eat the required "Breakfast of Champions" when he/she is traveling and can't make own breakfast?? Easy! I have already blogged about my quick breakfast granola, but what if you need a breakfast that is a little more substantial?

During a recent stay at the Sawgrass Marriott in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, I found myself at the Breakfast Buffet. This is the buffet the PGA Tour Players enjoy before their tournament rounds at the famed TPC Sawgrass. After speaking with Chef Matt, I learned that I could have several of the items on the buffet.  I did discuss more gluten free options, such as gluten free bread and granola.  Chef Matt said that they were interested in expanding their options for those with food allergies and asked for suggestions.  Luckily, I had some extra Udi's Granola in my bag to complete my breakfast. As you can see from my photo above, I did not go away hungry... fruit, juice, smoked salmon, sausage, and a couple of pieces of aged cheese.  Good sources of protein are great ways to keep you fuller longer and fuel your activities for the day.  Of course, if you are not allergic to eggs, they will make your omelets with a variety of additions.

I have found that all full scale Marriott hotels are more than accommodating for breakfast.  Many even have gluten free bread options and are eager to prepare something special for you.  Just be sure to discuss your allergen needs to the server, manager, or chef. Next time you are in Ponte Vedra Beach or the Jacksonville, FL area, be sure to check out Vernon's in the Sawgrass Marriott.  They will be happy to accommodate your food allergies and tell them I sent you!

EAT: A Valentine's Day treat in Jacksonville!

Happy Valentine's Day, friends! If you are in the Jacksonville area and need a sweet treat for the one you love (or even yourself!), head over to Sweet Theory Baking Company. Located at 1243 King Street, all of Sweet Theory's baked goodies are vegan and free of eggs, soy, dairy, and peanuts. They also offer gluten free treats as well that are made with separate baking utensils and in a separate space from non-gluten items. Sweet Theory uses Organic Cold-Pressed Coconut, Organic Cane Sugar, and Agave Nectar. Corn allergies beware as the powdered sugar used in the icing has corn starch.

Sweet Theory has variety for your Valentine too: Doughnuts, Cakes, Cupcakes, Cookies, Brownies, Biscuits, and more! The Gluten Free items are designated with a "GF" on the sign. Be sure to get your Valentine treats early! This place is in high demand!

Sweet Theory Baking Company

1243 King St. 

Jacksonville, FL

904.387.1001