Best Gluten-Free Baked Goods in Tucson

For a quick bite on your way to work or a day of sightseeing, bypass all those fast food chains and stop at Beyond Bread. The cinnamon raisin French toast is unbeatable, but if you like protein in the morning, try a made-to-order omelette, stuffed full of your choice of meats, cheese and veggies. Lighter appetites might prefer a simple croissant, muffin or scone. Later in the day, opt for a cleverly named sandwich or salad, a slice of dark chocolate cake or a massive cookie. Breads range from specials like Ancho-Chipotle-White Cheddar and Brie-Scallion-Chive to more traditional varieties such as challah and baguettes � there are more than 30 breads in the regular schedule, about half of which are available on any given day.

When it comes to fresh, artful vegetarian cuisine, sisters Keanne and Sigret Thompson--owners of Tucson's The Tasteful Kitchen--know their stuff. The Tasteful Kitchen, which is located in the city's historic West University neighborhood, brings to life the sister's vision for fresh food crafted from the best ingredients around. For starters, try the hot vegan soup of the day, which comes with a homemade crouton. The entree menu blends traditional continental technique spun with a southwestern flavors and ingredients. Try the Black Bean Croquettes with Rajas of Nopales. The croquettes are served with pan-fried brown rice, cocoa-roasted sweet potatoes, mushrooms, nopales (cactus) and organic greens saute.

Recently voted the best pizza in Tucson by Tucson Lifestyle Magazine, Renee's Organic Oven has made a splash in the local scene with its commitment to using only the highest-quality organic ingredients and extensive selection of toppings. The restaurant features both a classic pizza menu and specialty pizzas. No matter which side of the menu you order from, you can't go wrong with the quality and taste of the pizza here. Renee's Organic Oven also offers a full range of healthy lunch and dinner options, including specialty salads, subs, calzones and sandwiches. Pasta dishes and pizza, of course, round out the menu.

Tucked away in an old house, Blue Willow is renowned for its comfortable, home-style cooking and its charming patio. Shaded in the summer and heated in the winter, it's the perfect spot for a fun weekday lunch with friends or a relaxing weekend breakfast. The menu is chock full of omelettes and other filling morning meal favorites, all accompanied by fresh fruit and potatoes or rice. Lunch and dinner options range from soups and salads to delicate crepes and vegetarian dishes. The place is equally famous for its desserts, particularly the chocolate confection of the day, which never fails to impress and satisfy.

Located just south of downtown Tucson on historic Stone Avenue, 5 Points Market & Restaurant is a hip, friendly eatery that serves breakfast and lunch. Before or after your meal, be sure to check out the small market, which is well stocked with fresh fruits and veggies, plus locally made food products. The breakfast menu features classics like huevos rancheros and a smoked salmon benedict. For lunch, there's a gourmet grilled cheese, salads, homemade soups, and even meatloaf. The market also has a full coffee menu, plus squeezed-to-order fresh juices for breakfast. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free items are also available.

This charming downtown cafe, located at the historic Stevens House at the Museum of Art, offers an assortment of breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Fine art hangs on the walls, providing the perfect ambiance for enjoying the down-home breakfast plates and lunch options. The coffee is excellent. Try the house macchiato, or for something slightly different, the lachino (a wet cappuccino with less foam and more milk) is great. Salads, sandwiches and artisan breads are also on the eclectic menu. Don't leave without trying one of the cafe's famous desserts, which include plenty of gluten free options. There is a great brick patio for al fresco dining.

"Outstanding vegetarian options" is not just a slogan here--Lovin' Spoonfuls offers an array of delicious, freshly-prepared vegetarian dishes that even die-hard meat-eaters can love. Whether you're an omnivore or vegan, almost everyone will find something to love on the eclectic, which features meatless takes on American comfort food classic, along with Southwestern, Asian, and Greek-inspired dishes. If you're idea of vegetarian cuisine consists of bland salads and rice dishes, it's time to pay a visit to Lovin' Spoonfuls. Don't leave without picking out a freshly baked treat from the dessert counter. For those with dietary restrictions, there are also gluten-free options.

Gourmet Girls Go Gluten Free is Tucson's premier gluten-free cafe and bakery. This is the perfect place to enjoy pasta, bread, sandwich or a big slice of freshly baked pizza, without fear of allergy-producing food products or ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, but the staff is happy to accommodate special requests. Stop by early to sample the excellent breakfast menu. The pancake sandwich should please breakfast food lovers, while the raisin challah French toast with fresh fruit is hearty without being too heavy. Gourmet Girls products also make regular appearances at Tucson's best farmer's markets, so watch out for their fresh baked breads around town.

Got2b Gluten Free is a small, local eatery and bakery specializing in all things gluten free. The family-owned bakery creates handmade breads, muffins, scones, cookies and other treats fresh daily — all of which are gluten free and made from fresh, wholesome ingredients. The eatery also has a lunch menu with a wide assortment of gourmet sandwiches, paninis, and cold sandwiches. Craving dessert? Got2b Gluten Free carries a wide selection of popular dessert treats, including donuts, cupcakes, eclairs and cream puffs, and a popular New York-style cheesecake. Who says you can't have your gluten free cake and eat it too?