I promise we really do eat healthy most of the time and even bake healthy desserts to have on hand, but when we go out, we do like to try the gluten free sweets options. We don't buy many of the premade processed ones as part of our trade off. While most of this blog is focused on my travels, there will also be those who plan to visit where I live, Greensboro, NC, so these places deserve to be highlighted as well. Godino's Bakery is one of the places that has been a life saver for us over the last few years. It's locally owned and run by Paul and Mary Ann Godino. They are true gems and have been a blessing in more than one pinch.
Our excitement over this bakery started when we discovered their cupcakes. I make and freeze cupcakes and other treats to have on hand for birthday parties, class celebrations, etc. I speak to the teachers at the beginning of the year to let them know my daughter has celiac and needs to eat gluten free. I request a heads up from the teachers on special occasions, birthdays, etc, and send an email to the teacher to send to the parents explaining that while my daughter can't eat gluten, I don't expect everyone else to accommodate her in their class treats. I request a heads up preferably the Friday before of any special treats they're bringing in so that I have time to make or find a substitute of that for my daughter. Most of the time, the parents are considerate with this. Life happens though and on multiple occasions, I have received a frantic call from the teacher that a parent showed up with a treat or will be showing up shortly and that Emme's stash of treats I have sent to school is empty. That's when Godino's came into the picture. This of course started when I was still in pharmaceutical sales and I was fortunate that most times when this happened, I was working in town and able to pop in and grab a cupcake to go. Yes, they keep stock on hand. And, I am pretty sure that my daughter on most occasions prefers these over the smaller ones I have on hand.
Her love for their cupcakes starting in 2015 also meant that they have made her birthday cakes for the past three years. Their birthday cakes are awesome! And as of last fall, they did not upcharge for their gluten free cakes. Paul does a great job making the cakes and Mary Ann does a phenomenal job decorating the cakes.
My daughter's other favorite indulgence is the chocolate mousse cup. These are so good, but make sure you don't do this too close to a meal or plan on splitting it. I usually have to inform her that we will be splitting one because she will eat it all in one sitting and I can't blame her.
And finally, the other offering available on an ongoing basis, the French Macarons. These are made with essential oils and in fact each have a different flavor. I have had these at other bakeries and usually, all of them taste the same. I can say these all live up to their expected flavors.
I discovered one day that I really needed a bit more protein and not just carbs that if it isn't super busy, Paul can often whip up a crustless quiche. These are usually my go to when I go in to sit for a while and get some work done somewhere other than my home office. Of course they go great with one of the many coffee flavors available and yes, they have almond milk as an option to add to your coffee. In general, Godino's is my go to neighborhood coffee shop/bakery and I recommend for anybody visiting or living in the area.
I know I have mentioned many yummy dessert options, but I can't end this blog post without mentioning that Godino's also has some great ice cream options, which are perfect for hot summer days as we tend to have a few of those here in the South.
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