A Rochester Hills Sanctuary
For anyone living with Celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance, the act of walking into a bakery is often met with hesitation rather than hunger. We are used to scanning labels, questioning staff about cross-contamination, and often settling for “good enough” substitutes. However, at Gluten Free Specialties in Rochester Hills, Michigan, those worries evaporate at the door. As a 100% dedicated gluten free facility, this isn’t just a bakery; it’s a sanctuary where “normal” food is back on the menu.
A Legacy of Safety and Taste Since 1995
Gluten Free Specialties (formerly known as Celiac Specialties) is a pioneer in the gluten free world. Founded in 1995 by Michelle Fuller, the bakery began with a simple but radical mission: gluten free food should taste exactly how it was meant to taste. Michelle, who was not gluten-free herself, began experimenting with recipes for a customer and discovered a natural talent for recreating the textures and flavors that are so often lost in gluten free baking.
Today, that legacy continues under the leadership of Priscilla Demello, who joined the team after her own Celiac diagnosis in 2002. Priscilla’s personal connection to the community ensures that every loaf of bread and every frosted cupcake meets the highest standards of safety and satisfaction.
The Bakery: Beyond the Basics
The bakery side of the business is legendary in Southeast Michigan. While many gluten-free brands focus on shelf-stable, dry products, Gluten Free Specialties prioritizes freshness. Their White Sandwich Bread and Sub Buns are staples for local families, offering a soft, pliable texture that doesn’t crumble upon first bite.
Sweet treats are where the bakery truly shines. From their famous Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (often featured at the local Yates Cider Mill) to oversized specialty cupcakes like Coconut Cream and Boston Cream, there is no shortage of indulgence. For those celebrating milestones, their Angel Food Cakes and Brownie Tray Cakes prove that a gluten-free birthday can be just as decadent as any other.
The Cafe: A Rare Dining Experience
One of the most exciting expansions for Gluten Free Specialties is their in-house Cafe. Finding a restaurant where the entire kitchen is dedicated gluten-free is a rarity. Here, visitors can enjoy “forbidden” favorites like Cheeseburgers on Brioche Buns, Chicken Tenders, and Italian Subs without the fear of shared fryers or contaminated counters.
The cafe has become a destination for parents of children with Celiac disease, offering a “safe haven” where kids can eat like everyone else. Whether it’s a Patty Melt or a side of Parmesan Salted Garlic Focaccia, the cafe brings the joy of dining out back to the community.
Inclusive of All Sensitivities
Recognizing that many in the gluten-free community deal with multiple food sensitivities, the team has worked tirelessly to ensure that 95% of their products are also Dairy-Free (Casein-Free). They also offer numerous soy-free options and utilize purity protocol oats for their seasonal items. While they are not a nut-free facility, they avoid nut flours in their baked goods, making it a safer environment for those with various dietary hurdles.
Whether you are a local regular or a traveler making a Gluten Free Journey through Michigan, a stop at this Rochester Hills gem is essential. It is a place built on over two decades of passion, proving that a diagnosis doesn’t mean the end of delicious food, it’s just the start of a different, tastier journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. They are a 100% dedicated gluten-free facility, meaning there is zero risk of cross-contamination with wheat or gluten-bearing grains within the building.
Approximately 95% of their products are dairy-free (casein-free). Many items are also soy-free. While they use eggs in many recipes, they have a selection of items that cater to various allergen needs.
The Cafe typically operates Monday through Friday, usually between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. It is recommended to check their latest social media updates for any changes to cafe hours before visiting.
Yes! They are famous for their gluten free Paczki during the Lenten season and seasonal donuts (like pumpkin or apple cider) during the fall.
Gluten Free Specialties offers an online store where many of their popular breads and treats can be ordered for shipping across the United States.
While they do not use nut flours in their baked goods, they are not a strictly nut-free facility as they use whole peanuts in select items.
I didn’t know what to expect, but after seeing their listing here, had to try them. Glad I did!
My best friend suffers from Celiac Diesease, and is on a strict gluten-free diet. My friend doesn’t live nearby, but was on this side of town where Gluten Free Specialties is located. I’ve always wanted to stop in there, and was most impressed by how delicious the food was! It’s a bit pricey, but you can’t put a cost on great food.
We frequent about every other month. Everything tastes great and the prices are more than reasonable for a specialty shop.
Gluten Free Specialties has the best and most delicious gluten free (and dairy free) treats!
It’s so nice to have a bakery that makes only gf items. Their paczkis are very good! The location on Crooks Rd was more convenient for me, so I haven’t been to their new location yet. I really hope they decide to add a new location in the Clarkston/Waterford location. Highly recommended.
My sister is gluten free, so we stopped by here. Literally the best desserts I have ever had- so moist and delicious, absolutely fantastic!!!
This is my absolute favorite bakery. I have a double allergy (gluten and dairy) and a huge sweet tooth. They do an outstanding job and even my friend and family with no allergies love their bakery items.
Tried the brownie cake today and it was so good! 10/10 recommend! Everyone who tried it agreed and not everyone usually likes a gluten free dessert, so it won over a tough crowd! Lol. So excited to keep coming back and trying more things!
The cafe is fantastic! The baked goods are delicious.
I’m a single mom of three kids with celiac disease. It was so nice to dine out and not worry about cross contamination.
We had cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, fries, a sub sandwich & bubble teas. Everything was made fresh and tasted incredible.
Keep in mind that the cafe is only open on weekdays, but I think they plan to change that soon. If you or your family has celiac you must check it out. We will definitely be regular customers!