Welcome to Edible Options: Where Gluten Free Means Options for Everyone
Located in the heart of Henley Square Plaza in St. Catharines, Ontario, Edible Options Bakery is more than just a dedicated gluten free facility; it is a sanctuary for anyone navigating the complexities of food sensitivities. Founded by Jennifer Kuzyk, whose passion for inclusive baking is evident in every hand-crafted item, this bakery has earned a reputation for excellence that draws visitors from across the Niagara region and beyond.
What sets Edible Options apart isn’t just the absence of gluten, it’s the presence of high-quality, transparent ingredients and a deep-seated commitment to making “real” food accessible to those with multiple allergies.
The Bread That Defies Gluten Free Logic
If you have lived a gluten free journey for any length of time, you know the gluten free bread struggle: a loaf that is either frozen solid, crumbly enough to be birdseed, or needs to be toasted within seconds of opening to be edible. Edible Options has revolutionized this experience.
Their signature loaves, ranging from classic white and hearty multigrain to the fan-favourite Herb and Cheese, are legendary for their texture. Perhaps the most shocking claim (which locals swear by) is the shelf life. Unlike most GF breads that require immediate refrigeration, Edible Options’ bread can last 7 to 9 days on the counter while remaining soft and spongy. It’s a game-changer for sandwiches and a testament to their proprietary baking techniques that prioritize moisture and structure without the use of harsh preservatives.
Sweet Treats Without the Sugar Crash
The “options” in their name extend to how they sweeten their treats. Edible Options is highly transparent about its ingredients, choosing to avoid imitation sugars like Splenda or Xylitol. Instead, they harness the natural, plant-based sweetness of ripe bananas, dates, and maple syrup.
The bakery case is a rotating gallery of indulgence. You might find:
- Whoopie Pies: Specifically the vanilla strawberry variety, which has gained a cult following.
- Cinnamon Doughnuts: Perfectly textured and spiced, proving that “vegan and gluten free” can still mean “fluffy and delicious.”
- Pecan Butter Tarts: Known for being wonderfully runny and rich (best eaten immediately for the full experience!).
- Decadent Brownies & Cookies: From oatmeal toffee to shortbread, there is a treat for every palate.
Savoury Solutions for Busy Families
While many bakeries focus solely on the sweet side, Edible Options understands the need for convenient, safe meals. Their freezer and hot cases are often stocked with savory delights that make weeknight dinners a breeze. Their Chicken Empanadas and Chicken Pot Pies feature a golden, flaky pastry that rivals traditional wheat-based crusts. For those craving comfort food, their Pierogi Buns and Pizza Buns offer a portable, satisfying snack that is entirely gluten free and often dairy-free as well.
A Commitment to Transparency and Care
At Edible Options, transparency isn’t just a buzzword. Jennifer and her team are happy to share ingredient lists with any customer who asks. They cater to a wide spectrum of dietary needs, including Paleo, Raw, corn-free, soy-free, and cane sugar-free diets.
The atmosphere at the bakery is as warm as the fresh-baked rolls. The staff is famously patient, helping newly diagnosed Celiac Disease navigate their first safe shopping trip with empathy and expertise. Whether you are looking for a custom celebration cake or just a single morning muffin, Edible Options ensures you never have to settle for less just because you’re eating gluten free.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Location
Yes! Edible Options is a 100% dedicated gluten free facility, meaning there is zero risk of cross-contamination with wheat or gluten products in their kitchen.
Absolutely. Most of their items are vegan and dairy-free. They also offer many options that are soy-free, corn-free, and cane sugar-free. While they are allergy-aware, always inform the staff of specific severe allergies so they can guide you to the safest choices.
One of the bakery’s unique features is that its bread is shelf-stable. It can last 7–9 days on your counter at room temperature. It also freezes beautifully if you want to stock up!
Yes, custom orders are welcomed! However, please note that Edible Options does not accept orders via Facebook or social media. All orders must be placed in person or by calling the bakery directly at 905-688-1000.
No. The bakery avoids imitation sugars like Splenda or Xylitol. They use natural, plant-based sweeteners such as maple syrup, dates, and ripe fruit.
You can find them at 395 Ontario St, Unit 2, St. Catharines, ON (Henley Square Plaza). They are typically closed on Thursdays, so be sure to check their current hours on Facebook before visiting!
Just went to Edible Options today for the first time after MANY of my gluten-free family & friends have told me to go. The cashiers were so friendly and knowledgeable. I asked for staff recommendations and they did not disappoint. I got; the white bread, Apple fritter, crueller, chocolate donut hotels as well as a shortbread cookie and a lemon cookie. Everything was great! Only downside was that I went in the afternoon and some things were sold out. That being said, it just shows how good their products really are! 10/10 experience, will be going back again.
This was one of the best gluten free bakeries I have been too! I was on vacation & luckily found this place, had desserts & the bread is amazing, so soft & fluffy! It all tasted fresh & if you didn’t tell me it was gluten free I could not tell. It was that good, moist, spongy & flavourful, heaven! I recommend the brownies are super rich & they have frozen options if they run out of the display items. The cheese cake is not sweet if you’re watching your sugar a bit tangy, the cookies are delicious. The staff are super helpful & kind, the pricing for the quality is perfect. Lots of parking on site in front of the store, they seem fairly busy so they do sell out, call ahead if you want something specific. I highly recommend dropping by when you’re visiting St. Catherine’s. I bought so much, I was eating it for days, loved it!
Spectacular gluten free and dairy free bakery. My favourites have to be the bread, and the chicken empanadas. The donuts were quite sweet, but incredibly fluffy. Staff were so friendly and patient with me as I decided what to get. Prices are very reasonable, but you will spend more than you think, only because you will want to get everything there!
What a delicious gluten-free gem! The cinnamon sugar donut was sooooo good, the texture was perfect. The donut holes (which are actually HUGE) were very tasty too. Will definitely come back when I’m visiting the area again. Would love if you guys could offer shipping to the GTA!
Absoloutley LOVE this bakery. They’re 100% Gluten and dairy free and have many vegan options!! They’re quality is phenomenal!! …I can have cinnamon buns!!! *screams of joy*!!!!
I’ve been to many other similar bakeries and this is hands down the best one, simply amazing.
Their prices are fair and comparable to other speciality bakeries and they have different “daily specials” as well as freezer items priced a bit down.
I drive from Mississauga sometimes just for their treats and it’s worth it!!! They have also been amazing for accepting over the phone orders and pre-payments for a friend to pick up for me lol.
Staff are all so friendly, and enjoy what they do. They’re patient with my long list of goodies and any questions I have. Very refreshing!
They also have a good sense of humour, and it shows with my personal favourite stamps at the bottom of the boxes!!
THANK YOU Edible Options for making yummy treats for sensitive tummies lol.