Rex 1516 Introduces Gluten Free Menu

Yep, that's a gluten-free bun

By Danya Henninger

Nearly five months after opening on South Street West, Rex 1516 is hitting its groove. The hot weather suits the “faded Southern mansion” theme of the dining room and bar, and the number of seats is increased by half with outdoor tables surrounded by blooming hibiscus plants. Now, the second venture from the folks behind Jet Wine Bar is also a suitable stop for gluten-averse diners.

Chef Regis Jansen has developed a menu that is entirely gluten free, including that rarity for celiac sufferers: a burger. Buns are baked in house to assure they meet wheat-free standards, and filled with 8-ounces of house-ground beef along with onion marmalade, bacon and blue cheese. A dozen dishes fill out the dinner options, from starters like a farmer’s platter with gluten-free crostini to a roasted chicken over a root vegetable buttermilk mash.

At brunch, housemade gluten-free toast carries the day, accompanied by eggs, omelets or a tofu scramble, along with naturally wheatless shrimp and grits, sparked with crispy pork belly and a spicy cheddar sauce. If this is what you’ve been waiting for, send extra thanks to pastry chef Shamus Moriarity, who’s been honing his recipes to make tasty breads that everyone can enjoy (267-319-1366).