Readers React to the Arrival of Rose's Gluten-Free Bakery

Does Highland Park need another bakery?

That's what Patch readers discussed last week after it was announced that Lake Forest resident Marcus Lemonis would be opening a Rose's Bakery and Cafe in downtown Highland Park. It will be the second location of the Evanston eatery Lemonis saved from closing last December.

"Thank you Marcus!" writes EM. "Words cannot even express how grateful I am to you! I always tell Rose how much I love her Evanston location, now it will be more convenient!"

Some readers who keep a gluten-free diet were especially pleased with the news of the opening.

"This will be a godsend for those of us in the gluten sensitive/celiac community, and shame on those people who don't understand the severity of those conditions and the overwhelming positive impact that a gluten free diet can have," writes Howard E. Pattis.

Some, however, wondered about a niche bakery's ability to survive, especially after both Turtle's and Marla's Sweet Bites closed.

"it will not survive," writes Ben. "I have eaten at the Rose's in Evanston and had to be reimbursed for my money - it was terrible. They will close within a year - guaranteed."

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Others seemed skeptical of the added health benefit of gluten-free sweets.

"The common misconception is that a gluten free diet is a carb free diet," writes Zuzu. "It's still a starch, it's still filled with calories, and it's still just another craze that sheeple follow as they believe it's the 'in' thing to do."

One reader pointed out that the menu for Rose's includes sandwiches and pastas and other meals in addition to sweets, which could broaden the appeal.

"Good news," writes Vel. "This is not a gluten-free cupcake shop."

Lemonis, who is currently suing the Highland Park vegan restaurant In the Raw after a deal with them went sour, commented on the story to thank readers for the input. He said the bakery's location would be known soon.

"Having gone gluten free over a year ago and becoming a patron of Rose's, I know the love and devotion that customers have for Rose's," Lemonis said.

What do you think? Will you try Rose's when it opens in February? Do you think it will last in Highland Park?

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