MRM Chef Spotlight: Ilson Gonçalves of Samba Montclair on Gluten-Free Dining

Ilson Gonçalves opened Samba in Montclair, New Jersey nearly eight years ago as a deli with a few Brazilian specials. Today, the menu is a reflection of the authentic cooking he grew up eating at his mother's home and restaurant in Blumenau, Brazil.  It's simple with an emphasis on fresh vegetables, fish and herbs, served in a romantic, rustic space with antique copper pots and vintage tableware. 

And Samba's whole menu is gluten free, except for the wheat bread, which is from Balthazar Bakery, and one dessert. Due to tremendous demand, Samba recently expanded its vegan and gluten-free options. Plant lovers may enjoy meat-free versions of Gonçalves's signature GF Yuca Gnocchi, top photo, and Bobo de Vegetais, a rich stew with local seasonal vegetables, yuca purée, tomatoes, onions, coconut milk and cilantro. 

Gonçalves is a graduate of Natural Gourmet Institute in New York City, and the author of The Samba Montclair Cookbook  (A Life in Print…