I Was Today Years Old When…
Did you know some OTC meds contain gluten? I just found out! Plus, a dreamy Italian restaurant and my go-to January drinks.
New (to me) Discovery in Downtown Saratoga: Solevo
I still can’t believe this was my first time at Solevo (to put it in perspective, it has been open since 2018!). Since leaving Napa, I’ve been searching for a neighborhood bar that feels as welcoming as the team at Bouchon, and Solevo fits the bill. Located off Broadway on Phila Street in downtown Saratoga Springs, Solevo offers a wraparound bar and the charm of an authentic NYC Italian neighborhood spot. It has the most “rizz” in Saratoga—from the people to the food.
About Solevo:
Solevo is a family-run Italian restaurant inspired by generations of Southern Italian chefs and restaurateurs. Their scratch-made dishes highlight locally sourced, organic ingredients from Upstate New York. The menu is a mix of time-honored family recipes, regional Italian cuisine, and modern twists on red sauce classics by Chef Ronnie. The bar program features classic Italian-inspired cocktails, and the extensive wine list is thoughtfully curated to complement their flavorful dishes.
The Food:
We tried the “Non-Pan-Zanella” with Delicata Squash, Brussels sprouts, and pesto—this dish was a showstopper. I then had the gluten-free version of their Bolognese, and let me tell you, it’s been a while since every bite of a meal made me crave the next one.
Gluten-Free Situation:
Solevo has an extensive gluten-free menu where all pasta dishes can be substituted with whipped polenta—and trust me, it’s just as good. But what really stole my heart? The Lemon Cornmeal Cake. Usually, being gluten-free means hearing, “We have sorbet… or maybe crème brûlée if you’re lucky.” This was a real treat, and their homemade whipped cream on top was the perfect “icing on the cake.”
I can’t wait to go back and do a proper food and wine pairing after January. Check out the full reel here.
Gluten in Over-the-Counter Medicines
This is wild—I’m just discovering this after 13 years of having Celiac Disease!
If you’re also new to this realization, I pulled some key points from this article:
Advil:
“Advil is not considered fully gluten-free because certain forms, like Advil Liqui-Gels and Advil Migraine, contain a wheat derivative. Even though standard Advil tablets may not contain gluten, they could be produced in a facility that handles gluten-containing products, leading to potential cross-contamination.”
Tylenol:
Johnson & Johnson states: 'Although we don't add gluten or gluten-containing grains to our products, we cannot confirm that Tylenol products are gluten-free.'
Benadryl:
According to McNeil Consumer Healthcare (a division of Johnson & Johnson), the only Benadryl product considered gluten-free is the dye-free liquid gels. More details here.
Aleve:
Bayer states: 'We do not add any gluten to our products. However, we cannot guarantee they are 100% gluten-free, as they are produced in a facility that manufactures or packages other items which may contain gluten.'
Silver lining: If you live near a CVS, their products are labeled gluten-free! Also, check out this app to help find gluten-free products and ensure they are safe.
Dry in January: Nighttime Beverages
I’ve been on the hunt for something to sip alongside dinner, and here’s what I found:
Store-Bought Favorite: Recess Drinks
Recess is a nighttime beverage designed to help you unwind before bed. Packed with magnesium and adaptogens like L-Theanine and Lemon Balm, it’s the perfect way to replenish your body before sleep.
Flavor pick: Strawberry Rose
Pro tip: Serve in a white wine glass for an elevated experience.
Bonus: They also offer mocktails online! I am excited to try those next.
I found these drinks at Fresh Market in Saratoga Springs. You can order packs online here.
DIY Mocktail Recipe:
Inspired by the viral “Sleepy Girl Mocktail,” this is a refreshing and soothing nighttime drink:
½ cup 100% tart cherry juice
1 tbsp Vermont maple syrup
Squeeze of ½ lime (about 1 tsp)
Squeeze of ¼ orange (about 1 tbsp, fresh juice preferred)
Shake with lots of ice until frothy
Top with your choice of seltzer (I used Blood Orange Cranberry Poland Spring to fill the glass)
The maple syrup adds a depth I really enjoyed, and combined with the tart cherry, it made for a satisfying replacement for a glass of red wine after dinner.
Cheers to new discoveries! 2025 is looking good so far…
xx,
Maura your HYPE girl