Bold flavors, simple combinations and, of course, rib-sticking pasta, contribute to Italian food being one of the most popular cuisine in the world – except for those who live in the gluten-free zone.

The British in a poll just named Italian food the best in Europe, but diners anywhere who suffer from a gluten intolerance usually have to sit out Italian restaurants or choose salads, meats and vegetables while watching others gush over cheesy pizzas and steaming lasagna layers.

When customers who can’t eat gluten lamented their plight to the owners of Roko Italian Cuisine at Mayfaire Town Center in Wilmington, the owners responded.

“One of our customers posted a request for a gluten-free menu on facebook,” said Roko’s executive chef Jadran Peros. “We have always carried gluten free options; now we simply made it easier for our customers to identify these items by providing a customized menu.”

Veal Marsala, Chicken Sorrentino and scallops scampi are among features. Several of Roko’s pasta dishes, including Frutti di Mare or Linguine with Clam Sauce, are on the menu, too.

Customers may request a gluten-free menu when they sit down to dine in the restaurant or preview the gluten-free options on Roko’s website, www.RokoItalian.com.
 
Roko opened on March 28 inside what was Yuki Roll, 6801-105 Parker Farm Road at Mayfaire Town Center’s south end near Harris Teeter. The restaurant is open nightly 4-11 p.m.