Svalbard is not as isolated as you would think. It is not as primitive as you would think. We stayed in
Radisson Blu Polar -hotel. Someone of our group has a bad back so we decided to make sure everything will be fine after outdoor adventures. We also needed to make sure I won't be starving because of my strict gluten free diet.
Restaurant Nansen serves breakfast for the hotel but also the dinner starting from 6 pm (remember to make a reservation). The staff at Nansen is extremely friendly and professional. I had no troubles with my diet. If you are staying somewhere else you can still try the restaurant.
If you decide to stay in a camping area, hostel or apartment in Svalbard I am happy to tell there is no need to carry your own food from home all the way with you. There is a very good grocery shop
Coop Svalbard. Just remember to leave your guns before going in. (Contact staff to leave your guns.)
Fruene cafe proves Longyearbyen is not out of civilization. They have also
their own website but it is in Norwegian. They are also
at FaceBook. The cafe has a great atmosphere and you are welcomed no matter are you a local or a tourist. It is an excellent place to have lunch or delicate (not gluten free).
Unfortunately they can't serve 100% gluten free products because they bake gluten stuff in the cafe. So, also their chocolate may contain traces of gluten. If you don't need to be so strict about it; go for it and try! It all looks very fascinating and they say it tastes great!
