If you’re anything like us, you love a good night out — the kind where you don’t have to do the dishes and can just relax with great food and even better company. But when you live with Celiac Disease, gluten intolerance, or a dairy allergy, eating out can be downright anxiety-producing. We’ve been there (more times than we can count), and that’s exactly why this section of The Free exists.
A Note From Sunni: There was a time (I was diagnosed in 1999) when I could only safely eat at high-end restaurants, the kind where the chef would come out and talk to me personally. I used to joke that I wasn’t high-maintenance, just “high-risk”! Thankfully, things have come a long way. More restaurants are finally beginning to understand what Celiac Disease and food allergies really mean, and how to accommodate guests like us safely.
Explaining your allergy or intolerance at a restaurant is no fun. But here’s the secret: confidence and clarity are your best tools. When your server approaches the table, start with something simple like,
“Hi! I have Celiac Disease and a dairy allergy, so I’ll need your help choosing something that’s completely free of gluten and dairy. And no cross-contamination, please.”
Be kind, but firm. You’re not being “picky.” You’re protecting your health. A good restaurant will take it seriously, and if they don’t, well, that tells you everything you need to know.
And if you’re ever unsure, ask to speak with a manager or chef. You’ll be amazed at how many genuinely want to learn and do better. (Trust us, we’ve seen both the great and the not-so-great!)
Every restaurant we feature here is one we’ve actually visited and tested ourselves, even if our purses are filled with activated charcoal capsules! Each review includes details about how the staff handled our allergies, what precautions were taken, and which dishes we actually loved. You’ll find our honest thoughts on the good, the bad, and the “we probably should ask them if they would like to be our next client for restaurant training.”
This is an ongoing project for Hannah and me — partly because we’re passionate about safe dining and partly because, well… we love to eat out! There are so many more restaurants to try, and we can’t wait to share each experience with you.
Burger patties and a side salad with vinegar were the only safe options, but unfortunately, bloating and an upset stomach followed.
Extremely careful and highly accommodating. Every request was handled with care — a must-visit for anyone with allergies.
Very accommodating and willing to help. They’ve even updated their menu to include gluten-free options.
Get your gluten-free pancakes, toast, and more here! Friendly, knowledgeable staff and delicious breakfast options.
Tons of options and naturally allergy-friendly choices. A fun spot with a wide variety of options.
The server was unfamiliar with gluten, and there were limited dairy-free options. Only one vegetable choice fit the bill safely.
Super accommodating and helpful — true professionals in allergy-safe dining.
So knowledgeable and kind! They take items from the backstock to avoid cross-contamination and even change gloves. The menu is clearly marked — a safe win!
Always careful, friendly, and understanding. They handle allergy orders with precision and respect.
No sickness here! The steak, broccoli, and salad combo was both safe and satisfying. Be sure to mention “no cross-contanmination”.
Extremely knowledgeable staff who understand gluten and dairy allergies. Never gotten sick here, and we love the Chicken Diane!
A quick and surprisingly safe stop for simple coffee and snacks when verified. No donuts, though.
Exceptionally accommodating and helpful. The service is excellent, and they make you feel safe and understood.
This one coined the term “Celiac-a-fiable!” The chef is always willing to adjust or substitute dishes. Menus rotate daily, but the care remains the same—averaging $35 per plate, and worth every penny.
Great menu choices and a knowledgeable staff that understands cross-contamination and allergy concerns.
Highly accommodating and careful. The staff is well-equipped to handle allergy requests. Try the Fleming’s potatoes au gratin — they’re gluten-free and incredible!
Very accommodating, knowledgeable, and welcoming. One of our go-to safe dining spots.
Their menu is so well-marked for GF, DF, and V options. Almost everything is safe except the flour tortillas, and no cross-contamination issues! Chips are safe too — Mexican food lovers, rejoice!
Plenty of gluten-free and dairy-free choices. Just be sure to mention your allergies clearly when ordering.
Limited gluten-free options, but they take safety seriously and truly care. They even remember returning GF guests by name!
Consistently reliable for gluten-free meals and friendly service. They may have been one of the first to have a gluten-free menu.
They use tamari instead of soy sauce — a huge plus! Avoid tempura and clearly state it’s an allergy. Staff is understanding and helpful.
Always willing to adjust dishes and provide an allergen chart for review. Very accommodating and careful with orders.
Recently changed ownership, so the menu is smaller, but they can usually accommodate gluten and dairy restrictions.
Super accommodating and allergy-aware. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure a safe dining experience.
Good awareness and labeling, though cross-contact risk depends on location.
Some menu items can be adapted safely when appropriately handled.
They mean well, but they make pasta in-house, which poses a gluten risk. Best to avoid if you’re highly sensitive.
They’re aware and try to accommodate, but occasional mistakes happen. Staff do try to make things right.
If you own or manage a restaurant that accommodates gluten-free or dairy-free guests, we’d love to visit, feature you, and celebrate your efforts. Safe dining isn’t just a service, you see. It’s a gift to those of us who haven’t been able to enjoy it in years.
Do you have a favorite spot we should try? Please drop a comment or send us a message on our Contact Page. We’re always hungry for new adventures!