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Navigating the Gluten Free Dining Scene

Dining Out Without the Doubt

 

For those living with Celiac Disease or gluten intolerance, the prospect of dining out often comes with a side of anxiety. Will the server understand? Is there a shared fryer? Is “gluten-friendly” actually safe for me? At Gluten Free Journey, we believe that a restricted diet shouldn’t mean a restricted life. Our mission is to bridge the gap between your dietary needs and the culinary world, helping you rediscover the joy of eating out across Canada and beyond.

 

The Golden Rule: Communication is Key

 

The secret to a successful gluten free meal starts long before the food hits the table. It begins with advocacy. When you arrive at a restaurant, it is vital to distinguish between a lifestyle choice and a medical necessity.

 

Don’t be afraid to ask the “tough” questions:

 

  • Do you have a dedicated gluten-free prep area?
  • Are the fries cooked in the same oil as breaded items?
  • Is the soy sauce in this dish traditional or tamari-based?

 

A restaurant that welcomes these questions is a restaurant that takes your health seriously. Our directory highlights establishments that go above and beyond to ensure cross-contamination is minimized.

 

Celiac Disease Safe vs. Gluten-Friendly: Know the Difference

 

In recent years, the term “Gluten-Friendly” has appeared on menus everywhere. While this is a step forward for visibility, it can be a red flag for those with Celiac disease. Often, “friendly” implies that the ingredients are gluten-free, but the kitchen environment is not controlled for cross-contact.

 

On this page, we categorize our recommendations to help you make informed decisions. We look for “Gold Standard” kitchens, those with dedicated gluten free fryers, separate pasta water, and staff trained by programs like the CCA’s (Celiac Canada) Gluten-Free Food Program.

 

Regional Gems and Trusted Chains

Whether you are looking for a quick bite on a road trip through Ontario or a five-course dedicated gluten-free experience in Vancouver, our community-driven database is here to guide you. We feature:

 

Dedicated Bakeries: Where you can walk in and order anything without checking a label.

Gourmet Dining: High-end eateries that treat gluten-free flour as a culinary tool rather than an afterthought.

Safe Fast-Food: The reliable spots where you can grab a burger in a lettuce wrap or dedicated fries on the go.

 

Hidden Gluten: The Usual Suspects

Part of your gluten free journey is learning to spot the hidden gluten culprits that even chefs sometimes miss. Be wary of:

 

  • Sauces and Gravies: Often thickened with roux (flour and butter).
  • Salad Dressings: Malt vinegar and thickeners are common.
  • Sushi Rice: Sometimes seasoned with grain-based vinegar.
  • Oats: Unless certified gluten free, these are often cross-contaminated.

Join the Gluten Free Journey

The landscape of gluten free dining is constantly evolving. New dedicated spots open every month, while old favourites might change their kitchen protocols. This is where you come in! If you’ve had an incredible (or disappointing) experience at a local restaurant, share it with us. Your reviews help keep this community safe and informed.

 

Together, we can turn every meal into a safe, delicious adventure. Explore our listings below and find your next favourite table!

Find Gluten Free Restaurants, Bakeries and other Gluten Free Specialty Stores!

Our gluten free directory offers an ever growing list of Restaurants, Bakeries and other Gluten Free Specialty Store options for you!

 

Struggling to find Gluten Free near you? Depending on where you live, there are an abundance of restaurants with Gluten Free menus available all across North America! The GlutenDude App provides even more!

Fairly Frosted Bakery

Fairly Frosted Bakery

Fairly Frosted Bakery – Perfectly delicious baked goods and ice creams for you and your family to enjoy. Vegan, gluten-free, nut-free!

Swanlyn Specialties

Find Gluten Free Edible Eats and Treats with Swanlyn Specialties in Woodstock, Ontario! Locally made, family owned & run, serving Oxford County and beyond since 1997. They are a gluten-free food product business, offering gluten-free baked goods, savoury items and…

The Parlour + The Fry’s The Limit

Welcome to Thornton’s Family Owned And Operated Ice Cream Parlour in the Big Green House with the Red Fry Truck Poutinerie! The Parlour The Fry’s the Limit Inc. Address: 245 Barrie Street, Thornton, Ontario Phone Number: (705) 881-5055 Website: thefrysthelimit.com…

Lettuce Love Cafe

Lettuce Love Cafe

Lettuce Love Cafe serves, HEALTHY vegan & gluten-free cuisine to Celiacs throughout the Burlington, Ontario regions! Get location details now.

Gluten Free Specialties

Welcome to Rochester Hills Dedicated Gluten Free Facility since 1995! Address: 2656 S Rochester Rd, Rochester Hills, MI48307, USA Phone (248) 860-0680 Website https://glutenfreespecialties.com Gluten Free Specialties Gluten Free Specialties (formerly Celiac Specialties) is a dedicated gluten free facility making…

Gluten Free Me

Gluten Free Me

Welcome to Collingwood’s dedicated gluten free boutique bakery! Address 191 Hurontario St,Collingwood, ONL9Y 2M1 Phone (833) 436-4361 Gluten Free Me At Gluten Free Me they blend their own GF flours – break their own eggs – peel their own apples…

The Butternut Baking Co.

The Butternut Baking Co.

The Butternut Baking Co. is Toronto’s first 100% all natural baking company that specializes in gluten-free, grainless, and naturally low-carb bakes.

Kinnikinnick Fresh

Kinnikinnick Fresh

Goodies baked fresh daily by artisans at Edmonton’s only dedicated gluten-free bakery & grocery store. Online ordering now available too!

Hype Food Co.

Hype Food Co.

Hype Food Co. is an allergy-aware fast casual restaurant and bakery that is also nut-free, offering a selection of gluten-free baked goods daily.

de floured

de floured

View All Listings Hours Temporarily Closed Phone (416) 828-4169 Website https://www.deflouredbakery.ca/ Address 1250 College StreetToronto Ontario M6H 1C2 Location is temporarily closed Share on facebook Share on twitter Share on pinterest Share on reddit Share on whatsapp Share on email…

Crystany’s Brasserie

Crystany’s Brasserie

Crystany’s Brasserie in Canning, Nova Scotia is the first certified 100% Gluten-Free restaurant in Canada with the Gluten Free Food Program!

Linda’s Eating Place

Linda’s Eating Place

From the greeting as you enter, to the smiling staff with the hot coffee and the fresh, piping hot meal… it’s all country, and that’s all good.

Qing’s Cuisine

Qing’s Cuisine

Specializing in Szechuan and Thai cuisine. Most of their food can be modified to be gluten-free. Check out this Gluten Free Dining option!

Bunners Bakeshop

Bunners Bakeshop

Bunner’s Bakeshop is Toronto’s premier vegan and gluten-free bakery. Everything they sell is dairy-free, nut-free and gluten-free.

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