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A Guide to Gluten-Free Dining at Disney World

by Mommy Frog on June 21, 2023 37 Orlando

Gluten-free Dining at Disney World Trying to eat gluten-free at Disney World? For those with allergies and special diets, eating out can be a stressful aspect of visiting a theme park. But have no fear! Disney goes above and beyond to make sure guests have the best experience in its parks, extending all the way to the menus at table-service, quick-service and snack locations. Especially in recent years, Disney has made a visible effort to provide options for guests with special diets and allergies. You can check menus online or in the My Disney Experience app, as many restaurants create special sections at the bottom for allergies.

In this post, we'll highlight the best restaurants for eating gluten-free at Disney World parks.

Eating Gluten-Free at Disney World

Our Frog Family has seen the Walt Disney World Resort go to great lengths to adapt to the needs of those with food allergies. In 2015, Disney launched allergy-friendly menus throughout the Disney World Resort that cover the top eight most common allergens: gluten/wheat, milk/dairy, egg, soy, peanut, tree nut, fish and shellfish. Its edible offerings go far beyond the average house salad as the only allergy-friendly option. Don't froget to ask a cast member about ingredients before ordering, as items are subject to change. The Disney World chefs are always hoppy to talk to guests about allergies and intolerances.

Gluten-Free at Disney Table-Service Restaurants

Disney's sit-down (or table-service) restaurants are probably the easiest places to make sure your special diet needs and requests can be accommodated. When making your advance dining reservation, be sure to add a note of any allergies or specific needs. The restaurant staff will prepare all of the information you’ll need to dine. When you get to the restaurant (with or without reservations), speak with the server about your requirements. The chef may even come out to speak with you about your specific needs and preferences in order to make sure your meal is delicious. Although there are options for every type of diet at almost every Disney restaurant, we definitely have our allergy-friendly favorites. Here are our top five gluten-free Disney World restaurants.

1. Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen at Magic Kingdom Park

Gluten-Free at Disney World - Jungle Skipper Canteen Falafel

This Adventureland restaurant has extensive gluten-free options, many of which are straight from the regular menu and require no substitutions. The crispy Falls Family Falafel is a great way to start your meal. Another family favorite is the Crispy Fried Chicken with jasmine rice, chili glaze and vegetables. There are plenty of options for the tadpoles here too! The only request you can't make here is having your skipper lay off the punny jokes.

2. Tiffins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Tiffins offers an upscale taste of international cuisines. The Spiced Chickpea Falafel or Plant-based Tacos are must-try, gluten-free appetizers. We love the spicy flavors and textures of the North African-Spiced Tofu, as well as the Butter Chicken and Tamarind-Braised Short Rib. For dessert, don't skip the Passion Fruit Tropical Trifle.

3. Coral Reef Restaurant at EPCOT

Gluten-Free at Disney World - Epcot Coral Reef Mahi Mahi

Featuring a unique view of the Seas aquarium, this restaurant has great options for gluten-free seafood lovers! The Shrimp Cocktail and New England Clam Chowder are excellent starters, followed by Pan-seared Mahi Mahi served with jasmine rice. For non-seafood lovers, chicken and steak entrees are also available sans gluten. For dessert, the crowd favorite is always the Chocolate Wave, a decadent chocolate creation served with raspberry gelato. #justkeepeating

4. Garden Grill at EPCOT

An excellent Disney table-service restaurant, Garden Grill offers gluten-free options along with a character dining experience. For lunch and dinner, allergy-friendly rolls are available to enjoy along with the main courses of grilled beef with chimichurri, turkey breast, rice pilaf and seasonal vegetables. Dessert — house-made berry shortcake — is also available gluten-free! Be sure to give advance notice when making your reservation to ensure the most gluten-free dishes are available to you. Garden Grill is also open for breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner.

5. Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

This long-time favorite, tucked in the back of the park, serves a number of delicious dishes that can also be made gluten-free! Start with a classic Italian combination: Fresh Mozzarella and Vine-ripened Tomatoes. Some of our favorite entrees are the classic Spaghetti Bolognese and Polenta with mushroom, spinach and red pepper. Finish the meal with a rich flourless chocolate cake, lemon sorbet, or vanilla or chocolate gelato.

Gluten-Free at Disney Quick-Service Restaurants

With so much to do in the parks, sometimes a quick meal is the only way to go. Allergy-friendly menus are available at most Disney quick-service locations highlighting available substitutes for the top eight most common allergens. Here are our top five favorite Disney World quick-service restaurants with gluten-free options. Even if you can't make it to one of these locations, you can inquire about gluten-free options when placing your order.

1. Sunshine Seasons at EPCOT

Gluten-free at Disney World - Stir fry chicken from Sunshine Seasons

This quick-service cafeteria located in the Land pavilion is a haven for anyone with food allergies or on a special diet. For those looking for gluten-free items, the Grill is your go-to station, featuring hearty cheeseburger and rotisserie chicken dishes, and salmon with cheese grits for a lighter option. A Power Salad is available with or without chicken, and several gluten-free snacks and desserts can also be found here. Skip the sandwich station, though. We highly recommend the Stir-fried Chicken!

2. Flame Tree Barbecue at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Arguably the best quick-service location on Disney property, Flame Tree Barbecue serves up some delicious grub, including smoky and savory ribs, chicken and a pulled pork sandwich (with an allergy-friendly bun). Nearly everything on the menu is available gluten-free. Classic allergy-friendly desserts such as chocolate chip cookies and brownies are also available at this location.

3. Pinocchio’s Village Haus at Magic Kingdom Park

Gluten-Free at Disney World - Pinnochio Haus Pizza

Just behind Cinderella Castle in the heart of Fantasyland, Pinocchio’s Village Haus is a great place for picky eaters. All-Meat, Margherita, Pepperoni or Cheese Pizza with a rice crust and allergy-friendly chicken nuggets can all be found here, along with salad, fries and gluten-free desserts. Though keep in mind that preparation time may increase if you order the All-Meat or Margherita pizzas due to the care taken to avoid cross-contamination.

4. Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Want gluten-free flavors from out of this world? Docking Bay 7 has allergy-friendly versions of popular entrees such as Fried Endorian Chicken Tip Yip, Pirjanad Hot Chicken Tip Yip, Roasted Endorian Chicken Salad, Peka Tuna Poke and Batuuan Beef and Crispy Topato Stir-fry.

5. Satu'li Canteen at Disney's Animal Kingdom

We love Satuli Canteen for its filling bowls, and you don't have to miss out if you have gluten intolerance! There are gluten-free versions of the Grilled Beef & Chicken Bowl, Slow-Roasted Sliced Grilled Beef Bowl, Chopped Wood-Grilled Chicken Bowl, Chili-Garlic Shrimp Bowl and Chili-Spiced Crispy Fried Tofu Bowl.

Gluten-Free Disney Snacks

When a snack is all you need, Disney World offers a variety of tasty options. Here are our favorite places for gluten-free Disney snacks!

1. Dole Whip. DOLE WHIP, YOU GUYS!

Gluten-Free at Disney World - Dole Whip

This classic Disney treat is currently available at Aloha Isle in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom, Pineapple Lanai at Disney's Polynesian Resort, Tamu Tamu Refreshments in Harambe at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Swirls on the Water at Disney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon. (Note that while Dole Whips are gluten-free, they do contain modified food starch, which may affect people sensitive to that ingredient.)

2. Turkey Legs

Another classic Disney treat can be found in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, the American Adventure pavilion at EPCOT and Yak & Yeti Quality Beverages at Animal Kingdom. (Note: While some turkey legs are gluten-free, some are not, so be sure to ask before jumping in!)

3. Churros

Gluten-Free at Disney World - Nomad Lounge Churros

You have to hunt a bit for gluten-free churros at Disney World, as it’s only available at Nomad Lounge in Animal Kingdom. But it’s sooo worth it!

4. Whole Fruit and Vegetable Snacks

Fruit and vegetables to snack on can be found at several locations throughout Disney World. Not only are they healthy, but also allergy-friendly. Bananas, grapes, apples, oranges, pineapple spears, carrots and celery with dip and more can be found at various kiosks and locations, including Liberty Square Market at Magic Kingdom, Anaheim Produce at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Harambe Fruit Market at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Sunshine Seasons at EPCOT.

5. Snacks with Character

Some merchandise locations carry the Disney-branded allergy-friendly line of snacks, including cookies, chocolate bars, granola bars and more.

No matter what your dietary needs are, you're sure to find something tasty at Disney World!

What are your favorite gluten-free Disney World restaurants? Do you have any tips for eating gluten-free at Disney World? Let us know in the comments below!

Related: The Ins and Outs of Disney’s Advance Dining Reservation System

Related: Your Complete Guide to Walt Disney World Dining

Hoppy planning!

Keep hopping, Mommy Frog!
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Feb 18, 2023 at 8:18 p.m. S.K. Says...

Thank you so much for including ones with GF options other than just french fries and salads <3

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Feb 20, 2023 at 9:35 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

So hoppy we could help! :)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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May 17, 2022 at 7:02 a.m. Rita Says...

Do you have a similar list for other amusement parks ? How about Disneyland ? Thank you.

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May 17, 2022 at 8:35 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Rita!

We do have a gluten-free dining guide for Disneyland (just a fair warning, it may be a little outdated but it's on our list to update soon!).

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Dec 19, 2020 at 1:25 a.m. Darlene Says...

Thank you for all the advice. This will be my first visit to Disney after being diagnosed with gluten and dairy allergies. So relieved I will have choices. It's usually a nightmare trying to eat out. Hope they get more dessert choices soon.

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Dec 5, 2020 at 5:52 p.m. mom in AZ Says...

I have to say, that the dole whip in California at Disneyland is NOT gluten free. I found out the hard way. While it is dairy free, it has a gluten containing starch. I highly doubt that WDW would use a different base than Disneyland...

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Dec 7, 2020 at 2:27 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Mom in AZ!

Oh no, we're so sorry to hear about your experience! With allergies and intolerances, we toadally agree that asking a cast member is the best way to go, as things can and do change and you can see a full list of ingredients to check. A perfect example of this: Dole's site lists Dole Whips as gluten free, but we do see that modified food starch you mention in the ingredients list. Thank you for sharing with us!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Sep 11, 2020 at 2:12 p.m. Seely Says...

Just wanted to share that not all turkey legs are gluten free. Some have gluten. yes its labeled in the allergy book, and yes we found out the hard way!

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Sep 11, 2020 at 9:16 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Seely!

Oh my - so sorry to hear it! We appreciate you sharing with us! We adjusted the post accordingly with a disclaimer.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Mar 24, 2020 at 9:37 a.m. Sandra Says...

I have celiac and am lactose intolerant , my husband has a gluten allergy and is severely lactose intolerant, so are our kids. Our little guy will be 4 when we go. We want to do some character dining with him, he loves Mickey Mouse. Does anyone know of any good Gluten free character dining restaurants(we avoid anything with dairy since most places don’t have a dairy free option ????)

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Dec 5, 2022 at 5:09 p.m. Danielle Says...

I also have Celiac and am very sensitive to even cross contamination. We went to Ohana (Polynesian) Breakfast and their were characters there.

They were EXTREMELY careful with my food, I never got sick and enjoyed every bite!

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May 23, 2020 at 12:38 a.m. Julie Says...

We were there last fall. Two of us can't eat gluten, and a third family member can't eat dairy. Garden Grill served us an entire meal free of both. I highly recommend going there for a meal with Mickey (and Pluto, Chip, and Dale). We did several other character meals in our trip: 1900 Park Fare, Crystal Palace, Akershus, and Trattoria al Forno. All of them made it easy to eat gluten free and dairy free.

I've heard that if you're concerned about cross contamination at the buffets, you can ask them to fix you a plate in the kitchen and bring it out to you. I never tried that, because the buffets we attended were very clean and organized when we were there, with all the utensils right where they belonged.

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May 23, 2020 at 8:44 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

This is great to hear, Julie - thanks so much for taking the time to share with us!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Mar 31, 2020 at 8:57 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Sandra!

Your best bet is to place a note on your reservation when you make it, then call ahead a few days before your trip to give the chef and team a head's up about your needs. You can do this at any table service location - including character dining - and they'll create a meal just for you and your family. You won't use the buffet as much, but you can be sure you get food you can safely eat and see all the characters. Fresh fruits, veggies and other items can still be accessed from the buffet, but this extra step will ensure you get a great meal that you can safely enjoy. Have a great time!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Mar 1, 2020 at 12:06 p.m. Sheena Burbridge Says...

Gluten free but is it Celiac Safe? Designated fryers and cooking areas/surfaces and utensils? without cross contamination? I have Celiac Disease and my nieces have extreme food allergies to dairy. egg and nuts.

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Mar 6, 2020 at 7:18 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Sheena!

Disney World has some wonderful options for gluten-free dining, but like any restaurant, the ability to prepare foods without cross-contamination will vary. For table-service dining, we recommend including your gluten-free needs directly in your reservation details and then calling ahead a few days before your reservation to let the chef know about your needs. This gives them time to properly plan and prepare a meal. Bypass family-style and buffet meals, as there are conventional foods alongside the gluten-free ones. For other locations and snacks, prepacked foods and meals are best, because you can be sure they are truly prepared in the right setting. Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Aug 27, 2017 at 11:11 p.m. Darlene Says...

I was at Port Orleans and they had no idea about gluten free beignets. And Ive gone there twice.

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Apr 13, 2018 at 10:34 a.m. Stacey Says...

You have to go to the French quarter side food court.

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Jan 11, 2024 at 4:39 p.m. Jennifer Says...

I have Celiac and go to WDW several times a year. I have not had any issues with my food. I always let the CM know or my server that I have a food allergy. I am asked if I need the chef or if I need further assistance when ordering. Its one of the few places that I feel comfortable eating out and I have so many choices. Disney has dedicated fryers, and usually one person handles your order so there is no cross contamination. This goes for the resorts too. I have had the chef at Pop and Movie fix me GF meals that are not on the menu. You just have to ask. When making dining reservations I always add my allergy so they know ahead of time. Some of my favorite places are Liberty Tree Tavern, Skipper Canteen, Biergarten, Raglan Rd, Regal Eagle, Hollywood and Vine, Boma, Brown Derby and Crystal Palace. Hope you have a great trip to those planning on a visit.

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Jul 4, 2017 at 2:45 p.m. Tony Saccucci Says...

Very informative! Thank you!

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May 16, 2017 at 1:33 a.m. Michelle Fillion Says...

Thank you for this article. I just wish you had done it sooner! We were in Disney in January and before going I did as much research as I could looking for places to eat that would be safe for me to eat because I have celiac. We had a great lunch at the Coral Reef , wish I had saved room for desert! I'll definitely save your recommendations for next time.

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May 16, 2017 at 1:06 a.m. Erica Says...

Excellent article that was super helpful to me...thanks!

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May 15, 2017 at 10:10 p.m. Ed Koval Says...

Do you have a similar list for Disneyland?

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May 16, 2017 at 8:49 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Ed,

We don't have a Gluten-Free Dining at Disneyland yet, but with the popularity of this post we're definitely considering it. Stay tuned.

Hoppy Planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
May 15, 2017 at 6:06 p.m. Karen Finucan Says...

Our biggest food concern is dairy. It's really hard cooling off with limited dairy-free deserts! There is ice cream everywhere in cute Disney shaped characters! I would love to see something on Diary -free options. Even at the resorts you are limited when it comes to milk products.

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Aug 12, 2018 at 10:50 p.m. Kelli Says...

I'm wondering about dairy free options as well. I have to have GF and dairy free. I'm loving the GF options but would love to see more dairy free!

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May 15, 2017 at 4:22 p.m. Ann Says...

What about gluten free at Be our Guest and Picos Bill in Magic Kingdom?

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May 15, 2017 at 11:56 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Ann,

Hmmm.. we didn't hop over to those. Anyone have tips on dining gluten-free at BOG or Pecos Bill?

Hoppy Planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Apr 2, 2018 at 1:34 p.m. Kari Says...

GF at Pecos Bill is our fave! They have a delicious chicken and rice dish served with tortilla chips and not spicy at all, great for kids. So filling and good! I think they have a fajita type meal too, can't remember.

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Nov 28, 2017 at 3:12 a.m. Kimberly Says...

I had the grilled cheese (gf bread, of course) for lunch at BOG. Really good!

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May 16, 2017 at 3:33 a.m. Audra Says...

Several options there. The pot roast served at lunch with green beans and mashed potatoes was excellent: The gluten-free lemon cream puff was just OK and was also made with sugar substitute, which I try to avoid.

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May 15, 2017 at 4:09 p.m. Jennifer Says...

You left out the best...Boma! My favorite place to eat at Disney with tons of Gluten free options!

Reply
Sep 16, 2021 at 4:14 p.m. patricia Power Says...

Where is Boma? What type of food?

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Sep 16, 2021 at 11:51 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Patricia!

Boma is at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge! It offers all-you-care-to-eat buffets for breakfast and dinner with both African flavors and American classics.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jun 16, 2017 at 5:36 p.m. Brenda Says...

A second vote for Boma! We've eaten there MANY times and always been surprised at the selection of options for our limited diet! We've also done well at Le Cellier!

Reply
May 10, 2017 at 11:32 p.m. Crystal Says...

Could you do an article about eating Vegan at the parks, sadly when you fill out your reservation it doesn't give to an option to include meat as something you don't eat.

Reply
May 11, 2017 at 8:12 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Crystal,

Good suggestion. We'll look into putting that one together!

Hoppy Planning,

Mommy Frog

Reply
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