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, snack locations, resort hotels and Disney Springs. 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 across the Walt Disney World Resort, plus our top tips. Let's hop in!
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.
*This post is based on our experience. Please consult a cast member about any allergies or dietary restrictions.
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. Some restaurants even have separate allergy/gluten-free menus. In some cases, the chef may 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 gluten-free Disney World restaurants you can find in the four theme parks.
1. Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen at Magic Kingdom Park
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 Pineapple-glazed Pork Belly or Gobi Manchurian (crispy-fried cauliflower) are must-try, gluten-free appetizers. We love the spicy flavors and textures of the Butter Chicken and Tamarind-Braised Short Rib. For dessert, don't skip the Sweet Mango Sticky Rice.
3. Coral Reef Restaurant at EPCOT
Featuring a unique view of the Seas aquarium, this restaurant has great options for gluten-free seafood lovers! The Sweet Corn Bisque and Grilled Chicken Wings are excellent starters, followed by Grilled Mahi Mahi served with coconut-lime rice. For non-seafood lovers, mojo chicken and roasted cauliflower entrees are also available sans gluten. For dessert, the crowd favorites are the Chocolate Mousse Bar and Mango Sorbet.
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 steak with chimichurri, turkey breast, mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. Dessert — house-made Farmer's Seasonal Crumble — 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. The Hollywood Brown Derby
This restaurant not only rolls out those red carpet vibes but has a separate allergy-friendly menu. For either lunch or dinner, indulge with the Shrimp Cocktail complete with an avocado mousse and cocktail sauce. Several scrumptious entree options are gluten-free including the Filet Mignon, Root Beer-brined Pork, Shepherd's Pie, Grilled Ōra King Salmon, Pan-Roasted Halibut and the Famous Cobb Salad. Our frog favorite is the cobb salad, followed by the filet mignon! Additionally, you can add the Spoon Bread with lavender-honey butter as a side. There's even an Orange-Hazelnut Chocolate Cake for dessert!
6. 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 Cake, Mushroom and Herbed Cauliflower with sauteed 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. When using the Mobile Order feature on the app, you'll find a list of gluten-free items by clicking on the "Allergy-Friendly" icon and then selecting the "Gluten/Wheat Allergy-Friendly" tab. If you're ordering in person, ask if there's an allergy menu or if certain items can be modified to meet your needs.
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 exact locations, you can always inquire about gluten-free options when placing your order at any restaurant.
1. Sunshine Seasons at EPCOT
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 rotisserie chicken dishes, birria tacos and salmon with mashed potatoes and ratatouille 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
Just behind Cinderella Castle in the heart of Fantasyland, Pinocchio’s Village Haus is a great place for picky eaters. All-Meat, Pepperoni or Cheese Pizza with a rice crust and allergy-friendly chicken strips 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 pizza 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, Smoked Chimichurri-Braised 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!
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
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.
Gluten-Free Dining at the Disney World Resorts
All of the Disney World resort hotels offer deliciously themed food. From fine dining table-service restaurants to quick-service joints and specialty snacks, we promise that finding gluten-free options won't be a problem. With so many options, choosing where to eat will be the hard part! ;) Just like the theme park restaurants, all of the Walt Disney resort menus are listed on the Walt Disney World website and in the My Disney Experience app. You can preview menu items before you go, so you'll know in advance what gluten-free food options are available to you. If you'll be making an advance dining reservation (we highly recommend that you do!), be sure to note that you have a gluten/wheat dietary request.
Mobile Order is available for most of the quick-service locations at the Disney World resorts. If you don't see what you're looking for or if you have questions, ask to speak with a Special Diets Trained cast member about the gluten-free options. No matter which restaurant you choose, there will be gluten-free options available. Here are our favorite spots for gluten-free dining at the Walt Disney World resorts.
1. Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Sanaa offers table-service lunch and dinner, as well as a quick-service breakfast. It's one of our top picks at Walt Disney World. You'll enjoy flavorful dishes while observing animals outside the large windows. Their famous bread service can be made gluten-free! You'll just want to pick the allergy-friendly naan with accompaniments. Sanaa has a gluten-free Fenugreek-scented Tomato Soup as an appetizer. Entrees include the Braised Beef and Buttered Chicken. For the tadpoles, there are African-inspired dishes or classics such as hamburgers or cheese pizza.
2. Steakhouse 71 at Disney's Contemporary Resort
Located just a short hop or monorail ride from Magic Kingdom, Steakhouse 71 is always a good choice! The menu offers breakfast, lunch and dinner in a casual but stylish steakhouse. Start your day with the gluten-free Eggs Benedict or Walt's Prime Rib Hash. Lunch offerings include a Turkey Club, Steak "Frites" and a Stack Burger. For dinner, there are delicious starters such as the Shrimp Cocktail and the Baby Iceberg Wedge Salad. Main courses include Pan-seared Chicken and an Espresso Martini Crème Brûlée for dessert. Yum!
3. Kona Café at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Kona offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Begin your day with The Polynesian Egg Platter – two eggs with fresh fruit poke, potatoes and your choice of ham, bacon or sausage. For a classic option, try the allergy-friendly waffles or ham and cheese omelet. Lunch offers savory stir-fry or sushi, and island flavors with the Turkey Banh Mi. For dinner, enjoy salmon, pork, steak or chicken, along with a Kona Braised Short Rib, or Sautéed Red Quinoa for vegetarians.
4. Ale & Compass at Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Located in the EPCOT resort area, Ale & Compass offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Here, you'll find New England-inspired dishes from seafood to comfort food. We love the upscale nautical decor — so relaxing! For breakfast, you can nosh on omelets, Mickey-shaped waffles, shrimp and grits, smoked salmon, sausage, bacon and fresh fruit. Lunch includes allergy-friendly starters such as Blue Crab Bisque, plus a variety of salads. A Bacon and Vermont Cheddar Burger and Toasted Smoked Salmon Bagel make for hearty lunch options, while the dinner menu includes delectable dishes such as a New York Strip and "Brick" Lemon-Herb Half Chicken.
5. Landscape of Flavors at Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Landscape of Flavors is a cafeteria-style dining hall that has a separate menu for gluten/wheat allergies. Breakfast offers a variety, from full platters to scrumptious omelets and character waffles. For lunch or dinner, pick from burgers (classic or veggie), sandwiches, pizza or chicken strips (and more!). Art of Animation is just a short walk from Disney’s Pop Century Resort, for even more dining options.
Gluten-Free Dining at Disney Springs
Disney Springs is the entertainment, dining and shopping district at Walt Disney World. It's home to a plethora of frogtastic restaurants. From sit-down restaurants, food trucks, dessert shops and snack carts, you'll be busy hoppin' from place to place. It would be nearly impossible to try them all (but we've got goals, y'all!).
You'll notice that some of the Disney Springs restaurants do not list an allergy/gluten-free menu online or in the My Disney Experience app. This is because many of the restaurants are privately owned and operated. However, it doesn't mean that they don't provide allergy-friendly options, because they do and there's a ton of variety.
If you'll be dining at a table-service restaurant, be sure to make your advance dining reservation (on the Walt Disney World website or in the My Disney Experience app) and note that you have a wheat/gluten allergy so that the restaurant will be aware. Of course, you'll also want to inform your server once you arrive and ask for a gluten-free menu. When in doubt, ask to speak with the chef so you'll know for sure that your order meets your needs. Many dishes can be made gluten-free upon request. You can also call ahead to ask if the restaurant can accommodate specific gluten-free requests.
Now, it's a serious chore to try and narrow it down (because they are all SO good!), here's our top favorite gluten-free restaurants at Disney Springs.
1. Cookes of Dublin
Cookes of Dublin is Raglan Road's quick-service location. Gluten-free fish and chips? Yes, please! You can also try their gluten-free chicken tenders, shrimp and battered sausages. Just make sure to make the serving team aware of your allergy when you place your order and double-check before diving in.
2. D-Luxe Burger
D-Luxe Burger is owned by Disney, so you can view the gluten-free options in the My Disney Experience app. You can also use Mobile Order. From juicy burgers, chicken sandwiches and crispy fries, you'll have plenty of options for a filling lunch or dinner.
3. Chef Art Smith's Homecomin'
Who says that comfort food can't be made gluten-free? Homecomin' offers a separate gluten-free menu and many of the regular menu items can be made gluten-free upon request.
4. Blaze Fast-Fire'd Pizza
Who doesn't love pizza, especially when on vacation? At Blaze, you can pick your crust and topping combinations to create your own tasty pizza creation. There is a gluten-free crust and most of the toppings are naturally gluten-free. Keep in mind that Blaze is allergy-friendly, but cannot guarantee that there isn't a chance for cross-contamination. If you're particularly sensitive, you may want to steer clear or ask about precautions that can be taken for your pizza to meet your dietary requests.
5. Erin McKenna's Bakery NYC
This is the place to go if you've got a sweet tooth! The bakery offers both gluten-free and vegan treats that include everything from cake slices, cookies, cupcakes and more. They even offer seasonal treats throughout the year.
Top Tips for Eating Gluten-Free at Disney World
- Do your homework and check out the Disney World restaurant menus online before you arrive. This way you'll know what's available as gluten-free.
- Email [email protected] if you have four or more allergy-friendly requests no sooner than 14 days before your visit.
- Make your table-service dining reservations in advance and be sure to note that you have a wheat/gluten dietary request.
- Talk to a Special Diets Trained cast member or the chef if you have questions.
- Ask if the restaurant has a gluten-free menu.
- Use Mobile Order and select the "Allergy-Friendly" menu and order from the list of gluten-free options.
- Pack your patience and be prepared to wait as the special accommodations may take longer.
- Bring your own snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day. You'll save money and won't have to worry about cross-contamination.
- Skip the buffets if you're worried about cross-contamination, or double-check with the chef so you know exactly what you can eat.
- Understand the difference between gluten-free and gluten-friendly. You know yourself best, especially when it comes to how certain foods may affect you.
No matter your dietary needs, you're sure to find something tasty at Disney World! While this post isn't a complete list of everything gluten-free at Walt Disney World, let it serve as your guide on how to navigate the restaurants when eating gluten-free. Hopefully, this post will give you a great place to start! Bon Appétit!
*This post is based on our experience. Please consult a cast member about any allergies or dietary restrictions.
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!
