You Won’t Believe Chicago Is This Celiac-Friendly: The Ultimate Gluten-Free City Guide
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Let me tell you a story about my trip to Chicago, a city I thought would be a gluten-free nightmare but turned out to be a celiac dream come true.
Picture this: We’re strolling through the Windy City as a family, my husband, my son, and me, the skyline towering above us. My husband and son, both celiac, aren’t just surviving on sad salads, they’re digging into gooey cinnamon rolls, chowing down on deep-dish pizza, and sipping gluten-free craft brews. Yeah, you heard that right. Chicago, famous for its pizza and beer, has a secret side that’s perfect for travelers like us navigating gluten-free life.
After a week of exploring every corner of this place together, I’ve got the inside scoop on where to eat, what to see, and how to make the most of it, all without a crumb of worry for them.
How Chicago Won Us Over as a Gluten-Free Family
I’ll be honest, when I booked our family trip, I was nervous. A city built on deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and brews didn’t exactly scream “celiac-friendly” for my husband and son. I braced myself for a week of hunting down safe bites while I watched everyone else chow down on the good stuff. But Chicago? It flipped the script on us.
Turns out, this city’s food scene is so competitive that chefs and bakers have turned gluten-free into an art form. It’s not just about slapping “GF” on a menu, it’s about real Midwestern warmth, where servers genuinely care about keeping my family safe, paired with a culinary swagger that says, “We’ve got this.” By the end of our trip, my husband and son were eating local specialties I never thought they’d touch, and we all felt like we belonged at the table.
8. Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Chicago (Safe for Celiacs)
First up, let’s talk about the places where cross-contamination isn’t even a whisper, the 100% gluten-free spots that made us feel like we’d hit the jackpot.
1. Wheat’s End Café
Location: Lakeview
What to Order: Cinnamon rolls, breakfast sandwiches, and their legendary biscuits and gravy
Wheat’s End Café is Chicago’s premier dedicated gluten-free bakery and café. Their cinnamon rolls are the stuff of legend, gooey, perfectly spiced, and indistinguishable from conventional versions. The weekend brunch draws crowds for their biscuits and gravy, which satisfy even the most intense comfort food cravings. I may have visited three times during my week in Chicago!
2. Defloured
Location: Andersonville
What to Order: Chocolate chip cookies, cupcakes, and their rotating seasonal pies
This charming dedicated gluten-free bakery in the Andersonville neighborhood creates pastries that will make you forget you’re eating gluten-free. Their chocolate chip cookies have the perfect chewy-crisp texture, and their seasonal fruit pies showcase the best Midwest produce. It’s worth the trip north to visit this neighborhood gem.
3. Do-Rite Donuts
Location: Multiple locations downtown
What to Order: Rotating selection of gluten-free donuts (made in a dedicated fryer)
While not a completely gluten-free establishment, Do-Rite Donuts deserves special mention for their dedicated gluten-free fryer and careful protocols. They offer 2-3 gluten-free donut flavors daily, and they’re some of the best gluten-free donuts I’ve ever had—light, fluffy, and perfectly glazed.
Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Chicago (Celiac-Safe Picks)
Beyond the dedicated spots, we found restaurants that know how to handle celiac needs like pros, separate prep areas, clued-in staff, the works, perfect for keeping my husband and son safe.
4. Chicago’s Pizza
Location: Multiple locations
What to Order: Gluten-free deep dish pizza (prepared in a dedicated area)
Yes, celiacs can enjoy authentic Chicago deep dish! Chicago’s Pizza offers gluten-free deep dish that’s prepared in a dedicated area with strict protocols to prevent cross-contamination. The crust has that buttery, flaky texture that defines Chicago-style pizza, and they don’t skimp on the toppings. Call ahead to confirm their current protocols.
5. Wildfire
Location: River North (plus suburban locations)
What to Order: Cedar plank salmon, gluten-free pasta dishes, and their flourless chocolate cake
This upscale steakhouse chain takes gluten-free dining seriously, with a dedicated gluten-free menu and well-trained staff. Their cedar plank salmon is a house specialty, and they offer gluten-free pasta dishes that are prepared in dedicated water. Save room for their flourless chocolate cake—it’s decadent and naturally gluten-free.
6. Summer House Santa Monica
Location: Lincoln Park
What to Order: Gluten-free pasta, fish tacos (on corn tortillas), and their famous gluten-free cookies
This California-inspired restaurant brings sunshine to Chicago with a bright, airy space and an extensive gluten-free menu. They’re particularly known for their massive gluten-free cookies, which are displayed temptingly at the entrance. The staff is well-trained on cross-contamination issues and can guide you through safe options.
7. Ema
Location: River North
What to Order: Mediterranean spreads with gluten-free pita, kebabs, and their vegetable-focused small plates
This Mediterranean restaurant from chef CJ Jacobson offers a bright, California-influenced take on Mediterranean cuisine. Almost everything on their menu can be made gluten-free, including their excellent house-made hummus and spreads, which come with gluten-free pita bread upon request. The small plates format makes it perfect for trying multiple dishes.
8. Brightwok Kitchen
Location: The Loop
What to Order: Build-your-own Asian-inspired bowls with rice noodles or rice
This fast-casual spot in the Loop is perfect for a quick lunch while exploring downtown. Their entire menu is gluten-free except for the wheat noodles and wonton crisps, which are kept completely separate. Build your own bowl with rice or rice noodles, add a protein, and choose from their flavorful house-made sauces.
| Place | Neighborhood | Must-Try Item | 100% GF? |
| Wheat’s End Café | Lakeview | Cinnamon rolls & biscuits and gravy |  |
| Defloured Bakery | Andersonville | Chocolate chip cookies & seasonal pies | |
| Chicago’s Pizza | Multiple | Deep-dish pizza (dedicated GF prep) |  (but celiac-safe) |
| Summer House Santa Monica | Lincoln Park | GF pasta, tacos, and giant cookies | (but celiac-safe) |
Exploring Chicago’s Gluten-Free Neighborhoods
The Loop & River North: Downtown Delights
Downtown’s where the action is, Brightwok for lunch, Ema or Wildfire for dinner, and Do-Rite for a sweet pick-me-up. It’s perfect when you’re hitting the big sights like Millennium Park as a family.
Lakeview & Wrigleyville: North Side Nirvana
Up in Lakeview, Wheat’s End made us regulars. We even caught a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, turns out they’ve got gluten-free beer and snacks at some stands. I checked ahead, and it was a win for game day with my husband and son.
Lincoln Park: Lakeside Bliss
Lincoln Park’s got Summer House and that gorgeous lakefront. After eating, we wandered the free zoo as a family and soaked in skyline views, gluten-free and stress-free for them.
Andersonville: A Cozy Corner
Andersonville’s Defloured was worth the trek, and the neighborhood’s charm, plus spots like Little Bad Wolf with gluten-free buns, kept us lingering as a family.
Unique Things to Do in Chicago (Celiac-Friendly Approved)
Chicago’s not just food, it’s experiences you won’t find in the guidebooks:
Chicago’s Secret Interiors Architectural Tour
Discover hidden architectural treasures inside Chicago’s famous buildings, including opulent interiors, stunning atriums, and secret gardens that most tourists never see.
Chicago’s Secret Interiors Architectural Walking Tour takes you inside rarely accessible locations with remarkable craftsmanship.
Chicago Underground Pedway Tour
Explore Chicago’s underground pedestrian tunnel system—a hidden city beneath the streets that locals use to navigate downtown during harsh weather. This tour combines history, architecture, and urban exploration.
Chicago Architecture Tour: Underground Pedway and the Loop reveals a side of Chicago most visitors never experience.
Chicago Food Tour with Hidden Gems
Discover local food favorites beyond the typical tourist spots, with options to accommodate gluten-free diners (with advance notice).
Chicago Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours can accommodate dietary restrictions when you notify them in advance.
Chicago Craft Brewery Tour
While traditional beer is off-limits for celiacs, many Chicago craft breweries now offer gluten-free or gluten-removed options. This tour can accommodate gluten-free participants with advance notice.
Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour visits multiple breweries with transportation included so you can sample safely. (Check for gluten-free beer options)
Where to Buy Gluten-Free Groceries in Chicago
For snacks or Airbnb meals, Whole Foods (North Kingsbury’s a standout), Mariano’s, and the seasonal Green City Market in Lincoln Park had me covered with killer gluten-free finds.
Chicago Day Trips with Gluten-Free Food Stops
- Oak Park: Frank Lloyd Wright’s stomping grounds, plus Carnivore’s dedicated GF menu.
- Evanston: A cute college town with Hewn Bakery’s off-site gluten-free goodies.
- Chicago Botanic Garden: Stunning gardens and a café with clear GF options.
Celiac Travel Tips: Navigating Chicago with Confidence
Chicago’s “L” train and buses got us everywhere, Metra for day trips, too. Summer’s prime, but spring and fall are quieter. River North’s central, Lincoln Park’s cozy, pick your vibe. For classics like hot dogs or Italian beef, ask for lettuce wraps or bowls, Portillo’s might hook you up if you call ahead. Lou Malnati’s pizza bowl was a crustless lifesaver.
Why Gluten-Free Chicago Belongs on Your Bucket List
From Wheat’s End to deep-dish at Chicago’s Pizza, this city welcomed us with open arms and safe plates. Whether we were gazing at the skyline or uncovering hidden tours, Chicago proved it’s more than a foodie town, it’s a celiac-friendly adventure.
Got a favorite spot from your own trip? Spill it below, I’m already plotting my next visit!
Pin this guide, share it with your travel crew, and start planning your gluten-free Chicago getaway today!
Frequently Asked Questions: Gluten-Free Chicago
Is Chicago a good city for gluten-free travelers?
Yes! Chicago has become one of the most gluten-free-friendly cities in the U.S., with multiple 100% gluten-free restaurants and bakeries, plus many mainstream restaurants that take celiac needs seriously. Whether you’re craving deep-dish pizza or pastries, you’ll find safe and delicious options.
Can you get gluten-free deep-dish pizza in Chicago?
Absolutely! Restaurants like Chicago’s Pizza offer gluten-free deep-dish options prepared in a dedicated area to avoid cross-contamination. Always call ahead to confirm protocols, but many celiac travelers (including us!) have had great experiences.
Are there 100% gluten-free bakeries in Chicago?
Yes! Two standout options are:
Wheat’s End Café in Lakeview – known for cinnamon rolls and biscuits & gravy
Defloured in Andersonville – offering cookies, cupcakes, and pies
Both are completely gluten-free and safe for celiacs.
Is Chicago safe for people with celiac disease?
Yes, but like any big city, it depends on where you go. Chicago has a strong gluten-free scene, and many restaurants are well-informed about celiac needs. Always double-check with the staff, especially when dining at places that are not 100% gluten-free.
Where can I find gluten-free groceries in Chicago?
Some of the best places to stock up include:
Whole Foods Market (multiple locations)
Mariano’s – a local chain with solid GF offerings
Green City Market – a seasonal farmers market with gluten-free vendors and local goods
Are there gluten-free options at Wrigley Field or other Chicago stadiums?
Yes! Wrigley Field has stands that offer gluten-free beer and snacks, though availability may vary, so it’s best to check ahead of your visit. You can also bring in your own food if it’s medically necessary (check the venue policy first).
Can I join a food tour in Chicago if I’m gluten-free?
Yes, some food tours like Secret Food Tours can accommodate gluten-free participants with advance notice. Be sure to contact the organizer at least 24–48 hours ahead so they can adjust accordingly.
Planning more gluten-free adventures across the U.S.? Don’t miss my Ultimate Guide to Gluten-Free Travel in the United States packed with celiac-safe tips, restaurant finds, and regional highlights from coast to coast.
