How To Eat Your Gluten Free Way Through NYC
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Updated December 2023 to include additional restaurants from my most recent food-hop through NYC and closures.
Traveling as a celiac can always be a challenge, but fortunately, that is getting a lot easier. The best thing is, if you are headed to NYC, you will have no shortage of delicious and safe gluten-free dining to choose from. There are over 40 100% dedicated gluten-free restaurants to chose from in the city. That means you could live there and eat out every day for a month and not get glutened once! How is that for enjoying your gluten-free life?
Here is a round-up of my favorites from my last two trips and also some that are on my list to check out on my next stop in NYC, which is hopefully soon because I already miss that amazing city.
Dedicated Gluten-Free Restaurants I Have Been To
NYC has an extensive selection of dedicated gluten-free restaurants. That means there is absolutely no risk of getting glutened eating at these fine locations and it is so liberating to be able to order ANYTHING on the menu.
Modern Bread and Bagel
Modern Bread and Bagel is an absolute gem in the Upper West Side serving some of the most delicious gluten-free food I have ever had. They had bagels, baguettes, challah, lemon ricotta pancakes and a fantastic giant latke with lox! I wish my stomach was bigger because I would have sampled so much more, but we did take one of their famous cinnamon rolls to go and it was a perfect midnight snack (since midnight was really 9 pm for me haha).
This spot probably should be categorized under bakeries, but it is such a nice dining experience with so many options on the menu like Shakshuka, pancakes, Benedict, bowls, sandwiches, and salads in addition to all the amazing baked goods. The experience is more of a dining experience which is why I feel it earned a place in this section.
On my latest trip to NYC I stopped in again and the food is still amazing! I was so excited to try a few new items but also had to have the giant latke again. I seriously have dreams about their amazing bagels and this latke, well you have to go try it for yourself and you’ll see what I mean. Ah May Zing!
Risotteria Melotti
Ahhhh Risotto. Quite possibly one of my favorite foods on the planet. Lucky for me (and all the other GF diners in NYC!) Risotteria Melotti knows how to make it just perfect. The Melotti Family has produced the best varieties of Italian rice since 1986. The restaurant has amazing risotto options, delicious appetizers, and desserts. Everything in the restaurant is made with rice or rice flour so you can even enjoy the Arancini (fried rice balls) which never happens since fryers are always contaminated with gluten.
I was so excited to come back again on my most recent trip to NYC and try more items on the menu. We started with the Fritto Misto because I haven’t had fried calamari since going gluten-free in 2012. The calamari was perfect. It is breaded in rice flour so it’s nice and light and not overcooked or greasy. We also had profiteroles for dessert which are usually off the table for me since they’re never gluten-free.
On my last visit, I tried the tiramisu which was also a dream because this Italian dessert usually always has gluten. Not at Risotteria Melotti! This place is such a treasure! They also have a restaurant in Rome and Verona so if you’re making your way through Italy, add Risotteria Melotti to your dining list. In the meantime, I will keep manifesting that an LA location pops up.
Senza Gluten By Jemiko
Senza Gluten By Jemiko is a true glute free haven in Hells Kitchen offers an outstanding gluten-free dining experience of delicious Italian food. The entire restaurant is 100% gluten free and the menu is a Celiacs dream come true. Our recent brunch here was a delightful way to wrap up our trip before heading home.
We started with a refreshing Caesar salad, setting the tone for an enjoyable meal. The pizza flatbread, featuring prosciutto, arugula, and truffle cream sauce, was a symphony of flavors. The manicotti was such a delight and something I had not enjoyed since I went gluten free in 2012.
Dessert was an unexpected treat and both the eclair and tiramisu were a testament to Senza Gluten By Jemiko commitment to gluten-free indulgence and deliciousness! As full as we were, we somehow made room because the desserts were beautiful and I am so glad we did because they were delicious!
If you're seeking an excellent brunch or dinner spot in NYC catering to gluten-free diners, Senza Gluten by Jemiko should be on your list. We're already looking forward to our next visit!
Side note - This restaurant has no affiliation to Senza Gluten on Sullivan St and they are two different restaurants so make sure you head to Senza Gluten By Jemiko at 626 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036
TLK
TLK is a standout in NYC, offering Asian-inspired veggie forward cuisine with a gluten-free twist. Our recent brunch here was so delicious and I wish we had time to have gone back for dinner on this trip to NYC.
We began with spring rolls bursting with fresh flavors and a unique Asian pear & baby kale salad that was a special for the day. For entrees we had Peanut street noodles which are some of the most popular items on their menu and a crispy scallion potato pancake that was the perfect blend of savory potatoes with eggs on top.
TLK goes beyond food, boasting a menu of enticing mocktails and cocktails. If you're searching for an exceptional brunch or dinner spot, TLK is a top choice. We're hopeful they'll expand to LA soon and in the meantime I am planning to stop in for dinner on my next trip to NYC.
TAP NYC
Tap NYC is another one of my favorite NYC restaurants I had to return to. It’s located in the Upper West Side and now also in Brooklyn. They serve up dreamy grain-free tapioca crepes with whatever filling you can dream of from savory or sweet. I absolutely fell in love with tapioca crepes during my travels to Brazil and so this was an awesome find to take me back. The good news with TAP is, even if you aren’t in NYC you can still order tap and make them at home! I even have a recipe on my blog to make your own shredded chicken tap! The best part is, If you are in a hurry or just need some safe gluten-free food delivered, you can order on Postmates and have it delivered to your home or room.
On my most recent trip to NYC, I visited TAP again and it was still as delicious as I remember it. I seriously would probably eat there a few times a week if there was an LA location. I was excited to try a few more combinations on this trip including chicken with tomato and carnitas. We also took some of the delicious grain-free cheese bread to go as a snack while we were out sightseeing in NYC. If you’re in the mood for something on the sweeter side, choose from one of their açaí bowl options or a sweet crêpe, all which are gluten-free and grain-free as well!
Springbone Kitchen
Springbone Kitchen is a delicious and unique gluten-free restaurant in New York. All of their menu items are made with a bone broth base made from grass-fed meats. The broth has no inflammatory seed oils, no sugar, and only organic and grass-fed meat! You can sip on multiple variations of bone broth including immunity, liquid gold and more. The broth is also used as a base in the rice for their many amazing bowl options. We tried the Immunity broth which has ginger, garlic and vitamin C, and it was delicious. I can see how this can easily become a staple living in NYC to keep you warm and healthy through the cold winters.
We also tried the Mexican Bowl and Ropa Vieja and both were delicious! This is another amazing option that you can get delivered and I can see how this would be such a healing and nourishing meal if you are feeling a bit under the weather to get delivered right to your door, especially the chicken zoodle soup.
NYC why are you so amazing and have gems like Springbone Kitchen? Why can’t LA have nice things like this too? The food is so clean, nourishing and most of all delicious! I can’t wait to be back in NYC and try more of their menu. Definitely going to go for the Pho next time!
The Little Beet
The Little Beet is the casual grab and go spot and the first location of the Little Beet Table. I got to grab a quick bite here, and of course, everything is 100% gluten free. Select from pre-made dishes or build your own bowl. I built my own bowl with rice, roasted broccoli, avocado and salmon poke for a fresh and healthy, easy dinner. Again, this is a perfect example of a healthy, gluten free, quick grab-and-go restaurant.
Senza Gluten
One of my favorite things about NYC is the abundance of truly gluten-free Italian food. I don’t know about you, but I am a total sucker for a good Italian feast. Senza Gluten is another amazing find, where everything on the menu is you guessed it, gluten-free. They have a restaurant and then they also have a bakery and serve pasta and pizza. They only take Amex or cash so make sure to come prepared to pay your bill.
Dedicated Gluten-Free Bakeries & Dessert
Noglu
Noglu is here to make all your gluten free dreams come true. It’s a Parisian bakery that is 100% gluten free and has amazing French items like eclairs, cream puffs, tarts and even croissants! These are things that most gluten free bakeries aren’t able to make, so it was a real treat to taste these delectable treats after 8 years of being gluten free! I took advantage of this rare treat and sampled my fair share of of menu items as this probably isn’t going to happen again until my next trip to NYC or Paris. I sampled the eclair (OMG!), cream puff, Madeline cookies, croissant and pecan tart. No not all in one sitting haha, but it was so good it probably could’ve easily happened. They also have a restaurant where you can order tasty items like quiche and sandwiches which I definitely want to try next time! For this time, all I could focus on was the sweet treats! If you if you can't make it all the way uptown, they also have a kiosk in Grand Central Station.
Posh Pop Bakeshop
If you are in the mood for a delicious sweet treat, make sure to stop at Posh Pop Bakeshop. The entire bakery is gluten free and they have amazing cakes, cake pops and pastries you can only dream about being gluten-free! They even bake their own Gluten Free versions of Twix Bars so use in some of their creations! Now that is dedication! I indulged on the Cannoli Cheesecake which was absolutely delicious and took some cake pops and macaroons to go.
Erin McKennas Bakery
I was excited to see one of my favorite LA Bakeries also has a location in NYC!. Everything at Erin McKennas Bakery is gluten free including the donuts and cupcakes! This bakery is definitely worth a visit whether you’re in LA or NYC. Or both!
Not Dedicated Gluten-Free BUT I Ate At Safely!
In addition to the plethora of choices that are dedicated gluten-free, I also enjoyed safe and delicious meals at several restaurants that though they are not 100% gluten-free, they offer several gluten-free options and a super sensitive celiac like myself ate here with no problems! I typically react to a microscopic crumb of gluten, so If I can eat here, you can eat here.
Little Beet Table
Update - Little Beet Table is no longer 100% gluten free.
Little Beet Table is quite possibly one of my favorite gluten-free restaurants and I am so excited to see them expanding and growing into new cities. I am spoiled because I just ate at Little Beet Table in Chicago back in August and indulged at their NYC location on my last trip. Yum!
The menu at Little Beet Table is vegetable-forward but incorporates grass-fed and organic meats and sustainable seafood. Everything on the menu is simple, with a perfect combination of delicious and unique flavors. In addition to being 100% gluten-free, the menu is also mostly vegan and dairy-free. No matter what your dietary restrictions are, there’s something for everyone at Little Beet Table. After your meal, you’ll walk away feeling satisfied and vibrant from the healthy combinations that Little Beet Table serves up.
Since I’d just tried the Chicago location, I wanted to sample different menu items in NYC. Still, I couldn’t resist ordering the Sunflower Seed Hummus again (it’s that creamy and delicious!) This time we also ordered the baby kale salad, roasted chicken and vegan cauliflower & mushroom tacos with a side of sautéed greens. Fortunately, we made a little room for dessert which was an amazing vegan chocolate mousse with fresh raspberries. I am secretly hoping Little Beet Table opens in LA soon but If you live in NYC, Chicago, Greenwich and soon Maryland, you’re in luck and should totally make your way into Little Beet Table!
Bistango
If you want gluten free pasta in New York, head to Bistango, an NYC classic that’s incredibly accommodating to gluten allergies. After all the carbs and pasta indulgence, I felt like I needed to start my meal with a salad. Fortunately, Bistango’s Caesar salad already came with gluten-free croutons. For once, no need to modify! Of course, I had to try their gluten pasta as well and it was scrumptious. They have two locations in the city and I went to the original on 29th Street. I loved how small, intimate and quaint this location is.
On my most recent trip to NYC, I explored a few more menu items. I also learned that they’ve served gluten free food for over two decades! It’s amazing to me that they’ve been ahead of the curve for years considering gluten free options have only landed on the dietary radar in recent years. Bistango’s owners are gluten free pioneers!
Friedmans
Friedmans has multiple locations all over NYC and is awesome for a safe gluten-free meal. 99% of the menu can be modified to be gluten-free, including the savory Chicken and Waffles! Yes, that's right, gluten-free chicken and waffles and they were AMAZING. One of their partners was diagnosed with Celiac disease and made it her mission to have a restaurant that she and her gluten free friends could eat at safely. Well, she definitely did it and has amazing menu choices and the food is super safe. If it's gluten-free it comes out with a tag from the kitchen so there are no mistakes. It’s this level of care that makes Friedmans worth the visit! Not to mention the food is amazing. I had the Tuna Melt and fries, a combination typically off limits for me. Not at Friedmans!
Ninos 46
Ninos 46 is a charming Italian spot that’s served New Yorkers since 1982. The chef is Celiac and has modified some of the recipes to be able to accommodate gluten allergies, which is awesome! The food was absolutely delicious and I loved the old school vibe of the Nino’s on 46th street, which is the original location. I definitely recommend putting this stop on your gluten free trail through NYC!
Pomme Frites NYC
We completely stumbled upon this gem late one night in Greenwich village. All of their French Fries are gluten-free and a large majority of their sauces and toppings are as well. The ingredient list is even printed for all their sauces so you can see what's in each and what allergens they contain. If you’re craving a quick gluten free snack or late night bite in Greenwich, head to Pommes Frites!
Etc Etc
Etc Etc was such a great find and has homemade gluten-free tagliatelle, gnocchi and ravioli. That's right, homemade and GLUTEN-FREE! This is something that never ever happens. I can’t remember the last time I could order ravioli or homemade pasta that was safe. The entire meal was absolutely delicious and such a treat to have homemade ravioli. Definitely make a reservation to eat here when you are in NYC!
Bazar Tapas
Bazar Tapas is a lovely spot serving up all the typical Spanish Tapas with their own spin on them. They make great cocktails and the food was incredible! If you’re in the mood for a cute spot to grab some drinks and a few tapas, this is the place. While the restaurant isn’t dedicated gluten-free, there are plenty of options that could be gluten-free and the staff was careful about cross contamination.
Dedicated Gluten-Free Restaurants I Have Yet To Try…
There are sooooo many gluten-free options in NYC that it was hard to pack them all into my trips. These restaurants are definitely on my list to check out next time I am in the city but I wanted to feature them since they are also dedicated gluten-free options!
Nami Nori
Nami Nori is a casual temaki bar specializing in open style sushi rolls in the west village.
Cosme
Cosme is Mexican inspired cuisine with local and seasonal ingredients.
Thyme + Tonic
Thyme + Tonic is a brunch an dinner spot from Modern Bread & Bagel
Electric Lemon
Electric Lemon is a gorgeous Hudson yard restaurant with exquisite views and food.
Inday
Inday is healthy Indian food that is 100% gluten, dairy and soy-free with many vegan options.
La Esquina
La Esquina has a Brasserie and Taquerias serving up gluten free Mexican food.
Keste Pizza
Keste Pizza is reported to have a dedicated gluten-free kitchen space to prep and make the pizzas. I have heard that their pizzas do contain wheat starch which is controversial in the Celiac world. I personally avoid it but if you are ok with it this could be a great pizza!
Brodo
Brodo serves grass-fed bone broths that you can sip at one of their NYC locations or order online
Le Botaniste
Le Botaniste is a plant-based organic gluten-free cafe.
Clean Market
Clean Market is a cafe and health center where everything is free of gluten, refined sugar, and refined oils.
They also offer IVs and Infrared Sauna and Cryotherapy.
Pressed Juicery
Pressed Juicery is cold-pressed juices with frozen yogurt
Rawsome Treats
Rawsome is raw plant-based gluten-free treats.
Danas Bakery
Danas Bakery is 100% gluten-free and specializes in Macaroons
By The Way Bakery
By The Way Bakery is definitely on my list next time as well! Another bakery that is entirely gluten-free and has all sorts of options between small treats like cookies and brownies to beautiful layer cakes. If you have a special event coming up this definitely seems like the place to get a cake from! They do use certified glutend-free oats in a lot of their pastries so make sure to ask if you avoid those.
Mochi NY
Mochi NY is gluten-free Mochi.
Claro - Brooklyn
Claro is 100% gluten-free Oaxacan cuisine serving organic mean and local sourced produce and non-GMO Oaxacan corn.
San Pedro Inn - Brooklyn
San Pedro Inn is 100% gluten-free Mexican Food
Closed Down, But Hoping They Return One Day….
Cheska’s Gluten Free NY Pizza
No trip to NYC is complete without trying pizza! New York pizza is an institution, the problem is that it’s nearly impossible to find truly gluten free pizza that does not have cross contamination. Fortunately, there is an amazing spot in the Bowery Market called Cheska’s that is 💯 gluten-free! I was so excited to finally try some gluten-free New York pizza and this one is super healthy making it a win win!
The pizza crusts are a cauliflower or sweet potato crust that’s also vegan! You have the option to either build your own pizza or choose from some of the delicious menu options which all sound amazing. As if it wasn’t enough that every item is gluten-free; the pizzas have 40% fewer carbs, 30% fewer calories, and 4x more fiber, vitamin A, C and calcium and 1.5 servings of veggies! Who says pizza can’t be healthy and delicious?
I got to meet Cheska herself and learn all about how she got started and exciting expansion plans in the works too. I find it so inspiring to meet owners of gluten-free restaurants to find out how they got started and are helping to support the gluten-free community. As more and more people find out they have health issues including autoimmune issues or food allergies, it’s important to have safe restaurants to eat at and feel normal.
Pizza is one of the most common foods that people enjoy eating together and can be great for a grab and go filling meal but once you are gluten-free or celiac it is rarely an option. It’s incredible that Cheska’s has such a safe environment to serve this community and also offer a healthy and delicious option for getting more veggies and nutrients. You don’t have to be gluten free to enjoy this pizza. It is delicious and a great healthy alternative so now you can officially become a pizzatarian if you eat Cheska’s every day. I am really excited to keep up with her expansion plans and can really see a safe and healthy pizza concept like this taking off in many cities across America.
Rolln
Rolln is such a unique concept and is 100% gluten-free! This is a rare treat in the world of Sushi when soy sauce, tempura, most sauces, and even some rice can have gluten! It’s very rare to find a safe sushi spot--much less 100% gluten-free sushi restaurant. All of their rolls are hand rolls are made fresh daily and they even make their own house-made sauces using only sustainably sourced seafood.
The gluten-free sushi rolls are extremely filling and delicious! There are even unique warm rolls like chicken teriyaki and cheeseburger, both of which were so good! There were also vegan pumpkin sushi rolls. And would you believe it? Even there teriyaki is gluten-free. This place is a gluten-free dream! In addition to rolls, they also have tasty sides like seaweed salad and edamame. For a healthy, low carb option, try the gluten-free sashimi.
The concept is so cute and efficient. You order your rolls on screens at the wall and then pick up at the counter. The rolls are made fresh daily and you can get it made with rice or quinoa. You can even have rolls delivered to your home or hotel! One thing I am really love about NYC is how many simple and healthy options there are to get awesome food on the go that is 100% gluten free and safe. Time to deliver with some gluten free sushi, LA!
Santina
Santina is a great space located at the end of the High Line in the meatpacking district. It’s designed by Renzo Piano and is a 100% gluten free Italian restaurant with some great menu items. We stopped in for a cocktail and a quick brunch snack on our walk around the area, but I definitely want to come back and sample some of their entrees and delicious appetizers
Grom
Grom is one of those magical places that reminds me of my trip to Italy last summer. Though they have locations in Los Angeles as well, I never pass up the opportunity for a Grom Ice Cream Cone. The entire shop is gluten-free, even the cones which is so awesome because usually, ice cream shops are off limits for me due to cross contamination issues of scoops touching cones and then the bins of ice cream. The gelato here is delicious too and made with super clean ingredients and no gums! My favorite flavors are always Pistachio and Limon.
Where Can I Find Truly Gluten-Free Pizza In NYC?
The only things missing from this trip is having a chance to have a true NYC Pizza that is truly gluten-free. I am talking precautions with cross-contamination, using a separate oven, separate condiments etc to prevent cross-contamination. Pizza is usually off the table for me because even a crumb of cross contamination makes me sick for a week. So if you have a suggestion for me where to find safe pizza next time I am in town, give me a shout!
Are You A NYC Dedicated Gluten-Free Restaurant And Want To Be Featured Next Time I Am In Town?
I am always on the hunt for amazing gluten-free food when I travel. Please reach out and tell me about your restaurant and I will let you know when I am back in the city.
Need The Ultimate Guide For What to Do In NYC?
Your gluten-free food needs should be covered by now, so what about all the other things you should see and do while you are in NYC? I got you covered there too! Make sure to check out my blog post on the Ultimate NYC Guide with all of my favorite things to do while I am in town.
