The Best Spots For the Gluten-Free Guys + Gals

via ingrained

Let’s face it, Chicago is the land of all things good food and good times; when it comes to being accommodating, our city has hospitality down pat. And that includes specific requests when you dine out! Whether you have an allergy or just like to go grainless, now more than ever, Chicago spots offer a range of gluten-free options. So to all our gluten-free girlies, this one’s for you! Here’s where we recommend for a great, grain-free meal

Ingrained {108 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago; 312.248.2862}

If you’re gluten-free in Chicago, you MUST try this crowd favorite for all things sweet treats. From their famous chocolate chip cookies to the Butterfinger Bar and chocolate banana muffins, you'll wish you would have tried Ingrained sooner. Who knew gluten-free, vegan, refined sugar-free treats could be SO good!? 

Lyfe Kitchen {270 East Ontario Street, Chicago; 312.933.1035}

We love a restaurant where you can take all of your friends and still find plenty to eat for everyone (including yourself). Creative food that both tastes amazing and makes your body feel great is LYFE Kitchen’s mission… and it shows. Their extensive menu is nothing short of awesome (with allergens clearly listed), including items like Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats (dairy-free, gluten-free and vegan), the Grand Sandwich with eggs, crispy bacon, gouda, herb aioli and arugula, plus a whole lot more!

via Bloom Plant Based Kitchen

Bloom Plant Based Kitchen {1559 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago; 312.363.3110}

Truth be told, there are times when it’s nothing short of exhausting to always have to find a place to meet your dietary needs. But Bloom Plant Based Kitchen in Wicker Park makes it easy. All menu items are 100% plant-based and gluten-free with offerings like Sundried Tomato Sashimi made with sundried tomato, truffle avocado, kabayaki and serrano chili, or their Dan Dan Noodles with mung bean dan dan noodles, salsa macha, bok choy, shishito peppers, broccoli, cashews and more!

Don Bucio's Taqueria {2763 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago; 773.770.9239}

Don Bucio’s Taqueria is a new Logan Square favorite that prides itself on making plant-based food more accessible and delicious. Bites run from Chorizo Con Papa made with plant-based Mexican chorizo, onions and cilantro on their handmade tortillas, plus guacamole + chips and other favorites. Regardless of if you are vegan and gluten-free or not, there’s something even the pickiest of eaters will enjoy. 

Defloured {1477 West Balmoral Avenue, Chicago; 773.234.5733}

You’ll be hard-pressed to find desserts that actually taste *normal* when you first go gluten-free. From cakes that crumble, to cookies that are just… dry, it’s easy to miss the sweet taste and fluffiness that comes with flour. But Defloured is the answer to your prayers! While the weekly menu is subject to change, you can count on items like cakes to order, cinnamon rolls, scones and other sweet treats.  

Wheat's End Cafe {543 West Diversey Parkway, Chicago; 773.770.3527}

Nestled on Diversey Avenue in Lincoln Park is everyone’s favorite gluten-free cafe. Do you crave fluffy pancakes or the warm delicious waffles? They have it all! Standouts include Wheat’s End Pancakes (classic, blueberry or chocolate chip) and the Falafel Pita with falafel topped with tahini, tomato, cucumber, and red onion on homemade pita!

True Food Kitchen {Multiple locations}

While True Food is not solely a local spot, it’s almost always a go-to for anyone gluten-free. With several locations spread throughout the country, True Food Kitchen offers wholesome, intentionally-sourced ingredients that make up menu items like the Seared Tuna Tataki with fried brown rice and quinoa, asparagus, roasted corn and mushrooms, tataki sauce, and mango salsa as well as substitutions like gluten-free buns and an array of gluten-free desserts. 

Ema {74 West Illinois Street, Chicago; 312.527.5586}

When you think of “Mediterranean food” you might not think “gluten-free” but Ema is more than accommodating. With a solely gluten-free space in the kitchen including a dedicated gluten-free fryer and an entirely separate gluten-free menu, you can eat out at this downtown spot with ease.

By Madison Freeman | Special Correspondent