Eating Gluten-Free at Walt Disney World
The characters, the rides, the shows, the magic. But let’s face it. One of the best things about a Walt Disney World vacation is the food! There is such a variety of restaurants with amazing menus to satisfy any appetite. Whether you’re looking for James Beard-worthy meals or simple chicken nuggets and pizza to delight even the most picky kiddo, you’ll find anything and everything you can dream up during your stay. Yes, even if you’re gluten-free! If you or someone you love is wondering what to eat on vacation, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
“Let’s face it. One of the best things about a Walt Disney World vacation is the food!”
My husband and youngest son both have celiac, and eating gluten would quickly turn our amazing escape into a shelter-in-place event in our hotel. No one wants that, especially Disney. The chefs and servers are extra conscientious when it comes to guests with allergies, and they often come out from the kitchen to personally check with us and ask if they can prepare anything special. We’ve had people ask us about our over-the-top dessert plates and I’ve been known to steal a GF roll for myself - they’re that good!
This gluten-free kid is always happy dining at Walt Disney World!
Even if you’re dining at a buffet character meal - as of this blog post in January 2021, buffet meals are on pause but one day they’ll be back - don’t let a buffet deter you. The chef will walk with you through the line to review your options and, again, if you see something that may be questionable they will often whip up a GF version..
Looking for quick service? There’s always a GF option available. If you don’t see allergy-friendly on the menu in your app, simply let a cast member know. I’ve asked for GF buns for a hot dog or burger and had no issue.
We’ve scoped out the best gluten-free spots on property, so check out the links below for our top recommendations …
PARKS
Magic Kingdom
Quick Service - Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn
Table Service - Jungle Navigation Co. Skipper Canteen
Epcot
Quick Service - Regal Eagle Smokehouse
Table Service - Tutto Italia and Coral Reef
Hollywood Studios
Quick Service - ABC Commissary
Table Service - Baseline Tap House
Animal Kingdom
Quick Service - Satu’li Canteen and Flame Tree BBQ
Table Service - Tiffins and Yak & Yeti
RESORT HOTELS
Riviera Resort
This property is hands down our favorite for GF options. The quick-service location, Primo Piatto will serve up anything on the menu GF, even the Blueberry Lemon Pancakes. Mmmm just thinking about it makes me want a taste!
Bar Riva is the perfect spot to relax, perfectly situated right next to the pool! Not your typical pool deck fare, you’ll find delicious salads, unique sandwiches …
… and the Grilled Chicken
Wings here are divine!
Contemporary Resort
For a special night out, The California Grill is outstanding and my husband RAVED about the GF Grouper dish. Also, don’t hesitate to ask your server for specifics because often the chef can leave off a sauce or substitute something to make the dish GF for you.
This seasonal pasta offering was ridiculously good - and we’re told can be served up gluten-free.
DISNEY SPRINGS
There are so many choices at Disney Springs! Check out the link below for our picks.
Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza
Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC
Frontera Cocina
Jaleo by Jose Andres
Paddlefish
The Polite Pig
STK Orlando
SNACKS
We can’t forget some of the best stuff to eat at Disney World - the snacks! I mean … ice cream, Dole Whip marshmallow mickey treats, lollipops and cocktails are always gluten-free, so enjoy away!
No matter where you dine during your next magical vacation at Walt Disney World, if you need gluten-free meals you’re sure to find whatever you’re craving.
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Becky is one of the co-owners of AAVacay and Pixie & Pan. She loves running, performing, traveling & of course, Disney.
