10 Best Gluten Free Foods in Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World is the most magical place on earth, especially for those with allergies. Both quick service and table service dining offer plenty of options for gluten free guests. While I don’t have celiac, I do have a mild wheat allergy and find that eating gluten free helps me enjoy my trip without discomfort. (Don’t come for me if I indulge in a Mickey pretzel from time to time…I can’t resist anything shaped like that god damn mouse). However, if you do have a severe allergy, you will find that Cast Members are extremely knowledgeable and helpful regarding possible cross contamination and safety practices.

Now let’s get into it.

1. Grilled Cheese and Tomato-Basil Soup, Woody’s Lunchbox, Hollywood Studios

Woody’s Lunchbox is the best quick service dining in Hollywood Studios, dare I say, in all of Disney World. The theming in Toy Story Land is incredibly immersive, and both kids and adults will be drawn to the nostalgic menu. Who doesn’t want to pregame Slinky Dog Dash with a grilled cheese? Wash it down with a Diet Coke and you’ve experienced the American Dream.


2. Beignets, Scat Cat’s Club Cafe, Port Orleans French Quarter

The first time I tried the gluten free beignets at Scat Cat’s Club I levitated over my own body. Covered in powdered sugar and served with your choice of chocolate or caramel sauce (try both), these beignets are indulgent, sweet, and alarmingly similar to the real thing. Stand in line. Wait as long as it takes. Your life will change for the better. 

3. Mickey Shaped Waffle, available at most resorts, but specifically wonderful from El Mercado de Coronado at Coronado Springs

No matter how many times I see Mickey shaped food, I react as if I’m a toddler. Although I do have the motor skills of a 3 year old, I am actually 28. I’m also a sucker for hotel breakfast. I want the eggs to be kind of bad. I want greasy bacon and sausage. And if I can douse all of these items in maple syrup? Forget about it. The Mickey Shaped Waffle at El Mercado de Coronado is the size of my head. Make the trip.

El Mercado de Coronado

4. Dole Whip, available at several locations, but I prefer to order it from Tamu Tamu Refreshments in Animal Kingdom…and add coconut rum…

Dole Whip is a tale as old as time. This creamy, pineapple flavored soft serve has been sold at Disney Parks since the 80s. While some 80s trends come and go, Dole Whip never goes out of style. It’s especially refreshing in the tropical humidity of Orlando. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to make your way to Animal Kingdom and order it with rum. Captain Jack style. 

5. Chicken Strips, available at several locations, but I swear they are the best at Columbia Harbour House in Magic Kingdom

Gluten free chicken tenders / nuggets / strips, as Disney calls them, are better than the regular ones. I said what I said. They’re crunchier and always taste fresh. I make all of my guests try them. Call my dad. He’ll back me up. Pro tip: Mobile order a kids meal if you’re looking for a quick bite. For $8.99 you get two chicken strips, your choice of two sides (try the fries and green beans, trust me), and a small bottled water. Absolute steal. 

Columbia Harbour House

6. Tuna Poke Bowl, Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, Hollywood Studios

Galaxy’s Edge is my personal heaven on earth. I’m in love with Kylo Ren, his father, and the tuna poke bowl at Docking Bay 7. This is not theme park food. It’s a legitimate, excellent meal. The tuna is tossed in a sriracha dressing and served with green papaya salad, pickled mushrooms, fresh herbs, and crispy garlic. This + Rise of the Resistance?! Dream date. 

Docking Bay 7

7. Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Erin McKenna’s Bakery, Disney Springs  

If you struggle with self control, be prepared to muster up all of your strength when you enter this bakery. I’ve spent an outrageous amount of money at Erin McKenna’s, but I come back to the pineapple upside down cake every time. It’s also vegan, soy free, and kosher. On my last trip, I enjoyed this cake in the morning – sitting on my hotel bed with a fresh cup of Joffrey’s coffee. Breakfast of champions. 

8. Macaron with Raspberry and Lime Cream,  Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie, EPCOT

I can hear the French music and smell the fresh bread as I type this. My perfect day in EPCOT starts in France, rope dropping Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, swiftly followed by a glass of champagne and a special treat from Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie. While many of their most delicious items are loaded with extra gluten, the macaron with raspberry and lime cream gets the green light. Pro tip: Walk outside and find a table that overlooks Crescent Lake. I love watching the Skyliner and Friendship Boats while I sip my first drink of many. 

Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie

9. Pulled Pork Cheese Arepa, Smiling Crocodile, Animal Kingdom 

I tried this Animal Kingdom delicacy after a particularly rough day at work, so if you saw me crying into my arepa, it was no reflection of the flavor. Food in AK is always fabulous, but wow, they have really outdone themselves. Served with crunchy, salty plantain chips, this portion is large and of the highest quality. Truly, not a weird bite of meat in sight. The queso fresco and salsa verde really bring the freshness. (Now your challenge is to hit the Smiling Crocodile in the four hour window in which they’re open. And no tears).

10. Fish and Chips, Raglan Road, Disney Springs

Raglan Road is practically perfect in every way. Live music, Irish dancers, delicious food, what could be better? Perhaps a pint? Good news, they serve GF beer as well! I adore this dining experience and will always rave about the gluten free fish and chips. The batter is crispy and light, but still feels indulgent as pub food should. Call me when you try it. Or better yet, invite me to dinner. 

Raglan Road