Best Gluten-Free Restaurants In Pittsburgh
By Erin Marton
Whether by choice or necessity, more and more people have found themselves making the commitment to a gluten-free lifestyle. It stands to reason, therefore, that we are seeing an increase in restaurants that either cater specifically to, or accommodate those with this special dietary need. We recently sat down to dinner (gluten-free of course) with Jami Broom, the author of the Pittsburgh-based Gluten-Free Diet Blog, and picked her brain on what she thinks are the most "gluten-free friendly" spots in the 'Burgh. Jami chose to go gluten-free to manage her seasonal allergies. Fortunately for her, she doesn't suffer from Celiac Disease, which is a complete intolerance to gluten, so a little mistake now and then won't hurt her. Fortunately for Celiac sufferers, "a gluten-free diet is a little bit of a trend right now," says Jami. As a result, many restaurants are not only accommodating this special dietary need, but offering alternative gluten-free menus. Here are a few of our favorites.
Double Wide Grill
2339 East Carson Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
(412) 390-1111
Hours: Mon/Tue 11 a.m. - midnight, Wed – Fri 11 a.m. – 1 a.m.
Sat 10 a.m. – 1 a.m., Sun 10 a.m. - midnight
Business Directory Link
Website: http://doublewidegrill.com/
In the heart of the Southside Flats, this iconic vintage gas station turned restaurant is all Pittsburgh. It is unexpected then, to find that it is perhaps one of the most accommodating places to go for those with special dietary needs. In addition to gluten-free, the Double Wide's clearly labeled menu also caters to a vegan diet. Although many salads offered are obviously gluten-free and are often a go-to choice at this venue, we recently enjoyed the Grilled Summer Veggies, which included a Portobello Mushroom cap surrounded by perfectly grilled peppers, zucchini, and summer squash. Our only wish is that they would add a few gluten-free beers to the menu, since sitting outside on a breezy summer day with a nice cold beer is something even those of us who are gluten-free enjoy.
Paris 66
6018 Penn Circle South
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(412) 404-8166
Hours: Mon -Thurs 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Fri and Sat 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Sunday Brunch 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Business Directory Link
Website: www.paris66bistro.xbuild.com/
You may have an unexpected moment of "Pittsburgh Bliss" while sitting on the back deck of this authentic Parisian creperie. Who would think that gazing out on a city alley could be so relaxing, but it is just that. The outdoor seating at Paris 66 is perfect, as is the signature crepe, the Paris 66. Loaded with ham, swiss and eggs and topped with tomato Provençale and sautéed mushrooms, it is the perfect lunch portion. Les Gallettes de Sarrasin (Buckwheat Crepes) are gluten-free, and pair nicely with savory ingredients. Slightly on the more expensive side, Paris 66 also offers a lovely wine selection. It is a popular place for Sunday Brunch, so be prepared for a bit of a wait or be sure to make reservations.
Little Tokyo
636 Washington Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
(412) 344-4366
Lunch: Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:30pm
Dinner: Monday - Thursday 5pm-9:30pm, Friday/Saturday - 5pm-10:30om
Sunday - 4pm-9:30pm
Business Directory Link
Website: www.littletokyopittsburgh.com
Only a quick trip through the Liberty Tunnel, this Mount Lebanon Japanese Restaurant scores big points on the GF (gluten-free) scale by offering the elusive gluten-free soy sauce. It may seem small to the average eater, but finally being able to properly enjoy sushi could be a major milestone in a person's gluten-free existence. You will likely be greeted by the owner himself, Frank Lin, who has proudly operated Little Tokyo for almost ten years. He also owns Little Tokyo Japanese Bistro located in the Southside.
Gluuteny Bakery
1923 Murray Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
(412) 521-4890
Hours: Tue - Fri 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m
Closed Sunday and Monday
Business Directory Link
Website: www.gluuteny.com
A good cupcake with loads of creamy frosting can put a gluten-free eater into almost a religious fervor. We were recently gifted a delicious cupcake from Gluuteny Bakery in Squirrel Hill. Put side by side in a challenge with any non gluten-free cupcake, and these would come out on top every time. Rich batter and delectable frosting give a gluten-free girl a glimpse of heaven. They offer a wide variety of baked goods, including breads, and their mixes are also available online!
Soergel Orchards (Naturally Soergels)
2373 Brandt School Road
Wexford, PA 15090
(724) 935-1743
Hours: Mon – Fri 9:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m., Sat – Sun 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Business Directory Link
Website: www.soergels.com/naturallysoergels/naturally.html
Completely worth the trip out I-79, Soergel Orchards is a mecca for gluten-free 'Burghers. They carry the largest selection of gluten-free products locally (over 900), and their website offers an entire section devoted completely to the gluten-fee diet, which includes resources and links to other local restaurants for those with gluten intolerance. Both Soergels and Gluuteny carry Udi's Breads, which are hands-down the most satisfactory gluten-free breads available. Why so, you ask? Because you can make french toast with them and they don't fall apart of course!
Eat'n Park
Locations throughout the city (Find one near you here)
Many open 24 hours
Business Directory Link
Website: www.eatnpark.com/
Surprised at this one? It's true, Pittsburgh-based Eat'n Park not only offers gluten-free entrees which are clearly labeled on their menu, but you can also take home some of their gluten-free sandwich buns, an item almost impossible to find, even in specialty stores. There are no words that can describe the feeling of biting into a proper hamburger, bun and all, for the first time in years. It will give you a bigger smile than their trademark cookies.
Head to CBS Pittsburgh's Best Of page for more local tips on family fun, shopping, nightlife, food, culture and more!
Do you have a gluten-free experience to share? We would love to hear your recommendations!
