Whether you’re living a gluten-free lifestyle or are besties with someone who is, finding a restaurant to accommodate your needs can be stickier than the gluten protein itself. We’re here to help take the stress out of planning — and off your tummies — by rounding up Lexington’s best places to eat gluten-free.
Archa Nine, Multiple locations | This Thai food fan-favorite has a huge selection of curries + noodles — most of which can be modified to be gluten-free. Looking for a sweet treat? We’re nuts over its coconut ice cream.
Athenian Grill, 313 S. Ashland Ave. | At this Greek food spot, you can get a gyro as a bowl. Plus, its sides are so good, they make a whole meal themselves.
Beau’s Cafe, 3191 Beaumont Centre Cir. | For brunch, we love the gluten-free avocado toast + French omelette, but don’t sleep on its salads and sandwiches with gluten-free bread. Bonus: The fryers are drained for evening service, so indulge in the French fries + a burger with a gluten-free bun.
Blue Door Smokehouse, 819 National Ave., Ste. 140 | Everything at this Warehouse Block spot is up for grabs, minus the bread. Skip the slice and dig into plates like sliced beef brisket, pulled pork or chicken, plus sides including slaw, salad, and beans.
Core Life Eatery, 4040 Finn Way | Customize your own bowl with bases including salads, rice, or broth mixed with fresh, minimally processed toppings like vegetables, grains + more.
Dudley’s, 259 W. Short St. | While the menu isn’t marked, just chat with your server who can help you determine what can be modified. You can never go wrong with Dudley eggs or wilted brussels sprout salad.
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, 321 E. Vine St. | Gus’s uses rice flour for its fried chicken, that means the wings, tenders, legs + fries are safe for your enjoyment. Say no to the fried starters as those are in a separate fryer and contain gluten.
The Goose, 170 Jefferson St. | Eat your heart out on gluten free pizza, the nacho appetizer + modifiable salad options.
Little Fork, 1170 Manchester St., Ste. #140 | With a completely gluten-free fryer, you’re safe to eat all the fried goodies, think: chicken tenders, French fries + hot pepper chicken.
Lockbox, 167 W. Main St. | The menus rotate seasonally, so be sure to ask for its latest gluten-free options. For brunch, we love the overnight oats + frittata + most of the dinner mains and salads can be modified for your dietary needs.
Masala, 3061 Fieldstone Way | Pretty much everything is up for grabs except for naan + fried options. We suggest the chicken karahi or palak paneer for a vegetarian dish.
North Lime Donuts, Multiple locations | Every Friday, they empty + clean the fryers to cook gluten-free donuts first. Get there early, because they sell out fast.
Nourished Folks, 101 W. Loudon Ave., Ste. 168 | Stop by for Friday lunch to get the always gluten-free pan fried rice or creative + colorful soup and salad options. You can also order the weekly meal subscription or “Dinner for 2" that can be modified for your dietary needs.
Papi’s, Multiple locations | They have a dedicated fryer for gluten-free items — Papi himself has a gluten sensitivity — so go ahead, eat the whole basket of chips. Pro tip: Ask for the gluten-free churros — chef’s kiss.
The Press has a delicious menu of salads, wraps, and smoothies. | @thepressjuicebar
The Press, 191 Kentucky Ave. | One of our favorite places to work outside, it offers smoothies, acai bowls, and customizable salads.
Ramsey’s, Multiple locations | This Lexington staple with four locations has a full gluten-free menu that includes gluten-free buns — an impossibly hard-to-find menu item.
Rolling Oven, Multiple locations | Ciders + gluten-free pizza — need we say more? Plus, there’s plenty of appetizer options like the wood-fired veggies + prosciutto-wrapped asparagus.
Stella’s, 143 Jefferson St. | Many of their options can be modified — we love the house burrito as a bowl.
The Wok, 537 Waller Ave. | About 90% of the menu at The Wok is gluten-free. It might not be actually noted, so if you have questions, just ask the staff. If you’ve been missing egg rolls — The Wok is here to fill that void.
Zim’s, 215 West Main St. | Most of the menu can be modified, and if you ask us, those Ouita Michel grits are some of the best in Lexington.
