With new restaurants, cafés, food trucks and farmers’ markets popping up all over town, it’s no secret that the food scene in Richmond, VA has exploded over the last few years. However, all the buzz about new restaurants in the area may not be quite as exciting for those living with a gluten sensitivity or Celiac disease, a digestive and autoimmune disorder in which people cannot eat gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye, due to its damaging effect on the small intestine. The symptoms of Celiac disease include digestive discomfort and bloating, vomiting, unexplained iron deficiency, joint pain, seizures, depression or anxiety, and tingling numbness in the hands or feet, among many other things.
Luckily, many of the top restaurants in Richmond offer great gluten-free options. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free breakfast, lunch or dinner, we’ve compiled a list of gluten-free restaurants to try around town.
Best Gluten-Free Breakfast & Brunch
Lamplighter Roasting Company. Lamplighter offers homemade breakfast sandwiches on gluten-free bread to go along with their freshly roasted coffee.
The Roosevelt. This talked-about brunch destination in Church Hill offers eclectic gluten-free options on their weekend brunch menu.
Urban Farmhouse Market & Café. Stop by Urban Farmhouse for delicious gluten-free breads and breakfast options.
The Mill on MacArthur. Hello gluten free biscuits! This amazing spot tucked away in Richmond’s Northside is NOT to be missed for brunch.
Delectable Gluten-Free Lunch
Burger Bach. Burger Bach, located in Carytown and Short Pump, offers tasty burgers and sandwiches, all of which can be served on a gluten-free bun.
Mellow Mushroom. The fun atmosphere and unique combinations at Mellow Mushroom have made it a must try restaurant in Carytown. Try one of the many gluten-free pizzas featured on their main menu.
Ellwood’s Market & Café. Ellwood’s offers quick and easy gluten-free lunch options on their hot bar, as well as gluten-free bakery items in their café.
Fat Dragon Chinese Kitchen & Bar. Gluten-free options are easy to find on the Fat Dragon Lunch Combos menu including favorites like Garlic Chicken and Mongolian Beef.
Garnett’s Cafe. Garnett’s has an amazing menu of delicious salads and sandwiches with gluten free bread options.
Secret Sandwich Society. Their sandwiches will not disappoint and neither will their gluten free bread!
Savory Gluten-Free Dinner
Pescados: Pescados specializes in a mix of Caribbean and Latin flavors. Many seafood options on the dinner menu can be made gluten-free.
Heritage. Almost every item on Heritage’s menu of unique and gourmet dishes can be made gluten-free.
The Daily. The Daily specializes in upscale American faire with plenty of gluten free options and an amazing, open atmosphere.
Bonus: Sweet Gluten-Free Desserts
If you’re looking for great gluten-free desserts around Richmond, you have to try:
- Frostings
- annaB’s (100% gluten-free!)
- Pearl’s Cupcake Shoppe
Celiac disease is estimated to affect 1 in 100 people worldwide and gluten sensitivity affects even more. Yet many cases of gluten intolerance go undiagnosed.
Our certified gastroenterologists diagnose and treat Celiac disease. If you think you may be experiencing the symptoms of gluten intolerance, schedule an appointment with a GI specialist today for screening, diagnosis and treatment options.
