12 Essential Gluten-Free Eats in Charleston

Eating without wheat, barley, rye, and other gluten-containing ingredients doesn’t have to be so difficult in the Lowcountry. With the riches of restaurants around, there are plenty of eateries catering to those going without. Though, many establishments that don’t identify as gluten-free are happy to amend dishes for allergies and dietary restrictions. Places like FIG, The Macintosh, Charleston Grill, Cannon Green, and many others are happy to help guide your menu choices and omit gluten-containing items if ask your server before ordering.

This list singles out a few places with multiple options for those going without gluten and many with a separate menu. If you are celiac, be sure to double check with your server before ordering, so the kitchen knows to not cross-contaminate any dishes.

Note: Not listed by rank

Edmund’s Oast can sub in gluten-free bread for the burger bun, shrimp toast, ricotta toast, cheese plate, or charcuterie plate. And don’t let all the beers on the wall distract you, choose from the restaurant’s extensive wine and cocktail list instead.

Lewis Barbecue is all about meat, so there’s not much worry there. But can you eat the sides? The potato salad, slaw, and beans are all free of gluten.

Gnome Cafe not only caters to vegans and vegetarians, but those avoiding gluten as well. Stop in this bright and cheerful spot to check on the menu full of choices like cinnamon pancakes, a grits bowl, or taco salad — all safe to consume without worry.

Dell’z Uptown caters to a number of dietary restrictions: vegans, vegetarians, and the gluten-free can find something on the eclectic menu of faux meat nachos, Jazzy Pizzas, and smoothies. For a $1 upcharge, the staff can turn any of the wraps or salads into a meal free of gluten.

Ask the folks at Xiao Bao Biscuit to make your prad kra pow without gluten and enjoy a big bowl of minced beef, beans, thai chili and basil over rice with an egg.

A bakery isn’t the first place you think of when the words “gluten-free” come to mind, but Brown’s Court can offer you an alternative to normal flour-laden treats. Ask if they have any gluten-free chocolate chip or monster cookies on hand.

Many of the Jeni’s ice cream sandwiches are made from macarons — which are gluten-free. Ask which flavors you can safely consume and chow down on this summer treat.

Stop by Mercantile for breakfast and the staff can offer you a ham, egg, and cheese sandwich on gluten-free bread. Be sure to order one of the delicious coffee drinks as well.

Did you know macarons are made of almond flour? That means you can indulge at Macaroon Boutique on pistachio, chocolate, and other macaron fascinations. They do make bread products in-house though, so if you have severe allergies, ask about production.

Asian-influenced Co carries a separate gluten-free menu on request. The restaurant stocks rice noodles and plenty of rice-based dishes to fill needs for Korean, Thai, or Vietnamese flavors.

Lowcountry-meets-Mexican restaurant Minero keeps a gluten-free menu on hand. Ask the server for recommendations on which taco will best fit your dietary restrictions.

Italian eatery at the beach Obstinate Daughter can make any of their pastas with a gluten-free penne if you ask. Short rib ragu with horseradish gremolata on penne sounds divine.