How to eat gluten-free at Universal

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Eating gluten-free at Universal Orlando is not quite as easy as Disney. That said, you will find gluten-free options almost everywhere, even if they are limited. Most of the shops and stands will offer something gluten-free.

Before you get started, you might want to check out 20 things to know before going to Universal.

Gluten-free dining at Universal

A few of the restaurants offer some decent gluten-free options. I always recommend calling ahead to get the latest advice on how Universal is handling allergens. A few of the restaurants mentioned generally require a reservation, so make sure to get one if you’re traveling during a busy time.

Please note that all tips and advice are from my own experience. I do have Celiac disease, and I am extra vigilant about checking for gluten. However, always be sure to discuss your options with a team member or your restaurant server for the most updated options.

What to bring to Universal

A string backpack or hip bag. I always recommend a small bag. The free lockers provided will not hold a larger backpack.

Water bottle. There’s no reason to waste plastic when you can get water refills from any restaurant, and there are plenty of water fountains to refill too.

Snacks. Bring your own gluten-free granola bars, fruit, or whatever else you’d like. If you want to ensure you have something you like, bring it with you.

Grab and go gluten-free options

All around Universal, you’ll find some gluten-free grab and go choices such as:

Fruit cups
Chips
Gluten-free snack bars

Gluten-free options at Universal Studios

Lombard’s Seafood Grille

You’ll likely need a reservation, but the popular Lombard’s Seafood Grille has a couple of gluten-free options. I haven’t eaten here as I am vegetarian, but I’ve heard they have a few surf-and-turf options.

Monster Café

Nothing on the menu is marked as gluten-free, but the turkey leg is gluten-free.

Gluten-free options at Islands of Adventure

In my opinion, the gluten-free options at Islands of Adventure are much better than Universal Studios.

Mythos

Mythos has been voted the best theme park restaurant, and it’s the best place to find gluten-free food at Universal Orlando. Two items can also be made vegan, the risotto, and pad thai.

how to eat gluten free at Universal

Thunder Falls Terrace

I’m not sure why you won’t find this on the other lists of how to eat gluten-free at Universal, but Thunder Falls Terrace has a lot of options! Most of the options were sides, but as a vegan, I am used to putting together sides and calling it a meal. 🙂

The staff has always checked to ensure that items were gluten-free. Some gluten-free options include beans, rice, fries, potatoes, turkey legs, fruit cups, and most of the other side items.

Confisco Grill

Confisco Grill has a few gluten-free options, including wings and a burger.

Gluten-free at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

You may wonder why I haven’t mentioned either restaurant in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It’s because I believe they deserve a category of their own! Unfortunately, there isn’t much to talk about.

Is butterbeer gluten-free?

I’ve heard conflicting reports, but the latest says butterbeer is gluten-free. It is not dairy-free. Pumpkin Juice, Fishy Green Ale, and several other drinks are both gluten and dairy-free.

things to buy at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Gluten-free options at The Three Broomsticks

Nothing on the menu at the Three Broomsticks is gluten-free. I’ve heard many other guests say that the restaurant is very accomodating. Your options will be limited to meat, salads, and veggies.

Gluten-free at the Leaky Cauldron

The Leaky Cauldron has a few more options than the Three Broomsticks. They offer typical meat and eggs options for breakfast and even gluten-free pancakes.

Gluten-free candy at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

If you carefully check labels, you’ll be able to find gluten-free candy at the popular Honeyduke’s or Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes.

Gluten-free options at City Walk

If you’re trying to figure out how to eat gluten-free at Universal Orlando, City Walk is where you’ll have options.

The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar

The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar has quite a few gluten-free options that extend beyond just sushi.

Jimmy Buffett’s® Margaritaville

Margaritaville has an extensive gluten-free option and even includes desserts.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Company

Bubble Gump Shrimp Company has a small gluten “sensitive” menu, and it’s awful. However, they have good drinks!

Antojitos

Antojitos has many gluten-free options and a few vegetarian options as well.

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Moe’s Southwest Grill has plenty of options for those who are gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc.

These are not the only gluten-free options at City Walk, but they are some of the most popular.

Gluten-Free at the Hard Rock Hotel Orlando

The Hard Rock Hotel Orlando deserves an honorable mention as they have an extensive gluten-free menu. You don’t have to stay at the hotel to dine there. However, staying at the Hard Rock hotel will give you a free Express Pass to use in the parks, so it just might be worth it!

how to eat gluten free at Universal