Best Places for a Gluten Free Bite in Downtown Pittsburgh
By Layla Joseph
When looking for a gluten-free place to dine in the greater Downtown area, these five restaurants have got you covered. From pizza to pastries, DNA has curated a list of our top gluten-free dishes at popular restaurants in PGH.
Bluebird Kitchen:
Stop by Bluebird Kitchen for breakfast or lunch and enjoy gluten-free options on the go. This kitchen was founded by a Pittsburgh native and shares fresh dishes prepared in-house from high-quality ingredients that are sourced locally whenever possible. Open Monday through Friday until 3 p.m. Bluebird invites you to take a peck at what they offer.
We recommend their House Roasted Chicken Salad: grab this bed of lettuce that incorporates thyme roasted chicken, bleu cheese and roasted cipollini onions, topped with shaved pear and caramelized onions to express a sweet sensation with every bite. Choose a vinaigrette of your choice and indulge. If you’re looking for breakfast, try the sweet potato corned-beef hash and add an egg for extra protein.
The Yard:
Looking for a sports bar that also has gluten free options? Look no further than The Yard. This gourmet grilled cheese establishment has a gluten-free menu filled with good eats. With gluten-free bread, it’s easy to adapt the grilled cheese of your choice to fit your dietary needs. Gluten free potato chips, sweet potato fries and tater tots allow you to indulge in appetizers with the rest of your crew.
We recommend It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia: shaved sirloin steak combined with sauteed mushrooms, bell peppers and caramelized onions piled high with mozzarella, provolone and house-made white sauce on gluten free bread. This sandwich is served with tomato soup and potato chips, allowing you to refuel without an allergic reaction.
Ephesus Pizza:
With vegan and gluten free options, Ephesus allows customers to indulge in pizza and Mediterranean food. The Downtown location allows for easy access when your crust cravings kick in. Sign up for their rewards and receive a $4 discount when you rack up 100 points.
We recommend their gluten-free pizza: customized to your liking, it’s a traditional pizza without the gluten. Choose from seven sauces and a mountain of gluten-free toppings, allowing you to create the pizza of your dreams. Sharing more than a slice? Ephesus allows you to add different toppings on each half!
Gluten Free Goat:
Venture to the Strip District and indulge Gluten Free Goat: a bakery home to allergen-friendly goodies that will surely make you smile. The bakery was adopted by new owners in 2022 but according to their website, their philosophy of inclusion remains the same. From bagels to pepperoni rolls, pumpkin rolls to cakes, there is no need to restrict your wants due to dietary restrictions.
We recommend Gluten-Free Pop Tarts: sold by the dozen or groups of three, eat one while it's fresh and bring the others home to satisfy your sweet tooth throughout the day. Choose from Cookie Butter, S'mores or Cinnamon Plum filling surrounded by a flaky pastry.
Waffles, Incaffeinated:
Located on Fifth Avenue is the perfect spot to grab a gluten-free breakfast. Browse through the menu and pick what you like, just request the gluten free option from your server. These waffles look as good as they taste, allowing you to enjoy breakfast food however you like it. Whether you are looking for something sweet or something savory, Waffles, Incaffeinated has you covered.
We recommend Bananas Foster: request your gluten free waffle and enjoy walnuts intertwined. This dish is topped with sliced bananas, foster’s sauce and vanilla ice cream, allowing for the perfect blends of consistency and sweetness.
