During your visit to the nation’s capital, Washington D.C., there’s no doubt that you will visit the past, discover world-class museums, and explore different neighborhoods. One more thing you can add to that list it eating at all the best gluten-free restaurants in Washington D.C. From Indian crepes to Japanese yakitori, you’ll get to indulge in the city’s vibrant and delicious food scene with the help of this guide. So without further ado, here are the best gluten-free restaurants D.C. has to offer.
Restaurants marked with a star (★) are 100% dedicated gluten-free.
The Little Beet ★
If you are in the mood for a delicious wholesome meal that’s not only guilt-free but also makes you feel good after you eat, then head to The Little Beet in Dupont. Each dish served at this 100% gluten-free fast casual eatery is packed with flavor, is nutrient-rich, seasonal, and exactly what you need to nourish your body and mind. The menu and ingredients here rotate with the seasons and you’re your own chef as you get to design a customized scrumptious bowl. Chose a combination of gluten-free grains, greens, veggies, and proteins like salmon, braised pork, or beet falafel to make the perfect bowl. Then, finish it off with a delicious sauce and a garnish topping of either seeds, pickled ginger/onions, or almonds. Regardless of what you choose, it will be satisfyingly good. When it comes to delicious, healthy, and guilt-free food, this farm-to-table eatery knows just how to please a celiac like myself!
The Little Beet also has additional locations in New York City and Virginia.
1212 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA | Visit Website
Seoul Spice ★
Spice up your gluten-free food choices in Washington D.C. with a little bit of Seoul! Seoul Spice is a Chipotle-style eatery with a Korean-inspired flair. Whether you choose the bibimbap bowls, tacos, salads or the Korean style sushi burrito Korrito (Kimbap), everything is 100% gluten-free, non GMO, organic, and served with farm fresh veggies and meat, organic chicken or tofu, homemade sauces and traditional Korean flavors. You can create your own combo, or if you can’t decide and want to leave the food making up to the chefs, then go for one of their signature combinations like the spicy Fireball with pickle relish and kimchi, or the Klassic with bulgogi beef, bean sprouts, carrots, and kale.
Celiac Note: Seoul Spice sells non gluten-free beer and gluten-removed beer so be aware of this when ordering a drink.
145 N St NE #400, Washington, DC 20002, USA | Visit Website
Chaia ★
Take everything you know about traditional tacos and throw it out of the window. This dedicated gluten-free eatery in Georgetown is changing up the taco game by offering uniquely flavorful and nutrient dense tacos made entirely with vegetables. Who says you need meat to make an awesome taco? Each taco is expertly prepared with farm fresh veggies, handmade corn tortillas, and topped with fresh homemade salsas. Popular taco combos include the roasted butternut squash with goat cheese and chipotle yogurt, and the braised mushroom with feta and habanero salsa. In addition to tacos, Chaia also serves rice, soups, desserts, and drinks such as kombucha, wine, hibiscus tea and more. Beside the menu being entirely gluten and meat-free, it is also nut-free and upon request everything can be made dairy-free and/or vegan, thus making Chaia a great choice for those with multiple dietary needs!
3207 Grace St NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA | Visit Website
Rise Gluten-Free Bakery ★
A visit to Washington D.C.’s first and only dedicated gluten-free bakery is compulsory. From cupcakes and eclairs to brownies and bagels, this little gem in the hipster Adams Morgan area serves everything the celiac heart desires. Breakfast includes an array of morning pastries such as muffins, croissants, and breakfast sandwiches such as avocado toast, or a bagel with cream cheese. Served on fresh homemade bread and with homemade spreads, their cold sandwiches and paninis are a big hit around lunch time! I recommend BLT on brioche or the turkey club. Note: Since this bakery is small, and parking can be hard to find, I recommend taking your meal or dessert to-go, it will make for a great gluten-free lunch while sightseeing.
2409 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA | Visit Website
DC Dosa ★
Located in Union Market, this popular South Indian stall focuses on the naturally gluten-free street food dosa, i.e. lentil crepes. The dosa batter is made of a mixture of fermented lentils, rice flour, and indian spices. It is then cooked on a griddle in front of you and filled with flavorful vegetables such as curry potatoes, roasted cauliflower with peas, or eggplant. The 100% gluten-free and vegan menu makes ordering easy. Choose your type of dosa, add one of the three vegetable fillings, top it off with one of their excellent chutneys and viola an excellent gluten-free meal that’s delicious, nutritious, and filling. Their mango lassi makes for a great addition and I highly recommend it. For a great off the beaten track gluten-free restaurant in Washington D.C., DC Dosa is an option that won’t disappoint.
1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA (Union Market) | Visit Website
Happy Tart ★
Just outside Washington D.C. in Alexandria (and Falls Church), is one of the best gluten-free bakeries in the Washington D.C. area, Happy Tart. The 100% gluten-free bakery satisfies the gluten-free sweet tooth with favorites like macaroons, cake pops, cookies, eclairs, and the popular favorite, sweet crepes. With flavors ranging from Nutella to cinnamon apple you can choose whatever crepe your heart desires. Happy Tart goes beyond the sweet stuff by offering creative savory crepes like Thai coconut chicken as well as savory dishes you probably thought you would never be able to enjoy on a gluten-free diet. That includes french toast, biscuits and gravy, pot pie, quiche, and more. With so many safe gluten-free options, Happy Tart makes for a great spot for a gluten-free brunch while exploring nearby areas in D.C.
2307A Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301, USA | Visit Website
The Red Bandana Bakery ★
In Downtown Bethesda, just outside Washington D.C. is this cozy little bakery, The Red Bandana. While everything in the bakery is gluten-free, the friendly owner takes great pride in making sure that regardless of your dietary needs, you can enjoy a treat at her bakery. You’ll find everything from dairy and sugar free options to plenty of vegan options. Baked goods include the usual things like muffins, cookies, and cupcakes while the breakfast and lunch menu is filled with delicious sandwiches on wonderful bread, garlic rolls, salads, and more. Popular favorites are the Bonfire brownies, cake pops, and the avocado toast.
8218 Wisconsin Ave Suite 101, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA | Visit Website
O Earth Creamery and Bakehouse ★
O Earth Creamery and Bakehouse is a hidden gem and is truly a welcome addition to the best gluten-free restaurants/bakery in Washington D.C., Every Sunday at Dupont Circle Farmers Market, the friendly owner, Annette, blesses the celiac community with her 100% gluten-free baked goods. From delicious non crumbly, perfectly textured bread to non dense wonderfully sweet pastries, Earth Creamery and Bakehouse makes gluten-free baking look easy. The small stall is packed with plenty of options including scones, cookies, energy bars, pies, cheesecake, quiches, and more. There are also many vegan options which are just as tasty as the non vegan items. If you find yourself strolling through the Dupont Circle Farmers Market make it a point to stop by and indulge in their goodies, you won’t regret it.
1600 20th St NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA | Visit Website
Momo Yakitori ★
Craving Japanese food, specifically yakitori? Well you are in luck as D.C’s number one Japanese restaurant for yakitori also happens to be one of the best gluten-free restaurants in Washington D.C. Momo is a fantastic, dedicated gluten-free restaurant with great flavors and imaginative dishes that are perfect for sharing and sampling. The menu focuses on yakitori, chicken skewers grilled over traditional Japanese binchotan charcoal. You can choose from different parts of the chicken, duck liver, pork belly, as well as vegetables such as baby leeks, shiitake, and peppers. No matter what you choose, be sure to compliment your yakitori with one of their fantastic cocktails. I also recommend their charcoal toasted marshmallow with black sesame buttercream for dessert. It’s a dessert like no other.
Celiac Note: Downstairs is now a Cup Ramen Bar, and waiting area where they sell pre packaged ramen noodle cups that are not gluten-free! This is a rather new addition, however their food menu upstairs is still 100% gluten-free!
2214 Rhode Island Ave NE, Washington, DC 20018, USA | Visit Website
The Gluten Free Grill At Nationals Park ★
Catching a baseball game at Nationals Park while in D.C.? Well you are in luck, as you can enjoy all the baseball food favorites like hot dogs, nachos, and beer, worry-free. At center field plaza is Nats’ gift to celiacs, The Gluten-Free Grill a dedicated gluten-free concession stand serving hot dogs and Italian sausages on gluten-free buns, cheese and pepperoni pizza, nachos, pulled pork sandwiches, popcorn, chips, Larabar, beer, and cider. All the gluten-free bread products and the pizza are from Udis.
Celiac Note: Skip the condiments as The Gluten Free Grill does not have their own, and the only ones available are shared so there is a risk of cross contamination and it’s not guaranteed they don’t contain gluten.
1500 S Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003, USA (Center Field Plaza) | Visit Website
The Corn Factory ★
Unlike Portland, Washington D.C. doesn’t have much of a food truck scene, however they do have a 100% gluten-free food truck, The Corn Factory. This Venezuelan and Mexican food truck serves arepas, tacos, empanadas, tamales, and cachapas all made from ground corn. The arepas, tacos, and cachapas are filled with flavorful shredded meat, cheese, avocado, and plantains. The combination of flavors are mouthwatering. If you happen to see this food truck while exploring, don’t miss the chance to eat from one of the best gluten-free eateries in Washington D.C. The Corn Factory, unfortunately doesn’t have a home base so you must check their Facebook page to find their whereabouts.
Location Varies | Visit Website
B Restaurants (DC Penn Quarter)
Though the B in B restaurants stand for burgers, beers, and bourbon, this popular burger joint does a great job accommodating celiacs and gluten-free eaters. The staff are patient and knowledgeable about celiac disease and cross-contamination, while the properly labeled menu is filled with rare treats for celiacs. From fried onions, and tater tots to curly and parmesan fries, you can enjoy all the usual fried goodies which come with burgers as they have a dedicated gluten-free fryer. As for the burgers, most are fair game and can be made either with a gluten-free bun or “in the grass” (i.e. on top of an iceberg lettuce). The burgers are juicy and cooked to perfection. If you’re not in the mood for a burger, you can indulge in the many other gluten-free options like wings, nachos, chilli, fish n’ chips, shepherds pie, and more. The options are endless and safe. As for drinks they have a few ciders and gluten removed beers. With all that B restaurant offers, it’s no wonder local celiacs consider it one of the best gluten-free restaurants in Washington D.C.
801 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA | Visit Website
RPM Italian
If you are looking for an upscale Italian restaurant where you can enjoy safe food, look no further than RPM Italian. Here, the staff are well-versed in gluten and cross-contamination and take celiac disease and other allergies seriously. As for the food, it’s phenomenal, but pricey. The dedicated gluten-free menu has an abundance of options ranging from antipasto, and salads to slow-cooked meats, fresh seafood, and steak & chops. However, I find their pasta dishes to be divine and a must try while at RPM. With an attentive staff and plenty of safe gluten-free options to choose from, RPM Italian is a great choice for a gluten-free dinner in downtown.
If you like dining here, I highly recommend their sister restaurant, RPM Steak in Chicago. They focus on serving perfectly cooked, juicy steaks and chops. It’s definitely a treat!
650 K St NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA | Visit Website
Legal Sea Foods
Legal Sea Foods is where all celiacs’ dreams of seafood come true. From gluten-free fish and chips and lobster rolls, to dedicated fryers, a large gluten-free menu, and knowledgeable staff, this Massachusetts-born seafood chain knows the key to a celiac’s heart and gut. They really go above and beyond to cater to gluten-free diners. Unless you don’t like fresh and delicious seafood, there is no way you can go wrong with a meal or two at one of the many Legal Sea Foods. Legal Sea Foods has another location at Union Station as well as many other locations around the U.S. including Boston.
704 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA | Visit Website
GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar
If you are craving a cheesy grilled cheese sandwich with loaded tots, then head to Washington D.C.’s first and only grilled cheese bar, GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar. With the exception of the mac & cheese, everything on the menu can be made gluten-free. This includes the scrumptious sandwiches which are made with Rise Bakery GF bread and all the tots, including the loaded tots, which come with bacon, jalapenos, and cheddar cheese sauce. Yumm! As for safety, the staff are well aware of the needs to make truly gluten-free food and take all the proper precautions to avoid cross-contamination. Because of this, GCDC has very loyal celiac customers especially on Tuesdays. Every Tuesday evening at GCDC is Gluten Free Take Over Night, which means everything from sandwiches to ciders, mac and cheese and desserts, are completely gluten-free. No gluten in sight! A cheesy gluten-free evening awaits you at GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar.
Celiac Note: Though the sandwiches and tots are placed on a clean tray in an individual oven, the ovens are used for both gluten and gluten free items. However, many celiacs have eaten here with no issue.
1730 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA | Visit Website
District of Pi
District of Pi is one of the best gluten-free restaurants in Washington D.C. for safe gluten-free pizza. Though they don’t have a gluten-free deep dish pie, the gluten-free thin crust is perfect. Any of the pizza on their clearly marked menu can be made gluten-free including my favorite, the cubano, with slow-cooked pork shoulder, ham, and pickles. It the most unique and tasty gluten-free pizza I have had. Pizzas are not the only gluten-free items on offer at District of Pi, as they have several options for appetizers, salads, and dessert. Besides pizza, other must have dishes are the wings and the chips and dip. Safety wise, the gluten-free pizzas are made in a separate oven, there’s no fryers, and the servers are well informed about cross contamination and proper precautions are taken to prepare safe gluten-free food for us.
910 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA | Visit Website
Commissary DC
Wondering where to grab breakfast or brunch while in D.C.? Look no further than Commissary D.C. The relaxing restaurant and bar in Logan Circle offers a great all day breakfast menu with gluten-free options ranging from the popular pancakes, huevos rancheros, breakfast tacos, omelettes, and more. The staff take the proper procedures once informed you are celiac and are happy to guide your through the menu. Beside all day breakfast, they also offer lunch and dinner which also include gluten-free options.
1443 P St NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA | Visit Website
Oyamel Cocina Mexicana
Craving Mexican food? Then head to Oyamel! The upscale eatery serves tapas style Mexican food with plenty of gluten-free options. The dedicated allergen-friendly menu includes classic Mexican dishes such as guacamole, tacos, and ceviche. Regardless, of what you chose, it will flavorful and worth every bite. I do recommend that you order at least 3-4 dishes as portions are tapa sized. As for awareness, the staff are properly trained about cross contamination and have a good knowledge of what is safe to eat.
401 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA | Visit Website
Regardless of what historical sites you visit, or neighborhood you explore, you can now rest assured that there are many delicious and safe places to satisfy your hunger, with our list of the best gluten-free restaurants in Washington D.C.
