Gluten-Free (and More!) in Orlando, Florida
Being a huge Disney and Harry Potter fan, I’ve had Walt Disney World and the (original) Wizarding World of Harry Potter on my bucket list for a long while. So, given the opportunity to join my partner for a tradeshow in Orlando, I didn’t hesitate (regardless of it being hurricane season). I was excited not only to visit the parks themselves, but to explore the theme park capital of the world, Orlando, Florida. Here is a list of our favorite spots inside and outside of the parks…
Coffee
Lineage Coffee Roasting
This place was a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively. It was 90 degrees with 90% humidity when we went. We sat here and had some of the best coffee and tea in the city, and knocked out our research for the then upcoming midterm elections. Shout out to the coolest barista, Andy for sharing his own Orlando food/place/bars and beers guide with us. See down below. Give him a hug from me if you see him there!
Breakfast
The Sanctum
This local and organic vegetarian restaurant was recommended to us by Andy, but we didn’t have time to visit. They have lots of gluten-free options that look delicious, and they are also open for lunch and dinner.
Laguna (Hilton Doubletree Seaworld)
This is where we stayed (and NEVER will again). However, dining was a separate and quite pleasant experience. The executive chef came out to talk to me, and said he cleans everything in the kitchen before he cooks anything gluten-free. He has a good friend with Celiac, which explains his understanding of how to properly prep, and seriously made me the best pancakes. He also said they are expanding their gluten-free menu, which is definitely something to look forward to!
Lunch/Dinner
Dandelion Communitea Cafe
This cute cafe is located in an old house, and is 100% plant-based, organic, GMO free, local, and Celiac friendly. They have quite a few gluten-free options, and make their best effort to prevent cross-contamination. They have bowls, salads, soups, appetizers, sides and desserts to choose from.
Black Rooster Taqueria
This was also recommended to us by Andy, but we didn’t have time to visit. They have delicious Mexican food, with lots of gluten-free and vegan options. And apparently their guac is the best in town. Can’t wait to try it next time!
Raglan Road Irish Pub (Disney Springs)
Fish and chips! I repeat… Fish AND chips. And, yes. IT IS GLUTEN-FREE. Can you sense my excitement? They also have GF onion rings, and there is constant entertainment. I spoke to the waiter and chef, and they were totally on it. I felt very safe and satisfied. We opted out of eating dessert there, as Erin McKenna’s Bakery is in walking distance.
Krusty Burger (Universal Studios)
We didn’t eat here, as I don’t eat red meat, but they do have a gluten-free bun for their burgers and I’ve heard great reviews. I did, however, enjoy drinking my soda water at the connected Moe’s Tavern.
Dessert
Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC (Disney Springs)
I’m very familiar with the LA location, and had no idea they had a third location here. So, accidentally stumbling upon it was very, very exciting. Everything is gluten-free, wheat-free, soy-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free, egg-free, vegan and kosher. Sold yet? Unlike their LA location, they can make milkshakes here. And they are DIVINE. While you’re in the area, stop by UNIQLO for cute clothes (if you aren’t feeling too bloated afterwards).
Aloha Isle for Dole Whip (Disney’s Magic Kingdom)
Vegan and gluten-free ice cold dole whip on a hot humid day? You don’t need to tell me twice! So delish. P.S. The most underrated ride in the park (IMHO) is the Monster’s Inc., Laughing Floor, after one of our other favorites, which is Big Thunder Mountain. It was 10 minutes of pure laughter. We loved it.
Juice/Drinks
Juice’d - Raw Rood and Cold Pressed Juice
We were happy to come across this place searching the town for much needed vitamin C. They have raw and organic juices, smoothies, kombucha, bowls, salads and more. If you feel you need a detox before you re-tox at the next theme park, then this is definitely your spot.
Diagon Alley Butterbeer (Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios)
Can we first talk about how cool Diagon Alley is? I feel like I truly stepped into a Harry Potter Book. And none of that was complete without drinking some good ol’ frozen butterbeer (scrape the foam off on top to make it dairy-free/vegan). And you are completely missing out if you don’t get on the Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts ride. One of my favorite theme park rides to date. Can’t wait to visit Hogsmeade next time!
