Gluten-Free in Chicago: Deep Dish Pizza, Breweries, and Celiac Safety
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Traveling to Chicago? Learn where to find safe, dedicated gluten-free deep dish pizza, celiac-safe breweries, and the best GF bakeries in the Windy City.
Heading to Chicago?
Check out our complete Celiac-Safe Chicago Gluten-Free Guide with celiac phrases, safety ratings, local tips, and celiac-reviewed restaurants.
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βKey Takeaways
Chicago is famous for its architecture, its wind, and its deep-dish pizza. For years, celiacs visiting the city had to settle for salads while watching their friends devour massive slices of cheesy goodness. Fortunately, Chicago's gluten-free scene has exploded. Here is your guide to eating safely in the Windy City.
The Quest for Gluten-Free Deep Dish Pizza
Yes, you can eat deep-dish pizza in Chicago safely!
* Lou Malnati's: This iconic chain offers a "crustless" pizza (the base is made entirely of sausage) which is naturally gluten-free. They also offer a gluten-free crust for thin-crust lovers. *Warning:* They are not a dedicated facility, so communicate your celiac needs clearly.
* Chicago's Pizza: The absolute holy grail for celiacs. They offer a massive, thick, incredible gluten-free deep-dish pizza. They take cross-contamination very seriously, preparing GF pizzas in a separate area with separate utensils.
* Gino's East: They offer a gluten-free thin crust, but again, emphasize cross-contamination protocols when ordering.
Dedicated Gluten-Free Bakeries & Cafes
Chicago boasts several 100% dedicated facilities where you can relax and order everything on the menu.
* Wheat's End Cafe: A 100% gluten-free brunch paradise in Lakeview. Their pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and English muffins are spectacular.
* Defloured: Located in Andersonville, this dedicated bakery offers incredible cookies, bars, cakes, and arguably the best gluten-free scones in the Midwest.
* Sweet Ali's Gluten Free Bakery: While located in the suburbs (Hinsdale/Glenview), their products are sold in many Chicago grocery stores. If you can make the trip, their cinnamon rolls are worth the Uber ride.
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Safe Breweries and Dining
* Eris Brewery and Cider House: Located in Irving Park, this is a cider house (naturally GF) with an incredibly allergy-aware menu. Their fryers are dedicated gluten-free, meaning you can safely eat their fries and cheese curds.
* Lyfe Kitchen: A health-focused chain with a dedicated gluten-free menu and strict preparation protocols.
Essential Gear for Chicago Travel
Chicago weather changes rapidly, and you'll spend a lot of time walking along the lakefront or exploring the Loop.
Chicago proves that you don't have to miss out on regional specialties just because you have celiac disease. Enjoy the pizza!
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Celiac Safety Glossary
- Celiac disease
- Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder in which ingesting gluten β a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye β triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine's villi, affecting approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide according to the Celiac Disease Foundation.
- Gluten
- Gluten is a family of storage proteins (prolamins and glutelins) found naturally in cereal grains like wheat (including varieties like spelt, kamut, and farro), barley, and rye, which acts as a binder to give food elasticity and shape.
- Cross-contamination
- Cross-contamination (or cross-contact) occurs when gluten-free food comes into contact with gluten-containing food or surfaces β such as shared cutting boards, toasters, fryers, or utensils β rendering otherwise safe food dangerous for people with celiac disease.
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About the Author
Sarah Mitchell
Lead Content Writer & Nutritionist, B.S. Nutrition Science
Sarah was diagnosed with celiac disease in 2018 and writes evidence-based guides combining clinical nutrition knowledge with 6+ years of personal gluten-free living experience. All health content is medically reviewed by our advisory team.
Meet our full team βMedical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or a registered dietitian before making dietary changes related to celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Read full disclaimer.
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