Some of Austin’s Favorite Gluten-free Menus

Although in recent years the gluten-free diet has become a sort of fad for weight loss and healthy eating, for many people, gluten can be extremely dangerous for the body. Celiac disease is the most severe form of gluten intolerance. If someone with the disease eats the protein found in wheat, rye and barley, it can cause damage to the small intestine and even lead to malabsorption of nutrients in the body.

Even people with a mild gluten intolerance who don’t have celiac disease can suffer from symptoms such as fatigue, diarrhea, excess bloating and gas, abdominal pain and nausea. Although there is no current cure for celiac disease or gluten intolerance, the simplest thing to do is cut gluten out of your diet. 

Finding tasty gluten-free food, especially at restaurants, can be tough. Luckily Austin has some great restaurants that are gluten-free friendly. Let’s take a look.

Wilder Wood Restaurant and Bar

With a fully gluten-free menu, this restaurant is a hot spot for all people looking to enjoy some delicious food. If you’re looking for a place with a wide variety of options, Wilder Wood is for you. Offering over 60 menu options, you will never have to worry about finding something you like.

Wilder Wood is a bar as well, and since beer is a hard thing to come by in the gluten-free community, they’ve got you covered. Wilder Wood has an entire menu dedicated to gluten-free beers and ciders, so you can get your fair share of bubbly.

If you’re looking to dine in, have a private party or catering event, Wilder Wood can make your gluten-free dinner shine.

Zucchini Kill

With a name inspired by a ‘90s feminist girl band, this restaurant is for all of those in need of some delicious gluten-free desserts and inclusivity for all. Don’t worry – not all of the desserts contain zucchini, but they are all vegan and free of gluten and soy.

From chai donuts to pink coconut cupcakes, you can find any sweet under the sun. They even offer homemade dog treats!

If you are looking for a place to enjoy gluten-free desserts or talk about local feminists bands, this woman-owned bakery could be the treat you’re looking for. 

Picnik

Picnik’s menu is entirely free of gluten, peanuts and refined sugar, but you wouldn’t know by looking at the options. Oftentimes, foods have gluten in them when you don’t even realize. Things like fried food can be beer battered — even something as simple as soy sauce can lead to intestinal discomfort for those with gluten intolerance.

Picnik’s menu is full of delicious options for those who can’t usually eat those kinds of foods. From biscuits with honey to fried chicken to a basket of homemade muffins — Picnik has taken being gluten free to a whole new level.

ATX Cocina

Mexican food is a staple in Austin, but finding gluten-free alternatives can be challenging. For a fun night out with friends or family, ATX Cocina offers a full gluten-free menu.

ATX Cocina is not a grab-and-go kind of place. It is a sit-down restaurant, and it’s important to keep in mind that some dishes can be on the pricier side. 

Aside from the expenses, this restaurant offers a great menu full of fish, vegetable and meat dishes. If you are looking for a high-end, aesthetically pleasing restaurant full of tasty gluten-free food and fun cocktails, this cocina could be for you.

Galaxy Cafe

Although this cafe is not entirely gluten free, Galaxy Cafe does offer a gluten-free menu with over 50 options. Unlike ATX Cocina, Galaxy Cafe has a more traditional American menu similar to what you would find at a diner. 

The restaurant encourages talking to your server about your specific gluten allergy before ordering so that they can ensure all of your specific dietary needs are met.

A great option for breakfast, lunch or dinner, their menu has a wide variety of gluten-free options. Whether you are looking for a classic hamburger or something more healthy like a buddha bowl, Galaxy Cafe has got you covered. 

Counter Culture

Sustainability and inclusivity is what Counter Culture is all about. Using locally grown, organic ingredients to create delicious gluten- and soy-free dishes is this restaurant’s specialty. Their dedication to waste reduction is what makes this restaurant stand out. Over 97% of their waste is composted or recycled, and all of their to-go containers are compostable. 

If you’re in the mood for some savory comfort food — Counter Culture is the place to be. From buffalo mac and cheese to a tempeh reuben sandwich, Counter Culture has lots of gluten-free, soy-free and vegan options to meet your dietary needs.