How Were These Restaurants Selected?

I generally only recommend businesses where I have personally eaten a meal. However, there are few on this list, marked by an asterisk, that I have not personally vetted.

Some, like Cooper’s Hawk, have are widely known for their gluten free options. Others are listed on Find Me Gluten Free, and I felt were worth mentioning.

There may be restaurants you recommend that are not on this list. Please feel free to mention them in the comments, along with information on how they prevent cross contact.

What You Should Know Before You Order

I literally wrote a list of 20 questions about gluten free food prep you should consider prior to ordering a meal. This includes questions about dedicated prep space and fryers, whether staff know to change gloves, and more.

Downtown Lansing Gluten Free Options

• Envie Opens at 4 pm (dedicated fryer)
• Firehouse Subs (Offers Gluten Free Bread)
• *Veg Head (notes gluten free options on menu) [I have not eaten here]
• ***NOTE – Sweet Encounter is NO LONGER in busines

Westside Gluten Free Options

• Red Robin
• Outback Steakhouse
• Chipotle
• Qdoba
• Chick-Fil-A
• Culver’s
• Anna’s House– Saginaw Hwy / Grand Ledge

Eastside / Frandor Gluten Free Options

• G 3 Food 4 All (gluten free baker – Allen St Market; Wednesday from 3-6:30)
• Altu’s Ethiopian Cuisine (Most of the menu is gluten free)
• Middle Eats
• Hot Bar at Better Health Market (Gluten/ Allergens noted)
• Qdoba

Northside / Eastwood Towne Center Options

• PF Chang’s
• BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
• Cooper’s Hawk Winery
• *Capital Prime (gluten free options on menu) [I have not eaten here]
• 2941 Street Food

Southside Gluten Free Options

• Culver’s
• Chick Fil A

East Lansing Gluten Free Options

• *The State Room at Kellogg Center [I have not eaten here]
• Barrio
• For Crepe Sake (separate gluten free griddle)
• Five Guys
• Playa Bowls
• BiBiBop Asian Grill – 100% gluten free Coming Soon!
• Thrive Dining Hall at MSU 100% gluten free (not open on the weekend)

Okemos Gluten Free Options

• Anna’s House (separate gluten free prep space)
• Buddy’s Pizza
• Gluten Free Rox (Gluten free baker – Meridian Farmers Market)
• Noodles & Company
• Culver’s

Where Do You Like to Eat in Lansing, Michigan?

What other gluten free options in Lansing, Michigan do you recommend? Feel free to leave suggestions in the comment section. Please include notes about what steps they take to prevent cross contact. I may end up adding them to my list!

Looking for gluten free dining options in other Michigan cities? Check out my Michigan Gluten Free Dining list. Need something sweet? Check out my list of Michigan gluten free bakers, or my list of favorite Michigan ice cream parlors with gluten free options.

What Is There to Do in Lansing?

Aside from visiting the state capital, Lansing offers other fun places to visit. Regardless of my age, I love to visit Impressions 5 Science Museum. Love baseball? Get tickets for a Lansing Lugnuts game. Wharton Center in East Lansing offers musicals, plays and other shows. Visit Choose Lansing to learn more about what there is to do in Lansing, Michigan.

Originally Published April 2025

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Hola Arepa – Newaygo, MI (100% GF)

Followers recently told me about Hola Arepa. The images on their Facebook page state that their entire menu is gluten free. Follow the on Facebook to see where they will show up next. It looks like they are often at Nelson’s Farm Market in Grant.

De Food Truck USA – Mesick (100% GF)

De Food Truck, located in Northern Michigan, offers a 100% gluten free menu. That includes fried fish, French Fries, falafel and more. Read more about this fantastic business in my review.

Follow De Food Truck on Facebook and Instagram.

Your Mom’s House – Port Huron (100% GF)

This dedicated gluten free food truck serves gluten free sandwiches and some of the best French Fries. Sandwich options include pulled pork, grilled cheese, and ham & Swiss. Follow Your Mom’s House on Facebook to see where they will turn up next.

Follow Your Mom’s House on Facebook and Instagram.

Tru Food Pizza Food Truck – Metro Detroit (100% GF)

Tru Pizza (formerly Renee’s Gourmet Pizzeria) started in Troy, Michigan as a 100% gluten free pizzeria. Since then they have added a location in Plymouth, MI and have recently opened a food truck. You’ll find it mostly in the Metro Detroit area, and in Ann Arbor on Wednesdays at the Farmers Market. Follow them on social media to see their schedule.

Follow Tru Pizza Food Truck on Facebook and Instagram

Ace’s Donuts – Royal Oak (100% GF)

When I asked Ace’s Donuts what kind of flour they use for their donuts, they stated they use rice flour. You can find them most weeks at the Royal Oak Farmers Market. Follow them on Instagram or visit their website.

Veged Out Food Truck – Waterford (GF Options)

While Vedged Out is NOT a 100% gluten free food truck, they have lots of gluten free options. In addition, they’re the old vegan food truck I’d recommend. They have some amazing gluten free wraps. You can usually find them at Oasis Health Foods.

Burger Bus – Marquette (Mostly Gluten Free)

Everything on the Burger Bus food truck is gluten free, except the brioche bun. Even their fried chicken is gluten free! Gluten free buns are available for $2.50 extra.

Follow The Burger Bus on Facebook and Instagram.

Fire and Rice – Lansing & Ann Arbor (100% GF)

I discovered paella when in college. My college roommate has Spanish extended family, and she made this often. The blend of saffron and vegetables and artichokes tastes like home to me.

Therefore, imagine my ecstatic joy when I realize that Fire and Rice makes all their paellla to be gluten free. It’s like heaven in a box. Follow them on Facebook to stalk find them near you!

**Note- Someone mentioned they have hot sauce made with non gluten free beer.

Follow Fire and Rice on Facebook and Instagram.

Kona Ice – Multiple Franchise Locations (100% GF)

Many dessert food trucks exist out there. However, this is the only food truck I know where everything is gluten free. True, Kona Ice basically serves snow cones. But how great is it to relive your childhood with creative flavors? Kona Ice is a franchise, so you can find them in lots of cities. I visited a truck while at a Frankenmuth Truck Rally, and the owners reside in Fenton.

Follow Kona Ice on Facebook (Lansing) (Lapeer Co.) and Instagram (Lansing).

*Hero or Villain – Detroit Area (GF Options)

Disclaimer. I have not personally eaten at this food truck. Their business popped up frequently when searched for Michigan gluten free food trucks. They offer gluten free bread for any of their sandwiches.

Staff stated they “switch gloves, clean and sanitize surface areas and use separate utensils,” when preparing a gluten free sandwich. Simply let their staff know about your allergen when you visit. Visit their Facebook page to learn more.

Follow Hero or Villain on Facebook and Instagram.

Shuck ‘n’ Ladder Corn Roasting – Metro Detroit Area

I ate at Shuck N’ Ladder while at the Michigan State Fair years ago. They serve hot, buttered ears of corn, with different, optional toppings. I felt so excited to find food at the fair that I could eat. I am unsure if their potatoes and walking tacos are gluten free. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if they were. Find out more about this seasonal food truck on their Facebook page.

Follow Shuck N’ Ladder on Facebook.

There you go! Some great Michigan Gluten Free Food Trucks (or those with options) to search out. Think of it as a culinary scavenger hunt, except the pieces constantly move. Who’s ready for an adventure!

Know of a food truck you think I should add to the list? Leave me a comment below and I’ll research them further! 

I share many more Michigan gluten free dining options I recommend on my blog. Looking for options in bigger cities? Check out my suggestions for Detroit, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids and Traverse City. Plus, check out my Michigan gluten free baker list!

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Where do the Lansing Lugnuts Play?

The Lansing Lugnuts play at Jackson Field, in downtown Lansing, Michigan. When the Lansing Lugnuts played their first game in April 1996, the stadium was originally called Oldsmobile Park. In 2010, they renamed the venue as Cooley Law School Stadium. In 2020, the stadium became Jackson Field.

Fun fact- On Tuesdays the team plays as the “Lansing Locos.” This is part of a “special nationwide MiLB initiative connecting teams to their Latino/a fanbase, according to MLB.com.”

How Much are Tickets at Jackson Field?

Single game tickets range in price from $12 to $53. Lawn seats cost only $12.

What Are the Lansing Lugnuts Gluten Free Concession Options?

When I met with concessions manager Michelle, I was amazed at how many Lansing Lugnuts gluten free options this ball park offers. Let’s break down the options per concession stand. They offer gluten free buns, but they’re not currently marked on the menu.

• Pizza Stand – Cheese or Pepperoni, cooked in a separate space, Mr Softy Ice Cream
• “Chrome Plated Grills” stands – Nacho Chips and Cheese, Gluten Free Hot Dogs, Gluten Free Hamburgers (ask for gluten free buns)
• “Salsa” Latin American- Walking Tacos (Beef or Chicken) [While pupusas are technically gluten free, they are cooked in a shared fryer.]
• “Smokies Sausage Shack” – Gluten free hot dogs and Italian Sausages (request GF bun)
• “Hickory’s BBQ”- Jumbo Turkey Legs, Brisket or pulled pork (request GF bun), coleslaw, pickles
• Philly Cheesesteak Stand – Philly Steak Nachos
• Tacos Locos – Helmet Nachos, Taco Salad without shell (build a rice bowl), Boozy Icees

Also, please know that Jackson Field is a “cashless” ball park. Payment is only taken with credit or debit cards. From their FAQ page, “If you only have cash for in-stadium transactions, it can be exchanged for gift cards at sales table behind home plate.”

Does Jackson Field Have a Separate Gluten Free Fryer?

At this time, concession stands do not have dedicated gluten free fryers. They’re hoping to change that in the future.

How do Concession Workers Prevent Cross Contact?

Everyone knows that we take it very seriously and they should change their gloves.  As long as the guest tells them that they have an allergy, we will do our best to serve our gluten free customers.

For their gluten free pizza, they use a separate counter in the back, and they use separate utensils for cutting and serving.

Can I Bring my Own Gluten Free Food to Jackson Field?

The Lansing Lugnuts staff wants to try to meet your dietary needs within the park as much as possible. However, sometimes a person attending a game needs additional accommodations. For those situations, prior communication ahead of a game is key.

Michelle told me an attendee can tell security (or call her directly if there’s a problem at the gate) and they will walk you through. If you have severe food allergies and you’re nervous about attending, they want you to still be able to enjoy a game with your friends and family, if that means you need to bring your own snacks.

Can Jackson Field Accommodate Large Groups?

They have event spaces that hold anywhere from like 20 to 1200 people. Most of them have preset menus such as , hamburger, hot dogs, potato, salad, slaw, etc.They also offer gluten free buns to accommodate people that need them. In additional they have special catering menus for suite boxes that also offer gluten free options. As long as staff have advance notice, they will do their best to accommodate your gluten free needs.

Do Lansing Lugnuts Concessions Offer Gluten Free Alcoholic Options?

Yes, Jackson Stadium concessions offers seltzers, ciders, and canned cocktails.

Where Should I Park When Attending a Lansing Lugnuts Game?

First, please know that there is handicap parking directly in front of the stadium. It is “first come, first serve.” You will need to access that parking lot from either Cedar Street or Larch St. (Both are one way streets.)

“Public parking is available on streets, parking lots, and parking ramps in a four-to-five-block area around the ballpark.” Parking ramps for the Lansing Center or the North Grand Ramp may be your best option. View this parking map for reference.

Other Gluten Free Options in Downtown Lansing, MI

The ballpark is directly across the street from Capital City Market. There you’ll find Kind Crumbs and Rise Authentic Baking gluten free baked goods. Check out my blog post about Lansing Gluten Free Dining Options for more suggestions.

Other Michigan Sports Venues with Gluten Free Options

Curious about other sports teams? Check out my blog post about Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers. I’m working on articles about Little Caesars Arena and Ford Field soon.

Interested in Minor League Baseball? Dow Diamond in Midland, home of the Great Lakes Loons, has many gluten free options. In addition, the West Michigan Whitecaps play at LMCU Ballpark and have many gluten free concessions.

Jackson Field Location and Contacts

505 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912
Website | Facebook | Instagram

Email Michelle Stanley with further questions, or visit their FAQ page.

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What is a Playa Bowl? 

A Playa Bowl is a creation of blended fruit, topped with granola, other fresh fruits, and sometimes even Nutella. They offer 6 different kinds of bowls, created on different fruit blends. Their different bases include acai, pitaya, green bowls (fruit blended with kale), coconut, banana, and chia pudding. 

The bases are blended with dairy free milks. For example, some bases are blended with coconut milk, while the banana bowls are blended with almond milk. The one exception is the acai bowls, which are made from pure acai, and not blended with any milk alternatives. 

What Gluten Free Options Does Playa Bowls Offer? 

In truth, there’s very little that ISN’T gluten free at Playa Bowls. They offer gluten free granola, and almost all of their other toppings are gluten free. They do offer oatmeal bowls, and I am unsure of their gluten free status. Wheat grass is also on premises, for smoothies. Their protein powders state “gluten free” on the container. 

How Does Playa Bowls Prevent Cross Contact? 

Fantastic question. Prior to ordering, I made sure to chat with Alana, one of the co-owners at the Northville location, about this topic. Staff prepare gluten free and food allergy orders with purple colored coded equipment. This includes a separate purple blender, and separate purple cutting boards, knives and other utensils. 

When you place a gluten free order, staff know to wash their hands and put on a fresh set of gloves. They prepare your order with the aforementioned designated equipment. Employees grab fresh fruit from a fridge in the back, instead of using fruit that’s already on the prep line. 

What Did You Order?

I admit this was my first time ever trying acai or pitaya (dragonfruit). Acai tasted a bit like blueberries, and I love blueberries. The pitaya blend contains pitaya, banana, pineapple and coconut milk. My husband ordered the Electric Mermaid, a pitaya based bowl, topped with granola, kiwi, pineapple, mango, coconut flakes and honey. 

I ordered the Nutelloco. Made with a base of blended coconut, banana and coconut milk, it tastes a bit like ice cream. The toppings on my bowl included sliced banana, strawberries, raw cocoa nibs, coconut flakes and Nutella. Definitely delicious, and I’ll want to order one again. 

Where Is Playa Bowls Located?

We visited the brand new Playa Bowls location in Northville in 2022. Located in the same plaza as Trader Joe’s, I can see myself grabbing a bowl after a grocery run. It’s also located near Michigan Medicine’s Northville Health Center, so it will be a great treat after a long doctor’s visit. 

While Playa Bowls started in Florida in 2014, they continue to expand across the United States. In Michigan, they have over a dozen locations across the state as of 2026. See the bottom of my blog post for a listing of all the locations in Michigan.

Fun Fact- All the decor inside Playa Bowls Northville is hand painted. Visit them to see this and many more amazing pieces of artwork! 

Playa Bowl Locations, Hours and Contact Information

Playa Bowls – Northville
39761 Traditions Dr
Northville MI 48167
Hours- 9 am – 8 pm

Other Michigan locations – Ann Arbor, Bloomfield Hills, East Lansing, Dearborn Heights, Grandville, Grand Rapids, Grosse Point, Holland, Kalamazoo, Novi, Rochester Hills, Shelby Township (Filomena Dr), Shelby Twp (Hall Rd), Traverse City, Troy,

Website | Facebook | Instagram

*Playa Bowls did not charge us for our order. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

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Where is Thrive Dining Hall at MSU?

Situated near the center of campus, Thrive resides inside Owen hall. Previously exclusively for graduates, Michigan State opened this hall to all students. Because of the uniqueness of Thrive’s meal offerings, the school reserved rooms for students with food restrictions.

Due to its small size, Owen became an ideal dorm to renovate for a specialty dining option. Michigan State previously did this with Holmes and Holden halls. Those smaller dorms became ideal to transform into kitchens that serve no peanuts, tree nuts or coconut.

Why was Thrive Created?

As I previously wrote, Michigan State offers gluten free options across campus. However, staff increasingly found themselves receiving calls about their ability to accommodate food allergies. While they liked how U of M offered a separate food allergy room, MSU felt the need to do more to help more students, as well as staff. Their goal was to not help students to “survive” on a few options, but to “thrive” with a safe dining area of their own.

How Safe is the Thrive Kitchen?

Read this excerpt from MSU’s recent publication on the Exciting Changes to Owen Hall.

“Thrive at Riverwalk Market at Owen will be certified free from the top eight food allergens (milk, eggs, soy, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish) as well as sesame and gluten. The location will be certified by Kitchens With Confidence, a third-party accreditor that will regularly examine protocols and policies to verify the location as being free of the allergens listed. Certification includes reviewing the path of food from delivery at the dock to storage areas, food preparation areas, and serving.”

What Food Do They Offer?

Thrive contains three serving stations, a soup and salad bar, a soft serve machine that serves Dole Whip, and beverages. The three serving stations, named Tenderland, Grid and Pantry, serve very specific items. Tenderland offers hand breaded chicken fingers and french fries, daily, at lunch and dinner.

The Grid station serves foods such as tacos, noodle bowls, grain bowls and ethnic creations. The Pantry station serves steak, rotisserie chicken, potatoes, and other “traditional” types of meals.There is discussion of possibly adding a vegetarian station in the future, should enough interest arise.  Visit Eat At State for the daily Thrive menu.

I must admit my biggest excitement was the housemade coconut milk vanilla yogurt. I’ve tried many dairy free yogurts, and this is by far the best I’ve ever tried. You’ll find the yogurt on the salad bar, along with their house made Gluten free granola. They prepare it daily with Bob’s Red Mill gluten free oats. And of course I loved the Dole Whip.

But I Can’t Have …

Michigan State realizes people live with other food restrictions as well. Students can work with the dietitian and dining hall staff to have made-to-order meals prepared for their health needs. In addition, foods that contain pork, beef or alcohol are labeled as such.

What Feedback Have They Received?

I spent the meal talking with MSU’s head dietitian, Gina Keilen. She was eager to create Thrive to serve students and staff. However, she’s been astounded by the positive reception it’s had, just in their first month of opening. Not just her, but service staff have been humbled by the praise and happy tears from visitors.

She mentioned this positive reception has reinvigorated the entire dining services department. Staff with dietary restrictions are eager to work here and help others like them. Staff willingly take extra certification classes, understanding their knowledge can truly be a matter of life and death.

What Hours is Thrive Open?

Right now, hours are Monday – Friday 11 am – 3pm / 4:30- 7 pm, and Saturday & Sunday 11 am – 3 pm. As they gauge student interest, breakfast service may be added. (Gina stated chefs are already in the kitchen, playing with recipes in preparation for when that day comes.) Thrive is open to the public. Breakfast costs $9, lunch and dinner $13, and children ages 2-9 cost $6.75. Children under the age of 2 eat free. Click here for more info on meal costs and dining plans.

Where Do I Park?

There is some limited (and paid) parking right in front of Owen Hall. The last time I visited, on a Sunday in November, I had no problems finding a parking spot. If that space is full the best locations to park are Ramp 3 (Wharton Center) or Ramp 1 (next to the College of Law). For more questions about parking at MSU, visit their Visitor Parking page.

Thrive Location, Hours and Contact Information

Owen Hall
735 E Shaw Lane
East Lansing MI 48825

Hours : Monday – Friday 11 am – 3pm / 4:30- 7 pm Saturday & Sunday 11 am – 3 pm

Eat at State (MSU Dining) Website | Facebook | Instagram

Other Dining Halls I’ve Visited

University of Michigan
Oakland University
Western Michigan University

**I received a free meal while visiting. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am beyond excited that Michigan State chose to take this drastic step to help students. **

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Where in the World is Horrocks Farm Market?

Technically, there is more than one answer. If you ask me, I say that Horrocks Farm Market sits just off 1-96 in Lansing. (Exit 93B, to be exact.) However, multiple Horrocks locations exist around the state. There’s one in Battle Creek, and one in Kentwood. (Although the Horrocks in Kentwood drops the word “Farm” from its title.)

What Makes This Store Special?

It’s hard to say. It just IS. When owner Jerald Horrocks started his business in 1959, I wonder if he knew just how many people he would impact. I remember as a child, seeing him in the store. He’d pass out free fruit and flowers to customers. Today, even 50 years later, his family continues to honor Jerald Horrocks’ legacy and dream.

Maybe It’s the Free Coffee?

Not gonna lie, every time my husband and I visit Horrocks Farm Market, we make a beeline to the coffee section. Customers enjoy free cups of in-house roasted coffee or tea (hot or cold) while they shop. A table of extras including cream, honey, flavored syrups and more await you to create your own cup of joy.

*** Ever since COVID, free coffee is no longer available. ***

Or is the Fresh Popped Popcorn?

Creative and delicious flavors of popcorn await you at Horrocks Farm Market. Of course, you can sample every flavor. You’ll find it next to the coffee, and across from the store made fudge. Just down the aisle from Iorio’s gelato. Sweet or savory, this store has it all. Even infused oils and vinegars!

Could it be the Wine and Beer?

Horrocks Farm Market is much bigger than it was when I was a child. I swear it’s doubled in size. Partially to accommodate the new wine bar. And yes, you can drink and shop here. Not into wine? They have a beer bar as well. (Although no gluten free beers on tap, that I know.)

This store boasts the largest wine and beer selection I’ve ever seen. You will find gluten free Glutenberg and Brewery Nyx in stock here, as well as Ground Breaker Brewing. Not into beer? They have three large racks completely filled with various hard ciders, mostly from Michigan. Including my favorite, JK’s Farmhouse Ciders.

Don’t Forget the Cheese!

Horrocks Farm Market doesn’t just have a cheese counter. It has a cheese AISLE. Located at the rear of the store, you can find just about any cheese you want. Even dairy free Daiya. Not finding enough among their 4 or 5 refrigerated open cases? Check out the refrigerated dairy room. You’ll find even more there!

Mountains of Fruits and Vegetables

On a recent trip, a friend’s daughter spotted the sweet potatoes. Her comment  -” It’s a mountain of potatoes, and I want to climb it!” You’ll find more than your standard vegetables here though. Here you find purple potatoes and exotic chiles and fruits you won’t ever see at Walmart. You can taste the world here, and at incredibly cheap prices!

Sushi, Mochi, Antipasto and More

Forget going to the mall to get lunch. Horrocks Farm Market offers a soup and salad bar, an olive bar, hot pizza (NOT gluten free) and even mochi for dessert. (Pictured above is gluten free cookies and cream mochi.) At Horrocks, it’s like going to Epcot and tasting the whole theme park under one building!

Pianos and Perennials

Since my childhood, someone randomly plays the piano throughout the day. Nestled among the flour bouquets (which you can also have made to order), sits a black piano. Hidden so well in fact, you have to follow the melodious sound to figure out where it’s coming from. One day it’s Bach, another it’s Bachman Turner Overdrive. Either way, it’s enjoyable.

Speaking of perennials, Horrocks Farm Market displays the largest greenhouses in the greater Lansing area. Each spring, the outdoor stalls burst with colors of orange marigolds and purple hyacinths and red tomato plants. If your green thumb is itching for spring, this is the place for you!

Gluten Free Options Galore

While I go for the produce prices and selection, it’s the amazing selection of gluten free options that keeps me coming back. Here I buy my HerbOx Bouillon, my favorite Schar Artisan Bread, Chebe Bread Cinnamon Roll mixs and Enjoy Life items. However, I find here unique items like 100% gluten free soba noodles or Michigan Made Al Dente Gluten Free Pasta.

All About Community

Know what I really love? Bumping into friends whenever I go. Whether it’s the parent of a gluten free camper, or fellow blogger Tatanisha and her husband (and he’ll gladly give you cooking tips), this place feels like home no matter how far I wander. Hopefully, we’ll bump into each other someday there, too. Or any of these 20+ other Facebook friends who also shared why they love Horrocks Farm Market so much!

Locations

Horrocks Farm Market (Lansing)
7420 W Saginaw Hwy
Lansing, MI 48917

Horrocks Farm Market (Battle Creek)
5801 Beckley Rd
Battle Creek, MI 49015

Horrocks Market (Kentwood)
4455 Breton Rd SE
Kentwood, MI 49508

So have you been to Horrocks before? What’s your favorite thing about this magical store? Never been before? I highly recommend giving yourself ample time to peruse the aisles, and don’t visit on a firs time on a Saturday afternoon. It’s packed!

The post Horrocks Farm Market: 8+ Reasons To Love It appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

I recently toured Michigan State University with their resident dietitian, Gina Keilen. Prior to her joining the staff, MSU lagged behind in being food allergy conscious. About the same time Gina was hired, executive chef Bryan Latz also joined the staff. They, along with the corporate chef Kurt Kwiatkowski, revamped the menu campus-wide. Now the 45,000 meals daily served on campus are prepared with food allergies and intolerances in mind. They create menus focused on using as few allergens as possible.

Not only is it safe to eat gluten free at Michigan State University, those with additional allergens and preferences are accommodated as well. In addition to labeling for the Top 8 allergens, meal menus also note if dishes contain coconut, sesame, beef, pork, and alcohol. MSU takes the health of the students and staff very seriously. In addition, MSU recently became home to the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams, a.k.a the FRIB. As only the second such facility in the world, the dining staff realized they feed not just students, but researchers from across the world. Michigan State University seeks to feed all, regardless of food allergy, disability or religious preference.

Statistics on eating with Celiac Disease and/or Food Allergy On Campus

This forethought is necessary. In 2016, only two years ago, Beyond Celiac reported that most students feel that can’t eat safely on campus. Beyond Celiac stated that forty-two percent of college students surveyed stated they felt college personnel were not knowledgeable about gluten free needs. In addition, thirty percent of students reported missing class at least once in their college career due to accidental gluten ingestion. Finally, Beyond Celiac states that sixty percent of students said they would not recommend the university they attended. Therefore, colleges need to make dietary restrictions a priority.

Keeping gluten free dining at Michigan State University starts with the head chefs, but doesn’t stop there. ALL kitchen staff undergo training through AllerTrain, which has been easier to accomplish since joining the FARE program. This certification requires renewal every five years. As all menus are based with food allergies and intolerances in mind, staff know that recipes must be followed to the T. This insures that any dish, regardless of which dining hall you’re in, keeps it free of gluten or allergens as specified on the Eat At State website.

Gina stated many staff deal with Celiac Disease or food allergies and intolerances in their own life. This is personal. They know first hand the anxiety that comes with trusting others to cook your food. To rely on someone else with your health. Therefore, they gladly wash their hands, change their gloves, and do whatever they can to help accommodate your health needs. So please don’t be embarrassed to ask. Please tell staff what you need. Gina Keilen, the head dietitian reports the failure of students to disclose their needs it the biggest hindrance in helping students safe.

In fact, tell Gina regularly meets with students with food restrictions. During a student’s orientation, she will set up a time answer any and all questions about dining gluten free at Michigan State University. She regularly checks in on students throughout the year, and holds small forums to meet with fellow students with dietary issues. She even helps students work with housing services to try to pair them with students living through the same dietary struggles. During my visit, Gina was even approached by someone newly diagnosed with Celiac Disease AND additional allergens. Gina didn’t miss a beat and immediately reviewed with her the food options she has and the services available to her.

Let’s Eat! What to order gluten free at Michigan State University

So enough back story. What CAN you eat if you’re dining gluten free at Michigan State University? For starters, sushi. Yes, sushi, complete with gluten tamari. MSU made with switch from regular soy sauce to tamari when they realized how much more accessible it would be to those with Celiac Disease. Also, all soups on campus are made with bases that are gluten, soy and dairy free. (This does not guarantee the final recipe is free of all those ingredients.) Need things nut free? Holden Hall and Holmes Hall have kitchens that use NO peanuts, tree nuts or coconut in any of their dishes.

My favorite hall to dine gluten free at Michigan State University is Brody Hall. The amount of options practically boggles the mind. Up until recently, Brody Hall remained the largest non-military dining hall in the United States. (Recent renovations at University of Michigan, also in the FARE program, edged them out for that title.) Brody Hall has multiple themed stations from which you can order some of your favorites. Ciao has gluten free pizza made from fresh toppings, and Brimstone has gluten free buns for hamburgers. In addition, it has the biggest and most amazing salad bar I’ve ever seen.

Brody Hall also has a completely vegetarian station, called VegOut. In addition, Monday through Friday, a completely Kosher food station serves locally prepared kosher cuisine. Cayenne’s offers Latin American foods, including corn tortillas. Boiling Point offers gluten free pasta, and Homestyle offers baked chicken and potatoes. Can’t tolerate dairy? Brody Hall offers the largest soy and almond milk dispenses I’ve ever seen. In addition, Michigan State University stocks dairy free shredded cheese for pizzas and salads and sandwiches. Living with multiple food allergies?  You can collaborate with Gina and the Chefs to coordinate an individualized program for you. This often involves calling 30 minutes prior to arriving to the dining hall, and the team will prepare a meal specifically for you. They will also bring it to you when you arrive in the dining hall.

Other Dining Halls at Michigan State University

There are many more dining halls on campus where you can safely eat gluten free at Michigan State University. Case Hall is the more recently renovated hall and has ample seating. There (as in all other halls) you will find a small fridge stocked with specialty gluten free items, such as Udi’s bread and buns and cookies. Some students with food restrictions prefer to eat at Holden Hall. This older and smaller dining hall follows all the same protocols. However, it gets less foot traffic, and allows diners to ask more questions. The gallery at Snyder Phillips, aesthetically, is my favorite open dining hall. Just use the filters at the Eat At State website to help you find what’s safe to eat anywhere on camp.

Wanting to cook for yourself? Visit Sparty’s Market at 1855 Place on Harrison Road. This small grocery stores has some of the most amazing options for gluten free at Michigan State University. Find Udi’s bread and buns for making sandwiches at home. They stock a large selection of Bob’s Red Mill products, as well as 1-2-3 Gluten Free baking mixes. Plus, Sparty’s Place immediately won over my heart by stocking Michigan-made Ethel’s Baking Company decadent desserts.

A quick note about desserts. While the dining halls serve Hudsonville hard scooped ice cream and soft serve, every stop at MSU needs to include the MSU Dairy Store. Did you know you can actually watch them make ice cream from the observation deck in Anthony Hall? Staff there is FANTASTIC about pulling out fresh tubs of ice cream to prevent cross contact with other flavors. I’ve visited numerous times and never has an employee balked at generously meeting my needs in this way. This is why I list them as one of the great places to get ice cream in Michigan!

Intentional Dining for the Community

All these precautions for gluten free dining at Michigan State University is not for students alone. MSU is easily the largest employer in East Lansing, Michigan. Therefore, they see themselves as a meeting place for community. So take a bike ride along the Red Cedar River and stop in for lunch. Take in a midday basketball game and stop in for dinner. Stop in for Sunday Supper after church or meet up with your card club for brunch. Send your son or daughter for one of the many academic and sports camps offered here.

Have you or a child been to Michigan State University? Are you considering them as a potential location for their future college career? Please feel free to call or email staff to ask them any questions you have. A big thank you to Gina Keilen and Bryan Latz and the rest of the chef staff for generously giving of their time and resources so I could share first hand about what it’s like eating gluten free at Michigan State University. 

** I was given passes for a free meal for myself and my spouse. No other form of compensation was given regarding this write-up, and all thoughts and opinions are my own. Born and raised in Lansing, I love MSU and the amazing opportunities it affords to its students. Go Green, Go White.**

The post Dining Gluten Free at Michigan State University appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

**This is an interview with the owner. Please scroll to bottom of page for bakery address, phone number, website, email, and social media links.**

A Fixture In My Gluten Free Life

As I update this post in 2025, I realize that this picture of Linda Fedewa is the perfect image for this post. I’ve lived with Celiac Disease for 20 years, and she’s been a fixture of my gluten free life thru all of them. From helping with a Celiac Disease support group, and imparting baking wisdom, she’s a gluten free blessing. (Check out her pie making video, here!)

But Linda is more than just a sweet person. She’s a talented cake maker, and daresay, artist. Featured in magazines, and chosen to make special cakes for events, she has amazing decorating skills. Whether it’s cake, cookies, or cupcakes, she never ceases to impress me with her talent. Read more about her business, in the interview below.

1. What inspired you to become a baker? Why the focus on gluten-free?

I’ve been baking all of my life. For 40 years I’ve been baking cakes, cookies, and everything in between. I am known for my cake decorating skills, making wedding cakes for parties big and small.

My Celiac Disease surprised me almost three decades ago. It made it more difficult to run my traditional business, A Piece O’ Cake. We sold the business and chose to focus on baking for the gluten-free needs among us. I spent years, dedicated to developing the perfect gluten free flour blend.

2. Are there other highlights of your products?  Dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free etc?

We can accommodate dairy free and nut free requests. We feel clear, transparent communication is key to anything we bake for customers. When love when potential brides come to talk about their special day. We eat cake together, and get to know one another, and discuss how we can meet your special needs.

3. What steps do you take to insure that your products are truly gluten-free?

Personally living with Celiac Disease, I know the utmost care that must be used for a gluten free baked goods. We verify the gluten free status of the ingredients we use.

4. Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by your business?

I, Margaret, can speak from personal experience. We ordered a fantastic chocolate cake for my father’s 60th birthday. It was gorgeous, delicious, and our non-gluten free family members all raved about it. When my father died a few years later, she not only came to pay her respects, she also brought me gluten free cookies. Amid the hecticness of that time, she wanted to make sure I had something safe to eat. She’s not only a great baker, but a wonderful, kind-hearted woman.

5. What would you like consumers to know about your products and your business?

After 35 years of baking, Linda states she’s “retired.” She still takes orders for very special cakes and cookies, along with holiday baking. That includes pies, cookies, cheesecakes, Graham crackers, you name it! They don’t ship, but will deliver their specialty cakes. Linda says she’s always down for a fun adventure!

Location, Hours and Contact Information

Linda Fedewa
Portland, MI
Email
(517) 775-1177
Contact her through email or phone call to order
Linda Fedewa does not operate a storefront, and bakes from her home.

Linda Fedewa is one of many great, dedicated gluten-free bakers across the state of Michigan. Click this link for a comprehensive list of all the gluten-free bakers in Michigan, as well as an interactive map so you can visit them all!

Originally published March 2016

The post Linda Fedewa – Michigan Gluten Free Cake Artist appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

**This is an interview with the owner. Please scroll to bottom of page for bakery address, phone number, website, email, and social media links.**

I’ve known Roxanne Andrews, the owner of Gluten Free Rox, for years. I first met her through my work with the Lansing Gluten Free Fair. I fell in love with her hand pies, as the crust was so flaky and delicious. She now also sells mini pies, which are just as delectable.

Since starting her business years ago, she’s built an additional gluten free kitchen in her house, just to keep up with all the orders. While she only sells at Meridian Farmers’ Market, she now takes special orders. Learn more about Gluten Free Rox in Andrews’ own words.

1. What inspired you to become a baker? Why the focus on gluten-free?

I have people in my family who live with Celiac Disease and they didn’t like what they were finding in stores. I am the family baker, especially at holidays. When my family couldn’t eat my goodies, I started experimenting with gluten-free baking. Therefore, Gluten Free Rox was born!

I developed my own gluten-free flour mix so my food would be as close as possible, in taste and texture, to wheat baked goods. Many people tell me that they wouldn’t have known my baked goods were gluten-free if I hadn’t told them. I have a few customers who aren’t gluten-free who buy my food anyway, because they love the taste.

2. Are there other highlights of your products? Dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free, etc?

Gluten Free Rox bakes goods are made with organic and natural ingredients. I make everything from scratch, including all my organic pie fillings. The graham crackers I use for my cheesecakes are even made by me. 

I use organic butter,  cage-free eggs, and whole foods with no preservatives, I try to reduce sugar when I can and bake with coconut milk. By using the best ingredients that I can, I think I have a delicious product that’s also healthy.

3. What steps do you take to insure that your products are truly gluten-free?

I am a dedicated gluten free baker, and bake out of my home. Everything I bake is made from scratch and uses only gluten-free and organic flours.

4. Do you have any stories of customers that highlight the impact of your business on heir life?

I have a few. One woman was so delighted because of the cake I made her. She told me she hadn’t had one in 8 years! You can that and many more reviews on my Gluten Free Rox Facebook page.

5. What would you like consumers to know about your products and your business?

I bake they way my grandma did- from scratch and with love. My desire to help others motivates this family-run business. In addition to all of my baking, my husband also designs my labels and logo. Gluten Free Rox is 100% a family effort!

Gluten Free Rox Location, Hours and Contact Information

Gluten Free Rox
East Lansing 
No storefront. Available at Meridian Farmers’ Market, or special order
Facebook | Email

Preferred Method of Contact- Facebook or Text

Gluten Free Rox is just one of many Gluten Free Bakers in Michigan. Click this link to find a comprehensive statewide list of all the bakers, as well as an interactive map! 

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