Chicago is like the New York City of the Midwest. Huge buildings, big attractions, and throngs of visitors. Did you know one of its nicknames is actually the “Heart of America?” That’s because it is one of the biggest transportation centers in the country, as well as being near the geographic center of the U.S.

Downtown and Central Chicago Gluten Free Eateries

Dedicated Gluten Free Eateries

Wheat’s End Cafe

This 100% gluten-free restaurant is just lovely. With zero concern that my meal could possibly make me sick from ingesting gluten, I wholeheartedly ate without abandon. Lamb meatloaf, English muffins, and more. It was so amazing I wrote an entire article about it. Read it here!

BiBiBop Asian Grill

BiBiBop recently made big news when they changed their menu to be 100% gluten free. There are locations across the midwest, although none currently in Michigan. Find them in Chicago at DuPaul University, and in Schaumburg. 

Chesa’s Bistro and Bar

Chesa’s  Bistro and Bar is a soul food restaurant. Located on Addison St., it’s not too far from Wrigley Field.

Defloured Bakery

I discovered Defloured Bakery a few years ago, thanks to the recommendations of MANY friends. This quaint bake shop offers everything from cookies to muffins to S’mores bars. Yeah, you know I bought one! Located in Andersonville neighborhood, you’ll also find some adorable shops in the area, too!

Eateries with Gluten Free Protocols

True Food Kitchen

This chain location in Chicago is the closest True Food Kitchen to Michigan. Created by Dr. Andrew Weil, the menu focuses on foods that are anti inflammatory. I highly recommend the Spaghetti Squash Casserole. Read about my visit to their Houston location for more indepth information.

* Wildfire –

Again, I have not eaten at this establishment. However, I hear great reviews from many. Wildfire is part of the Lettuce Entertain You Restaurant chain. Many I know have stated that many of the restaurants in this chain have undergone training on preventing cross contact with gluten. 

Do Rite Donuts

This is the photo that blew up my Instagram account. That’s because there’s nothing quite like a Do Rite Donut. Gluten Free donuts are prepared in dedicated fryers, and stored in their own separate cases. They are first come, first serve though. So I recommend getting to one of their locations early!

Greater Chicago Gluten Free Eateries

Egg Harbor Cafe

It’s taken me a few trips to Chicago to finally make it here, and it was everything I dreamed it would be. Egg Harbor Cafe has multiple locations throughout Chicagoland. They have an extensive gluten-free menu and serve Sweet Ali’s pancakes and cinnamon rolls.

Dedicated Gluten Free Bakeries

Sweet Ali’s Gluten Free Bakery (Hinsdale)

Speaking of Sweet Ali’s, you gotta visit this place. (Check out my photos from my 2017 visit!) I met them years ago at the Nourished Festival, and I’ve been in love with them ever since. Their decorated cookies look amazing and their cinnamon rolls are to DIE for! They make vegan items as well, for those avoiding egg and dairy.

Schaumburg Gluten Free Eateries

Weber Grill (also available in downtown Chicago)

I ate here with friends a few years ago during a special event. They offered us many options, all tasting wonderful. What impressed me most was the manager and his openness to recommendations and suggestions. I would definitely eat here again.

Roti Mediterranean Grill

Roti Mediterranean Grill (also available downtown)
I first fell in love with Roti in 2014. They offer delicious gluten-free Mediterranean food AND gluten-free pita bread?! This fast casual restaurant is like Chipotle, only with chicken kabobs instead of burritos. They also serve gluten-free falafel. Locations include Chicago and Washington D.C., with new locations in the works.

Ben J Yehuda

Ben J Yehuda (also available downtown Chicago)

I discovered Ben J Yehuda through the Find Me Gluten Free app. As always, I asked additional questions to verify that they change gloves and use a dedicated gluten free fryer. Similar in concept to Roti, they offer schwarma, falafel, French fries and more.

“Meacham Mile” 

As you drive down Meacham in Schaumburg, lots of restaurants exist with gluten free options. Use the Find Me Gluten Free app to search for local restaurants. However, always remember to ask your own questions about food preparations before dining.

Other Gluten Free Chicago Dining Recommendations

• Some of my Instagram followers shared their suggestions on this post.
• Erica from Celiac and the Beast toured Chicago with Enjoy Life and shared her gluten free Chicago experience on her website.

Must-Visit Chicago Landmarks

Millenium Park
Millenium Park is home to sculptures, water fountains, gardens, outdoor pavilions and more. The most famous attraction is probably the Cloud Gate. It’s often referred to as the Bean, because it’s shaped like a kidney bean. This polished stainless steel structure reflects the city skyline.

True story, the person at the edge of the photo in the blue shirt is my husband. He was taking a picture of a family on vacation, using their camera. When he was done, we realized they lived in a city less than 20 miles from our house in Flint. Small world, huh?

Image from Wikipedia.com

The Chicago Theater
Confession – I’m a NPR junkie. My favorite show is Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me, and it is taped weekly at the Chase Auditorium. The theater has many other shows that you can take in. From musicians to comedians and more, you’ll find something to enjoy.

Of course there are many other famous places to visit. Shedd’s Aquarium, the Field Museum of Natural History, Navy Pier, and so much more. You can take in a baseball game at Wrigley Field (which serves Gilbert’s gluten-free sausages!) or simply take in the beauty of the coastline.

Trying to do Chicago on the cheap? Check out this list of FREE things to do in Chicago, from This Worthey Life.

Travel and Parking

As downtown Chicago is a busy place, I HIGHLY suggest getting a Ventra Card. This multi-use transportation card gets you on all the bus lines and some of the trains. The rates are very affordable and it makes getting around the city SO much easier. I also recommend using the SpotHero app to find close and affordable parking.

If you travel often, I recommend investing in an I-Pass. It’s a transponder that helps you pay tolls, as you drive. The transponder also works with toll systems in 15 other states, such as Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, New York and New York. The money you add to your I Pass account doesn’t diminish over time. 

What are some of your favorite gluten free Chicago dining options? Feel free to leave recommendations below. As always, if you choose to eat at a location, verify their practices before ordering. 

Originally Published June 2016

The post Gluten Free Chicago – Dining and Sights appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Where is Wheat’s End Cafe? 

Located in the Park West section of Chicago, Wheat’s End Cafe moved to Diversy Pkwy in 2022. (It was formerly located at 2873 N Broadway.) Owned by Susan McMillan and Amelia Fonti, it formerly operated as a fine dining restaurant called Senza. It won Michelin stars and was rated one of the Top 100 restaurants in the country.

Encouraged by Meni Mizrahi, general manager, the restaurant shifted their menu. Still amazingly delicious meals made in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen but just a bit simpler. From foie gras to homemade yogurt. From oysters on a half shell to half an omelette on a house made English muffin. And still with the same love and care from the cafe family that makes them noteworthy. 

What Gluten Free Options Does Wheat’s End Cafe Offer? 

Everything. In addition to a dedicated gluten free kitchen, customers are asked to refrain from bringing gluten containing items into the restaurant. Their menu includes breakfast and brunch items. Start the day with gluten free pancakes or waffles (both of which are dairy free), or stop in for lunch for their turkey cranberry panini or grilled cheese on vegan housemade sourdough, served with a side of tomato soup.

Do non gluten eaters like the menu?  Manager Meni Mizrahi says that over half of his patrons don’t even need to eat gluten-free. They just love the food. But for those who MUST dine gluten-free, he says he could write a book full of stories of their expressions of gratitude. Grateful hugs from clients. The joy of a child being able to eat her first donut, EVER. This restaurant truly is a place of joy. 

Does Wheat’s End Offer Dairy Free or Vegan  Options? 

Absolutely. Their online menu includes a dietary key, highlighting which items are dairy free or vegan. The dietary key also indicates which menu items can be altered to be dairy free or vegan. They offer soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk , and oat milk for hot beverages. Please note that eggs, dairy, nuts and soy are used in their kitchen. 

What Baked Goods Do They Offer?

Just want to stop in for a quick treat? Wheat’s End Cafe offers an assortment of baked goods. That includes donuts and cinnamon rolls, as well as scones, vegan brownies, chocolate chip cookies, and more. They also offer drip coffee from Bridgeport Coffee, locally roasted in Chicago. Not a coffee drinker? They also serve tea and hot chocolate, and offer dairy free chocolate milk. 

What Do You Like to Order?

My favorite thing to order is their Open Faced Egg Sandwich. It’s basically an omelette, served on top of two toasted English Muffins or bagels. I always get the English muffins, because they are THE BEST. In the past they also served this amazing popover, topped with your choice of gravy and two poached eggs. It’s not currently on the menu. If it comes back, make sure to order it with the mushroom gravy. 

Other items of note in their menu include Spicy Chicken and Waffles, and Bagel and House Cured Lox. From the pictures on their website, I think the next time I visit I defintely need to try the Chocolate Chip and Banana Belgian Waffle. 

Do They Sell Pre Packaged Items? Do They Ship?

Right now they do NOT ship their products. However you can pre-order some of their packaged goods for local pick-up. Packaged items available for pick up include bagels, English muffins, Sourdough bread, pizza crusts and pancake mix. 

More Than Just Great Food

I’ve been blessed to get to know owner Susan McMillan and her staff through the years, and definitely consider them friends. Whether it’s eating at the restaurant, or seeing them at events, I’m always greated with hearty hellos and wonderful hugs. Thank you Susan. Amelia and Meni, for loving your community through delicious food, hugs, and the willingness to cater to those that often get overlooked.

Restaurant Location, Hours and Contact Info

Wheat’s End Cafe
543 W. Diversey PKWY
Chicago Illinois 60657
(773) 770-3527
Pick up & Delivery Only – Tuesday thru Sunday: 10 am – 3 pm

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Menu

Wheat’s End Cafe is one of many  restaurants I’ve visited. On my first trip there, I did not pay for my meal. However, I’ve been a faithful patron of this establishment every time I visit Chicago. You can more Windy City dining recommendations in my Gluten Free Chicago  post. Please remember to always ask any restaurant about their food preparation practices.

The post Wheat’s End Cafe – 100% Gluten Free Chicago Restaurant appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.