Downtown Disney District has quite a few gluten-free restaurants, just outside of Disneyland park. You don’t need a ticket at the park for you to enjoy a safe gluten-free meal – even a Disney character breakfast! Eating gluten free at Downtown Disney is easy!
For this blog post, we’ll only be showing you favorites at Downtown Disney, not at the area hotels that also offer a not-in-the-park dining experience.
Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen at Downtown Disney
Keep in mind that their menu changes regularly. You can always look online to find their latest menu. I typically always have a gluten-free fish entree and ask for a dairy-free version as well. The chef can always work with you if you have multiple allergies.
Be sure to make reservations as far in advance as you can, at least a month in advance for large groups, to secure your spot. I’ve seen wait times for even a table of two for up to a few hours. Go earlier in the day if you don’t have a reservation.
Salt & Straw at Downtown Disney
While I’ve been to Salt & Straw at Downtown Disney, I haven’t eaten at this location. Usually I’m so stuffed from dinner that I couldn’t imagine eating ice cream. As you can see, they not only have traditional ice cream (made with dairy), but several vegan options as well. No reservations needed, just wait in line for ice cream.
Always ask for a new scooper with your order!
According to Salt & Straw, “All of our ice creams are gluten free unless wheat/gluten is listed as an allergy…Those with SEVERE nut allergies should know that we process and use both tree nuts and peanuts in our kitchens. You can find allergen information for each flavor on the flavor product detail page.”
Splitsville Luxury Lanes
I haven’t actually been to the Disneyland version of Spiltsville Lanes, just the Disney World version. However, I was impressed with their gluten-free menu – because that’s probably not what you expect at a bowling alley.
They have many gluten-free dairy-free options that are fish-based, like sushi. Enjoy sushi rolls, ahi tuna, or grilled salmon. They also offer edamame. It’s weird to say that one of the best sushi rolls I’ve had came from a bowling alley.
Tortilla Jo’s at Downtown Disney
Tortilla Jo’s is my go-to at Downtown Disney District. It offers plenty of group seating outside and on their patio for larger groups. It’s a good idea to make reservations in advance to avoid sometime hour-long waits. And, it’s really good Mexican food – not just good because it’s so close to the park.
Tortilla Jo’s has the most expansive gluten-free menu in all of Downtown Disney at Disneyland.
You can see from their menu that gluten-free options are available at every part of the menu. You can’t go to Tortilla Jo’s and not get the tableside guacamole, chips and salsa, or the nachos. Do not go here if you’re on a low carb or keto diet, because we are here for the carbs.
Dairy-free and gluten-free is a bit trickier at Tortilla Jo’s, but not impossible. I just order everything without the cheese. While they may have asked me a few times if I was sure that I wanted the nacho platter without cheese, it was still a hearty meal. If you’re not into chips, I would definitely get the tacos without dairy. If you put enough guacamole, rice, and beans on something – you’ll forget cheese even existed.
Other Options at Downtown Disney
There are gluten-free options at Ballast Point Brewing Company, Black Tap Craft Burgers and Shakes, Catal, La Brea Bakery, Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria, and Earl of Sandwich, however I have not been there and can’t attest to their safety of taste. If you’re in a crunch, you can also get a gluten-free smoothie at Jamba Juice.
With any Disneyland visit, make sure you check out Krysten’s Kitchen blog, my go-to source for any questions I have about eating with special diets at Disneyland!
Visit Downtown Disney District
Join me at Disneyland with the My Gluten Free World Expo team! You can get more details about the event this May 2020. With this package you’ll receive:
- Discounted Disneyland Tickets with Park Hopper options and Max Pass options available
- Discounted Hotel Accommodations at the Four Points by Sheraton Anaheim, a short 10 minute walk to the parks
- Gluten Free Welcome Breakfast Buffet
- Swag Bag valued at over $300 with samples and snacks
- Exclusive Mickey Goes Gluten Free T-Shirts
- Exclusive updated Disneyland Gluten Free Dining Guide
CLICK TO REGISTER HERE! On the second page in the notes, please let them know that Celiac and the Beast (or use the code CATB) referred you! If you use the code when you pay, you’ll get $10 off!
If you want to ask questions before you register, email gfwpassport@mygfwexpo.com and let them know that Celiac and the Beast sent you (or use the code CATB)! If you use the code when you pay, you’ll get $10 off!
