In the past decade or so, gluten-free (GF) diets have become extremely popular among the general public for various health and potential weight loss reasons. But if you or a loved one have Celiac disease, you know that sticking to a strict gluten-free diet isn’t always just a lifestyle choice – it’s essential. That’s because when people with Celiac disease eat gluten, it causes their immune systems to attack their small intestines, which can lead to stomach and joint pain, nutritional deficiencies, fatigue, tingling or numbness, infertility, and a host of other symptoms.

Avoiding glutinous substances like wheat, rye, and barley means cutting out obvious foods like bread, pasta, and beer, as well as eliminating foods with gluten-containing ingredients such as soy sauce. This can make grocery shopping and dining out a challenge. In many cases there simply aren’t gluten-free options, and sometimes labels and menus don’t give you enough information to know whether you can eat a certain meal. What’s more, gluten can turn up in unexpected sources like modified food starch, preservatives and food stabilizers, and certain medications and nutritional supplements.

We know it’s not easy – particularly in Seattle, a city with such a vibrant food and drink scene. But you should still be able to enjoy a good meal! That’s why we put together a list of our favorite Celiac-friendly places to eat, drink, and shop for groceries right here in our own backyard. Whether you’re a native Seattleite, new to the area, or just stopping by, we hope you can eat well and stay healthy in the Emerald City.

Out to Eat

• NuFlours Bakery: This bakery is a “Dedicated GF Facility,” which means there are no gluten-containing foods on their premises and they strictly monitor their foods for trace amounts of gluten. In fact, they’ve developed their own signature flour blend, “which consists of millet, sorghum, tapioca and potato flours.” Swing by their shop for breakfast, lunch, or specialty bakery items!

• Razzi's Pizzeria: Razzi’s serves both regular and GF pizza, and their kitchen is certified by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization as safe for people with Celiac Disease. This restaurant is a great place to bring friends and family members regardless of their dietary needs: As their website says, “If you’re a gluten-free vegan and your friend is the traditional meat-loving type, you’re probably heading to Razzi’s.”

On Tap

• Ghostfish Brewing Company: Ghostfish brewing is entirely dedicated to making delicious GF beers. They’ve even won national awards for their Grapefruit IPA, Pale Ale, Belgian White Ale, and Blonde Ale!

Roaming the Aisles

• Marlene’s Market & Deli: This one stop shop for veggies, meats, and sweets “[caters] to customers with specific dietary needs like wheat free, gluten free, low sodium, raw, vegan, vegetarian, paleo, and more.”

• Champion Grocery: Champion is known for stocking bulk foods and has lots of gluten-free options. If you like to bake at home, check out their wide variety of gluten-free flours!

• For more Celiac-friendly ideas and Seattle eatery ratings, check out Findmeglutenfree.com.

Whether it’s you or your friend managing Celiac disease, this list is sure to provide delicious and nutritious options that you can both enjoy. And with the summer months just around the corner, we hope you take advantage of all the gluten-free goodness Seattle has to offer.

If you have another great spot to share, let us know in the comments below!

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The information provided in this post should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice or individual research. Always confirm with restaurants and stores that their menu items are gluten-free. BRI does not endorse these eateries beyond their offerings of gluten-free food.