Hidden Gems at Walt Disney World for Gluten Free Guests

I went gluten-free in 2013, and honestly, I expected travel to be harder. What I didn’t expect was how different Walt Disney World would be. Instead of feeling like I was missing out, Disney made me feel included. Safe dining didn’t mean boring food, and that changed everything for me.

Over the years, I’ve discovered that some of the best gluten-free options at Disney aren’t the ones everyone talks about. They’re the hidden gems. The quiet wins. The treats that make you pause and think, wow, I can actually have this. And in 2024, after experiencing chef after chef going above and beyond, I was reminded again why Disney continues to be my favorite place to travel gluten-free.

Here are a few of my favorite hidden gems for gluten-free guests at Walt Disney World.

Salt and Straw at Disney Springs

Salt and Straw has become my end-of-day ritual. After a long park day, I love heading to Disney Springs, ordering a scoop of something seasonal, and just slowing down. The team is wonderful with allergies and will open a fresh carton when needed, which makes all the difference when safety matters. It’s a small moment, but one that feels like a reward at the end of a magical day.

Gluten Free Beignets at Port Orleans French Quarter

These are legendary for a reason. The gluten free beignets at Port Orleans French Quarter are warm, soft, and coated in powdered sugar just like the original. The first time I tried them, I was hopeful and completely blown away. I can’t eat them anymore because of a rice allergy, but I still consider them one of Disney’s best gluten free wins and always recommend them to clients.

Gluten-Free Churros at Nomad Lounge

The gluten-free churros at Nomad Lounge in Disney’s Animal Kingdom were a spontaneous discovery that turned into a core memory. Sitting on the shaded patio, taking a break from the crowds, and enjoying a safe churro felt like a little slice of calm in the middle of a busy park day. I can’t eat them now due to additional allergies, but knowing they’re there for gluten-free guests still makes me smile.

Dole Whip Around the Parks

Dole Whip has always been a Disney favorite of mine, even before dietary restrictions. Finding out it was naturally gluten free made it even sweeter. Whether it’s Magic Kingdom or the Polynesian, I mix up flavors depending on the mood, and it’s now a required stop on every trip.

Allergy Friendly Mickey Waffles

There’s something about starting a Disney morning with gluten-free Mickey waffles that just feels right. Many resort restaurants can prepare them safely using dedicated waffle irons, and that sense of normalcy means everything. It’s one of those simple moments that reminds me how easy Disney makes gluten-free dining feel.

A Sweet Surprise at Sebastian’s Bistro

On one visit to Sebastian’s Bistro at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, a chef surprised me with a lemon Mickey cookie and house-made strawberry sorbet. It wasn’t on the menu, but it was perfect. That moment summed up Disney dining for me: thoughtful, creative, and full of care. It’s something I rarely experience outside of Disney, and it’s why I trust them so much.

Why These Gluten-Free Hidden Gems Matter

If you’re newly diagnosed or nervous about traveling gluten-free, I want you to know this: eating safely at Disney is not only possible, it’s still delicious. Walt Disney World has mastered the balance of safety and joy, and these hidden gems prove it again and again.

That feeling of safety and normalcy is why I keep coming back. And every trip, I find a new favorite.

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