For those who are gluten-intolerant, living with celiac disease, or simply choosing a gluten-free lifestyle, dining out can sometimes feel restrictive. But in New York City, a world of flavorful, gluten-free options awaits—ranging from elegant, fully gluten-free restaurants to charming bakeries that create decadent, wheat-free pastries you’ll crave long after the last bite.
Here are 7 must-visit gluten-free spots in NYC, including 3 incredible restaurants and 4 standout bakeries, each offering delicious food without compromise.
🍽️ Top Gluten-Free Restaurants in NYC
1. Senza Gluten
Location: Greenwich Village
Why Visit: 100% Gluten-Free Italian Cuisine
Senza Gluten is a game-changer in the NYC gluten-free dining scene. This charming restaurant in the heart of Greenwich Village offers a full Italian menu that’s completely gluten-free—from pasta to tiramisu. Whether you’re craving lasagna, gnocchi, or traditional bruschetta, you can indulge here without hesitation.
What to Try: The Fettuccine alla Bolognese or the gluten-free Tiramisu—both are house favorites.
2. Thyme & Tonic
Location: Upper West Side
Why Visit: Plant-forward, gluten-free options in a beautiful setting
Thyme & Tonic offers a gluten-free and wellness-focused menu that balances flavor with nourishment. Their dishes are primarily plant-based, beautifully presented, and packed with bold flavors. The elegant décor and relaxed ambiance make it ideal for brunch, lunch, or a date night.
What to Try: The jackfruit tacos or the gluten-free cauliflower crust flatbread.
3. Erin McKenna’s Bakery (Restaurant Collaboration Menus)
Location: Lower East Side
Why Visit: A pioneer in gluten-free sweets and pop-up dining events
Though primarily a bakery (more on that below), Erin McKenna’s also partners with local restaurants and cafés to provide fully gluten-free, allergen-friendly meal options. Keep an eye out for limited-time collaborations and menus that extend beyond the bakery’s classic cupcakes.
What to Try: Watch their socials for savory menu drops—past pop-ups have included mac & cheese, quinoa bowls, and plant-based chili.
🍩 Best Gluten-Free Bakeries in NYC
1. Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC
Location: Lower East Side
Why Visit: Iconic gluten-free and vegan bakery
Erin McKenna’s is a legend in the gluten-free world. Since 2005, this bakery has served up a dreamy selection of allergen-friendly desserts. Everything is gluten-free, vegan, and soy-free—but you’d never guess it by the taste. The bakery is also known for its retro vibe and loyal cult following.
What to Try: The cinnamon sugar donuts and red velvet cupcakes are divine.
2. Modern Bread and Bagel
Location: Upper West Side
Why Visit: A fully gluten-free Jewish-style deli and bakery
Modern Bread and Bagel has changed the gluten-free breakfast game in NYC. Their gluten-free bagels are some of the best in the city, served with house-made cream cheeses, smoked salmon, and even gluten-free challah French toast. It’s a must for anyone missing the joy of a New York bagel.
What to Try: A smoked salmon bagel with herbed cream cheese—or treat yourself to the babka.
3. Posh Pop Bakeshop
Location: Greenwich Village
Why Visit: Decadent, Instagram-worthy, 100% gluten-free desserts
If you’re looking for over-the-top indulgence, Posh Pop delivers. Think towering cake slices, colorful cookies, and gooey brownies—all 100% gluten-free. With a bold interior and over-the-top flavors, it’s as much a visual experience as it is a culinary one.
What to Try: The rainbow cookie cake and red velvet cheesecake brownie.
4. By the Way Bakery
Location: Upper West Side
Why Visit: Elegant, kosher, gluten-free pastries made from scratch
This tiny, charming bakery offers handmade gluten-free and dairy-free treats that feel like they were baked with love. By the Way Bakery specializes in European-style cakes, tea cookies, and muffins—the kind of baked goods that taste like tradition.
What to Try: Lemon poppy seed loaf or chocolate chip almond cookies.
🌟 Why Gluten-Free Food in NYC is Better Than Ever
New York’s gluten-free scene has evolved far beyond boring salads or dry bread substitutes. These restaurants and bakeries are led by passionate chefs, bakers, and innovators who’ve set out to prove that gluten-free can still mean full of flavor, texture, and indulgence.
Whether you’re looking for a casual brunch, an elegant dinner, or a sweet treat on the go, the city offers something truly exciting for gluten-free foodies—and many of these businesses also cater to other allergies, including dairy, soy, and nuts.
✨ Plan Your Gluten-Free NYC Adventure
Visiting New York with a gluten-free diet no longer means missing out. In fact, with these standout restaurants and bakeries, you might just eat better than ever. From rich pastas and savory flatbreads to sky-high cakes and artisan bagels, gluten-free dining in NYC is full of creativity, passion, and flavor.
So, skip the stress. Bookmark these spots, make a reservation, and prepare to fall in love with gluten-free all over again.