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Home ยป Gluten Free Tips

Gluten-Free Dining at Universal Studios: The Ultimate Guide

Published: Sep 6, 2019 by Sharon McCaskill ยท Modified: Jan 19, 2024 ยท โœ…Edited and Reviewed by: Sharon McCaskill, MA, RDN ยท This post may contain affiliate links ยท 28 Comments

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Do you have all the questions about eating gluten-free at Universal Studios in Orlando or Hollywood?

This is the ultimate guide to Universal dining options for someone who eats gluten-free due to celiac disease, a gluten allergy, or gluten intolerance including each theme park, the Universal orlando resorts as well as City Walk options.

Keep reading for all the advice, or use the table of contents to jump to your question!


Are you new here? Here's tips to live gluten-free without the stress!

  • How to eat out SAFELY when youโ€™re gluten-free
  • How to make ANY recipe gluten-free
  • How to TRAVEL gluten-free and still have fun

โ€ฆget valuable support in my EXCLUSIVE Facebook communityย โ€œStress-Free Gluten-Freeโ€ by clicking here!


The gluten-free guide below is based on personal experience and research.ย  Always be sure to discuss any medical changes with your doctor for your personal medical needs.ย Additionally, this post contains affiliate links.ย  As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. My full disclosure isnโ€™t that interesting,ย but you can find itย here.ย 

The Ultimate Guide to Gluten-Free Dining at Universal Studios Florida

This spring my husband and I enjoyed our first visit to Universal.ย  Heโ€™s a roller coaster/ride junky who was ready to check out the rides and I am a huge Harry Potter nerd.ย 

We were so excited to visit, but I was a bit nervous about finding good food options for gluten-free dining at Universal Studios Orlando.ย 

You know, delicious foodโ€”not food that leaves you feeling left out of the fun.ย 

Keep reading for the gluten-free food options available in each Universal theme park, resort, and Universal's City Walk.

me at WWOHP
Just me geeking out at WWoHP

You can also use my absolute favorite tool for finding so many delicious options throughout the Universal Parks, Resorts, City Walk, and the greater Orlando area with the Gluten Free Eats map by Atly.

Dine Gluten Free Without Limits
Gluten Free Eats Map

Navigate the world of gluten-free dining with ease. Don't waste time searching the internet or relying on outdated reviews โ€“ let the Gluten Free Eats map by Atly be your go-to resource for gluten-free dining!

With this comprehensive map you can easily discover all the top-rated gluten-free restaurants, cafes, and bakeries in your area.

Grab your free trial and start exploring 27,000+ eateries today!

Gluten Free Eats Map
Activate Your Free Trial

Gluten-Free Options in Every Park

I was impressed at how many options are scattered throughout each park at Universal.ย 

There are plenty of safe options for quick service--you can find grab and go snacking throughout the park:

  • fruit cups
  • cheese platters
  • gluten-free snack bars
  • bags of gluten-free chips
Baked Potato from a stand in Universal Studios Orlando (the employee looked up on his computer to ensure it would be gluten-free and listened closely to our needs to reduce the chances of cross-contamination!

Plus, if you enter a Starbucks (thereโ€™s one in each park), you can find all the trusty grab & go gluten-free Starbucks snacks youโ€™re familiar with such as fruit bars, Goodie Girl cookies, and gluten-free popcorn.

While I wouldn't put Universal's accommodations for food allergies or Celiac Disease on as high as a pedestal as Disney World, each person I checked with about ingredients and preparation methods were more than happy to help.

They even showed us the book or screen listing allergens and gave us an honest answer when we asked preparation methods.

If you're curious about the types of questions to ask when eating out, check out this list!

Take this quick quiz and uncover the secrets to making your gluten-free lifestyle not just manageable, but truly enjoyable with custom recipes and tips!

in post quiz graphic with image of sharon eating yogurt with text overlay: your custom gluten free blueprint awaits
Take the Quiz Now!

What to Bring With You

There are a couple items that you should definitely bring with you on your trip to Universal (especially if youโ€™re gluten-free and/or have food allergies!)

  • a string backpack
    • Youโ€™ll need to store the stuff you bring in something to carry around.ย  For many of the rides youโ€™ll need to put your backpack in a lockerโ€”the small ones are free, but small.ย  A string backpack is the perfect size to squish in a locker.
      The ones with water bottle pockets are amazing!
  • water bottles
    • Bring your own reusable water bottles into the parkโ€”any stand with fountain drinks will fill your water bottle for FREE.ย  Just make sure your water bottle isnโ€™t glass.
      These water bottles are perfect for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
  • snacks
    • You can bring your own gluten-free snacks into Universal.ย  Just make sure to put them into your backpack.ย  Need ideas of what to bring?ย  Check out my ultimate gluten-free snack guide here.
  • medicines and/or your EpiPen
    • If you don't want to leave your medicine in a locker while on rides.... it's time to get a small fanny pack! (I know, I know)
  • dietary restriction dining card
    • When dining with dietary restrictions, itโ€™s helpful to bring something that clearly states what you can and cannot have.ย 

Take this quick quiz and uncover the secrets to making your gluten-free lifestyle not just manageable, but truly enjoyable with custom recipes and tips!

in post quiz graphic with image of sharon eating yogurt with text overlay: your custom gluten free blueprint awaits
Take the Quiz Now!

When traveling to Universal with dietary restrictions, always be sure to contact Universal ahead of time and speak to the staff/management/chefs at each eatery to ensure that food formulations havenโ€™t changed.

Keep reading for specific restaurants throughout Universal Orlando and Hollywood that provide gluten-free options.

Gluten-Free Dining at Universal Studios Restaurants

You can find SOMETHING gluten-free at pretty much any restaurant throughout Universal Studios.ย 

The official statement from Universal is to clearly advocate for your dietary needs to the hostess and the kitchen will accommodate.

Keep reading for the amazing safe options for gluten-free dining at Universal Studios.

Lombard's Seafood Grille

A number of options that can be prepared gluten-free and vegan on their menu including San Francisco Cobb Salad and Portobello Quinoa.ย 

They also have some great gluten-free surf and turf options such as the Grilled 10oz Striploin or the Grilled Mahi-Mahi Sandwich.ย 

If you want to eat here during your Universal Studios visit, itโ€™s a good idea to make reservations.

Finneganโ€™s

While the fryers at this pub are not dedicated gluten-free, they are many options that can be prepared gluten-free including a gluten-free bun for sandwiches and burgers.

Be sure to talk to the manager or chef while dining so they can point you in the right direction.

Gluten-Free Options at Islands of Adventure Restaurants

Just like at Universal Studios, you can find SOMETHING gluten-free at pretty much any restaurant throughout Islands of Adventure.ย 

The official statement from Universal is to clearly advocate for your dietary needs to the hostess and the kitchen will accommodate.

Mythos Restaurant Gluten-Free Menu

The Mythos Universal menu has an extensive assortment of options on their gluten free menu including various salads & soup, sandwiches, and entrees.ย 

These options are mouthwatering including noteworthy options such as the Balsamic Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Beef Loin Medallions, and the Mythos Signature Lamb Burger.ย 

There are also gluten-free vegan options at Mythos Restaurant including Summer Truffle Risotto and Pad Thai.ย 

If you want to eat here during your Universal Studios visit, itโ€™s a good idea to make reservations.

Confisco Grille

Confisco Grille also has a decent assortment of gluten-free options including gluten-free โ€œTrader Wings,โ€ the Pico Avocado Burger, and a BLT Chicken Sandwich.ย 

If you want to eat here during your Universal Studios visit, itโ€™s a good idea to make reservations.

Eating Gluten-Free at Universal Resorts

If looking to dine at the Universal Resorts, there are numerous restaurants with gluten-free options.ย  Be sure to chat with guest services about which resorts have the restaurants that best accommodate your gluten-free needs before booking.ย 

When we visited Universal, we used Jessica Tullino from Imagineered Vacations for our travel planning, and she did all of our booking and reservations.ย 

Plus, she understands dietary restrictions very wellโ€”and her services are completely FREE!ย  Be sure to contact her and mention that I, Sharon McCaskill from The Helpful GF, referred you!

Some of the Universal gluten-free options at the resorts include:

  • Mama Della's Ristorante (Loews Portofino Bay Hotel)
  • The Kitchen (Hard Rock)
  • Islands Dining Room (Loews Royal Pacific)
  • Jake's American Bar (Lowes Royal Pacific)
  • Amatista Cookhouse (Loews Sapphire Falls)

Universal Studios Hollywood Gluten-Free

There are numerous gluten-free options available at the Universal Studios Hollywood location.ย  While all of these options are designated as gluten-free on their website, be sure to confirm these options at each specific eatery.ย 

Gluten-free dining at Universal Studios Hollywood is easy as the park publishes a list of the gluten-free options plus vegetarian, vegan, and dairy-free options by clicking here.

Gluten-Free at Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Whether you are at Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade, you can find SOMETHING gluten-free at either the Leaky Cauldron or the Three Broomsticks.ย 

The official statement from Universal is to clearly advocate for your dietary needs to the hostess and the kitchen will accommodate.ย  Keep reading for specific options available at each of these restaurants.

Is Butterbeer Gluten-Free?

My number one question when heading to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter was: โ€œIs butterbeer gluten-free?โ€ย 

For those of you wonderingโ€ฆ the answer is YES!ย 

Butterbeer, butterbeer foam, and butterbeer ice cream are all gluten-free (but not dairy-free).ย  Cheers!

image of butterbeer

Canโ€™t make it to Universal for some authentic butterbeer? You can make some at home using a gluten-free butterscotch syrup like this one and following this homemade butterbeer recipe.

Leaky Cauldron Menu Gluten-Free Options

When visiting Diagon Alley, of course you want to stop at the Leaky Cauldron.ย 

While their menu doesnโ€™t specifically state โ€œgluten-free,โ€ the hostess and chef will do their best to accommodate your needs.ย  They offer both gluten-free breakfast and lunch/dinner options.ย 

Breakfast options go beyond just eggs and meat to also offer gluten-free pancakes.

Three Broomsticks Menu Gluten-Free Options

The Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade operates similarly with the Leaky Cauldron. ย 

While their menu doesnโ€™t specifically state โ€œgluten-free,โ€ the hostess and chef will do their best to accommodate your needs.ย 

In addition to salads, there are meat options including roasted chicken or ribs and sides including veggies and corn on the cob.ย  Be sure to drink some butterbeer with it!

WWOHP Candy Options

At both Honeydukes in Hogsmeade or Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes in Diagon alley you can find some gluten-free options for candy.ย  Although, you must read the labels carefully.ย 

Most of the candy items contain warnings that they are produced on equipment that also produces wheat and other allergens.ย 

However, I did find a few options at this shops that did not contain this warning including Pepper Imps, a Sugar Quill Lollipop, and good old Pumpkin Juice. I didn't find any items that had a gluten-free label.

Click here for more general tips for visiting Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

pepper imps pumpkin juice and sugar quill

Universal Studios City Walk Gluten-Free Options

Eating gluten-free at Universal Studios City Walk is a bit different than eating within the park itself.ย 

While they adhere to the official statement from Universal (advocate for your dietary needs to the hostess and the kitchen will accommodate), many of these restaurants are chains and have their own dietary protocols.ย 

Keep reading for specific gluten-free offerings on their menus!

Is Universal Studios City Walk Free?

Universal Studios City Walk can be free depending on the time of day:

  • 11am-6pm youโ€™ll receiving reimbursement of your parking fee if you have two movie tickets for Universal Cinemark for a movie during those times.
  • After 6pmโ€”just come in and get free parking for dinner! (the website claims that certain restrictions applyโ€”be sure to check with Universal that parking will be free on the day you plan!)

Jimmy Buffett'sยฎ Margaritaville

Margaritaville has one of the largest gluten-free menus at Universal!ย 

Gluten-free options abound as starters/appetizers, salads, entrees, burgers & sandwiches, and even dessert options.ย  Notable options include Volcano Nachos, Taco Salad, Island Kabobs, Florida Grouper Sandwich, and the Gluten-Free Brownie Sundae.ย 

Margaritaville also has various vegan options as well.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Company

Bubba Gump Shrimp Company does have items designated โ€œgluten-sensitiveโ€ on their menu, but also has the following disclaimer:

โ€œWhile we use caution in preparing our gluten-sensitive menu items, our kitchen is not gluten-free. Since our dishes are prepared-to-order, during normal kitchen operations, we cannot guarantee that cross-contamination with foods containing gluten will not occur. We encourage you to carefully consider your dining choices and your individual dietary needs when dining with us. When placing your order, please let your server know that you are ordering a gluten-sensitive menu item.โ€

VIVO Italian Kitchen

While specific items arenโ€™t designated gluten-free on Vivo Italian Kitchenโ€™s menu, their menu does state: "many of our items can be prepared gluten free."

Gluten-Free at the Hard Rock Hotel Orlandoโ€”The Kitchen

Whether or not you are staying overnight at the resort, The Kitchen at the Hard Rock Hotel has a full gluten-free menu.ย 

There are numerous gluten-free options including salads, flatbreads, burgers/sandwiches, entrees (such as Filet Mignon and Pan Seared Ahi Tuna Steak), and even desserts (including a Gluten-Free Brownie Sundae and Crรจme Brulee).ย 

Want to explore beyond these favorites? The Gluten Free Eats Map offers a comprehensive list of gluten-free restaurants and eateries at Universal and the Orlando area. Your next great meal is just a tap away.

Dine Gluten Free Without Limits
Gluten Free Eats Map

Navigate the world of gluten-free dining with ease. Don't waste time searching the internet or relying on outdated reviews โ€“ let the Gluten Free Eats map by Atly be your go-to resource for gluten-free dining!

With this comprehensive map you can easily discover all the top-rated gluten-free restaurants, cafes, and bakeries in your area.

Grab your free trial and start exploring 27,000+ eateries today!

Gluten Free Eats Map
Activate Your Free Trial

If youโ€™re planning a trip to Universal, start getting excited about the gluten-free and food allergy friendly options available to you!ย  There are so many.ย  And donโ€™t forget toย contact Jessica and tell her I referred you.ย  She made our whole trip to Universal totally easy.

What's they key to loving your gluten free life? Get your personalized plan with the guide you need to thrive!

in post quiz graphic with image of sharon eating yogurt with text overlay: your custom gluten free blueprint awaits
Take the Quiz Now!

Have you eaten at any of the restaurants in Universal?ย  Comment below and tell us where and what you ate!

Did you love these tips for gluten-free dining at Universal Studios? Be sure to use the social buttons below to share this post with your friends or pin it to Pinterest for quick reference later.

Other posts you may find interesting:

  • Top Tips for Simple & Easy Gluten-free Living
  • Best Gluten-Free Gifts to Give
  • Simple Gluten-Free Lunches for Kids
  • How to Stay on a Budget when Eating Gluten-Free
image of universal entrance, butter beer, and baked potato

The Ultimate Guide to Eating Gluten-Free at Universal Studios Parks and Resorts

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Pamela Jessen

    September 12, 2019 at 8:22 am

    What an excellent resource you've put together for those who eat gluten free. It's nice to know you can still enjoy the parks and all they offer and not go hungry or have to pack your own food!!!

    Thanks for your hard work in creating this post!!

    Reply
    • thehelpfulgf

      September 12, 2019 at 2:07 pm

      Aw, thanks so much! I hope it's a useful guide for you! <3

      Reply
  2. Rachel

    February 20, 2020 at 7:15 am

    Love all these suggestions, looks like there are plenty of options! And yay butter beer! โค๏ธ Thanks for the advice, I'll pass it on to my GF family members!

    Reply
    • thehelpfulgf

      February 24, 2020 at 7:44 am

      Yes... the butterbeer makes the trip worth it!

      Reply
  3. Katy Emanuel

    February 20, 2020 at 9:25 am

    Thanks for sharing this info. Last time my husband and I went to Universal we found it challenging to find anything that was safe for me to eat.

    Reply
    • thehelpfulgf

      February 24, 2020 at 7:45 am

      Yes, it can be challenging. We definitely still brought our own snacks and refillable water bottles, but each stand and restaurant has kiosks with up to date allergens. Most of the staff were caring and helpful!

      Reply
  4. Ashley Schimonitz

    February 23, 2020 at 8:34 am

    Thank you so much for all the research! Super helpful!

    Reply
    • thehelpfulgf

      February 24, 2020 at 7:45 am

      Great! I'm so happy you found it helpful! Enjoy your trip.

      Reply
  5. Melissa Bryan

    May 15, 2020 at 1:01 pm

    I am so happy to hear about this! With what my husband calls, "my unhappy belly", going places on vacation can be somewhat daunting. It sounds like you all had a fantastic time!

    Reply
    • thehelpfulgf

      May 18, 2020 at 8:48 am

      Yes, it definitely is daunting! We had a great experience and the staff was super helpful!

      Reply
  6. Marissa

    May 03, 2021 at 1:36 pm

    This was so so helpful!!! I cannot thank you enough for providing such great explanations for me. I have been so stressed and you helped me tremendously!! ๐Ÿ™‚

    Reply
    • Sharon McCaskill

      May 03, 2021 at 1:45 pm

      oh, I am SO happy to hear this--this made my day! I hope you have a wonderful trip.

      Reply
  7. anna

    January 26, 2022 at 10:40 am

    I love harry potter and I'm gluten-free so this place will be amazing.

    Reply
    • Sharon McCaskill

      February 03, 2022 at 2:13 pm

      oooh yes! I LOVE potter, I geeked out the whole time!

      Reply
  8. Elaine Gilchrist

    January 26, 2022 at 5:55 pm

    I run a Facebook group for gluten free at Universal. It frustrates me immensely that they have a bad reputation for catering for dietary requirements when nothing could be further from the truth!
    Glad to see a positive review. There are so many great options!

    Reply
    • Sharon McCaskill

      February 03, 2022 at 2:12 pm

      oh, I love this! What a fantastic resource ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
    • Alisha

      March 06, 2022 at 11:51 am

      @Elaine Gilchrist, What is the FB page. I would be interested in following for my son..

      Reply
    • Elaine

      July 22, 2022 at 3:45 pm

      @Alisha, Sorry, just seen your reply. It's Universally Gluten Free

      Reply
  9. Jerry Liddle

    October 10, 2022 at 8:53 am

    This is a great resource for gluten-free but doesn't address the unhealthy nature of the processed foods or sugar in these options. Gluten sensitivity is my issue, not an allergy. However, the sugar (carbohydrates) and nutritionally poor nature of most gluten-free foods leads me to want more information about these options.

    Reply
    • Sharon McCaskill

      October 10, 2022 at 9:43 am

      thanks for your response! The goal of this website is to specifically address the subject of gluten. I'm a big advocate of food freedom (especially since those on a gluten free diet are already so restricted). It is true that processed gluten free food has higher sugar, fat, and salt than it's traditional gluten-containing version. Yet, I also know that while on vacation, enjoying a butterbeer or other fun gluten-free treat is definitely on their to-do list ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  10. beth

    November 30, 2022 at 11:02 am

    This is great. I wish the menus on the universal site listed at all the gluten-free options. For example, you've mentioned gluten-free pancakes at the leaky cauldron but I don't see those listed on their website. I wish people knew how hard this was for a gluten-free kid! Thank you again.

    Reply
    • Sharon McCaskill

      December 01, 2022 at 7:19 am

      I hope they're a regular thing! Let me know if they have them when you're there or if you have any updates after you go!

      Reply
  11. Marianne

    May 01, 2023 at 11:36 am

    Iโ€™d love to print this guide to give my daughter, who is going on a school trip next week. Is it still available? Right now, the link to download appears to be just an image, though I may have missed something.

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Sharon McCaskill

      May 03, 2023 at 7:02 am

      Oops! that was an old freebie, I've switched it out with my quiz. I can email it to you though! Can I email it to the email you included with the comment?

      Reply
    • Marianne

      May 04, 2023 at 4:06 pm

      @Sharon McCaskill, that is so kind of you! That is the right email, thank you. ๐Ÿค—

      Reply
      • Sharon McCaskill

        May 05, 2023 at 1:01 pm

        Just sent it! hope it helps!

        Reply
  12. Sandi

    September 26, 2023 at 8:40 pm

    Thank you for suggesting the Leaky Cauldron. We were able to find lots of great gluten free options. This list is pure gold and I will make sure to try more of your recommendations on our next Disney trip.

    Reply
    • Sharon McCaskill

      September 27, 2023 at 9:06 am

      I always try to hit Universal on my Disney Trips too! I'm so happy you were able to find some stuff you liked!

      Reply

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Hi! Iโ€™m Sharon McCaskill, RDN and I'm so happy you are here! Welcome to The Helpful GF where I help you live gluten-free with confidence and without the stress. โ™ฅ

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