For two years, the National Capital Region has been my home, with one year spent in Aylmer, Quebec, and the subsequent year in Ottawa. While this gluten-free guide predominantly focuses on Ottawa, it also includes select establishments on the Quebec side of the river, featuring noteworthy celiac-friendly treats that are simply unmissable. This guide aims to be a dynamic resource, continually updated with new discoveries as they are made. Having completed a year in Ottawa, I am pleased to present the premier gluten-free culinary experiences discovered so far, acknowledging that many more establishments await exploration.
This guide is structured into two primary sections: dedicated gluten-free facilities in Ottawa, and restaurants and food stalls that, while not entirely gluten-free, demonstrate a strong commitment to safely accommodating celiac diners. Many establishments offer gluten-free options, but not all implement the stringent measures necessary to prevent cross-contact, a critical concern for individuals with celiac disease. The severity of this autoimmune condition means that even minimal gluten exposure can cause internal harm, regardless of whether symptoms are immediately apparent. Therefore, for celiacs, the risk of consuming gluten in a non-dedicated facility is one that cannot be taken.
While Ottawa may present fewer exclusively gluten-free establishments compared to a city like Montreal, it boasts a commendable array of delightful bakeries, food trucks, and dining options for gluten-free patrons. A comparison to the United Kingdom, where food allergen regulations are robust, highlighting clear menu labeling and widespread restaurant accommodation for celiac needs, reveals an aspirational standard. Nevertheless, Ottawa offers a satisfying and delicious gluten-free dining landscape, even if the selection is more curated than in larger culinary hubs like Toronto, Montreal, or New York.
It is important to clarify that all experiences detailed within this guide were personally funded, with no sponsorships or collaborations involved. This compilation stems from independent research and personal exploration. For readers new to Legal Nomads, the About Page provides further details on the site’s policy regarding sponsorships, which is a commitment to maintaining editorial independence.
Dedicated (100%) Gluten-Free Establishments in Ottawa
Strawberry Blonde Bakery
With its main location at 111 Richmond Road in Westboro, Ottawa, Strawberry Blonde Bakery has expanded to two locations, offering a wide variety of vegan, nut-free, kosher, and entirely gluten-free treats. Beyond their daily offerings of cookies, cupcakes, brownies, and Nanaimo bars, they also specialize in custom cakes, including a memorable gluten-free, soy-free, vegan birthday cake created for the author. Their seasonal menu keeps offerings fresh, and they provide nationwide shipping and local delivery within Ottawa. They can be found on Instagram @blondebaking.
Gutsies
Located at 2297 St. Joseph Boulevard in Orléans, Gutsies is a unique shop and bakery that sources exceptional gluten-free products from Montreal and Toronto, alongside their own delectable baked goods and prepared meals. Their offerings include fresh bread, pastries, muffins, and a substantial selection of hard-to-find specialty items. The founder, Natasha, whose daughter was diagnosed with celiac disease, is particularly accommodating, even offering smaller packaging for soups to ease lifting for those with specific physical challenges. Gutsies is renowned for its frozen pizza dough, considered among the best by seasoned celiacs. Early risers might snag fresh croissants and pain au chocolat from Montreal’s La Marquise Sans Gluten, or opt for frozen versions to bake at home. Their banana chocolate muffins are a decadent must-try. Connect with them on Instagram @gutsies_gf and Facebook.
2 Sprinkles (formerly 5 Cupcakes)
This family-owned business, formerly known as 5 Cupcakes, has rebranded as 2 Sprinkles. Operating primarily online and at local markets, they offer a growing menu that includes their signature sprinkle donuts (baked, not fried), brownies, pizza buns, cookies, crispy calzones, and artisanal breads in flavors like herb garlic and onion cheese. Their cupcakes, previously a highlight, are expected to return. Online orders can be picked up at the Lansdowne farmers market, with delivery also available within Ottawa. Find them on Instagram @2sprinklesgf and Facebook.
Voila Gluten-Free Bakeree
Situated at 4055 Carling Avenue, Unit 2, in Kanata, Voila Gluten-Free Bakeree is a family-operated establishment that caters not only to celiacs but also to individuals avoiding dairy, eggs, peanuts, nuts, and tree nuts. They prioritize natural sweeteners and aim for low sodium and low sugar content in their extensive range of bagels, breads, savory and sweet pies, tarts, muffins, and cupcakes. They are active on Instagram @voilaglutenfree and Facebook @voilaottawa.
Spring Chips
This stall, located at 55 Byward Market Square, is celebrated for its "potato tornado" spirals, reminiscent of street food enjoyed in Thailand. Spring Chips is a family-run operation that prepares its own gluten-free seasoning for the freshly fried potato spirals. They are a regular at the Christmas market at Lansdowne, the Byward Market, CFL games at TD Stadium, and various festivals. Important Note: Only their "tent" setups are guaranteed gluten-free. Their larger operations, including food trucks or menus featuring fries, may share fryers with flour-dusted items, making them unsafe for celiacs. The Lansdowne Christmas Market setup is confirmed to be gluten-free. Connect with them on Facebook @SpringChipsOfficial and Instagram @SpringChips_Official.
Farang Thai
Operating online and at local markets, Farang Thai is run by a non-Thai owner ("farang" means foreigner in Thai) who, along with his partner, has dedicated themselves to perfecting authentic Thai recipes. The co-owner is celiac, ensuring a deep understanding of cross-contact concerns. Their satay chicken and pandan leaf tea are highly recommended. They are frequently found at the 613 Flea market in Lansdowne, with their event schedule available on their website. They also offer frozen meals. All items are 100% gluten-free. Find them on Instagram @farangthaiottawa and Facebook @FarangThaiOttawa.
Chicha Canada
Chicha Canada offers a delightful non-alcoholic, rice-based beverage from Venezuela, prepared by Fernando Gonzalez. This traditional indigenous drink, made from various grains, is served in compostable cups or glass mason jars. Chicha Canada’s menu is entirely gluten-free, including their popular Oreo version, which uses gluten-free Oreos. The drink’s consistency is akin to a thick horchata. It is also dairy-free. Available flavors rotate, and the plain version is satisfyingly sweet, with maple syrup and Oreo additions catering to even the most discerning sweet tooth. Follow them on Instagram @ChichaCanada and Facebook @chichacanada for market locations.
Gluten-Free Dining in Ottawa by Cuisine
This section highlights restaurants that, while not exclusively gluten-free, are knowledgeable about celiac disease and implement measures to prevent cross-contact. The Greek Souvlaki Shack, for instance, is noted as being 95% gluten-free and exceptionally delicious.
Mediterranean and Italian
The Greek Souvlaki Shack
Located at 258 Bank Street, The Greek Souvlaki Shack has earned a reputation for its celiac-safe offerings. The owner personally prepares gluten-free pitas, and nearly the entire menu, including fried calamari, is safe for celiacs. While they lack a formal website or social media presence, their menu is available on UberEats. The gyros served with gluten-free pita evoke nostalgic memories of pre-celiac dining. It’s advisable to request extra tzatziki for dipping fries. Note that spanakopita and other phyllo-based items are not gluten-free, but the rest of the menu, including items from a dedicated fryer, is safe. Always inform staff about celiac disease when ordering.
La Dolce Vita
This Italian restaurant, situated at 180 Preston Street, holds Gluten-Free Certification from the GFFP (The Gluten-Free Food Program), ensuring the safety of its extensive gluten-free menu. Diners can enjoy pizzas, pastas, lasagnas, gnocchi, and more, all prepared to celiac-safe standards. Their full gluten-free menu is available online. They are active on Instagram @ladolcevita.glutenfree.
Ottavio
Across the river in Gatineau, Quebec, at 56A Gréber, Ottavio offers a menu clearly marked for multiple allergens, making it a safe dining option for families with diverse dietary needs. They are on Instagram @ottavioresto.
Aroma Meze
Recommended by local celiacs, Aroma Meze at 239 Nepean Street offers numerous gluten-free options and a seasonal menu. It is particularly noted for its gluten-free poutine with a dedicated fryer for fries and GF pitas. While the author has not personally dined here due to mobility limitations, its strong reputation warrants inclusion. Find them on Instagram @aroma.meze and Facebook @aromameze.
Thai
Social Thai
Known for its knowledgeable staff regarding celiac disease and its ability to adapt many dishes to be gluten-free, Social Thai at 399 Bank Street is a favored spot for local celiacs. They are on Instagram @socialthaiottawa.
Siam Bistro
At 1268 Wellington Street West, Siam Bistro was among the first Thai restaurants the author tried in Ottawa and remains a favorite. They are aware of cross-contact risks and can guide celiacs through their traditional Thai menu. A new location is slated to open in Lansdowne in autumn 2025. They are on Instagram @siambistro.ottawa.
Green Papaya
With several locations, the Preston Street franchise at 256 Preston Street is known to accommodate celiac needs and be aware of cross-contact risks. They are on Facebook @thaicuisineottawa.
Khao Thai
Khao Thai, located at 103 Murray Street, clearly marks gluten-free items on its menu. However, diners should confirm cross-contact protocols for wok-fried dishes like pad thai and fried rice. Their Tom Kha Gai is highly praised. They are on Instagram @khaothai.
Vietnamese
Many Vietnamese restaurants now use soy sauce in marinades, impacting celiac safety. Here are two reliable options:
Authentic Vietnamese Pho House
With three locations outside Ottawa’s city center, this establishment offers dishes like bánh hỏi (DIY platters), hủ tiếu, and phở. While the menu is marked "gluten friendly," it’s crucial to inform staff of celiac disease. They will cook phở noodles separately and ensure bun noodles are safe. Marinades should also be double-checked. They are on Facebook @vietnamesephohouse.
La Maison Pho (Aylmer)
Located at 4 Rue Belmont in Aylmer, Quebec, La Maison Pho is knowledgeable about celiac disease. Their takeout menu clearly indicates gluten-free options, including summer rolls (gỏi cuốn), phở, and rice vermicelli dishes (bún thịt nướng). They are on Instagram @la_maison_pho and Facebook @LaMaisonPho.
Poutine
T.F.T. – That Food Truck (Closed)
Sadly, T.F.T. ceased operations after the summer of 2024. The author expressed a deep regret for this loss, noting it as the best poutine in Ottawa. They are seeking recommendations for replacements.
Patate Lou Lou
Across the river in Aylmer, Quebec, at 29 Chemin Eardley, Patate Lou Lou is the author’s top pick for poutine in the region. It requires specific ordering of gluten-free gravy, paired with St. Albert’s curds. They utilize dedicated fryers for their fries and offer a vegan sauce option. They are on Facebook @profile.php?id=100069709391918.
The Great Canadian Poutinerie
With multiple locations, this chain is popular for its variety of poutine options. While the author is not a fan of their gravy, it remains a viable choice for those seeking diverse poutine experiences. They are on Instagram @tgcpoutinerie and Facebook @thegreatcanadianpoutinerie.
African
YKO Chicken BBQ
The location at 263 Dalhousie Street is known for its entirely gluten-free menu, with the exception of beignets. The co-owner, Ramata, ensures that starches are derived from cassava, rice, or plantain, and that no flour is added during cooking. Staff are knowledgeable about cross-contact, with fries being safe due to being cooked separately from any potential flour-dusted items. The chicken is smokey and tender, with delicious gluten-free side dishes like plantains. They are on Instagram @yko_chicken_bbq.
Pizza
Pizza Nerds
With two locations, Pizza Nerds offers inventive pizza flavors and a commendable cauliflower crust. They are knowledgeable about celiac disease and prepare gluten-free pizzas in a separate area, using a dedicated pan to prevent oven contact. The author enjoyed their Queen Elizabeth pizza, requesting no sauce due to mast cell issues, which was accommodated. They are on Instagram @pizza.nerds.
La Dolce Vita
(See Italian section above)
Johnny Farina
At 216 Elgin Street, Johnny Farina offers gluten-free pizza and pasta options. Staff are knowledgeable about celiac requirements and will use separate utensils and cutting boards. While not the author’s top GF pizza choice, it is a tasty option with many non-pizza alternatives. They are on Instagram @johnnyfarinarestaurant.
Pizza Stay Gold
This establishment at 360 Elgin Street specializes in Detroit-style pizza, offering decadent gluten-free options. Their GF pies are prepared in a separate area with dedicated equipment. However, their fryer is shared with breaded chicken items, making fried items unsafe for celiacs. The "Mission ImPESToble" pizza, featuring pesto, ricotta, and caramelized onions, is a standout. They are on Instagram @pizza_staygold.
Döner
Wolf Down
Located at 380 Bank Street, Wolf Down centers its menu on the döner kebab. Founder Joelle Parenteau developed the concept after experiencing Berlin döner. The restaurant prioritizes careful cross-contact protocols, pulling ingredients from the back for celiac orders. All sauces, chicken, tofu salads, and rice bowls are gluten-free. Their allergen list is available on their website. They are on Instagram @wolf.down.
Indian
Thali Ottawa
Thali Ottawa at 136 O’Connor Street clearly marks gluten-containing items on its menu. The author confirms that pappadum and pakora were safe during their visit, with no gluten-fried items in the shared fryer at that time, but advises confirming current protocols. Their sister restaurant, Coconut Lagoon, also offers excellent options. Both are the creations of Chef Joe Thottungal. They are on Instagram @thaliottawa and Facebook @thaliottawa.
Taj Indian Cuisine
This restaurant at 3009 Carling Avenue offers vegan, halal, vegetarian, and gluten-free options and is recommended by the Ottawa Celiac Association. Diners must specify celiac needs when ordering, and it’s advisable to confirm the status of fried products due to potential changes in shared fryer usage. They are on Instagram @tajottawa and Facebook @TajIndianCuisine.
East India Company
The downtown Ottawa location at 210 Somerset Street West offers generous portions of biryani and other mains, with rice served separately. While their menu marks gluten, a wheat symbol indicates unsafe dishes. They are on Instagram @eastindiacompanyrestaurants and Facebook @EastIndiaCompanyRestaurants.
Sona Indian Kitchen
A newer establishment at 1183 Hunt Club Road, Unit 104, Sona Indian Kitchen is attentive to cross-contact. While their menu clearly marks gluten-free items, their fryer is currently shared and not safe for celiacs. Their lamb biryani is a recommended dish for leftovers. Gluten-free items are marked as "celiac free" on UberEats. They are on Facebook @profile.php?id=100090167487313.
Indian Punjabi Clay Oven
Located further afield at 4055 Carling Avenue in Kanata, this restaurant is recommended by the local celiac association for its understanding of cross-contact. Paneer dishes and chicken biryani have been successfully enjoyed. They are on Instagram @indian_punjabi_clay_oven.
Latin American and Mexican Food
The Tortilla Maker of Canada
Founded by Mexican-Canadian entrepreneur Miguel Angel Jiménez Reyes, this establishment at 2003 St Joseph Boulevard in Orléans offers freshly made tortillas, salsas, and tamales in various flavors. It is a highly recommended option for authentic Mexican cuisine. They are on Instagram @tortillamaker.ca and Facebook @tortillamaker.ca.
Gooneys Sandwichworks
Located at 360 Laurier Avenue West, Gooneys offers delicious gluten-free arepas with diverse fillings and gluten-free empanadas. They are on Instagram @gooneysottawa and Facebook @gooneysottawa.
Arepas Place Ottawa
With a brick-and-mortar shop at 374 Bank Street, Alberto’s Arepas Place has been serving hand-made gluten-free arepas since 2018. They offer vegan options and signature garlic cilantro sauce. They are on Instagram @arepasplaceottawa.
La Cabana
This restaurant at 848-B Merivale Road specializes in pupusas, El Salvador’s national dish, which are naturally gluten-free and made with masa or rice flour. La Cabana clearly marks gluten-free options, with a rice flour option available. They are on Instagram @pupusasottawa.
La Fiesta Latina
At 565 Somerset Street West, La Fiesta Latina offers a menu where most items are gluten-free, with tacos and tortillas made from 100% masa harina. They are knowledgeable about celiac disease. They are on Instagram @lafiesta.latina.
Chamos Grill
This Venezuelan restaurant at 511 Lacolle Way in Orléans provides numerous gluten-free corn-based options, including arepas, empanadas, and tacos. They are highly aware of cross-contact needs, and delivery orders receive a gluten-free sticker. They are on Instagram @chamosgrillottawa.
Gluten-Free Baked Goods (for 100% GF bakeries, see above)
Little Jo Berry’s
While not a dedicated gluten-free facility at 1305 Wellington Street West, Little Jo Berry’s bakes its gluten-free items in a separate, cleaned area, verified for cross-contamination. The author, highly sensitive, has had positive experiences here. Their gluten-free donuts and a unique terrarium cake were highlights. They are on Instagram @littlejoberrys.
Rocket Scone
This scone company offers a sweet and a savory gluten-free option each week, baked separately by the owner’s husband, who has celiac disease. GF scones are uniquely shaped to prevent errors. They are available at various farmers’ markets. Their Instagram feed @rocketscones lists weekly offerings and locations.
Kokoro Bake Shop
Operating from a stall at the Main Street Farmers’ Market, Kokoro Bake Shop prepares gluten-free items before those with gluten to minimize cross-contact. They offer mochi cupcakes with Asian-inspired flavors and a highly recommended Japanese cheesecake. Their menu is usually shared on Saturdays before the market. They are on Instagram @kokorobakeshop.
Sushi and Poké
Kiko Sushi
Located at 349B Preston Street, Kiko Sushi is knowledgeable about cross-contact and offers a wide selection of gluten-free sushi options with fresh fish and perfectly seasoned rice. They are on Facebook @kikosushibarottawa.
Sushi Haru Haru
This highly-rated sushi spot at 181 Rue Principale in Gatineau, Quebec, was a go-to for the author. They offer fresh fish, use gluten-free soy sauce and rice vinegar, and their house-made spicy sauce is gluten-free. Korean food options are not gluten-free, but their sushi is exceptional.
Ten Fish
At 1149-B Bank Street, Ten Fish marks gluten-free maki rolls on their online menu. They provide gluten-free soy sauce, and their spicy sauce is also gluten-free. The author typically opts for sashimi or nigiri.
J:Unique Kitchen
This establishment at 381 Cooper Street is known for its knowledgeable staff regarding celiac disease and cross-contact, offering delicious, high-quality sushi. They are on Instagram @juniquekitchen and Facebook @juniquekitchen.
GoGiYa Sushi n Poké
Located at 504 Bank Street, GoGiYa offers poke bowls that can be easily made gluten-free. Staff are trained in cross-contact protocols. The sushi rice is seasoned with gluten-free vinegar, and the salmon poke bowl is a recommended dish. While not a fully GF kitchen, they are knowledgeable about safe preparation.
Pubs and Diners
Little Mac’s
At 991 Wellington Street West, Little Mac’s menu is almost entirely gluten-free, featuring Southern comfort food like mac and cheese, fried chicken, waffles, ribs, and fries from a safe fryer. Regular buns are the only non-GF item; GF buns are available upon request, and wheat buns are prepared on a separate griddle. Communication about celiac needs is essential. They are on Instagram @littlemacsottawa.
Wilf & Ada’s
This diner at 510 Bank Street offers a brunch menu where most items can be made gluten-free. Staff are knowledgeable about celiac restrictions and prioritize locally sourced ingredients. They are on Instagram @wilf_ada.
Ice Cream
The Merry Dairy
Located at 102 Fairmont Avenue, The Merry Dairy is highly knowledgeable about celiac disease. They use a clean scoop and a new tub for celiac orders. Their house-made gluten-free waffle cones are exceptional, and flavors rotate seasonally. Gluten-free, soy-free, and vegan options are clearly marked. It’s important to specify the house-made GF cones, as colorful cones are not. They are on Instagram @themerrydairy and Facebook @TheMerryDairy.
Moo Shu Ice Cream
At 477 Bank Street, Moo Shu Ice Cream offers inventive flavors and clearly marked gluten-free options, including delicious gluten-free waffle cones. Flavors change monthly, with lime leaf and mint, and Hong Kong milk tea being standouts. They are on Instagram @mooshuicecream and Facebook @mooshuicecream.
Cassis Home-Made Gelato and Sorbet
This establishment at 68 Principale Street in Gatineau, Quebec, offers predominantly gluten-free gelato and sorbet. While gluten-free cones are not available, a new scoop is used for celiac customers. Flavors like mojito, black sesame, and yuzu are highly recommended.
Stalls and Food Trucks Outside of Town: Stittsville
Jimmy’s Waffle World
Located at 5862 Hazeldean Road in Stittsville, this establishment is almost entirely gluten-free, offering sweet and savory waffles, poutine, and fries from a safe fryer. They also have a gluten-free soft-serve ice cream with GF cones. They are on Instagram @jimmyswaffleworld and Facebook @profile.php?id=100066798035668.
The Original Souvlaki Food Truck
Formerly Greek Wagon Ottawa, this truck at 1619 Stittsville Main Street offers numerous gluten-free options including platters, salads, and fries with gluten-free gravy for poutine from a safe fryer. They are on Instagram @theoriginalsouvlaki.
Smokin R&Rs BBQ
Situated at 1441 Stittsville Main Street, Smokin R&Rs BBQ serves slow-cooked meats, poutines, sandwiches, and briskets. Much of the menu is gluten-free, with a safe fryer. The mac and cheese is not celiac-safe. They are on Instagram @thesmokinrrs and Facebook @smokinrrs.
Even Further Afield
The Bean Sprout GF
This Toronto-based business offers gluten-free, nut-free Chinese cuisine, including stir-fries, dumplings, and steamed buns. They occasionally hold pop-ups in Ottawa. Their chicken dumplings are a particular favorite. They are on Instagram @thebeansproutgf.
Riz Gluten Free
Also based in Toronto, Riz Gluten Free occasionally has pop-ups in Ottawa and is sold in various local shops. They offer gluten-free and dairy-free wonton soups, dumplings, curries, and stir-fries.
La Violette B&B
In Wakefield, Quebec, this charming bed and breakfast offers delicious and safe gluten-free breakfasts tailored to individual dietary needs. It’s a highly recommended stay for those seeking a special experience in the Gatineau Hills.
Shops in Ottawa with Naturally GF Products or GF Specialty Items
This section provides details on where to purchase gluten-free products for home consumption.
What to Do in Ottawa
While the author’s current mobility limitations restrict extensive exploration, they acknowledge the city’s vibrant festival scene, including the Tulip Festival and Poutine Festival. For comprehensive guides to Ottawa’s attractions, readers are directed to external resources.
The author’s current disability due to a spinal CSF leak, stemming from a 2017 incident, significantly impacts their ability to dine out and explore. This guide was made possible through the invaluable assistance of friends Christopher and Elizabeth, who provided transportation and culinary contributions. Their generosity was instrumental in compiling this comprehensive gluten-free resource for the Ottawa and National Capital Region.
