More and more restaurants are reaching beyond their traditional customer bases to tap into the market of those who can't or don't eat wheat, grain, or gluten. This shift has increased in the number gluten-free menus chain restaurants offer.
However, many restaurants with gluten-free options haven't taken the final step of creating gluten-free kitchens to avoid cross-contamination. The following restaurants offer prudent choices but, to be safe, call ahead or look online to see whether they meet your wheat-, grain-, or gluten-free approval.
Austin Grill (Tex-Mex)
Biaggi's Ristorante Italiano (Italian)
Boston Market (American)
Carrabba's Italian Grill (Italian)
Chili's (American)
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar (Steakhouse)
Olive Garden (Italian)
On The Border (Mexican)
Outback Steakhouse (Steakhouse)
P.F. Chang's China Bistro (Asian)
Red Lobster (Seafood)
Red Robin (American)
Romano's Macaroni Grill (Italian)
Ruby Tuesday's (American)
Souper Salad (American)
Even though fast-food restaurants probably aren't the first thing you think about when addressing your wheat- or grain-free needs, you can create meals at some places that will meet your needs in a pinch. Remember, always ask "How is the food prepared?" and "Which foods on the menu are gluten-free?" For starters, the most obvious choice at most fast-food stops is to go bunless. Here's a quick list of fast food restaurants that offer gluten-free menus to some degree or another:
Arby's
Au Bon Pain
Burger King
Chick-Fil-A
Chipotle
Culver's
Dairy Queen
Domino's Pizza
Godfather's Pizza
Jason's Deli
Jack-in-the-Box
Long John Silver's
Panera Bread
Sonic Drive-In
Starbucks (primarily drinks)
Subway
Wendy's