The Ultimate Guide to Gluten Free Dining in Charleston, SC
Charleston, South Carolina, is renowned for its rich history, charming architecture, and vibrant culinary scene. From traditional Southern cuisine to innovative eateries, the city offers a plethora of dining options for everyone, including those following a gluten-free diet.
If you’re planning a visit to Charleston and need guidance on where to find delicious gluten-free meals, look no further! Here’s your ultimate guide to eating gluten-free in the Holy City.
Best Gluten-Free Restaurants:
- Magnolias: Known for their classic Southern cuisine, Magnolias is one of my favorite restaurants in Charleston. Gluten-free diners will appreciate that they offer a full one-page separate menu with their gluten free options. During my last visit, I had the shellfish over grits containing sautéed shrimp, sea scallops, creamy white grits, and a lobster butter sauce. My husband enjoyed the blackened catfish which included red rice with kielbasa, tasso ham & bacon, fried green tomatoes, and habanero chutney. Both dishes were delicious!
- The Swamp Fox Restaurant: Located north of Broad Street inside the Francis Marion Hotel, this fine dining establishment boasts savory Lowcountry cuisine options like shrimp and grits.
- BOTO Bodega Todo: Almost everything can be made gluten free, and the friendly staff is very knowledgeable about cross contamination. They have the best gluten free fried chicken sandwich and fries!
- Breizh Pan Crepes: This is my personal favorite! For a taste of France in Charleston, visit Breizh Pan Crepes on George Street. Indulge in gluten-free crepes filled with savory or sweet fillings, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dessert.
- Heavy’s Barburger: A laidback, classic burger joint, Heavy’s Barburger has no gluten free menu but they do have a separate dedicated frier for fries and wings. I am not exaggerating when I say this is the best place to go for a burger! Hungry gluten-free eaters should order the Barburger which is a double patty burger with American cheese, sliced tomato, red onion, lettuce, pickles, and Heavy’s sauce on a gluten free bun. Combined with the crinkle cut fries (or their sweet potato fries), this is a perfect meal!
Farmers’ Markets and Specialty Stores:
- Charleston Farmers Market: Explore fresh produce and artisanal goods at the Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square. Many vendors offer gluten-free options, making it easy to stock up on safe ingredients for home cooking.
- Earth Fare: With locations in downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant, Earth Fare is a trustworthy source for gluten-free groceries and products. Their staff members are knowledgeable and can help you find items that meet your dietary needs.
Tips for Gluten-Free Dining:
– When dining out, always ask about gluten-free menu items and inform your server of any food allergies or dietary restrictions.
– Look for restaurants that have a separate gluten-free menu or clearly mark gluten-free options on their menu.
– Be mindful of cross-contamination in shared kitchen spaces, and don’t hesitate to ask kitchen staff about their procedures for preventing it.
– Consider downloading a gluten-free dining app or visiting websites like Celiac.com or the National Celiac Association for trustworthy health information and restaurant recommendations.
Next time you find yourself in Charleston, rest assured that there are plenty of great spots to enjoy gluten-free dining. From downtown to North Charleston to Mount Pleasant, the Holy City has something for every palate. Whether you’re craving fine dining at Charleston Grill or a casual meal from a food truck, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your gluten-free cravings. Happy dining!