Whether you are craving a burger, a crepe, nachos or pasta, don’t let the fact that you don’t eat gluten hold you back. From breakfast to dessert, Tacoma has a lot to offer gluten-free eaters. If you want to know where to go for the best gluten-free meals in the area, get started with this list.

oly orthoNote: Many of these restaurants are not strictly gluten-free facilities so cross contamination can be possible. Please check with each location before dining for more information to make sure all your allergy, sensitivity or celiac needs are being met.

Cafe Brousseau
Go for: Paninis

Nestled on 21st Street in the North End, Cafe Brousseau is a fun little coffee shop with a bistro menu for breakfast and lunch. Paninis and hot dogs are all available on gluten-free bread. Try The Smelter, a panini made with pepper jack cheese, cheddar and basil pesto. They also serve baked goods from Corina Bakery. Cafe Brousseau is a fun stop for a gluten-free coffee or lunch date with a friend.

2716 N 21st Street
Tacoma, WA 98406
253-327-1306

Shakabrah Java
Go for: Breakfast

Shakabrah Java Potatoes
When you feel like going out to breakfast, try out the gluten-free Shaka Potatoes at Shakabrah Java. You can customize your order to include whatever meats, veggies or add-ons you like to create the perfect combination for your taste buds. Photo credit: Chelsea Clark.

Shakabrah Java on 6th Avenue is the best quintessential quirky breakfast joint in town. Enjoy the offbeat vibe inside, with posters lining the walls, mismatched furniture and floor to ceiling shelves of games and books to browse. Breakfast can be a hard meal if you don’t eat gluten, but you won’t leave feeling disappointed. Opt for the famous Shaka Potatoes (advertised on their menu as naturally gluten free!), which can be customized according to your personal taste preferences. Add on cheese, avocados, meats, veggies or even an egg, and get your fill with a perfectly spiced pile of potatoes for breakfast.

2618 6th Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98406
253-572-2787

Europa Bistro
Go for: Pasta

There was a point when I equated “gluten free” with “pasta free.” The image of rich sauces over delicate pastas was mouthwatering and devastating all at once. Fortunately, charming Proctor District restaurant Europa Bistro came to the rescue. The menu features delicious gluten-free pasta, ravioli and gnocchi. My personal favorite? Spaghetti alla Vongole, a deliciously fresh preparation of garlic and manila clams over spaghetti.

2515 N Proctor Street
Tacoma, WA 98406
253-761-5660

The Matador
Go for: Giant nachos

Matador Tacoma
Go to Matador’s happy hour for a giant plate of gluten-free nachos. On a nice day, sit out front on the patio. Photo credit: Chelsea Clark.

For Mexican food and cocktails in a hip downtown location, The Matador in Tacoma offers plenty of gluten-free options. Just check out their menu, looking for items with a “gf” next to them. For the best value and delicious food, go at happy hour and get a giant plate of gluten-free nachos for a bargain price.

721 Pacific Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-627-7100

Savor Tacoma Creperie
Go for: Crepes

Crepes are another item that many gluten-free people might have given up on. Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be the case. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, Savor Creperie has got you covered. They offer a full menu of crepes for both the wheat-eaters and the gluten-free crowd. Try pears, aged gouda and fresh thyme, or perhaps mixed berry with ginger and mascarpone cheese.

1916 Pacific Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-365-5534

Freisenburgers
Go for: Burgers

If you are looking for good old-fashioned juicy burgers with a side of fries and a milkshake, give Freisenburgers a try. Located near the Tacoma Dome, this spot isn’t fancy. On the contrary, it’s quite small and simple. But their gluten-free menu will definitely satisfy all your burger cravings, offering everything from a classic hamburger to a bison burger or even grilled cheese.

308 E 26th Street
Tacoma, WA 98412
253-203-6753

Corina Bakery
Go for: Cookies and pastries

Corina Bakery
These tasty quinoa cookies are just one example of the gluten-free menu items at Corina Bakery. Also keep your eye out for fancy cakes, quiches and more. Photo credit: Chelsea Clark.

Entering Corina Bakery, you’ll be greeted by cases full of beautiful cakes, pastries, quiches and more. The best part? Many of their menu items are gluten free (and well-labeled as such), and some are even vegan too. Enjoy your treat with a warm drink in their cute coffee shop, or outside under the umbrellas. If you’ve got a special event coming up, like a wedding or anniversary, you can also order cakes and treats for those from Corina. Gluten-free specialty flavors include Traditional German Chocolate and Lavender Honey.

602 Fawcett Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-627-5070

Viva Tacoma
Go for: Vegan and raw food

All of the food at Viva Tacoma is organic, gluten free and made without any animal products, processed sugars or refined foods. Some items are raw, while others are cooked. Try out their Live Pizza, Polenta Fries or Viva Mac’N’Cheese for a unique, healthy dining experience. This is also a great spot for gluten-free breakfast items.

2602 N Proctor Street
Tacoma, WA 98407
253-503-6498

Marlene’s Market and Deli
Go for: Groceries and food on the go

One of the only local, natural grocery stores in the area, Marlene’s Market and Deli is a goldmine for gluten-free goodies. They’ve got a large dedicated gluten-free section, as well as many gluten-free items throughout the store, including frozen goods and prepared foods. Along with their deli, they also have a “Grab-and-Go” section of pre-prepared foods, some of which are gluten free. Whether you need to stock up your pantry, grab a quick snack for the road or just want to browse the aisles, Marlene’s is a reliable friend to the gluten-free eater.

2951 S 38th Street
Tacoma, WA 98409
253-472-4080

Mona Pizza and Pasta
Go for: Pizza

Whether you’re looking for a night out or want to order pizza in for a family movie night, Mona doesn’t leave those sensitive to gluten behind. Mona Pizza and Pasta on 6th Ave not only offers a gluten-free crust for any of their pizzas, but they also deliver! Just go to their online ordering system and make sure to check the gluten free box. They’ve also got vegetarian and vegan options, such as the Northwest Special featuring artichoke hearts and sundried tomato.

6104 6th Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98406
253-565-0505

This list is just a start of the numerous options for eating gluten free in the South Sound. Many restaurants offer gluten-free menus or gluten-free substitutions if you ask for them, such as The Social Bar and Grill and Pacific Grill. Remember, if you have celiac or are sensitive to cross-contamination, ask about food preparation to make sure you are consuming food safely.