University of Pennsylvania
“Penn’s dining halls have clearly labeled allergens (both online and in person) and staff are somewhat helpful in person. They have dietitians you can meet with to go over food options and you are able to get meals directly from the kitchen. In Hill Dining Hall and 1920 Commons (the two main dining halls), there are food station called SimplyOasis which are top 9 allergen free. SimplyOasis offers lunch and dinner. These dining halls also have a “MWG-CI” (made without gluten containing ingredients pantry) which offers packaged bread, bagels, cookies, and more. However, some items are locked and require the chef to open which is often time consuming if you just want to grab something quickly. In these dining halls, I often stuck to the packaged goods, the yogurt station, eggs, or the salad bar. In Houston Hall, a food court style dining hall, the labeling is less clear and the staff is often busy and less knowledgeable about food allergens. There are diary and gluten-free options available however there is often cross contamination in food prep areas. If you have severe allergies, I would not recommend eating in Penn’s dining halls or being selective about your choices.“
Pret A Manger
“Pret is a casual and social on campus spot to grab coffee and to-go eats. All the food options have the ingredients labeled, making it easy to see which options are safe. Yogurts and parfaits include oats that are labeled gluten free and there are many options, such as salads, wraps, and soups, so it’s easy to find an allergen friendly option. “
Franklin’s Table Food Hall
“Franklin’s table is a casual and social food hall with many vendors that have allergen-friendly options. Gouldsburger, which offers burgers, hot dogs, fries, etc., has gluten free buns and lettuce wraps for their burgers and hot dogs. They also have a dedicated gluten free fryer which is indicated on their menu. Double Knot, a sushi spot, has a place to include allergens when you place your order on the tablets provided. They also have gluten free soy sauce and there is no sesame used on rolls (only in sauces that are kept separate). Other vendors here offer smoothies/açaí bowls, pizza, chicken fingers, burritos, and falafel. “
Giuseppe & Sons
“Giuseppe and Sons is an upscale Italian restaurant with many allergen friendly options. They have the some of the best gluten free pasta in Philly and easily accommodated my gluten and sesame allergies as well as my sister’s nut allergy. The hand pulled mozzarella is a standout item on the menu!”
Talula’s Garden
“Talulah’s Garden is an upscale restaurant perfect for a birthday brunch or dinner. They have a great menu and the staff communicated my allergies to the kitchen. Their food is amazing and they had a great omelette. Great restaurant with many options that can easily accommodate allergen.”
Dig Inn
“Dig is a causal, healthier fast food option. Their menu is clearly labeled online with allergens clearly labeled with logos next to each item. They offer make your own bowls with many options for grains, proteins, and sides. The items rotate seasonally and the staff is well equipped to answer questions about allergens. It is super close to campus and a quick and easy lunch or dinner spot!”
1-900-ICE-CREAM
“1-900 is an ice cream shop that offers hard scooped ice cream and soft serve in center city. Their classic vanilla and chocolate soft serve is gluten free and the flavors and toppings are well labeled with allergens on the menu.”
Puyero Venezuelan Flavor
“Puyero is a casual Venezuelan restaurant near campus. Their menu is labeled with allergens and they have a dedicated gluten free fryer for empanadas, yuca fries, plantains and more! Every item on the menu besides the tequeños are gluten free.”
Barcelona Wine Bar
“When I mentioned my food allergies, the waiter came back with a marked menu showing what what safe to order. Everything here is great and the knowledgeable staff makes sharing tapas-style easy!”
The Board and Brew
“The Board and Brew is a cute coffee shop with a nice menu. Their menu is allergen labeled and they write your allergen in the order. They have great coffee and good small bites like overnight oats, eggs, and pastries. Great coffee spot to do work and grab a bite.”
