H.U.G Bageri
Location: Copenhagen, Denmark
“H.U.G is 100% gluten-free and, while known for their croissants and cinnamon rolls, in my mind, where they shine is their Danish specialties. Ask the staff what their favorites are; they won’t steer you incorrectly.
I went with some friends, and we might have overordered. It’s tough to pick favorites, but all the pastries with marzipan, as well as the brunsviger (a Danish coffee cake), were the standouts.
It’s worth planning a trip to Copenhagen for H.U.G itself!”
Manna Dew
Location: London, England
“This is one of the best gluten-free bakeries in London, if not all of Europe. You can expect a delicious pastry that flakes just like gluten-containing pastry does. The price reflects the quality, so just be aware it can be expensive.
There is a large range of vegan options as well—do note that there are a large amount of other allergens on site (hazelnut, almond, pistachio, etc.) that are used as fillings for other pastries. I’d recommend contacting them if you have multiple dietary needs.”
Copains
Location: Paris, France
“With over a dozen locations across Paris and more on the way, Copains is the gluten-free bakery of the moment, and one bite makes it easy to see why. Everything is beautifully crafted (the owners previously worked in fashion houses, and it shows), and you’d never guess it’s all gluten-free.
Hot take, but skip the croissants and opt for the white chocolate Leo, a babka, the apple tart, an eclair, any fruit tart if they’re in season, and absolutely take a sandwich to go. The chocolate bread is outrageously good, and I’m also a fan of their quinoa baguette.”
Leopoldo Cafebar – Senza Glutine
Location: Napoli, Italy
“Leopoldo Senza Glutine in Naples is a true gluten-free dream and easily the best gluten-free bakery I’ve visited in Italy. The selection is staggering and the quality is exceptional, from sfogliatelle (lobster tails) to beautifully layered fruit tarts and creamy cornetti that rival their gluten-filled counterparts. I still think about the strawberries and cream pastry I had. If you see it, do not hesitate to purchase four. The service was rushed, but I’ll overlook that stress for this crazy selection.
Everything I tried was perfectly textured and flavorful. The bakery is directly across from the National Archaeological Museum, so it’s the perfect stop before or after exploring one of Naples’ most important landmarks. Even in a country famous for its baked goods, Leopoldo stands out for offering gluten-free versions of classic Italian sweets.
There are several branches of Leopoldo, and while all have some gluten-free options, only the one across from the museum has their full gluten-free range.”
NachuRa Gluten Free Cafe
Location: Shibuya, Japan
“This is a cute bakery located not far from Shibuya. Their range is very modest, but what they have, they do very, very well. The standout to me is their cream puff with absolutely beautiful gluten-free choux pastry, though the Basque cheesecake deserves a shout-out too. They have some non-refrigerated baked goods too. I’d recommend the cheese cookies. My tip? Have some of these in the cafe to take advantage of their well-trained barista.”
Pan Filio
Location: Mexico City, Mexico
“Pan Filio is a dedicated gluten-free bakery in Mexico City and the place to go for iconic Mexican pastries like conchas and polvorones (Mexican wedding cookies) done right. You’ll see these treats in traditional bakeries all over CDMX and feel like you’re missing out until you come here. Everything is safe, delicious, and beautifully made. The concha has that soft, slightly sweet brioche texture with a perfect sugar crust, and the wedding cookies are rich and buttery with the ideal snap. It’s a bit outside the city center, but 100% worth the inexpensive Uber ride.”
Craft Coffee & Pastry Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
“Craft Coffee and Pastry in Amsterdam serves some of the best gluten-free croissants in the world, full stop. It’s genuinely remarkable what they’ve achieved without using gluten-free wheat starch. The texture is flaky, the layers are impressive, and the flavor rivals even traditional versions. The ham and cheese croissant is a standout and worth every bite. Expect a long line, especially on weekends, but for croissants this big and this good, the wait is more than justified. I highly recommend ordering ahead to secure your favorites, but be aware you’ll still need to queue for pickup. Trust me, it’s worth it.”
Pastelería La Oriental Sin Gluten
Location: Madrid, Spain
“La Oriental’s fully gluten-free bakery in Madrid (right next to its gluten-filled sibling—don’t worry, it’s obvious which is which) is one of the best gluten-free bakeries in the world, full stop. Walking in is almost overwhelming with the sheer amount of pastries, cakes, cookies, and bread packed into the shop, and when it’s busy, the pressure to choose quickly is real. Ask me how I know. You must get an éclair and at least one croissant. The ham and cheese wasn’t my favorite, but everything else I tried was an 11 out of 10.”
Karaköy Güllüoğlu – Nadir Güllü
Location: Beyoğlu, Turkey
“This place is notable for one big reason: it’s the only place in the world that I have found gluten-free baklava. It’s a little expensive by Turkish standards, but this is such a rare treat to have. I would not rate them highly for other allergens, but for gluten-free, this is your spot. When I went, they had pistachio and walnut options—I recommend getting both. The pastry is good, not great, though I would rate the experience highly. Make a pit stop if you’re in Istanbul!”
Tawa Gluten-Free Eatery
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
“I’m not ashamed to admit I went here four times on a recent trip to Abu Dhabi. This is an amazing, fully gluten-free cafe and bakery—the staff are trained well on allergens, and their menu is very clear on allergens present in their dishes. I was blown away by the éclair and the strawberry tart, as well as their chicken Caesar wrap and mozzarella sticks. It can be tough finding a safe gluten-free restaurant in this part of the world, and Tawa absolutely nails it.”
Verveine Cafe & Bakery
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
“I literally cried when I first walked into Verveine in Boston because everything looked so good, I could hardly believe it was all gluten-free. This place is a dream come true for any celiac or gluten-sensitive eater and an absolute gem for anyone who just loves good food. You cannot miss the breakfast sandwich, the galette of the moment, and the Gouda scone…but honestly, what am I talking about? Just get one of everything and don’t look back. The craftsmanship, flavors, and variety are unmatched. The head chef, Monica, is an absolute genius.
My parents, who can eat gluten, love this place more than I do. The wait will be long, but trust me when I say it is worth it.”
Sixteen Mill Bakeshop
Location: Brooklyn, New York
“Sixteen Mill might just be the best gluten-free bakery in Brooklyn, and honestly, you’ll have a hard time convincing me otherwise. Despite its tiny storefront and limited selection, every single item is a masterclass in gluten-free baking. This place clearly values quality over quantity, and it shows. I got the waffle, a scone, and the chocolate babka muffin, and all three were outstanding. I think of them regularly. The babka muffin, in particular, was perfectly moist and next-level, alone worth the trek. The only downside? They sell out fast, especially on weekends, so get there early or preorder to avoid disappointment.”
