The University of Arizona
“Having celiac disease, I was honestly nervous about finding safe food on campus, but the University of Arizona ended up having some really solid options. The main dining hall does offer gluten-free choices, but it wouldn’t be my first stop. Core+ in the Global Center was definitely my go-to. Core+ is completely gluten-free, which was such a relief because I never had to second-guess anything. You have to fill out a form of what you would like and all the ingredients are listed out for you. The Global Center is clearly labeled gluten-free meals, and the staff there is super careful and knowledgeable. On Deck Deli was another favorite in the main dining hall. They have a specific celiac-safe prep area with different gloves, separate toasters, and their own space for sandwiches and bagels. They make it clear, it’s for allergies only. And honestly, anytime I wasn’t sure about an ingredient or needed help, everyone working was always willing to answer questions or double-check things for me. Overall, UofA has some good options and now that I am a junior, I can confidently say I feel comfortable eating on campus.”
Wildflower
“Wildflower in Tucson really surprised me. I went with my family on family weekend and I loved it. Their menu is clearly labeled and genuinely easy to navigate with Celiac. They offer so many great options, and everything I’ve tried has been consistently fresh and flavorful. I’ve always felt safe eating there, and the staff is helpful when it comes to answering questions or double-checking ingredients. It’s one of the few places where I can relax and enjoy a meal without worrying.”
Blue Willow Restaurant & Gift Shop
“Blue Willow is such a hidden gem for anyone with allergies, especially if you’re gluten-free. Everything on the menu is clearly labeled with “gluten-free,” which makes ordering so much less stressful. They have everything from gluten-free pastries to full breakfast plates that actually taste like real food. If you go, definitely ask if they have the gluten-free crumb cake, they always run out because it’s so good. I have celiac and every time I’ve gone, I’ve been totally fine. I have had no cross-contamination issues at all. It’s become my go-to spot whenever my family visits!”
Flower Child
“Cute,easy restaurant to go to! The menu is labeled from top to bottom with gluten-free foods. I’ve never had a problem there and the staff is really helpful
when ordering. I have been multiple times with no cross- contamination or issues. Their macaroni and cheese is super delicious, but anything else you order whether it’s a bowl with potatoes, sweet potatoes, steak, salmon, vegetables etc it’s all good!”
Woops! Bakeshop (Main Gate Square)
“I love this coffee shop/bakery. They don’t have a ton of gluten-free foods, but they have a gluten-free chocolate muffin which is really good. All of their coffee is super good and can be gluten-free/ Celiac safe. Their staff is knowledgeable and helpful when deciding what and how to order. Overall, good coffee place!”
7 Brew Coffee
“Just recently went to this coffee shop and they have so many options. The staff is always so helpful with the menu — they take the time to walk through ingredients, suggest safe options, and make sure everything is prepared carefully. They genuinely try to find exactly what you’re looking for, no matter how specific your dietary needs are. The drinks are amazing, the service is friendly, and the peace of mind is priceless. Highly recommend for anyone who is gluten-free.”
Postino Grant
“I really liked this restaurant, I have been here for dinner and for lunch. I have a gluten allergy so when I came at night for the board and bottle I was hoping they had gluten-free bread for the different bruschettas and they did! The waiters know what is okay and what isn’t if you are gluten-free/celiac. They even bring out your board on a different plate than the others so that you know it’s gluten-free and different from the regular bread. They have multiples lunch options as well. Their menu is also labeled and I haven’t had any cross contamination issues.”
Charro Steak & Del Rey
“Charro Steak is one of my favorite dinner places in Tucson. The menu is super clear and everything is labeled, which makes ordering way less stressful. They have a lot of options for people with all allergies especially gluten-free. The servers always double-check ingredients, and the kitchen is really good about avoiding cross-contact without making it a big deal. They have plenty of options you can customize, and I’ve never had an issue eating there. If you’re looking for a place that’s both allergy-friendly and actually good, Charro Steak is definitely worth trying.”
Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
“Easy breakfast place with lots of options. As someone with celiac, I have eaten here multiple times and have never had a problem. The staff is super good about allergies if you tell them beforehand. They even have gluten-free toast and other options as well. Would definitely recommend if you are looking for a breakfast spot in Tucson.”
Jimmys Pita & Poke
“One of the best, quickest, and allergy safe options at the University of Arizona!!! I have been here multiple times and they are super good about allergies. I asked making sure their sauces were okay and they told me right away. They are always changing their gloves too. I have never had a reaction or bad experience here. You can also build your own bowl so you see what they’re putting in your order and you feel safe.”
Culinary Dropout
“Super good dinner menu that’s labeled for people with allergies. They have multiple options from burgers to bowls to salads. The staff is super knowledgeable and will listen and help with all your allergy requests. They will change up the dishes for you so that you are able to eat them. As a person with celiac, I would recommend this place.”
Gentle Ben’s Brewing
“Gentle Ben’s on University is a good choice for college students with celiac. Having a spot right on campus that actually labels tons of gluten-free options and even offers gluten-free buns makes eating out so much easier. It’s convenient, reliable, and one of the best places near campus if you need something safe and still want a good meal. Not to mention they have a lot of options !”
