Guide to Gluten Free Paris

Before I was diagnosed with celiac disease, I blissfully trotted around Paris having no fewer than 2 almond croissants a day. The last few times I’ve visited, it’s been more of a challenge. However, I’m happy to report that there are amazing places to eat gluten free in Paris. Let’s also take this time to be forever grateful that cheese and wine are always gluten free.

While I love sharing itineraries, travel guides and my love for French skincare, I rarely talk in depth about my gluten free diet. Then I got to thinking, that’s a bit inconsiderate to have all this gluten free advice and not share it. I also don’t eat meat, only a little fish. If I can leave Paris with a full stomach, anyone can. So in this gluten free guide, I’ll share the best gluten free options, some of my favorite restaurants in Paris and a few tips along the way.

Gluten Free Food in Paris

When I’m traveling, I always research ahead of time a few things that are naturally gluten free. Just in case we end up somewhere not near any of the restaurants I planned on, I can still eat something. It’s also good to have a few go to choices if you have to be flexible to the needs of a group. While I don’t think France is the most gluten free friendly country, there are plenty of options for things that are naturally GF.

Luckily, there are several French staples that are always gluten free. No one does eggs like the French. They’re most commonly cooked as an omelette and not restricted to breakfast only. Eggs are good all day long.

Sister to the crepe, galettes are about to become your new best friend. Galettes are made with buckwheat flour and are usually prepared savory. They are usually accommodating and will make a sweet one for you though. All the creperies I’ve eaten at use a separate grill for galettes, but be sure to specify to avoid cross contamination.

I’ve also had my fair share of tuna nicoise salads. Just ask about the dressing or use oil and vinegar.

Please, completely ignore my mom’s gluteny pasta in the background.

Most macarons are gluten free since they are made with almond flour. Always specify with the bakery though because I know sometimes there can be flavors that are not gluten free.

Along with these options for eating out, be sure to take a look around the grocery store or the outdoor markets. There’s a huge variety of Schär products, endless cheeses, fresh produce and quality yogurts available. I like to pick some up to have as breakfast in the room and take home the glass container as a little souvenir.

Where to Eat Gluten Free in Paris

Noglu

Noglu is a 100% gluten free dedicated restaurant and bakery located in the beautiful Passage des Panoramas (another location near Rue du Bac metro stop). I had the best egg sandwich of my life there. It was smothered in handmade mayonnaise and expertly assembled with care and a generous goat cheese slice. The menu changes frequently – a testament to their fresh quality ingredients. They also have a small takeaway bakery right across the passage way.

Chambelland

I stopped in this 100% gluten free bakery in the Oberkampf area to get a few things to go. Pick up pastries, bread, cookies, eclairs or and tarts to bring along for a picnic in the Place des Vosges, Champ de Mars or along the Seine.

Café Berry

I went into Café Berry to grab a pastry, but it started raining so I decided to wait it out. It was such a cozy spot to watch the storm pass. It was hard to choose, but I ordered an almond tart and didn’t regret it. My only regret was not taking one to go.

Yummy and Guiltfree

I first visited this waffle spot when they were just a small stand in the middle of a hard to find courtyard. They’ve since expanded into their own building right next to BHV.

Café St Régis

I go to Cafe St Regis every time I go to Paris. Not only do they have the best omelettes, they also are located in a prime spot for people watching. At one time, they even had GF penne pasta on the menu (but I cannot confirm they still offer this). I love sitting on this corner of Île Saint-Louis with a glass of wine. There’s plenty of gluten-filled French classics on the menu too so the rest of your group won’t grumble. Just be sure to specify you want tap water, my husband ordered a bottle and I still like to give him a hard time about the 8 euros we had to pay for it.

Creperies

I’ve had delicious galettes at Crêperie Little Breizh and Breizh Café. Both are very popular and offer a wide selection. Seriously, the best galette I’ve ever had was a memorable mix of cheese, cream, egg and spinach at Crêperie Little Breizh.

Ladurée or Pierre Hermé

These are my two favorite stops for excellent macarons. The chocolate passion fruit flavor from Pierre Hermé is so unique. There’s multiple locations all over the city, so you’re never too far from a sweet treat. Alfie was desperately hoping I’d drop one.

Helmut Newcake, Biosphere and Thank You My Deer are all 100% gluten free restaurants that are on my list for next time!! Have you been there?

Also read:

Cafés You Can’t Miss in Paris

Gluten Free Sweets You Have to Try in Paris

Most Parisians speak English, but I always learn the basics before visiting a new country (hello, please and thank you). “Sans gluten” (gluten free in French) is going to be an important one for you too. Consider getting a French dictionary or download a restaurant card here.