Are you looking for gluten free meal services and restaurants across Melbourne? We've reach out to our local gluten free community and have some great tips for your next visit to this food focused city.  

Melbourne is world renowned for its vibrant food scene and fortunately offers a variety of options for those seeking a gluten-free experience. As a multicultural food haven there are a vast array of international cuisines represented. Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, Italian, and Mexican cuisines just to name a few! We've reached out to our Melbourne gluten free community to ask for some hot tips when dining out in this fabulous city.  Please note many are not entirely gluten free facilities but have gluten free options available so use your own judgement based on your own unique dietary needs before making a booking or dining. 

We also recommend reaching out to the establishment in advance to see how willing they are to accommodate your needs. Check the most recent online platforms, such as restaurant review sites, google reviews or social media to find the latest updates for their gluten-free offering. A simple change in head chef or business ownership can quickly change the gluten-free offerings and their commitment to this. 

If there’s a must try restaurant, book in advance as many of Melbourne's popular restaurants can get busy, especially during peak dining hours. Use this time to also ask questions and advise them of your dietary requirements.

KEY REMINDERS WHEN EATING GLUTEN FREE IN MELBOURNE 

Communication:

When dining out don’t hesitate to ask if it is prepared in a gluten free facility, questions about menu or specific ingredient items, preparation methods in the kitchen, and potential cross-contamination risks. Most cafes and restaurants in Melbourne are accustomed to accommodating various dietary needs but there are still many that don’t realise the damage gluten can cause for someone with coeliac disease. It is your responsibility to ask questions to ensure you are comfortable which may include asking if the kitchen has a dedicated gluten free fryer. 

Check menus in advance:

Many restaurants provide their menus online. Before choosing a place to eat, check the menu to see if gluten-free options are clearly marked or if the staff and kitchen are willing to accommodate gluten-free requests. 

Exploring Different Neighbourhoods:

Melbourne's neighbourhoods offer a variety of dining experiences, and each has its unique charm, so you may need to travel far and wide to get the full experience.

Southbank

Southbank is a vibrant and bustling precinct located along the southern bank of the Yarra River, known for its mix of cultural, recreational, food and entertainment offerings. It has stunning views of Melbourne's skyline and the riverside location offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as a scenic river cruise, biking or walking along the paths, or simply relaxing in one of the waterfront restaurants / bars.

Fitzroy, Collingwood, Carlton and Brunswick

The areas of Fitzroy, Collingwood, Carlton, and Brunswick are known for their distinctive characteristics, diverse cultures, and vibrant atmospheres. Each neighbourhood has its own unique charm, attracting residents and visitors alike. They collectively contribute to Melbourne's reputation as a city that values creativity and diversity. You’ll also see this reflected in the food scene. Let’s explore:

Fitzroy

Fitzroy is renowned for its bohemian and eclectic atmosphere. It's a hub of creativity and alternative culture, with street art, quirky shops, and a vibrant arts scene. The area is dotted with trendy cafes, unique eateries, and bars. Brunswick Street is particularly famous for its diverse culinary offerings, from hipster coffee shops to international cuisine. It is a haven for boutique shopping, featuring a mix of vintage stores, independent boutiques, and designer shops.

The suburb has a rich live music scene, with numerous venues hosting performances ranging from indie and rock to electronic and experimental music.

Collingwood

Like Fitzroy, Collingwood is known for its artistic community. It combines old industrial spaces with contemporary art galleries, studios, and creative enterprises. Collingwood boasts charming streets with preserved historic architecture. You'll find a mix of renovated warehouses, Victorian-era buildings, and modern apartments.

The neighbourhood offers a diverse culinary experience, from hipster cafes to gastropubs. Smith Street is a popular destination for foodies and those seeking a lively atmosphere.

Hotel Jesus

Most menu items are gluten free unless specified but not a gluten free kitchen

174 Smith St, Collingwood VIC 3066

https://www.hoteljesus.com.au/

Shimbashi soba

All meals are gluten free

140 Smith St, Collingwood 3065

(03) 919 39097

https://www.shimbashisobamelbourne.com/fitzroy

Carlton

Carlton is home to the University of Melbourne and RMIT University, giving the area a youthful and academic ambiance. The presence of students contributes to the lively atmosphere.

Lygon Street in Carlton is known as "Little Italy," and famous for its Italian restaurants, cafes, and gelaterias. The Carlton Gardens offer a peaceful retreat with the beautiful Royal Exhibition Building as a backdrop.

Shimbashi Soba:

All meals are gluten free

344 Rathdowne St, Carlton North,

https://www.shimbashisobamelbourne.com/

Gemma Simply Italian

183 Elgin St, Carlton VIC 3053

https://www.gemmasimplyitalian.com.au/

(03) 9349 2835

La Luna

320 Rathdowne St, Carlton North

https://www.lalunabistro.com.au/

eat@lalunabistro.com.au

+61 3 9349 4888.

Brunswick

Brunswick is known for its cultural diversity, reflected in its multicultural restaurants, cafes, shops, and community events. The area has a welcoming and inclusive vibe. Like Fitzroy and Collingwood, Brunswick has a thriving arts and music scene. Live music venues, street art, and galleries contribute to its creative energy.

Sydney Road is as a bustling thoroughfare with an array of cafes, shops, and local businesses representing the eclectic nature of the community.

Ciao Mamma is an Italian eatery and Coeliac Accredited

3 Union Street, Brunswick 

https://ciaomamma.com.au/

03 8528 7091

St Kilda & Port Melbourne

St Kilda, a vibrant beachside suburb in Melbourne, has a diverse and lively food scene that reflects the eclectic nature of the area. Let’s explore:

Fitzroy Street boasts a diverse range of dining options, bars and pubs for those seeking a lively nightlife experience.

Inkerman Street

Ethnic Cuisine: Inkerman Street offers a variety of ethnic cuisine options, including Vietnamese and Middle Eastern restaurants. Explore the diverse flavours and culinary traditions present in this part of St Kilda.

Carlisle Street, Balaclava

Carlisle Street in Balaclava features delicatessens, cafes, and eateries with a focus on quality produce and multicultural influences.

Other areas around Melbourne

Gluten-Free Bakeries

You can’t come to Melbourne without enjoying a coffee and pastry! Fortunately, with Melbourne being a diverse and food-forward city, you’ll find several gluten-free bakeries and cafes in and around Melbourne:

EAT CANNOLI - Preston

“We love our community and carry 100% GLUTEN FREE products, accredited by Coeliac Australia.”

132 Wood St, Preston VIC 3072

info@eatcannoli.com.au

0411 968 587

CAFFE STRADA - 100% gluten free

https://www.caffestrada.com.au/ 

197 Upper Heidelberg Road,
Ivanhoe VIC, 3079 Australia
(03) 9497 4875

4Me GLUTEN FREE

439a Kooyong Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185

"4me gluten free in Melbourne is a bakery providing high quality gluten, dairy and nut free products. Our products are Coeliac Australia Accredited."

https://www.4meglutenfree.com.au/

REMINDER:

Before visiting any bakeries or cafes, it's recommended to check with the respective establishments about their current gluten-free offerings and your specific dietary requirements.

Gluten-Free Markets and Events

Keep an eye out for gluten-free markets or expos happening in Melbourne. These events such as the Gluten Free Expo Melbourne with vendors offering a variety of gluten-free products, allowing you to explore, taste or purchase in a safe enviroment.

Farmers' Markets Melbourne:

Check out local farmers' markets and food festivals to experience Melbourne's fresh and seasonal produce. The Queen Victoria and South Melbourne Markets are great for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and a variety of street food. Other local farmers markets include:

• Alphington Farmers’ Market – Alphington
• Bentleigh Farmers’ Market – Bentleigh
• Boroondara Farmers’ Market – Hawthorn East
• Brighton Farmers’ Market – Brighton
• Carlton Farmers’ Market – Carlton
• Coburg Farmers’ Market – Coburg
• Eltham Farmers’ Market – Eltham
• Elwood Farmers’ Market – Elwood
• Flemington Farmers’ Market – Ascot Vale
• Gas Works Farmers’ Market – Albert Park
• Kingston Farm Farmers’ Market – Cheltenham
• Vegout Farmers’ Market – St Kilda 

Whilst many products may be naturally gluten free, always ask at markets if the goods are made in a dedicated gluten free facility. From experience, some products are labelled gluten free but when you get talking to the stall holders they are made in environments where there is potential risk of cross contamination and they are not aware how dangerous this can be to someone with coeliac disease.  

Gluten Free Craft Beers Melbourne

Melbourne has a thriving craft beer scene, and there are numerous bars and pubs offering a wide selection of local and international brews. Explore the laneways for hidden gems, and ask in advance if they stock gluten free beer.

Two Bays Brewing Co. is in Dromana, Victoria and made in a 100% GLUTEN FREE FACILITY. Check their stockist page for bars or hotels which carry their beer:

https://www.twobays.beer/pages/stockists

O’Brien Brewing Ballarat, Victoria has a wide range of gluten free beers.

https://www.rebellionbrewing.com.au/

IMPORTANT REMINDER: