Eating Gluten Free in Charleston
It’s no secret that Charleston has become a foodie’s paradise, especially when it comes to fresh seafood and southern fare. Having Celiac or a Gluten Intolerance shouldn't be a problem here- you just have to know where to go! This list of Charleston favorites will help you get the most of the Holy City’s food scene while staying gluten-free.
15 Places • 3 Saves • ago
Free
Breakfast, coffee & baked goods
The Harbinger Cafe & Bakery
@TravelFilled
Oh Harbs, how I love thee! This is truly my favorite neighborhood bakery and coffee shop in all of Charleston- women owned, locally focused, and everything is made from scratch and melts in your mouth. They have a set breakfast menu (go for the Grasshopper), plus a whole case of rotating baked goods (the Spice Girl is my current fav) and daily sandwich and salad specials. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, free wifi, and a sweet little back patio that fills up fast on a gorgeous day.
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The Daily
@TravelFilled
The Daily is one of Charleston’s OG local coffee shops that has since expanded its reach to Atlanta. The flagship King Street location is a combination of a coffee shop, bakery, and cafe, serving up fun lattes and a host of middle eastern inspired vegetarian and gluten-free options - order anything that comes with their schug. Pro tip: this is wi-fi free cafe, come and hang!
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Harken Cafe
@TravelFilled
Consider this The Harbinger's little European sister. Located in an old house in the heart of downtown's French Quarter, the vibe could be enough of a reason to go, but the food is equally wonderful. This is where the neighborhood locals meetup for coffee, surrounding by tourists stumbling in after straying from Market Street. There is wifi, but laptops are only allowed along the back wall and outside on the patio- dining room is meant for folks to gather!
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free friendly options, plus an alcohol cooler with natural wines and hard kombucha.
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BKeDSHoP
@TravelFilled
Charleston is serious about their donut shop comparisons, and this local spot is my favorite. BKeD was once a food truck that gained such a local following they set up a storefront, and their fluffy donut selection is full of funky flavors and always rounded out with gluten free options (see what I did there?). Or you can trade donuts for their handmade pop tarts, stuffed soft pretzels, or specialty lattes- no wrong decisions here!
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Annie O' Love's Cookie Cafe
@TravelFilled
Located in the West Ashley neighborhood, this sweet treat bakery has an *almost* cult following, complete with the option to buy an "I love my cookie dealer" tank or tee. I haven't done that, but can vouch for their amazing cookie cakes, vegan cheesecake options, and the fact you can buy a pint stuffed with gluten free birthday cake!
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Lunch spots
Mercantile & Mash
@TravelFilled
Merc and Mash is a popular breakfast and lunch spot located in the first floor of the historic Old Cigar Factory offering specialty coffee in addition to vegetarian and gluten-free options. You can grab and go from the pre-made fridge, or order fresh from the counter. Plus, their market is a great place to buy local gifts or souvenirs and there is free parking out front.
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Lewis Barbecue Charleston
@TravelFilled
Lewis Barbecue is my favorite BBQ spot in all of Charleston, known for their brisket and a smattering of delicious slides that gives vegetarians options too. Plus, they offer a great happy hour that includes food options at the bar (get the loaded nachos).
Lewis is also hyper gluten-conscious. You can tell the staff you can't eat gluten, and they'll get a you a clean carving board from the back to ensure it has not touched any bread and all their meats can be carved on that clean space. Plus, all their world famous BBQ sauces are gluten-free.
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Mozzo Charleston
@TravelFilled
Your friendly neighborhood deli that keeps it simple but stays busy by allowing you to choose your bread (gluten free options), make almost anything vegetarian or vegan), and order breakfast sandwiches all day.
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Brown Dog Deli
@TravelFilled
A long time staple lunch spot for locals working in downtown Charleston, there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options and almost everything on their menu can be made gluten-free.
My absolute favorite is the “Apple Butter Jeans”: Melted brie, sliced Granny Smith apples, local apple butter, fresh arugula, mesquite smoked turkey, honey ham, and applewood-smoked bacon (I just hold the meat as a vegetarian and ask for more brie).
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Dinner & Date Nights
Coastal Crust
@TravelFilled
This is a great spot for families with kids - there is a big play area with tables out back complete with a vintage car-turned-playset, and they even host movie night. Right next door to Vintage Cafe, which is owned by the same family. Both have gluten free and vegetarian options
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167 Raw Oyster Bar
@TravelFilled
Folks swear by their lobster roll, but just promise me you'll look beyond and order the tuna burger and shaved swordfish sandwich. This is truly one of the best local seafood focused spots, where you can always trust there to be an endless oyster supply... and probably a long wait unless you get there early. 167 Raw doesn't do reservations, but their sister spot (167 Sushi) does. I say put your name in then go around the corner to the aesthetically pleasing Bar 167, order a cocktail or mini martini, plus some house made focaccia, and it won't even feel like a wait!
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Barsa Tapas Lounge & Bar
@TravelFilled
Book a patio table, order some wine and tapas, then sit back, relax, and wait- your traditional paella order will take 30-40 minutes to prepare, but be worth the wait. This meal is great to order for a large group, and I love how they take an "everything but the kitchen sink" approach to both the vegetarian and seafood options options- you never fully know what local fare will be tucked inside that paella!
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Xiao Bao Biscuit
@TravelFilled
Don't let "biscuit" fool you, XBB offers a seasonal menu of Asian street foods from China, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam- comfort food from the owners' childhood honoring "kick ass grandmas everywhere." It's hard for me to order anything but the Okonomiyaki- their signature Japanese cabbage pancake with a sunny side egg on top, which can be made vegan. Great gluten-free options too
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Basic Kitchen
@TravelFilled
You'll feel healthy but fancy. Vegan and vegetarian options abound at this neighborhood kitchen known for their cauliflower wings and. natural wine list. The bartenders are real friendly, and staff is very understanding of gluten/other food allergies.
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Grace & Grit
@TravelFilled
For a taste of the south, order a grit flight- they offer gluten free and vegetarian options.
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Let's become travel planning besties
Need help choosing a place to stay?
Charleston remains a top travel destination (Travel + Leisure just ranked it as the "Best City in the U.S. to visit" for its 11th consecutive year), but that also means the options of where to stay in this southern foodie town continue to grow.
Take it from a local who lived and works downtown - there are plenty of options and they all are not created equal. You want historic charm paired with modern amenities, and bonus points for walkability so you can enjoy those cobblestone streets and and an excuse for a nightcap.
These local hotel recommendations have all those things and each offer their own unique flair. The list is roughly ordered from most to least expensive, but may vary by season and availability.
Couples • Female Solo • Car-free • Groups • Architecture • Art • Boutique • Luxury • History • People & Culture • Romantic • Shopping • Foodie
Free
For any questions, always feel free to reach out to me via email (emma@travelfilled.com) or DM me on Instagram (@travel.filled)
* * *
CURATED BY
Bonjour, y'all! I’m Emma, a southerner who moved to Paris and now splits my time between the City of Light and Charleston, SC. After years of planning trips to both spots for friends, family, and the occasional stranger I befriended on a plane, I made things official and launched Travel Filled, my travel blog and planning business. I used to work for the City of Charleston and now travel and work with cities all over the country (aka total local government nerd, proudly nicknamed the Leslie Knope of my grad class). That makes me incredibly enthusiastic about finding and sharing local specialities and hidden gems. I’m constantly seeking out new cultural experiences, running routes, good pescatarian spots, book and coffee nooks, and the perfect cocktail. I plan trips for all sorts of folks, but am especially passionate about connecting with culturally curious women looking to fill up their travel cup through a blend of authentic experiences and treat yoself moments and are just too busy kicking ass in their daily lives to plan it all on their own!
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Eating Gluten Free in Charleston
It’s no secret that Charleston has become a foodie’s paradise, especially when it comes to fresh seafood and southern fare. Having Celiac or a Gluten Intolerance shouldn't be a problem here- you just have to know where to go! This list of Charleston favorites will help you get the most of the Holy City’s food scene while staying gluten-free.
15 Places • 3 Saves • ago
Free
Breakfast, coffee & baked goods
The Harbinger Cafe & Bakery
@TravelFilled
Oh Harbs, how I love thee! This is truly my favorite neighborhood bakery and coffee shop in all of Charleston- women owned, locally focused, and everything is made from scratch and melts in your mouth. They have a set breakfast menu (go for the Grasshopper), plus a whole case of rotating baked goods (the Spice Girl is my current fav) and daily sandwich and salad specials. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, free wifi, and a sweet little back patio that fills up fast on a gorgeous day.
Add to
Details
The Daily
@TravelFilled
The Daily is one of Charleston’s OG local coffee shops that has since expanded its reach to Atlanta. The flagship King Street location is a combination of a coffee shop, bakery, and cafe, serving up fun lattes and a host of middle eastern inspired vegetarian and gluten-free options - order anything that comes with their schug. Pro tip: this is wi-fi free cafe, come and hang!
Add to
Details
Harken Cafe
@TravelFilled
Consider this The Harbinger's little European sister. Located in an old house in the heart of downtown's French Quarter, the vibe could be enough of a reason to go, but the food is equally wonderful. This is where the neighborhood locals meetup for coffee, surrounding by tourists stumbling in after straying from Market Street. There is wifi, but laptops are only allowed along the back wall and outside on the patio- dining room is meant for folks to gather!
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free friendly options, plus an alcohol cooler with natural wines and hard kombucha.
Add to
Details
BKeDSHoP
@TravelFilled
Charleston is serious about their donut shop comparisons, and this local spot is my favorite. BKeD was once a food truck that gained such a local following they set up a storefront, and their fluffy donut selection is full of funky flavors and always rounded out with gluten free options (see what I did there?). Or you can trade donuts for their handmade pop tarts, stuffed soft pretzels, or specialty lattes- no wrong decisions here!
Add to
Details
Annie O' Love's Cookie Cafe
@TravelFilled
Located in the West Ashley neighborhood, this sweet treat bakery has an *almost* cult following, complete with the option to buy an "I love my cookie dealer" tank or tee. I haven't done that, but can vouch for their amazing cookie cakes, vegan cheesecake options, and the fact you can buy a pint stuffed with gluten free birthday cake!
Add to
Details
Lunch spots
Mercantile & Mash
@TravelFilled
Merc and Mash is a popular breakfast and lunch spot located in the first floor of the historic Old Cigar Factory offering specialty coffee in addition to vegetarian and gluten-free options. You can grab and go from the pre-made fridge, or order fresh from the counter. Plus, their market is a great place to buy local gifts or souvenirs and there is free parking out front.
Add to
Details
Lewis Barbecue Charleston
@TravelFilled
Lewis Barbecue is my favorite BBQ spot in all of Charleston, known for their brisket and a smattering of delicious slides that gives vegetarians options too. Plus, they offer a great happy hour that includes food options at the bar (get the loaded nachos).
Lewis is also hyper gluten-conscious. You can tell the staff you can't eat gluten, and they'll get a you a clean carving board from the back to ensure it has not touched any bread and all their meats can be carved on that clean space. Plus, all their world famous BBQ sauces are gluten-free.
Add to
Details
Mozzo Charleston
@TravelFilled
Your friendly neighborhood deli that keeps it simple but stays busy by allowing you to choose your bread (gluten free options), make almost anything vegetarian or vegan), and order breakfast sandwiches all day.
Add to
Details
Brown Dog Deli
@TravelFilled
A long time staple lunch spot for locals working in downtown Charleston, there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options and almost everything on their menu can be made gluten-free.
My absolute favorite is the “Apple Butter Jeans”: Melted brie, sliced Granny Smith apples, local apple butter, fresh arugula, mesquite smoked turkey, honey ham, and applewood-smoked bacon (I just hold the meat as a vegetarian and ask for more brie).
Add to
Details
Dinner & Date Nights
Coastal Crust
@TravelFilled
This is a great spot for families with kids - there is a big play area with tables out back complete with a vintage car-turned-playset, and they even host movie night. Right next door to Vintage Cafe, which is owned by the same family. Both have gluten free and vegetarian options
Add to
Details
167 Raw Oyster Bar
@TravelFilled
Folks swear by their lobster roll, but just promise me you'll look beyond and order the tuna burger and shaved swordfish sandwich. This is truly one of the best local seafood focused spots, where you can always trust there to be an endless oyster supply... and probably a long wait unless you get there early. 167 Raw doesn't do reservations, but their sister spot (167 Sushi) does. I say put your name in then go around the corner to the aesthetically pleasing Bar 167, order a cocktail or mini martini, plus some house made focaccia, and it won't even feel like a wait!
Add to
Details
Barsa Tapas Lounge & Bar
@TravelFilled
Book a patio table, order some wine and tapas, then sit back, relax, and wait- your traditional paella order will take 30-40 minutes to prepare, but be worth the wait. This meal is great to order for a large group, and I love how they take an "everything but the kitchen sink" approach to both the vegetarian and seafood options options- you never fully know what local fare will be tucked inside that paella!
Add to
Details
Xiao Bao Biscuit
@TravelFilled
Don't let "biscuit" fool you, XBB offers a seasonal menu of Asian street foods from China, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam- comfort food from the owners' childhood honoring "kick ass grandmas everywhere." It's hard for me to order anything but the Okonomiyaki- their signature Japanese cabbage pancake with a sunny side egg on top, which can be made vegan. Great gluten-free options too
Add to
Details
Basic Kitchen
@TravelFilled
You'll feel healthy but fancy. Vegan and vegetarian options abound at this neighborhood kitchen known for their cauliflower wings and. natural wine list. The bartenders are real friendly, and staff is very understanding of gluten/other food allergies.
Add to
Details
Grace & Grit
@TravelFilled
For a taste of the south, order a grit flight- they offer gluten free and vegetarian options.
Add to
Details
Let's become travel planning besties
Need help choosing a place to stay?
Charleston remains a top travel destination (Travel + Leisure just ranked it as the "Best City in the U.S. to visit" for its 11th consecutive year), but that also means the options of where to stay in this southern foodie town continue to grow.
Take it from a local who lived and works downtown - there are plenty of options and they all are not created equal. You want historic charm paired with modern amenities, and bonus points for walkability so you can enjoy those cobblestone streets and and an excuse for a nightcap.
These local hotel recommendations have all those things and each offer their own unique flair. The list is roughly ordered from most to least expensive, but may vary by season and availability.
Couples • Female Solo • Car-free • Groups • Architecture • Art • Boutique • Luxury • History • People & Culture • Romantic • Shopping • Foodie
Free
For any questions, always feel free to reach out to me via email (emma@travelfilled.com) or DM me on Instagram (@travel.filled)
* * *
CURATED BY
Bonjour, y'all! I’m Emma, a southerner who moved to Paris and now splits my time between the City of Light and Charleston, SC. After years of planning trips to both spots for friends, family, and the occasional stranger I befriended on a plane, I made things official and launched Travel Filled, my travel blog and planning business. I used to work for the City of Charleston and now travel and work with cities all over the country (aka total local government nerd, proudly nicknamed the Leslie Knope of my grad class). That makes me incredibly enthusiastic about finding and sharing local specialities and hidden gems. I’m constantly seeking out new cultural experiences, running routes, good pescatarian spots, book and coffee nooks, and the perfect cocktail. I plan trips for all sorts of folks, but am especially passionate about connecting with culturally curious women looking to fill up their travel cup through a blend of authentic experiences and treat yoself moments and are just too busy kicking ass in their daily lives to plan it all on their own!
PERSONALIZED TRAVEl SERVICES
Connect
with
a
local
expert
to
help
plan
your
ideal
trip
Send A Tip
Support Emma Cregg’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Read more about places in this guide