20 Of The Best Gluten-Free Cafes And Restaurants On The Gold Coast
Danielle Read
Contributor | Urban List
Harmony Lee
Contributor | Urban List, Gold Coast, QLD
Gone are the days of boring gluten-free food. More recently, mouthwatering gluten-free dishes have rolled out in force across the Gold Coast/Kombumerri Country. However, there’s a big difference between cheese-topped cardboard slabs, bread you might break your teeth on, and genuinely delicious gluten-free feasts.
So you’ll be pleased to know that many a Gold Coast cafe and restaurant has mastered the art of plating up top-notch gluten-free fare. Here’s your guide to 20 of the Gold Coast's best gluten-free restaurants and cafes in 2025.
Skip straight to the good bits:
Gluten-Free Cafes
Cardamom Pod
3 Brolga Avenue, Southport QLD 4215
Image Credit: Cardamom Pod | Instagram
Arguably home to the Gold Coast’s most extra açai bowl, Cardamom Pod is a fully vegetarian health food cafe with vegan and gluten-free options. This local gem is snuggled into the Brickworks shopping precinct and serves completely irresistible meals for all dietary requirements.
The decadent dishes come in generous portions and are a treat to the eyes with on-point garnishes and creative plating. I recommend the chia-crusted French toast with blood orange marmalade, as well as the flourish Buddha bowl with quinoa pilaf, potato peanut fritters, roast sweet potato, hummus, broccolini, satay sauce and avocado.
INSIDER INTEL
- Check the cake cabinet for regular gluten-free delights.
- Parking can be tight - if meeting with friends, leave plenty of time to hunt one down.
Uni's Bakehouse
4/35 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
Image Credit: Uni's Bakehouse | Instagram
A new plant-based and mostly gluten-free venue has landed in Surfers Paradise and it’s rewriting what vegan fare can look—and taste—like. Uni’s Bakehouse, the latest venture from the team behind beloved vegan cafe Blendlove, is elevating vegan and gluten-free sweet treats with a cabinet of gooey cookies, croissant-cookie hybrids, rich brownies and cloud-soft focaccia that stand firmly in ‘treat yourself’ territory.
Inside, the pastel-washed space blends soft buttery yellows with sky-blue accents and crisp marble finishes, striking that sweet spot between playful and refined. With Bun Coffee pours and clever flavour twists Uni’s Bakehouse steps confidently into the scene as a destination where plant-based and gluten-free baking isn’t a compromise—in fact, it’s the drawcard.
INSIDER INTEL
- The Uni's team love dogs and even serve vegan doggy treats. Win-win.
BSKT
4 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach QLD 4218
Image Credit: BSKT Cafe | Instagram
A stone’s throw from the Gold Coast’s idyllic seaside shores, BSKT is an unmissable health food cafe on the Gold Coast for gluten-free brunching and lunching. With an abundant menu brimming with gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free goods, you’re spoilt for choice.
It’s not just the food that I love, though. The bright and airy space is filled with leafy plants, sky-high windows and a bustling vibe all week long. Drop in for all-day brekky, miso salmon dishes or even cocowhip bowls.
INSIDER INTEL
- It's super dog-friendly and there's an outdoor play area for kiddos.
See Yo Gluten Free Bakery
2364 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Dreaming of the type of gluten-free cafe where anything on the menu is up for grabs and GF? You’re in luck at See Yo Gluten Free Bakery, on the site of the former Marie Anita's.
This charming, completely gluten-free cafe and bakery has become a staple for gluten-free Gold Coasters, and I love their dog-friendly outdoor backyard. Thanks to their incredibly wide range of artisan bread, cakes and pastrie,s you’ll soon see why they've gained a cult-like following.
INSIDER INTEL
- Venture out the back to the garden.
- Grab a loaf of olive garlic bread to go.
Gold Coast Gluten-Free Bakery
1/16 Hilldon Court, Nerang QLD 4211
It does what it says on the tin. Gold Coast Gluten Free Bakery bakes a selection of gluten-free and occasionally dairy-free bakery treats.
From roasted pumpkin and rosemary bread to hearty beef pies and raspberry chocolate mud cake, consider this Nerang’s best-kept gluten-free secret, until now. Sink your teeth into their treasure trove of baked goods in-store during weekdays or at various Farmer’s Markets around the Gold Coast on weekends.
INSIDER INTEL
- This bakery creates goods for the masses, so their in-store experience is more grab-and-go and often limited.
- The carrot cake is moist and a top choice for an epic gluten-free treat.
Urban Eatery & Cafe
Shop 4/90 Surf Parade, Broadbeach QLD 4218
If it’s on the menu at Urban Eatery & Cafe, chances are it’s either already gluten-free or can easily be made that way. Think nourishing favourites like the super greens bowl loaded with veggies, avo, a poached egg, dukkah and wakame, or go big with the Urban House Breakfast—free-range poached eggs, bacon, a hash brown and grilled tomato with the option to swap in gluten-free toast.
You’ll also find sweet comforts like waffles and churros served with banana and chocolate sauce. In short, Urban Eatery & Cafe is a bona fide gluten-free dream.
insider intel
- This is a great spot for healthy eats.
- It's connected to Urban Fish Market, so you can grab some great fresh fish while you're there.
Seeds Of Life
Online & Markets
The Gold Coast's only entirely gluten-free and organic plant-based wholefoods manufacturer had to make my list of the best gluten-free joints. 'Organic gluten-free nutrition' is at the forefront of everything Seeds Of Life does, including in their gluten-free bakery, which whips up some seriously delightful treats, sans gluten.
There's also plenty of oil-free, nut-free and coconut-free options available at this family-run bakery and whole food store, so if you have allergies, this is the place to find a delicious alternative.
INSIDER INTEL
- Seeds Of Life is also one of the only places that supplies allergy-friendly catering and platter boxes.
- Find them at Palm Beach Farmers Markets Saturdays 6am-11.30am and HOTA Markets Sundays 6am-11.30am.
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Gluten-Free Restaurants
Greenhouse Canteen & Bar
268 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Tallebudgera Valley QLD 4228
Image Credit: Greenhouse Canteen & Bar | Instagram
This newly relocated Tallebudgera establishment boasts an entirely plant-based and gluten-free menu. Set inside Gold Coast’s old Teavine House, Greenhouse Canteen & Bar dishes up lunch from Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 3pm and dinner on Friday and Saturday nights 5pm til late.
Taste your way around mushroom and sage arancini balls served with cashew parmesan, or head straight for the Vietnamese pancake with tangy chilli jam, oyster mushroom mince and seasonal vegetables in a crispy pancake.
INSIDER INTEL
- This gluten-free restaurant also shares its space with the stunning Greenhouse Bathhouse to make this a full-day soiree.
The Deli By Pepe Italia
13/1102 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach QLD 4221
If you’re part of the gluten-free crowd, then you’ll be absolutely tickled to learn that The Deli by Pepe Italia makes both its gluten-free pizza bases and gluten-free pasta completely in-house. The pasta is silky, delicious and still soaks up sauce just as well as its gluten-full counterpart.
Their gluten-free pizzas are up there with some of the best on the Gold Coast, with soft-yet-chewy bases that carry their authentic toppings beautifully. Even the salads are entirely gluten-free, making this spot a little slice of heaven for Italian-loving, sensitive tummies.
insider intel
- You can add burrata to any of the pizzas.
- Some of the entrees can be made gluten-free by swapping out the bread for their house-made gluten-free option.
Sticky Rice
443 Golden Four Drive, Tugun QLD 4224
Image Credit: Sticky Rice | Instagram
Centrally located in Tugun’s village-like strip, Sticky Rice has made a name for itself as a prime gluten-free dining spot on the Southern Gold Coast. Serving authentic Thai food and epic cocktails, their leafy upstairs dining room and outdoor dining space deliver a balanced atmosphere where refined dining meets cool tropical vibes.
If you’re searching for the best gluten-free restaurant on the Gold Coast for Thai bites like satay chicken, generous servings of an assortment of curries, and seriously delicious pad Thai, you’ve found it.
INSIDER INTEL
- The banquet is generous in size and a decent choice for groups.
Pangaat Indian Restaurant & Bar
3/59 Railway St, Mudgeeraba QLD 4213
Prepare to have your mind blown—every single curry on Pangaat Indian Restaurant & Bar’s menu is completely gluten-free. Many of their entrées follow suit, and they even offer gluten-free naan, which feels like striking gold in the world of Indian dining.
My personal picks are the palak paneer, the melt-in-your-mouth lamb shank masala and the ever-comforting butter chicken, though it’s hard to find a dish that doesn’t hit the mark. Simply put, it’s a full-blown gluten-free paradise.
insider intel
- Their food is just as good to take away as it is to eat in.
- They can get quite busy on weekends, so order early.
Balboa Italian
1069 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach QLD 4221
Image Credit: Balboa Italian | Instagram
Good news. Classic Italian cuisine is now on your gluten-free restaurant list right here on the Gold Coast. With fresh takes on beloved favourites, almost everything on the menu at Balboa Italian can be made gluten-free upon request.
I recommend starting with the crispy sage focaccia (yes, it can be made gluten-free) before moving on to the Gamberi Piccanti pizza or the Pappardelle al Ragu, and ending strong with house-made gelato. Say bon appetit to your next wheat-free feast.
INSIDER INTEL
- Snag a loft seat if you get the chance.
- The gluten-free Byron Bay buratta with balsamic vinegar, chilli and black olive crumb wins every time.
Bar Leo
4 Panitz St, Bundall QLD 4217
Who said gluten-free couldn’t be a little fancy? Bar Leo is a true hidden gem, especially for gluten-sensitive Gold Coasters, with a seasonal menu that’s consistently loaded with gluten-free options.
If a dish isn’t already gluten-free, the team will happily work their magic to adapt it wherever possible. Even the dessert menu leans heavily gluten-free, and with its stellar wine list, this cosy spot also doubles as one of the Gold Coast’s best wine bars.
insider intel
- There are different specials throughout the week.
- It's truly gorgeous here at golden hour.
Red Hot Cod
1716 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
Fish and chips by the beach is a rite of passage on the Gold Coast. But finding the elusive gluten-free batter can be a challenge. Not at Burleigh’s own Red Hot Cod.
This fresh menu features the option to choose a gluten-free batter for any fish. Pair with one of the many gluten-free salads and poke bowls for a tasty shared meal.
INSIDER INTEL
- If parking's scarce, head behind the library and you should land one.
- Take your parcel of happiness to the iconic Burleigh Headland for a sunset feast.
Wazen
33 Tallebudgera Creek Road, West Burleigh QLD 4219
The simple interiors at Wazen ring true to the traditional Japanese dining experience, with flavours that sing with every bite. Whether it's the wagyu beef sushi roll with teriyaki and mayonnaise, the fresh salmon and avocado roll or the crispy karaage roll, Wazen can do no wrong.
Choose from a wide selection of loaded rice bowls, bento boxes, tapas and sashimi Wednesday through Saturday.
INSIDER INTEL
- Lunchtime sushi rolls are a favourite at this gluten-free-friendly Gold Coast restaurant.
- Pair your gluten-free feast with organic wines available.
Big Papi's Cocina
140 Griffith St, Coolangatta QLD 4225
One of Coolangatta’s best dining spots, Big Papi’s Cocina is a love letter to flavour—and that includes looking after the gluten-sensitive among us. While not everything is gluten-free, plenty of dishes already are or can be easily adapted.
From the seafood paella to the kingfish sashimi and their signature coal-cooked corn, you won’t be short on standout options. Consider this your go-to for a delicious, gluten-free-friendly feast by the coast.
Insider intel
- They have seating options to suit every diner, but my favourite is the greenhouse-style area out the back.
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T'ang Court
38 Old Burleigh Rd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
As one of the Gold Coast’s best restaurants, T’ang Court ensures gluten-sensitive diners are never left out of the fine-dining experience with its very own chef-crafted gluten-free tasting menu. It’s rare to find such an extensive selection of gluten-free options in Cantonese cuisine, yet this esteemed, chef-hatted venue delivers with dishes like dim sum baskets, barbecue platters, lamb backstrap, Singapore noodles, and more.
The menu blends traditional and contemporary Cantonese flavours, all executed with exceptional finesse. Honouring its Michelin-star sister restaurants abroad, T’ang Court pairs authentic flavours with unrivalled service for a truly memorable gluten-free feast.
insider intel
- I highly recommend pairing your meal with a glass of wine (or two); they've won awards for a reason.
Frida Sol
1176 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach QLD 4221
A Palm Beach local treasure, Frida Sol is the best gluten-free restaurant for Mexican-lovers. This modern taquería is fitted out with Frida Kahlo-inspired interiors, cactuses and a birds-eye balcony begging for you to lounge on.
Opt for the nearly fully gluten-free seven-course banquet, or choose from the loaded menu featuring gluten-free succulent cauliflower bites, chicken wings, pulled pork tacos and braised beef cheek burrito bowls.
INSIDER INTEL
- Mexican dips, followed by salt and pepper calamari, the muchos nachos, and crispy chicken burrito bowl make for the perfect shared meal.
Jimmy Wah’s
1724 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
Image Credit: Jimmy Wah's | Instagram
Think: Vietnamese cuisine with a modern touch and Australian twist. At Jimmy Wah’s, gluten-free/friendly food means you and your wheat-sensitive mates can enjoy an exciting long lunch or night out.
Indulge in freshly shucked oysters, crispy chicken and pork spring rolls or make your way directly to the half chicken with kaffir-lime, tamarind and coconut cream.
INSIDER INTEL
- Can’t decide? Just say ‘feed me’ and the chefs will create a complete series of gluten-free courses for you.
Izakaya Midori
50 Woodland Drive, Reedy Creek QLD 4227
This quaint Japanese hideout features some of the best gluten-free food on the Gold Coast. Brimming with vegan delights, Izakaya Midori offers a smattering of gluten-free lunch, dinner and seasonal options.
Whether it’s the succulent nasu miso den with sweet miso and sesame sauce, exotic kinoko cerviche made with mushroom, lemon and vegan caviar, or the karaage Japanese curry rice with potato chips and pickles. Trust me, this is a must-visit.
INSIDER INTEL
- Not only is this joint brimming with gluten-free eats, it's entirely vegan (but you wouldn't know it).
Looking for more dining inspiration? Check out:
Main image credit: Greenhouse Canteen & Bar | Instagram
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