Whether you're a Saratoga local or just visiting, dining out with Celiac Disease can feel like a gamble. But downtown Saratoga has a growing list of options that make gluten-free dining a little easier and more enjoyable. Here's where to go when you want to eat safely and still feel like you're part of the local food scene.
Standard Fare
The newest addition to Phila Street opens August 15 and is already one of the most exciting options for gluten-free dining in town.
Phila Street is quickly becoming the go-to for great meals and drinks, with favorites like Bocage, Familiar Creature, Solevo, and now, Standard Fare. If you have Celiac Disease, you know downtown has limited dedicated gluten-free fryers—aside from Cantina and Sara’s Kitchen, it’s slim pickings.
Enter Standard Fare. Everything they fry is gluten-free. That includes crispy artichokes and fried calamari, items we seldom get to enjoy.
They also offer an Early Bird Special, Monday through Friday, with 20% off your bill. Pair that with a well-made martini (or “tini,” as they call it), and you’ve got a happy hour worth showing up early for.
Their wine list is also a standout. Owners Clark and Zac run Bocage, the one and only Champagne lounge in Saratoga, just across the street. They’re known for sourcing unique bottles you won’t find anywhere else.
Bare Blends
For those who love a good yoga flow followed by something nourishing, Bare Blends is a natural next stop. Saratoga’s first and only 100% gluten-free and vegan café, this woman-owned business serves up smoothies, açaí bowls, gluten-free waffles, and breakfast sandwiches in a welcoming, casual space.
The California Cleanse Smoothie, for example, is a blend of blueberries, banana, vanilla protein, spinach, hemp seeds, and almond milk and is a popular pick for a refreshing post-class sip. It’s also a great grab-and-go lunch spot, with rotating seasonal salads and hearty plant-based grain bowls to keep you going all day.
Cantina
Cantina has long been a favorite for gluten-free diners, especially in the summer when the rooftop and parklet are buzzing.
Recently, their chef revamped the menu with new options like Korean Beef Tacos (gluten-free) made with spicy ground beef, pickled veggetables, shredded cabbage, sriracha aioli, cilantro, and puffed rice. They also added new salads, including a shaved Brussels sprouts salad and a crispy chorizo wedge salad.
While the taquitos are no longer on the menu, fan-favorite nachos and other fried items remain. Be sure to let your server know you have Celiac Disease so they can use the dedicated gluten-free fryer.
Their bar happy hour is another reason to stop by: $4 draft beers, 2-for-1 margaritas and sangrias, $5 wines by the glass, and $5 bar snacks, many of which are gluten-free.
Seneca
For a night out where you don’t have to worry, Seneca checks every box. They have great wine and cocktails, a knowledgeable staff, and a separate gluten-free menu available upon request.
Let them know you have Celiac Disease when you’re seated. They’ll bring you a tailored menu that outlines exactly what you can have and what modifications are available. For example, the Coal Roasted Beets (just ask for no fried kale) are always a solid choice.
Locals often list Seneca as a top spot for dinner, and with good reason. If I could eat gluten, I’d be all over their Parker House rolls, but I never feel like I’m missing out because they have great gluten-free options for entrees.
Sara’s Kitchen
Sara’s Kitchen offers authentic Middle Eastern food and thoughtful gluten-free accommodations. They use a separate fryer for gluten-free pita chips and have a dedicated panini press, so you can enjoy a gyro with a gluten-free wrap. Their chicken shawarma hot plate is a favorite in our house. One drink you will want to try with your meal is their LimonNana, made with lime and mint. It complements their menu items beautifully.
You can dine in or order takeout. I personally DoorDash Sara’s when I want a quick and healthy option.
Whitman Brewing
When you’re craving pizza or a burger while watching the game, this is the spot.
They offer gluten-free buns and can make any pizza gluten-free using a separate pan and utensils, though pizzas are cooked in the same oven.
During football and baseball season, it’s a great place to grab a seat and enjoy a meal. I usually skip the fries and order a side salad instead.
Happy hour includes pizza specials and drinks like their “Just the Cheese” pizza and their take on a paloma. Stop in Wednesday or Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. or Friday from 2 to 6 p.m.
Two gluten-free favorites worth trying are the Italian Grandpa pizza, topped with San Marzano sauce, mozzarella-cheddar blend, sausage, Calabrian chiles, gremolata, and Parmesan, and the Korean BBQ pizza, which offers a nice twist on a pizza if you're in the mood for something different.
Boca Bistro
Step into the spirit of Spanish tapas culture at Boca Bistro, one of downtown Saratoga’s best spots for gluten-free dining. Their menu is clearly labeled, and the staff is knowledgeable and proactive. They often ask about allergies and dietary needs before you even have to bring them up. Gluten-free bread is available to start, which is a thoughtful touch if you’re hungry before your meal arrives.
Known for their paella, Boca is a great pick for group dining, but the tapas-style menu also makes it easy to enjoy solo. Grab a seat at the bar, order a few favorites like the garlic shrimp, pork belly, or stuffed dates, and soak in the atmosphere. Their “Siesta Happy Hour” runs daily from 4 to 6 p.m. at the bar. A great choice for a casual bite and a glass of wine.
