Hi Bev- Great question. The big issue is cross-contamination since many fast-food establishments state they can’t guarantee there isn’t a potential for that to happen even if the meal is gluten-free. So, fast food can be a bit limiting for those eating gluten-free. I usually pack a few items for the road because it can be hard to find a place where I can eat something I know is gluten-free. I’ve found Chipotle has a good menu (many items are gluten-free) and you can easily look up everything on the menu to see if it contains gluten online/phone; Chick-fil-A offers a gluten-free bun for the grilled chicken sandwich but there is potential for cross-contamination; Panera has gluten-free options like salads but again cross-contamination is a concern; and Zoe’s Kitchen is a fast-casual place that I enjoy and they have many items labeled as gluten-free on their menu. Do you have favorite places to eat when traveling?
Hi Alison, I haven't found any place special yet, but do breakfast for lunch at Cracker Barrel. Can't go wrong with an omelet and grits. Have never been to Chipotle but if and when we head south again will give it a try. Like you I usually take lunches and snacks from home, especially for the first day or two. Don't do Chick-fil-A and stopped going to Panera because of the cross contamination. Where is Zoe's Kitchen?
Alison where would you suggest for quick gluten free meals? All our travels are on the east coast as well.
Hi Bev- Great question. The big issue is cross-contamination since many fast-food establishments state they can’t guarantee there isn’t a potential for that to happen even if the meal is gluten-free. So, fast food can be a bit limiting for those eating gluten-free. I usually pack a few items for the road because it can be hard to find a place where I can eat something I know is gluten-free. I’ve found Chipotle has a good menu (many items are gluten-free) and you can easily look up everything on the menu to see if it contains gluten online/phone; Chick-fil-A offers a gluten-free bun for the grilled chicken sandwich but there is potential for cross-contamination; Panera has gluten-free options like salads but again cross-contamination is a concern; and Zoe’s Kitchen is a fast-casual place that I enjoy and they have many items labeled as gluten-free on their menu. Do you have favorite places to eat when traveling?
Hi Alison, I haven't found any place special yet, but do breakfast for lunch at Cracker Barrel. Can't go wrong with an omelet and grits. Have never been to Chipotle but if and when we head south again will give it a try. Like you I usually take lunches and snacks from home, especially for the first day or two. Don't do Chick-fil-A and stopped going to Panera because of the cross contamination. Where is Zoe's Kitchen?
Zoe’s Kitchen locations vary but there are a few in the Maryland, DC, VA areas. I’m not sure if there are any further north, I’ll have to check.