Best Upscale Gluten Free Restaurants in Chicago | Upscale & Gluten Free

21 restaurants in Best Upscale Gluten Free Restaurants in Chicago | Upscale & Gluten Free

• Melt n Dip — French · rated 5/5: Step into a decadent sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of warm Belgian chocolate and golden, toasted batter creates an immediate sense of indulgence. Artfully folded crepes and crisp, airy waffles serve as canvases for molten drizzles, spiced lotus cream, and traditional textures like Knefe, turning every plate into a vibrant celebration of sweetness. It is a whimsical destination for dessert lovers, where each bite offers a rich, multisensory escape into the world of premium cocoa and imaginative confections.
• Bittersweet Pastry Shop — French · rated 5/5: The air at Bittersweet Pastry Shop is thick with the irresistible scent of caramelized sugar and cultured butter, drawing guests into a sun-drenched space where artisanal craft takes center stage. Glass cases overflow with golden, shatteringly crisp croissants and rustic fruit-studded clafoutis, while savory quiches rich with Gruyere offer a decadent counterpoint to the sticky, nut-topped rolls. Every bite, from the snap of a fresh baguette to the delicate layers of a pain au chocolat, captures the timeless elegance of a classic neighborhood patisserie.
• Alliance Bakery — French · rated 4/5: The air inside this charming neighborhood staple is thick with the irresistible scent of browning butter and yeast, drawing guests toward counters piled high with golden, shatteringly crisp pastries. Artisanal layers of laminated dough are transformed into everything from sweet, almond-dusted delights and vibrant guava-filled treats to savory parcels overflowing with melted cheeses and roasted peppers, offering a masterclass in the delicate art of the French bakery.
• Nonna's Goodlife Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into Nonna's Goodlife Pizza feels like a warm homecoming, where the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and melted mozzarella drifts from a bustling kitchen. Diners gather over overflowing baskets of pillowy parmesan bites and glistening, jumbo wings, creating a vibrant atmosphere centered on the joy of shared comfort food. From the savory depth of slow-simmered meatballs to the satisfying crunch of golden, cheesy taters, every dish celebrates the simple, soulful pleasures of a meal made for indulgence.
• Meli — Greek · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this vibrant morning sanctuary, where the comforting aroma of golden biscuits and savory gravy mingles with the sizzle of farm-fresh eggs. The kitchen transforms the breakfast table into a soulful journey, offering everything from the zesty heat of a Flamenco omelet to the sun-drenched Mediterranean flavors of the Sunrise in Cyprus bowl. Each plate celebrates the art of the morning meal, inviting guests to linger over hearty, wholesome fare in a space that feels like a warm, rustic embrace.
• Not Just Cookies Wholesale Bakery — American · rated 4/5: The air here is thick with the sweet, nostalgic perfume of caramelized butter and toasted oats, drawing you into a sanctuary of golden-brown perfection. Each bite offers a symphony of textures, from the delicate snap of a classic butter cookie to the rich, molten heart of a decadent brownie, proving that simple ingredients can create pure, comforting magic. Whether it is the chewy pull of a chocolate chip classic or the spiced warmth of a snickerdoodle, these artisanal bakes bring a touch of homemade soul to every box.
• Del Sur Bakery — Spanish · rated 4/5: The air at Del Sur Bakery is thick with the sweet scent of toasted rice and caramelized sugar, drawing visitors into a space where traditional French pastry techniques meet the vibrant, nostalgic flavors of the Philippines. Golden, shatteringly crisp croissants are reimagined with savory longanisa or fragrant coconut, while inventive treats like the calamansi chamomile bun and ube oatmeal cream pie offer a playful, modern twist on classic island ingredients. From the striking emerald hue of a pandan-infused Basque cake to the comforting, molten warmth of a gluten-free bibingka, every bite feels like a soulful celebration of heritage and craftsmanship.
• Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub — American · rated 4/5: Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub pulses with the high-energy spirit of a classic Chicago hangout, where the glow of big screens and the roar of the crowd create a vibrant backdrop for game-day camaraderie. The air is thick with the savory aroma of jumbo wings tossed in bold sauces and the irresistible scent of golden-fried Wisconsin cheese curds, inviting guests to dive into a spread of indulgent, shareable comfort. From the towering 1886 Burger to the crispy, loaded "Drty Totzz," every plate is a celebration of hearty flavors designed to be enjoyed amidst the clinking of glasses and the thrill of the final play.
• Original Ferrara Bakery — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into this historic sanctuary of sweets, guests are greeted by the intoxicating perfume of toasted almonds and freshly piped ricotta that lingers amidst glass cases overflowing with jewel-like cannoli and buttery cookies. Masterfully crafted wedding cakes stand as elegant centerpieces alongside boxes of velvet-smooth chocolate-covered almonds, weaving together a vibrant tapestry of artisanal tradition and old-world charm. Every visit offers a decadent journey through time, capturing the timeless soul of a classic Italian pasticceria in every sugary crumb.
• Rivers & Roads — American · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched neighborhood hub captures the spirit of the journey, welcoming wanderers with the comforting aroma of rich, steaming drip coffee perfect for sharing by the box. Artisanal gluten-free and vegan bagels provide a thoughtful, inclusive bite, while the playful addition of frothy pup cups ensures that every member of the family—two-legged or four—feels right at home.
• Poppie's Bakeshop — American · rated 4/5: Poppie’s Bakeshop is a whimsical haven of sweetness where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of browning European butter and melting chocolate. From vibrant rainbow-sprinkled treats and towering birthday cake stacks to rich, fudgy brownie hearts, every confection is crafted with an artisanal touch that turns nostalgic flavors into elegant, shareable treasures. Whether tucked into polished gift tins or enjoyed as a crispy, chocolate-studded snack, these bakes capture the pure, indulgent joy of a classic neighborhood bakery.
• Pizano's Pizza & Pasta — Italian: Pizano’s Pizza & Pasta captures the lively spirit of a classic Italian-American eatery, where the air is thick with the irresistible scent of toasted garlic and bubbling cheese. Guests gather around shared platters of golden-fried calamari and crispy toasted ravioli, diving into vibrant, family-style salads that bring a fresh, garden-crisp crunch to the table. It is a place where the comfort of tradition meets a high-energy dining room, making every meal feel like a spirited celebration of hearty flavors and shared moments.
• Meli Cafe — Greek: Sunlight streams into this vibrant morning haunt, where the comforting aroma of golden biscuits and savory gravy mingles with the lively energy of a neighborhood gathering spot. The kitchen transforms farm-fresh eggs into everything from zesty, spice-laden omelets to the Mediterranean-inspired Sunrise in Cyprus, offering a soulful start to the day that feels both familiar and adventurous. Whether you are tucking into a hearty steak and eggs or a vegetable-packed scramble, every plate captures the warmth of home-style cooking elevated by creative, global touches.
• Lou Mitchell's Restaurant — American: Stepping into this iconic Chicago landmark feels like a journey back in time, where the air is thick with the sweet aroma of toasted malt and the cheerful clatter of a bustling morning rush. Golden, cloud-like omelettes arrive brimming with savory fillings alongside stacks of signature "meltaway" pancakes and crisp Belgian waffles, offering a quintessential breakfast experience rooted in warmth and generous hospitality.
• Sputnik Coffee Company — American: The air hums with the rich, toasted aroma of small-batch beans, drawing visitors into a space where the art of the roast takes center stage. From the bold, smooth notes of their signature Sputnik blends to the delicate, floral steam rising from a cup of Jasmine Green or spicy Turmeric Ginger, every pour celebrates simplicity and craftsmanship. Whether grabbing a vacuum-sealed tin for home or lingering over a perfectly steeped Earl Grey, it is a haven for those who find beauty in a meticulously balanced brew.
• Meli Cafe — Greek: Meli Cafe is a sun-drenched morning retreat where the comforting scent of buttery biscuits and savory gravy fills the air, inviting guests to linger over vibrant, farm-fresh plates. The kitchen transforms the humble egg into an art form, offering everything from the zesty kick of a Spicy Flamenco omelet to the Mediterranean-inspired warmth of the Sunrise in Cyprus. Every dish feels like a soulful, home-cooked embrace, blending hearty traditional staples with bright, creative flavors that celebrate the start of a new day.
• Aloha Pokē Co — Seafood: Breezy island vibes meet modern wellness at this vibrant eatery, where the crunch of fresh vegetables and the buttery texture of sashimi-grade tuna and salmon create a symphony of clean, coastal flavors. Whether seeking a plant-based feast or protein-rich fuel for a specialized lifestyle, each bowl is a colorful mosaic of nourishment designed to energize the body and transport the senses to the Pacific shore.
• Beggars Pizza — Italian: This lively neighborhood haunt hums with the energy of shared laughter and the savory aroma of golden-fried treasures emerging hot from the kitchen. Guests dive into overflowing baskets of molten mozzarella sticks and seasoned curly fries, where every bite offers a satisfying, salty crunch and a melt-in-your-mouth center. It is a sanctuary of pure comfort, where the simple joy of gooey cheese curds and toasted ravioli turns a casual gathering into a nostalgic, indulgent celebration.
• Do-Rite Donuts & Coffee — American: This bustling urban gem hums with the comforting aroma of freshly roasted coffee and the sweet, nostalgic scent of artisanal donuts, where craggy, glaze-drenched old fashioneds are crafted with meticulous care. The experience extends into the savory realm with golden-fried chicken sandwiches and hearty breakfast stacks that balance spicy heat with buttery textures, offering a decadent sanctuary for both early risers and midday explorers.
• West Town Bakery — American: Sunlight streams through the windows of this vibrant neighborhood staple, where the sweet scent of fresh-baked pastries mingles with the savory aroma of sizzling chorizo and toasted sourdough. Diners tuck into artfully plated breakfast bowls and towering biscuit sandwiches, finding a playful balance between wholesome tofu scrambles and decadent, truffle-infused delights. It is a lively urban retreat where every bite, from the house-smoked lox to the golden-fried chicken, celebrates the soulful art of the morning meal.
• Pizzeria Portofino — Italian: Sun-drenched and spirited, this waterfront-inspired escape captures the breezy elegance of the Italian Riviera through its vibrant atmosphere and chic, coastal-inspired decor. The table overflows with golden calamari fritti and creamy imported burrata, while the aroma of roasted garlic bread and sizzling prime beef meatballs invites guests to linger over shared plates and chilled wine. It is a place where the casual joy of a seaside holiday meets refined culinary artistry, making every meal feel like a celebratory afternoon spent under the Mediterranean sun.