Eating gluten-free isn’t just a preference for some of us—it’s a necessity. As someone with celiac disease, I know firsthand how challenging (and frustrating) it can be to find truly gluten-free fast food that’s actually safe to eat. Sure, plenty of places slap a “gluten-free” label on their menu, but that doesn’t mean we won’t end up sick from cross-contamination.
If you’re traveling through California (or just looking for a reliable fast food spot near you), this guide is for you. I’ve done the research, tested the options, and compiled a list of fast food chains that are celiac-friendly—or at least safer than most.
What Makes a Fast Food Chain Truly Gluten-Free Friendly?
Not all “gluten-free” fast food is created equal. Some places have great options but poor cross-contamination protocols, making them unsafe for celiacs. Here’s what I look for when determining whether a fast food chain is actually gluten-free friendly:
- Dedicated fryers, meaning fries, chips, or other fried foods don’t share oil with gluten-containing items.
- Safe grills for buns and meat ensuring gluten-free buns or burger patties aren’t cooked on the same surface as gluten-containing items, or using a barrier like foil to prevent cross-contact.
- Separate prep areas or at least clear allergen protocols to minimize cross-contact.
- Knowledgeable staff who understand what “gluten-free” really means.
- More than just salads because let’s be honest, we deserve better.
It’s also important to recognize the difference between chains and franchises when choosing a safe place to eat.
A chain follows strict corporate guidelines, meaning their gluten-free procedures tend to be more consistent across locations. A franchise, however, is independently owned and may not enforce the same level of food safety. This is why one location of a franchise might be extremely careful about cross-contamination, while another might not be as thorough. When dining at a franchise, it’s always a good idea to ask about their specific food handling practices instead of assuming all locations operate the same way.
With that in mind, here are the best gluten-free fast food options in California that won’t leave you regretting your meal.
Top Gluten-Free Fast Food Chains in California
1. In-N-Out Burger (Corporate Chain)
I can’t count how many times In-N-Out has saved me. It’s one of the few fast-food places where I don’t have to overthink my order. Their simple menu makes it easy to avoid gluten, and I never feel like I’m missing out. Its a lifesaver for those late nights at work, as they keep their doors open well into the early morning hours (usually until 1 am). I prefer to dine in whenever possible, enjoying the atmosphere without the stress of waiting in their typically long drive-thru line. Plus, there’s something about the classic diner vibe that makes the experience way better.
- Why it’s safe:
- In-N-Out’s fries are cooked in a dedicated 100% sunflower oil fryer, meaning they don’t share oil with anything containing gluten (and its nut free for anyone with nut allergies).
- Their burgers can be ordered “protein-style” (wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun), making them completely gluten-free.
- The spread is gluten free (for all my non-celiacs) but can contain cross-contamination, so swap it out for mustard and ketchup.
- All beverages (except for hot chocolate) are safe for celiacs, including their delicious shakes in classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry.
- How to order: Ask for a “protein-style” burger with no spread or with mustard and ketchup instead. Add grilled onions if you want extra flavor. Definitely add a shake of your preference for a sweet treat to complete your meal.
- Cross-contamination risk: Low. In-N-Out has a simple menu with only two gluten-containing ingredients, reducing cross-contact risk.
2. Chipotle (Corporate Chain)
I’ve generally had positive experiences at Chipotle, especially with their gluten-free options. I love ordering a burrito bowl with cilantro-lime rice, black beans, grilled chicken, and guacamole. The staff is attentive about cross-contamination, which gives me confidence, making Chipotle a reliable choice for a quick gluten-free meal.
- Why it’s safe:
- Nearly everything at Chipotle is gluten-free except for the flour tortillas.
- Their corn tortillas and chips are safe, and they don’t use shared fryers.
- You can ask staff to change gloves and utensils to avoid cross-contamination.
- How to order: A burrito bowl or salad with corn tortillas on the side.
- Cross-contamination risk: Moderate. Since Chipotle is an assembly-line style restaurant, there’s a risk of cross-contact from ingredients, especially the lettuce and cheeses, being handled together. Always ask them to change gloves and utensils, and if possible use new lettuce and cheese, or skip them altogether.
3. Five Guys (Franchise)
Five Guys is one of the safest options for celiacs, and I’ve never had a bad experience here. Their fresh ingredients and dedicated fryers make it one of my top picks when I want something fast and satisfying.
- Why it’s safe:
- Five Guys does not offer a gluten-free bun, but you can get any burger wrapped in lettuce or served in a bowl.
- Their fries are cooked in a dedicated fryer using peanut oil, so no cross-contact.
- How to order: A lettuce-wrapped burger with any toppings you like, plus fries.
- Cross-contamination risk: Low. Five Guys is generally celiac-friendly, but shared prep areas can still pose a small risk, so always ask.
4. Shake Shack (Corporate Chain)
Shake Shack is one of those places I want to trust, but I always have to double-check the fryer and grill situation. I was thrilled to learn they offer a gluten-free bun option, but I felt a bit anxious asking about their cross-contamination practices. Some locations are super careful, while others give me a vague answer about cross-contamination. When I find a good one, though, it’s worth it.
- Why it’s safe:
- Shake Shack offers a gluten-free bun option, as well as a lettuce wrap. (But beware as the buns are sometimes grilled in the same place as the grilled cheese, which contains gluten.)
- Their fries are typically safe, but you need to confirm with each location whether they use a shared fryer.
- How to order: A ShackBurger with a gluten-free bun or lettuce wrap. Get the fries if they have a dedicated fryer.
- Cross-contamination risk: Medium. The buns and fries may come into contact with gluten-containing items depending on the location. The shakes and custard also sometimes have malt residue from cross-contamination.
Honorable Mentions
These places aren’t perfect, but they do offer some gluten-free options:
Jersey Mike’s
I love that Jersey Mike’s offers gluten-free subs, and some locations even take extra precautions by changing gloves and using a clean surface. However, I’ve also run into employees who don’t fully understand cross-contact, which makes me hesitant. If you visit, be sure to ask about their prep process.
Cross-contamination risk: Medium—some locations are better than others at preventing cross-contact.
Rubio’s Coastal Grill
Rubio’s has been hit-or-miss for me. Their corn tortillas are safe, and I appreciate that they list allergens clearly, but shared fryers are an issue. I’ve had to pass on the chips at certain locations, even when I was really craving them.
Cross-contamination risk: Medium—be cautious with fried and grilled items and confirm prep procedures.
MOD Pizza
I was so excited to try MOD Pizza’s gluten-free and cauliflower crusts, but the shared ovens make me nervous. Some locations will take extra steps to reduce cross-contact, but others don’t seem as careful. When I’m really craving pizza, I might take the risk—but I always ask about their process first.
Cross-contamination risk: High—shared ovens mean there’s always a chance of gluten exposure.
Habit Burger
I’ve had mixed experiences at Habit Burger, but when I find a location that takes gluten seriously, it’s a great option. Just be sure to confirm the fryer situation before ordering fries. They offer lettuce-wrapped burgers, and some locations have dedicated fryers for their fries, but this really varies.
Cross-contamination risk: Medium—always double-check fryer and grill policies at your location.
Tips for Ordering Gluten-Free Fast Food Without Getting Sick
Even at the safest places, it’s important to take extra precautions when ordering gluten-free fast food. Here are my go-to strategies:
- Always double-check with the staff about their cross-contamination policies.
- Ask for fresh gloves when ordering at places like Chipotle or Jersey Mike’s.
- Stick to places with dedicated fryers for fries, chips, and other fried items.
- Use the “Find Me Gluten Free” app to read real reviews from other celiacs.
- Keep a backup snack in your bag in case you can’t find a safe option.
Conclusion
Finding truly gluten-free fast food isn’t easy, but it’s possible with the right knowledge. These chains offer some of the safest options in California, but always be cautious and double-check with each location.
Have you found a fast food place that’s great for celiacs? Share your experiences in the comments! And if you want more gluten-free travel and food tips, don’t forget to subscribe to my blog.
Happy (and safe) eating!