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Best Gluten-Free Spots by City in Northwest Arkansas

  • Dec 30, 2025
  • 3 min read

Updated: Dec 31, 2025


(Bentonville, Rogers, Fayetteville & Springdale)


Northwest Arkansas has quietly become a very workable place to eat gluten-free. Whether you’re gluten intolerant, living with celiac disease, or simply choosing to avoid gluten for health reasons, you’ll find more options here than you might expect — including dedicated gluten-free kitchens, clearly labeled menus, and restaurants that understand cross-contact concerns.


This guide is designed for both locals and visitors. It focuses on practical, real-world dining: where you can eat, what to order, and what to ask so you can feel confident — not stressed — when dining out.


Last updated: 2025.


How to Eat Gluten-Free Safely in Northwest Arkansas


If you are celiac or highly sensitive, the biggest issue isn’t whether a menu has gluten-free items — it’s cross-contact. Use clear language when ordering and don’t hesitate to ask questions.


Helpful ordering script:

“I have a gluten allergy. Can this be prepared with clean surfaces, clean utensils, and no shared fryer or flour exposure?”

Key questions to ask:

  • Is there a shared fryer?

  • Is this cooked on a shared grill or flat top?

  • Are gluten-free items stored and prepped separately?

  • Do sauces contain soy sauce or flour?


Pro tips:

  • Dine during off-peak hours when kitchens are calmer

  • Stick to naturally gluten-free dishes when possible

  • Avoid fried foods unless the fryer is dedicated


Bentonville: The Most Gluten-Free-Friendly Hub

Sandi Sue’s Gluten Free Bakery

A dedicated gluten-free bakery where everything is safe to eat. This is a go-to for locals and a must-visit for anyone newly gluten-free.

  • Baked goods, pastries, desserts

  • No cross-contact concerns

  • Excellent for stocking up


Stoic Brews Alternative

Arkansas’ first dedicated gluten-free brewery. In addition to beer, they offer other gluten-free food items, making it a reliable downtown option for a casual meal.


Conifer

An elevated Bentonville favorite with naturally gluten-free dishes and thoughtful preparation. Ideal for date nights or intentional dining.


MELD Kitchen

Notable for their gluten-free folded sandwich, which is surprisingly hard to find done well. A great lunch option.


Crêpes Paulette

Offers gluten-free crêpe options and publishes an allergen guide. Always confirm batter choice and prep surfaces when ordering.


Ramen Nara

One of the rare spots offering gluten-free noodles. Confirm broth and toppings for gluten content.


Mezza Luna

Provides gluten-free pasta, making it a dependable Italian option for mixed-diet groups.


Rogers: Pizza, Burgers & Casual Dining


Artisan Wood Fired Kitchen

A standout for special dietary needs:

  • Gluten-free pizza dough

  • Dairy-free cheese option available

Always ask about separate prep surfaces.


Big Orange

Offers gluten-free buns for sandwiches and burgers. Confirm fryer use if ordering fries.


House 1830

An elevated Rogers dining option with naturally gluten-free menu items. Great for relaxed dinners.


Fayetteville: Allergy Awareness & Transparency


Bocca Italian Eatery

Offers gluten-free pasta. Confirm sauce ingredients and shared boiling water.


Mockingbird Kitchen

Seasonal menu with naturally gluten-free dishes. Options vary, so ask what’s currently safe.


RYN

Health-forward menu with gluten-free options available. Confirm prep protocols when ordering.


Springdale & Cave Springs: Strategic Ordering Works Best

Springdale has fewer clearly labeled gluten-free menus, but it is still very doable with intentional ordering.


Pastafina

Locations in the Cave Springs / Springdale area offering gluten-free pasta. Ask about shared water and prep areas.


The AJ’s Oyster House

Some naturally gluten-free seafood options available. Fryer use varies — always confirm.


Flashback Pizza

Offers gluten-free crust. Confirm prep and oven handling if highly sensitive.


Tula

Modern menu with naturally gluten-free items depending on the season.


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Multi-Location & Chain Favorites (Across NWA)

Hero’s Coffee

Multiple locations across Northwest Arkansas. Carries gluten-free pastries, making it a reliable coffee stop.


HomeGrown

All locations offer healthy, gluten-free-friendly options. Well-labeled menu.


First Watch

All locations provide gluten-free options and clear allergen information.


Buttered Biscuit

All locations offer gluten-free menu items, especially helpful for breakfast and brunch.


Chicken Salad Chick

Several chicken salad options are gluten-free when served without bread. Confirm scoop and cracker handling.


Helpful Resource Before You Go

For up-to-date reviews, celiac-specific feedback, and recent cross-contact reports, use:

This resource is especially helpful when:

  • Traveling

  • Trying new restaurants

  • Needing celiac-specific insights


Final Note

Menus and kitchen practices can change at any time. Always confirm gluten-free preparation and cross-contact procedures directly with the restaurant, especially if you have celiac disease or severe sensitivity.

 
 
 

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