Dining in London as a Coeliac: My Chic Gluten-Free Guide ✨

Living with coeliac disease for over a decade has been… let’s just say, a journey. When I was first diagnosed, the idea of dining out felt like entering a battlefield: hidden gluten, careless cross-contamination, and the inevitable aftermath that followed. Fast-forward to today, and while my reactions have only gotten stronger (three years ago I had to fully commit to dedicated gluten-free dining), the silver lining is that restaurants and cafés have become so much more coeliac-conscious.

Eating out is no longer the luxury it once was, at least not in London. On my recent trip, I was honestly spoiled for choice. So, if you’re coeliac and wondering where to eat in the city, here’s my chic little guide to the spots that made my trip sparkle. ✨

1. Pho Vietnamese – Westfield London, Shepherd’s Bush

Let me just start by saying: obsessed.Although not 100% gluten free, 98% of the menu is safe and clearly marked, which is practically unheard of in a busy food court. The staff went above and beyond to ensure my dish was handled with care, and the meal itself?

Divine. Warm, filling, and refreshingly different from the typical steak-and-chips fallback. Honestly, it’s my favorite spot in London, and if I, as a coeliac, can say that about a non-dedicated place, you know it’s special.

2. Libby’s Café – Notting Hill

If you want pastries that will make your heart skip a beat, Libby’s is your girl. 100% gluten free, the cinnamon rolls are simply heavenly, and the location couldn’t be more Instagram-worthy (hello, Notting Hill charm ✨).

But here’s my honest tea: the experience didn’t quite match the pastries. On my three visits, the vibe was a little… chaotic. Think dogs running wild, staff using tables meant for customers, and even someone waltzing in with gluten. It’s perfect for a quick bite or takeaway treat while you’re shopping in the area, but not exactly my pick for a cozy sit-down with a latte and a book.

3. Niche – Rosebery Avenue

This one was a trek (a 45-minute tube ride, to be exact), but as it’s 100% gluten free, I felt compelled to check it out. The décor? Chic and inviting. The staff? Lovely. The food? Good, but not quite mind-blowing.

I tried the duck pie, which was tasty, though better suited to a stew than a pie, in my opinion. My mom had the schnitzel, which was decent, but I’ve had better elsewhere. It’s not a bad spot at all, but considering the travel time, I wouldn’t rush back. Still, if you’re in the area and want guaranteed safety, it’s a reliable option.

4. Paladar – London Road

Saving the best for last. Paladar is a 100% gluten-free Latin American restaurant, and it is nothing short of enchanting. Vibrant, colorful, atmospheric, this place had everything. I dined there twice, and both times the staff were not only welcoming but impressively knowledgeable about every dish. The food? Perfection. Bold, flavorful, and easily the best gluten-free meals I’ve had in London. A true 10/10.

Final Thoughts

London, darling, you’ve come a long way. Dining out as a coeliac isn’t just possible here, it’s exciting. From cinnamon rolls in Notting Hill to pho in a bustling Westfield, I felt like a true foodie again, without the anxiety.

If you’re planning a trip and have coeliac disease, take note of these spots, and please leave me your recommendations in the comments, because this gluten-free girlie is always ready for her next adventure.

✨ Until next time, London.