Is Disneyland still the 'Happiest Place on Earth' for Celiacs?

Since working for the company, I've had the privilege to attend Disneyland many times. I'm often asked whether if Disneyland is Celiac-friendly. The short answer, is YES.

The longer answer: As with anywhere, you have to advocate for yourself (or your children). However, it's absolutely possible to have a wonderful, worry-free experience. Actually, Disney World was one of the first places that my parents and I could relax and enjoy, despite me having Celiac Disease. Disneyland is much the same. The chefs often come out to greet you, explain what is available on the menu, and offer to make gluten-free substitutions. For example, at a Disney character breakfast buffet, I've always been offered my own small plate of gluten-free Mickey waffles. As an iconic staple of the buffet, having my own safe Mickey waffles goes a long way toward not making me feel left out of the 'full' experience.

TIPS:

• One of the main things that I would recommend is having some semblance of a plan beforehand. I know, I know... it's not always possible or fun. However, formal seated Disney dining relies on advanced planning even for regular park-goers. Dining reservations open 60 days in advance and the most popular locations go quick. I highly recommend checking out the list to see which places seem appealing and booking in advance. Additionally, when you make the reservation, you'll have the option to indicate whether someone in your party has a food allergy. This alerts the kitchen and they will be more ready for your allergen requests. If you have multiple allergies, you can indicate that as well. To make a reservation, head over to the dining section on the Disneyland website.
  

Gluten-free waffles at Disney

• If you're planning on eating at any quick service locations, downloading the Disneyland app is a must. Having the phone application allows you to mobile order food and avoid waiting in long queues. (You order the food on the application, pick an arrival window, click 'I'm Here, Prepare My Order' during the window, then go to the counter to pick up.) Additionally, the mobile app allows you to look at menus on your mobile device. This beats walking up to the signage on a hot day, but even better, most locations have a separate list of gluten/wheat sensitive allergen options. This includes gluten-free modifications to regular food items. For example, a cheeseburger with a gluten-free bun instead of the regular. If you have other allergies, they also have separate lists for other allergens.

I'll close by providing a list of my favorite Disneyland food options. While not an exhaustive list, it gives you an idea of the accommodations possible at Disneyland. There's still magic to be had, even for the gluten-free! (BUT I am waiting for gluten-free beignets to come to Disneyland... hopefully soon!)

Quick Service Dining Options

Disneyland:

• Alien Planet (pizza)

• Hungry Bear Restaurant (cheeseburger, fries, BBQ chicken salad)

• Red Rose Taverne (cheeseburger)

• Troubadour Tavern (loaded baked potato)

• Carnation Cafe (smoked turkey club, cheeseburger)

• Gibson Girl (vanilla sundae)

• Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe (grilled cheese and tomato soup)
  

Disney California Adventure:

• Cocina Cucamonga (quesabirria tacos)

• Cozy Cone (soft serve ice-cream in a cup: vanilla, chocolate twist)

• Jack Jack Num Nums stand (gluten-free options available)

• Flo's V8 Cafe (cheeseburger, fries)

Restaurant Recommendations:

• Goofy's Kitchen (Grand Californian)

• Lamplight Lounge (DCA)

• Wine Country Trattoria (DCA)

• Carthay's Circle (DCA)

• Napa Rose (Grand Californian)

Downtown Disney also has some options. I haven't eaten down there as much, but Naples has gluten-free pizza and pasta. I've always had a pleasant experience talking to waitstaff about my food restrictions, so if you have any questions, just ask!

If you want to see more about our experience at Disneyland, check out our TikTok. We currently have two related videos:

• Disney Channel Nite (special evening event in the park, showing themed attractions, and testing food in between.)

• My Life As A Disney Service Dog (longer video showing life at the Disney studio lot, an overnight stay at Disneyland hotel, rides with a service dog, and testing food in between.)

If you go to Disneyland and use any of these tips, let us know how it goes!

Always,

Brooke & Harlow

Harlow testing food at Disney Channel Nite

Quesabirria tacos at Cocina Cucamonga