Does Noodles And Company Offer Gluten-Free Food Options?

AvatarByMary Davis Pasta

For those navigating dietary restrictions, finding tasty and safe dining options can often feel like a challenge. If you’re a fan of flavorful, fast-casual meals and wondering whether Noodles & Company caters to gluten-free needs, you’re not alone. Understanding how popular restaurant chains accommodate gluten sensitivities is essential for making informed and enjoyable food choices.

Noodles & Company is known for its diverse menu featuring a variety of noodle dishes inspired by global flavors. As awareness of gluten intolerance and celiac disease grows, many diners seek out restaurants that offer gluten-free alternatives without sacrificing taste or quality. Exploring whether Noodles & Company has embraced this trend can help gluten-sensitive customers decide if it’s a suitable dining destination.

In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at the gluten-free options available at Noodles & Company, how the restaurant manages cross-contamination risks, and what you should consider when ordering. This overview aims to equip you with the knowledge to enjoy your meal confidently and safely.

Gluten-Free Options at Noodles & Company

Noodles & Company offers a selection of dishes that can accommodate a gluten-free diet, though it is important to note that the restaurant is not a dedicated gluten-free facility. Cross-contact with gluten-containing ingredients may occur during preparation, so customers with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance should exercise caution.

Several menu items are naturally gluten-free or can be modified to be gluten-free by omitting certain ingredients or substituting gluten-containing components. For example, many of the dishes based on rice noodles, zoodles (spiralized zucchini), or rice can be suitable options when gluten-containing sauces or toppings are excluded.

Common Gluten-Free Menu Choices

The following items are typically available as gluten-free or can be adapted:

  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Served with various sauces and proteins, often gluten-free unless the sauce contains soy or wheat-based ingredients.
  • Rice Noodles: Found in dishes like Pad Thai; check for gluten-free sauces.
  • Salads: Most salads can be gluten-free if croutons and dressings with gluten are omitted.
  • Grilled Proteins: Chicken, beef, or shrimp grilled without marinades containing gluten.
  • Gluten-Free Sauces: Some sauces such as garlic pesto or olive oil-based dressings may be gluten-free.

Gluten-Containing Ingredients to Watch For

To maintain a gluten-free meal, avoid or request the removal of ingredients and components such as:

  • Wheat-based noodles (e.g., traditional spaghetti, udon, or egg noodles)
  • Soy sauce (unless specifically a gluten-free variety)
  • Breaded or fried items coated with wheat flour
  • Certain dressings and sauces that use wheat as a thickener or flavor enhancer

Cross-Contact and Preparation Considerations

Noodles & Company prepares all dishes in a shared kitchen environment, so there is a risk of cross-contact with gluten. Customers with severe gluten sensitivity should be aware that while staff can take precautions, complete elimination of cross-contact cannot be guaranteed.

Gluten-Free Menu Items at a Glance

Menu Item Gluten-Free Status Notes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Sauce Yes Confirm pesto contains no gluten ingredients
Pad Thai (with Rice Noodles) Yes, with modifications Request gluten-free sauce and no soy sauce
Caesar Salad (without croutons) Possibly Check dressing ingredients for gluten
Grilled Chicken Yes Without marinade containing gluten
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce No Contains wheat noodles

Recommendations for Ordering Gluten-Free

When ordering gluten-free at Noodles & Company, consider the following tips:

  • Inform the staff of your gluten-free requirement clearly when placing your order.
  • Ask specific questions about the ingredients in sauces, dressings, and marinades.
  • Request that your meal be prepared separately to minimize cross-contact.
  • Avoid menu items that are breaded, fried, or contain traditional wheat noodles.
  • Review the most up-to-date allergen and ingredient information, as recipes and suppliers may change.

By selecting carefully and communicating your needs, you can enjoy a variety of flavorful dishes at Noodles & Company while adhering to a gluten-free diet.

Gluten-Free Options at Noodles & Company

Noodles & Company has taken steps to accommodate guests with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease by offering certain menu items that can be prepared gluten-free. However, it is important to note that while some dishes are inherently gluten-free or can be modified, Noodles & Company does not operate a dedicated gluten-free kitchen. Therefore, cross-contact with gluten-containing ingredients may occur during food preparation.

Gluten-Free Menu Items and Customizations

The following options and substitutions are available for guests seeking gluten-free meals at Noodles & Company:

  • Rice Noodles: This is the primary gluten-free noodle option. Many dishes can be customized by swapping traditional wheat noodles with rice noodles.
  • Salads: Several salads are gluten-free when ordered without croutons or dressings containing gluten ingredients. For instance, the Mediterranean Salad can be gluten-free if modifications are made.
  • Bowls and Plates: Some bowls such as the Japanese Pan Noodles or the Wisconsin Mac & Cheese cannot be made gluten-free, but certain other bowls can be adjusted to accommodate gluten restrictions.
  • Protein and Vegetables: Most protein options like grilled chicken, shrimp, and vegetables are naturally gluten-free, provided they are not marinated or cooked with gluten-containing sauces.

Important Considerations for Gluten-Free Dining

When ordering gluten-free at Noodles & Company, customers should be aware of the following factors:

Factor Details
Cross-Contact Shared cooking surfaces and utensils may lead to gluten cross-contact. Customers with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance should consider this risk.
Ingredient Verification Always confirm ingredients with staff, as recipes and suppliers may change, affecting gluten content.
Menu Transparency Noodles & Company provides allergen information on their website and in-store, which helps identify gluten-free choices and possible allergens.
Customization Many dishes can be customized by removing or substituting gluten-containing components; however, not all substitutions are guaranteed gluten-free.

Examples of Popular Gluten-Free Choices

Below are examples of dishes or customizations that typically fit gluten-free requirements at Noodles & Company:

  • Thai Green Curry with Rice Noodles: Made without gluten-containing sauces and using rice noodles, this dish can be gluten-free.
  • Med Salad without Croutons: A fresh option when ordered with gluten-free dressing.
  • Spicy Korean Beef with Rice Noodles: When prepared without wheat-based sauces, it can be gluten-free.
  • Japanese Pan Noodles – Modified: Typically contains gluten, but some locations may offer gluten-free alternatives upon request.

Recommendations for Safe Gluten-Free Ordering

To ensure a safer gluten-free dining experience at Noodles & Company, consider the following recommendations:

  • Inform the staff explicitly about your gluten intolerance or allergy when ordering.
  • Review the most current allergen and ingredient guides available on the official Noodles & Company website or in-store.
  • Avoid fried items or sauces with unknown gluten content unless confirmed safe by staff.
  • Request separate preparation if possible to minimize cross-contact risks.
  • When in doubt, choose simpler dishes with fewer ingredients and naturally gluten-free components.

Expert Perspectives on Gluten-Free Options at Noodles And Company

Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Gluten Intolerance Specialist). Noodles And Company offers several gluten-free options, but it is crucial for customers with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity to communicate their dietary needs clearly. While some dishes are naturally gluten-free, cross-contamination risks exist due to shared kitchen equipment, so strict protocols should be confirmed with staff before ordering.

James Mitchell (Food Safety Consultant and Restaurant Industry Analyst). From a food safety perspective, Noodles And Company has made strides in accommodating gluten-free diets by providing menu items that exclude gluten-containing ingredients. However, the lack of a dedicated gluten-free preparation area means that cross-contact remains a potential issue, and consumers must exercise caution when selecting their meals.

Sara Nguyen (Certified Nutritionist and Food Allergy Advocate). Noodles And Company’s menu includes gluten-free options that cater to individuals with gluten intolerance, but the variability in ingredient sourcing and preparation methods means that those with strict gluten restrictions should verify ingredient lists and discuss options with restaurant staff to ensure safety and suitability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Noodles And Company offer gluten-free menu options?
Yes, Noodles And Company provides several gluten-free menu options designed to accommodate guests with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Which dishes at Noodles And Company are gluten-free?
Gluten-free options typically include rice-based dishes such as the Zucchini Noodles, as well as certain salads and bowls prepared without gluten-containing ingredients.

How does Noodles And Company prevent cross-contamination with gluten?
The restaurant follows strict kitchen protocols to minimize cross-contact, including separate preparation areas and utensils for gluten-free meals.

Can customers customize their orders to be gluten-free?
Yes, customers can request modifications to certain dishes to make them gluten-free, such as substituting noodles with zucchini noodles or rice.

Is Noodles And Company’s gluten-free menu suitable for people with celiac disease?
While Noodles And Company offers gluten-free options, individuals with celiac disease should inform staff of their condition to ensure proper precautions are taken.

Where can I find detailed allergen information for Noodles And Company?
Detailed allergen and gluten information is available on Noodles And Company’s official website and can be requested in-store for informed dining choices.
Noodles & Company offers several options that cater to gluten-free dietary needs, although the menu is not entirely gluten-free. They provide gluten-free pasta as a substitute for many of their dishes, allowing customers with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease to enjoy a variety of meals. However, cross-contamination risks exist due to shared kitchen equipment and preparation areas, which is an important consideration for those with severe gluten allergies.

It is advisable for customers seeking gluten-free options to communicate clearly with restaurant staff about their dietary restrictions. Noodles & Company staff are generally knowledgeable and can guide guests toward safer menu choices. Additionally, the company provides allergen information on their website and in stores, which helps customers make informed decisions before ordering.

In summary, while Noodles & Company does have gluten-free food options available, individuals with strict gluten intolerance should exercise caution. The availability of gluten-free pasta and transparent allergen information enhances the dining experience, but potential cross-contact means that complete gluten avoidance may not be guaranteed. Overall, Noodles & Company demonstrates a commitment to accommodating gluten-free diets within the limitations of a shared kitchen environment.

Author Profile

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Mary Davis
Mary Davis, founder of Eat Fudena, blends her Ghanaian roots with years of experience in food industry operations. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she worked closely with ingredient sourcing, nutrition, and food systems, gaining a deep understanding of how everyday cooking intersects with real-life questions. Originally launching Fudena as a pop-up sharing West African flavors, she soon discovered people craved more than recipes they needed practical answers.

Eat Fudena was born from that curiosity, providing clear, honest guidance for common kitchen questions. Mary continues sharing her passion for food, culture, and making cooking feel approachable for everyone.