3 Days of Gluten-Free Dining in Jacksonville, Florida
About 13 years ago, my doctor dropped the ultimate buzzkill: I needed to cut gluten out of my diet thanks to an autoimmune issue. It was a dark, dark day for my bread-loving soul. I wasn’t just a casual bread fan either — I was the kind of person who made my own loaves at home, sometimes even getting wildly ambitious and making croissants from scratch (exactly once, because spoiler alert: you can buy them at the store without sacrificing three days of your life and your will to live).
Sure, there are still a few gluten-y favorites I mourn like lost loves, but good news — Jacksonville’s restaurant scene has seriously stepped up its gluten-free game. So if you’re gluten-challenged like me (or just pretending for the trend), buckle up — I’m taking you on a tour of my favorite spots!
Day 1: Downtown & Riverside Exploration
Breakfast: Cool Moose Café (Riverside)
- A cozy café offering gluten-free options like omelets, scrambles, and gluten-free toast.
- Try the “Moose Special” with eggs, bacon, and a side of fruit.
Lunch: Bellwether (Downtown)
- Modern American eatery with clear gluten-free markings on their menu.
- The Grilled Chicken Power Bowl or their Quinoa & Avocado Salad is a great choice.
Snack: Sweet Theory Baking Co. (Riverside)
- 100% dairy-free bakery with plenty of gluten-free baked goods, including donuts, cupcakes, and cookies.
- They even did my wedding Cake and it was AMAZING!
Dinner: River & Post (Riverside)
- A stylish, upscale restaurant with a rooftop bar offering gorgeous views of the St. Johns River.
- They have gluten-free options like the Grilled Redfish, Braised Short Rib, and a variety of fresh seafood dishes.
- Pair your meal with a craft cocktail or a glass of wine for a perfect evening.
Day 2: Jacksonville Beach & Neptune Beach
Breakfast: Southern Grounds (Neptune Beach)
- Trendy coffee shop with gluten-free avocado toast, acai bowls, and breakfast bowls.
- Pair it with a my favorite turmeric latte with Oatmilk
Lunch: Relish (Jacksonville Beach)
- Looking for a hearty burger? This is the place has Big, Tasty Burgers
- and gluten free buns!!
Snack: The Local (Neptune Beach)The Local
- A great spot for a cocktail and some light bites.
- The perfect stop after a day of beaching it and shopping at Beaches Town Center.
- Check the schedule for bands on the outdoor patio.
Dinner: North Beach Fish Camp (Neptune Beach)
- A lively seafood restaurant with plenty of gluten-free options.
- The White Bean and Grilled Octopus Salad is a personal favorite—light, flavorful, and perfectly prepared.
- Other great options include the Fresh Catch of the Day or the Seared Scallops.
Day 3: St. Johns Town Center & Beyond
Breakfast: Another Broken Egg Café (Southside)
- A fantastic spot for a Southern-inspired breakfast with gluten-free accommodations.
- They offer gluten-free pancakes, omelets, and hearty breakfast bowls.
- Try the Lobster & Brie Omelet or the Gluten-Free Pancakes with Fresh Berries for a delicious start to the day.
- I know this is not a local chain, but we just LOVE IT!
Lunch: True Food Kitchen (St. Johns Town Center)
- Their menu is naturally health-conscious with gluten-free options clearly marked.
- The Ancient Grains Bowl or the Grass-Fed Burger (on a gluten-free bun) is a solid pick.
Snack: The Bearded Pig (Southside)
- One of Jacksonville’s best barbecue spots, offering plenty of gluten-free meats and sides.
- Go for the Brisket, Pulled Pork, or Ribs, and pair them with Collard Greens or Coleslaw (both gluten-free).
- Their outdoor seating area makes it a great casual spot to enjoy some amazing BBQ.
Dinner: Rue Saint-Marc (San Marco)
- A chic French-inspired bistro with several gluten-free options.
- Try the Seared Duck Breast, Pan-Seared Scallops, or the Filet Mignon, all of which can be prepared gluten-free.
- Their cocktails are also fantastic—consider pairing your meal with one of their signature drinks.
