Does Noodles And Company Offer Gluten-Free Options?

AvatarByNora Gaines Pasta

For those navigating dietary restrictions, finding tasty and convenient dining options can often feel like a challenge. If you’re a fan of flavorful, fast-casual meals, you might be wondering whether your favorite spots accommodate gluten-free needs. One popular chain that frequently comes up in this conversation is Noodles & Company. Known for its diverse menu inspired by global flavors, it’s natural to ask: does Noodles & Company have gluten-free options?

Exploring gluten-free dining at a restaurant like Noodles & Company involves understanding their menu offerings, ingredient handling, and how they cater to customers with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. With increasing awareness and demand for gluten-free meals, many eateries have adapted to provide safe and delicious choices. However, the specifics can vary widely, and it’s important to know what to expect before you visit or order.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into how Noodles & Company approaches gluten-free dining, what options might be available, and tips for ensuring a safe and satisfying meal. Whether you’re gluten-intolerant or simply exploring healthier alternatives, this guide will help you make informed decisions and enjoy your next visit with confidence.

Gluten-Free Options at Noodles & Company

Noodles & Company offers a variety of dishes that can accommodate gluten-sensitive diners, but it is important to understand the nuances of their menu and preparation methods. While the restaurant does not have a dedicated gluten-free kitchen, they provide options that are either naturally gluten-free or can be modified to reduce gluten exposure.

Many of the gluten-free options at Noodles & Company focus on rice-based or vegetable-based dishes rather than traditional wheat pasta. For example, their rice noodles and zucchini noodles serve as excellent substitutes for gluten-containing pasta.

Key gluten-free options include:

  • Rice Noodles: Used in dishes like Pad Thai and Japanese Pan Noodles, rice noodles are naturally gluten-free and a safe choice for those avoiding gluten.
  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): These can replace traditional pasta in many dishes, offering a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.
  • Salads: Several salads on the menu are gluten-free if ordered without croutons or dressings containing gluten.
  • Protein Add-ons: Grilled chicken, shrimp, and tofu are generally gluten-free, but it is advisable to confirm preparation methods.

Potential Cross-Contamination and Allergy Considerations

Noodles & Company prepares meals in a shared kitchen environment, which means cross-contact with gluten-containing ingredients is possible. For individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance, this is a critical factor to consider.

The restaurant recommends that guests with serious gluten allergies communicate their needs clearly to staff. Although the team makes efforts to reduce cross-contamination, there is no certification guaranteeing 100% gluten-free preparation.

To mitigate risks, consider the following:

  • Request that your meal be prepared on a clean surface with fresh utensils.
  • Avoid items that are fried in shared oil or cooked alongside gluten-containing ingredients.
  • Opt for simple dishes with fewer components to minimize exposure.

Gluten-Free Menu Items and Modifications

Noodles & Company allows customization of many dishes to suit gluten-free diets. Here is a table highlighting some popular menu items and their gluten-free status or modification options:

Menu Item Gluten-Free Status Modification Notes
Pad Thai Gluten-Free Contains rice noodles; confirm sauce ingredients
Japanese Pan Noodles Gluten-Free Served with rice noodles; verify sauce for gluten
Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) Gluten-Free Can substitute for traditional pasta in many dishes
Wisconsin Mac & Cheese Contains Gluten Not suitable without substitution
Caesar Salad Not Gluten-Free Contains croutons; can be ordered without croutons
Grilled Chicken Gluten-Free Confirm no seasoning or marinade contains gluten
Steak Stroganoff Contains Gluten Traditional noodles contain gluten; no gluten-free substitution

Best Practices for Ordering Gluten-Free at Noodles & Company

When dining at Noodles & Company with gluten sensitivity in mind, follow these expert recommendations to ensure the safest experience:

  • Communicate clearly: Inform the staff about your gluten allergy or sensitivity to help them take extra precautions.
  • Choose naturally gluten-free bases: Opt for rice noodles or zucchini noodles instead of traditional wheat pasta.
  • Avoid fried items: Since the oil may be shared with gluten-containing foods, fried menu items are best avoided.
  • Ask about sauces and dressings: Some sauces may contain gluten as a thickener or flavor enhancer.
  • Check for hidden gluten: Items like soy sauce, marinades, and seasoning blends can contain gluten unless specifically labeled gluten-free.
  • Simplify your order: The fewer ingredients and modifications, the lower the risk of cross-contamination.

By following these guidelines, gluten-sensitive diners can enjoy a variety of flavorful meals at Noodles & Company while minimizing gluten exposure.

Gluten-Free Options at Noodles & Company

Noodles & Company offers several menu items that cater to gluten-sensitive and gluten-free diners. However, it is important to understand the restaurant’s approach to gluten to make informed choices.

The restaurant features a dedicated gluten-free menu section, highlighting dishes that can be prepared without gluten-containing ingredients. Despite this, Noodles & Company operates in a kitchen environment where cross-contact with gluten is possible, so those with severe gluten allergies or celiac disease should exercise caution.

Gluten-Free Menu Highlights

  • Zoodles & Cauliflower Rigatoni: Both use gluten-free vegetable-based noodles.
  • Gluten-Free Penne Pasta: Made from rice and corn, this pasta is a gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat pasta.
  • Grilled Chicken and Shrimp: Protein options that can be added to gluten-free dishes without breading or marinades containing gluten.
  • Salads: Several salads can be ordered without croutons or dressings containing gluten.
  • Rice Bowls: These are naturally gluten-free when avoiding gluten-containing sauces.

Important Considerations for Gluten-Free Dining

Factor Details
Cross-Contact Risk The kitchen handles wheat-based noodles and other gluten-containing ingredients, which increases risk of cross-contact.
Ingredient Transparency Detailed allergen information is available on the Noodles & Company website and in-store menus.
Modification Requests Guests can request to modify dishes to be gluten-free, such as substituting noodles or omitting certain sauces.
Gluten-Free Certification Noodles & Company does not currently hold a gluten-free certification for its kitchens or menu.

Recommended Gluten-Free Dishes

Below is a selection of dishes that can be safely enjoyed by those avoiding gluten, provided modifications are requested when necessary.

  • Japanese Pan Noodles – Order with gluten-free rice noodles and omit soy sauce containing wheat.
  • Pesto Cavatappi – Replace regular pasta with gluten-free penne and confirm pesto ingredients.
  • Thai Green Curry – Choose gluten-free rice noodles and verify curry sauce ingredients.
  • Cauliflower Rigatoni with Marinara – Naturally gluten-free vegetable pasta with a gluten-free tomato sauce.
  • Gluten-Free Penne Primavera – Gluten-free pasta with fresh vegetables and appropriate sauce.

Tips for Ordering Gluten-Free at Noodles & Company

  • Inform the server about your gluten sensitivity or allergy to ensure careful preparation.
  • Ask about the possibility of cross-contact and whether the kitchen can accommodate strict gluten-free needs.
  • Request ingredient details or consult the allergen menu before ordering.
  • Avoid items containing soy sauce, breaded proteins, or sauces that commonly contain gluten unless gluten-free alternatives are confirmed.
  • Consider choosing simple salads or rice bowls with gluten-free dressings and proteins.

Expert Perspectives on Gluten-Free Options at Noodles And Company

Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Gluten Sensitivity Specialist). Noodles And Company offers a limited selection of gluten-free options, primarily focusing on rice-based dishes and certain salads. However, cross-contamination risks remain a concern due to shared kitchen equipment, so individuals with celiac disease should exercise caution and consult with staff before ordering.

Michael Thompson (Food Safety Consultant and Culinary Expert). While Noodles And Company has made strides in accommodating gluten-free diets, their menu is not fully gluten-free certified. They provide allergen information and some gluten-free pasta alternatives, but the preparation environment does not guarantee complete gluten exclusion, which is critical for those with severe gluten intolerance.

Sarah Nguyen (Nutritionist and Food Allergy Advocate). Noodles And Company recognizes the growing demand for gluten-free meals and has incorporated gluten-free noodles and customizable dishes. Nonetheless, customers should remain vigilant and communicate their dietary needs clearly, as cross-contact with gluten-containing ingredients can occur during meal preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Noodles And Company offer gluten-free menu options?
Yes, Noodles And Company provides several gluten-free options, including specific dishes and customizable meals that cater to gluten-sensitive customers.

Which menu items at Noodles And Company are gluten-free?
Gluten-free options typically include rice-based dishes, certain salads, and some proteins. It is important to check the latest menu or consult staff for current gluten-free offerings.

How does Noodles And Company prevent cross-contamination with gluten?
Noodles And Company follows strict food preparation protocols to minimize cross-contact, including separate cooking areas and utensils for gluten-free meals, although cross-contamination risk cannot be fully eliminated.

Can customers with celiac disease safely eat at Noodles And Company?
While Noodles And Company offers gluten-free options, individuals with celiac disease should exercise caution and inform staff about their dietary restrictions to ensure safe meal preparation.

Does Noodles And Company label gluten-free items on their menu?
Yes, gluten-free items are typically marked on the menu or online nutritional guides to help customers easily identify safe choices.

Are gluten-free noodles available at Noodles And Company?
Currently, Noodles And Company does not offer gluten-free noodles, but they provide alternative gluten-free bases such as rice for certain dishes.
Noodles & Company offers several menu options that can accommodate gluten-free dietary needs, but it is important for customers to be aware of potential cross-contamination risks. While the restaurant provides dishes that do not contain gluten ingredients, such as certain rice-based or vegetable-forward meals, they do not have a dedicated gluten-free kitchen. This means that individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance should exercise caution when ordering.

Customers seeking gluten-free options at Noodles & Company should communicate clearly with staff about their dietary restrictions to ensure proper handling. The restaurant’s allergen information is available online and in-store, helping diners make informed choices. Additionally, modifications to some dishes may be possible to reduce gluten exposure, but it is essential to verify these options with the restaurant directly.

Overall, Noodles & Company can be a viable dining choice for those following a gluten-free diet, provided they take necessary precautions. Understanding the menu, asking detailed questions, and being vigilant about cross-contact will help maximize safety and satisfaction when dining at this establishment.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.