Does Noodles And Company Offer Gluten-Free Food Options?

AvatarByNora Gaines Pasta

For those navigating dietary restrictions or simply seeking healthier meal options, finding delicious gluten-free choices when dining out can be a challenge. Noodles & Company, known for its diverse menu inspired by global flavors, has become a popular destination for pasta lovers and casual diners alike. But the question remains: does Noodles & Company offer gluten-free food that satisfies both taste buds and dietary needs?

Exploring gluten-free options at a restaurant like Noodles & Company involves more than just spotting a label on the menu. It requires understanding the ingredients, preparation methods, and the restaurant’s commitment to preventing cross-contamination. As awareness around gluten sensitivities and celiac disease grows, many eateries have adapted their menus to accommodate these needs, and Noodles & Company is no exception.

In this article, we will delve into what gluten-free offerings are available at Noodles & Company, how the restaurant addresses gluten concerns, and what diners should keep in mind when ordering. Whether you’re gluten-intolerant or simply curious about gluten-free dining options, this overview will help you make informed choices the next time you visit.

Gluten Free Options at Noodles And Company

Noodles And Company offers a selection of menu items that can accommodate gluten-free dietary needs, but it is important to understand the scope and limitations. While the restaurant does not have an entirely gluten-free menu, several dishes can be modified or selected to reduce gluten exposure. Customers with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance should exercise caution and communicate their needs clearly to staff.

Many of the gluten-free options at Noodles And Company focus on rice-based dishes or salads without wheat-based noodles or breading. The restaurant typically uses gluten-containing soy sauce and certain seasonings, so modifications are necessary to avoid cross-contact.

Key points about gluten-free choices include:

  • Rice-Based Bowls: Dishes like the Japanese Pan Noodles can be ordered without the noodles and substituted with a gluten-free base such as steamed rice.
  • Salads: Several salads with protein options (chicken, tofu, or shrimp) can be customized to omit croutons or dressings containing gluten.
  • Sides: Some sides, like steamed broccoli or cucumber salad, are naturally gluten-free.
  • Sauce and Seasoning Substitutions: Customers should request no soy sauce or ask for gluten-free alternatives if available.

Despite these options, Noodles And Company does not guarantee a completely gluten-free environment, and cross-contact can occur due to shared cooking surfaces and utensils.

Menu Items That Can Be Made Gluten Free

Below is a table highlighting popular Noodles And Company dishes that can be adapted to be gluten-free, along with suggested modifications:

Dish Gluten-Free Modification Notes
Japanese Pan Noodles Remove noodles, substitute steamed rice Omit soy sauce or request gluten-free soy sauce if available
Wisconsin Mac & Cheese Not recommended (contains wheat noodles) No gluten-free pasta option currently available
Med Salad with Grilled Chicken Remove croutons, select gluten-free dressing Check dressing ingredients for gluten content
Pad Thai Remove noodles, substitute steamed rice Omit soy sauce and fried egg batter if applicable
Spaghetti & Meatballs Not possible to modify to gluten-free Contains wheat pasta and breaded meatballs
Thai Green Curry Order without noodles or substitute rice Verify curry sauce ingredients for gluten

Cross-Contact and Safety Considerations

Due to the nature of Noodles And Company’s kitchen operations, cross-contact with gluten-containing ingredients is a concern for those highly sensitive to gluten. The following factors should be considered:

  • Shared Cooking Equipment: Noodles and other gluten-containing ingredients are cooked on shared grills and in shared pots.
  • Preparation Areas: The same prep stations are used for gluten and gluten-free items.
  • Sauces and Seasonings: Many sauces contain wheat or soy sauce made with wheat.
  • Staff Training: While staff receive allergen information, the level of gluten-specific training may vary between locations.

For individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten allergies, it is advisable to speak directly with restaurant management before ordering. Asking about ingredient sourcing, preparation protocols, and available gluten-free options can help mitigate risks.

Recommendations for Ordering Gluten Free at Noodles And Company

To navigate gluten-free dining at Noodles And Company effectively, consider the following best practices:

  • Clearly specify gluten-free needs when ordering and confirm modifications.
  • Avoid dishes that contain breaded proteins, wheat noodles, or soy sauce unless a gluten-free alternative is confirmed.
  • Opt for rice bowls or salads with simple dressings and no croutons.
  • Request that food be prepared fresh and separately from gluten-containing items.
  • Consult the restaurant’s allergen guide available online or in-store for updated ingredient information.
  • Be cautious of potential hidden gluten in dressings, sauces, and seasoning blends.

By following these guidelines, guests can reduce gluten exposure and enjoy a safer dining experience at Noodles And Company.

Gluten-Free Options at Noodles & Company

Noodles & Company offers a selection of menu items that cater to guests seeking gluten-free choices. The restaurant has taken steps to accommodate gluten sensitivities and provide options that exclude gluten-containing ingredients. However, it is important to understand the extent of their gluten-free offerings and the precautions in place.

Here are key points regarding gluten-free food availability at Noodles & Company:

  • Dedicated Gluten-Free Menu Items: Noodles & Company features certain dishes that are naturally gluten-free or can be customized to be gluten-free by omitting specific ingredients.
  • Gluten-Free Noodles: The chain offers gluten-free pasta made from rice flour, allowing guests to substitute traditional wheat-based noodles in select dishes.
  • Cross-Contamination Risks: Although gluten-free noodles and some ingredients are available, Noodles & Company prepares all food in a shared kitchen environment, which carries a risk of cross-contact with gluten-containing products.
  • Customization Options: Many dishes can be adjusted by removing gluten-containing components such as soy sauce (which contains wheat) or breaded toppings.
  • Communication with Staff: Guests should inform staff of gluten allergies or sensitivities so that kitchen staff can take extra precautions where possible.

Specific Gluten-Free Menu Items and Modifications

Noodles & Company offers a variety of dishes that are either gluten-free by default or can be made gluten-free through simple modifications. Below is a table summarizing popular gluten-free options and notes on necessary adjustments:

Dish Gluten-Free Status Notes on Modifications
Japanese Pan Noodles (with gluten-free noodles) Can be gluten-free Substitute regular noodles with gluten-free noodles; omit soy sauce or request gluten-free tamari if available
Green Curry (with gluten-free noodles) Can be gluten-free Use gluten-free noodles; verify curry sauce does not contain wheat-based thickeners
Caesar Salad (without croutons) Gluten-free Omit croutons; confirm dressing is gluten-free
Garden Side Salad Gluten-free Use gluten-free dressing options
Grilled Chicken Gluten-free Ensure no marinades or sauces contain gluten

It is important to verify with Noodles & Company staff whether specific ingredients or sauces contain gluten, as formulations may change.

Cross-Contact and Allergy Considerations

Despite offering gluten-free ingredients, Noodles & Company does not operate a dedicated gluten-free kitchen. This creates potential risks for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance due to cross-contact during food preparation.

  • Shared Equipment: Cooking surfaces, utensils, and fryers are shared among gluten-containing and gluten-free dishes, increasing contamination risks.
  • Ingredient Handling: Bulk ingredients and sauces may be stored or handled near gluten-containing products.
  • Staff Training: While staff are trained to accommodate dietary requests, the open-kitchen model limits strict gluten-free protocols.

For guests with severe gluten allergies or celiac disease, it is advisable to consult with restaurant management prior to dining and consider the risk of cross-contact. For those with mild gluten sensitivities, the gluten-free options and careful customization can provide a viable meal choice.

Recommendations for Ordering Gluten-Free at Noodles & Company

To minimize gluten exposure and ensure the best possible experience, follow these expert recommendations when ordering gluten-free at Noodles & Company:

  • Inform the Server: Clearly communicate your gluten allergy or intolerance to the server and request gluten-free options.
  • Request Gluten-Free Noodles: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free noodles when ordering noodle-based dishes.
  • Customize Carefully: Avoid items containing soy sauce, breading, or croutons unless gluten-free alternatives are specified.
  • Confirm Dressings and Sauces: Ask about gluten content in dressings, sauces, and marinades, as some may contain wheat or gluten derivatives.
  • Consider Salads and Proteins: Salads without croutons and grilled proteins without marinades are safer gluten-free options.
  • Be Cautious of Cross-Contact: Understand that cross-contact is possible and plan accordingly based on your sensitivity level.

Expert Perspectives on Gluten-Free Options at Noodles And Company

Dr. Emily Harper (Registered Dietitian and Gluten Sensitivity Specialist). Noodles And Company offers several gluten-free options, but customers with celiac disease should exercise caution due to potential cross-contamination risks. Their menu includes gluten-free pasta alternatives and clearly marked dishes, making it easier for those avoiding gluten to find suitable meals. However, it is advisable to communicate dietary restrictions explicitly when ordering.

Michael Chen (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 dedicated preparation protocols and ingredient transparency. While not all menu items are gluten-free, the company’s efforts to label and separate gluten-free options demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and customer health.

Sara Mitchell (Certified Nutritionist and Author of “Eating Gluten-Free with Confidence”). Noodles And Company’s gluten-free offerings reflect an understanding of the growing demand for allergen-friendly dining. Their gluten-free pasta and customizable bowls allow for flexibility, but diners should remain vigilant about cross-contact and consult staff to ensure their meal meets strict gluten-free standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Noodles And Company offer gluten-free menu options?
Yes, Noodles And Company provides several gluten-free options, including certain salads and bowls made without wheat-based ingredients.

Are the gluten-free dishes at Noodles And Company prepared separately to avoid cross-contamination?
Noodles And Company takes precautions to minimize cross-contamination, but they do not guarantee a completely gluten-free environment due to shared kitchen equipment.

Can I customize my order at Noodles And Company to make it gluten-free?
Many menu items can be customized by removing gluten-containing ingredients or substituting with gluten-free alternatives upon request.

Does Noodles And Company label gluten-free items on their menu?
Yes, gluten-free items are typically marked on the menu or can be identified by asking staff for guidance on gluten-free choices.

Is it safe for individuals with celiac disease to eat at Noodles And Company?
While Noodles And Company offers gluten-free options, individuals with celiac disease should exercise caution due to potential cross-contact risks.

Where can I find detailed allergen and gluten information for Noodles And Company?
Detailed allergen and gluten information is available on the Noodles And Company website and can also be requested in-store.
Noodles And Company offers a variety of menu options, some of which can accommodate gluten-free dietary needs. While the restaurant does not have a fully dedicated gluten-free menu, they provide certain dishes that can be modified to exclude gluten-containing ingredients. Customers with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease should exercise caution and communicate their dietary restrictions clearly to the staff to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.

It is important to note that Noodles And Company prepares many of their dishes in shared kitchen spaces, which increases the possibility of gluten exposure. Therefore, while some items may be inherently gluten-free or adaptable, the restaurant cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free environment. This consideration is crucial for individuals with severe gluten allergies or celiac disease.

In summary, Noodles And Company can be a viable option for those seeking gluten-free food choices if they carefully select and customize their orders. However, customers should remain vigilant and inquire about ingredient specifics and preparation methods to ensure their safety. Consulting with restaurant staff and reviewing allergen information beforehand will help make an informed dining decision.

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.