Gluten-Free

Finding delicious gluten-free options shouldn't feel like a challenge, and at Midtown Cafe & Dessertery in Winston-Salem, it's not. We're proud to offer a variety of flavorful, satisfying dishes that cater to our gluten-free guests without compromising on taste or quality. Whether you're stopping in for breakfast, brunch, or a light meal, we've got something for everyone to enjoy.

A gluten-free diet means avoiding gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In the U.S., the FDA allows foods labeled "gluten-free" to contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten (see the FDA's gluten-free labeling rule). That standard matters most for guests with celiac disease, and it can also help guests managing non-celiac gluten sensitivity. If you're living with celiac disease, even small amounts of gluten can be a problem, so your server should always know your needs. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity can look different from person to person, and we're happy to walk you through options that fit how you eat.

When you order gluten-free at Midtown Cafe & Dessertery, you'll see familiar, naturally gluten-free ingredients across many plates, including:

• eggs, cheese, and fresh produce

• plain proteins like shrimp, bacon, ham, and sausage

• stone-ground grits, fruit, and other gluten-free-friendly staples

We also take cross-contact seriously. Gluten can sneak in through shared surfaces, utensils, and fryers, so our team follows clear kitchen steps for gluten-free orders. If you have celiac disease or a severe allergy, please tell us when you order so we can take extra care.

Gluten-free dining can be a practical choice for people with celiac disease, and it's also a comfortable option for guests with non-celiac gluten sensitivity or anyone who feels better limiting gluten. For more background on celiac disease and gluten-free eating, you can visit the Celiac Disease Foundation and the NIH's NIDDK overview of celiac disease.

Delicious Gluten-Free Breakfast Favorites

Start your day with a gluten-free twist on classic Southern flavors. Our Carolina shrimp and grits feature seasoned grilled shrimp, crispy bacon, sharp white cheddar, and green onions, all served over creamy stone-ground grits.

For those who love a sweeter start, our gluten-free French toast is a must-try. This dish is sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon and served with golden cinnamon syrup on the side for dipping or drizzling. For a decadent dessert, check out our gluten-free chocolate tort. 

Looking for something lighter? Try our yogurt & fresh fruit bowl. This wholesome option pairs creamy, fat-free yogurt with fresh strawberries and blueberries for a refreshing and nutritious choice.

Protein-Packed Gluten-Free Plates

Egg lovers will feel right at home with our gluten-free breakfast combinations. Enjoy two eggs prepared just the way you like them, served with your choice of fresh fruit or creamy grits. Need a little more? Pair your eggs with bacon or link sausage for a hearty meal.

For those who like a little kick, the spicy Southwestern omelette delivers a flavorful punch with andouille sausage, pepper jack cheese, salsa, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. If you prefer something classic, the ham, link, or bacon-and-cheddar omelette is a simple yet satisfying choice.

Vegetarian guests will love the spinach and feta omelette, a meat-free dish that combines fresh spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. Or try our veggie omelette, a colorful mix of cheddar cheese, onions, pimientos, tomatoes, green peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms, for a filling, nutrient-packed start to your day.

Dine Gluten-Free With Us

At Midtown Cafe & Dessertery, we believe everyone deserves to enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal, regardless of dietary needs. That's why our gluten-free menu options are crafted with care, so you can relax and focus on savoring every bite. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a gluten-free chocolate torte, we're here to make your dining experience memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know which dishes are gluten-free at Midtown Cafe & Dessertery?

A: We have a separate gluten-free menu available for all patrons. Simply ask or notify your server if you have any gluten sensitivities. 

Q: What common foods are naturally gluten-free?

A: Many everyday foods don't contain gluten, including:

• fresh fruits and vegetables

• plain meat, poultry, fish, and eggs

• dairy like milk, cheese, and yogurt

• beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds

• gluten-free grains such as rice, quinoa, corn, millet, sorghum, buckwheat, amaranth, teff, potatoes, and wild rice

Q: Do you offer gluten-free bread, wraps, or pasta?

A: We do. Ask for gluten-free sandwich bread, buns, or pasta, and we'll prepare your meal with those substitutes. Availability may vary, so please tell your server when you order.

Q: How does the kitchen prevent cross-contact with gluten?

A: We prepare gluten-free orders in a dedicated space, use color-coded utensils, wear clean gloves, and sanitize cookware before each use. Only trained team members handle your dish. While we take every precaution, trace gluten is possible, so please let us know if you have celiac disease or a severe allergy.