Gluten Free Options in the Bow Valley that Get Our Vote
While spending time in the Bow Valley you will want to feel at the top of your game. With all the wonderful outdoor activities on offer, the last thing you want is to be slowed down by something you ate. The high altitude and dry climate may already be taking its toll, so if gluten is going to get in the way of you living your best mountain life, it is time to relax and check out some of our staff-tested Gluten Free recommendations!
Communitea Café, Canmore
Kale Caesar Bowl with Smoked Salmon
Best for Breakfast and Lunch!
Think healthy bowls, filling burritos/wraps and tasty paninis that you can wash down with a smoothie. The Big Breakfast Bowl is more than suitable way to start the day, while the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Quesadilla is tasty choice for Lunch.
403.688-2233 Website
Rocky Mountain Flatbread Company, Canmore & Banff
Best for Pizza
While strictly not a pizza, a flatbread is about 95% of the way there, and boy are they great! The Fig, Bison & Brie Flatbread is a highlight, as well as the excellent Maple Bacon Mac & Cheese (yes, gluten free mac & cheese that isn’t lame!)
(403) 609-5508 Website
Spice Hut, Canmore
Best for Indian! Duh!
Wonderfully, most of their food is Gluten and Lactose Free. Start off with a few Pakoras, then the Tandoori Malayi Chicken with the Eggplant Bharta and you can’t go wrong. For the gluten-eaters in your family, the Coconut Naan is a must try!
403-609-9997 Website
FOUR TWO NINE SIX, Canmore
Best for Fine Dining!
A relative newcomer to the Downtown Canmore dining scene, it is certainly a contender to be the best meal out you can have out in the Valley. The menu does change regularly, but current favourites include Popcorn Tofu for an appetizer, Patatas Bravas and Koji Aged Wagyu Flank for mains and the Yuzu-Strawberry Magnum for dessert. The cocktails are an event at “4296”, so don’t be afraid to splash out because it is worth it!
403-688-4296 Website
The Iron Goat Pub & Grill, Canmore
Best for Selection!
An excellent selection of pub grub and drinks, along a view that is tough to beat. We would go for the Game Burger with a BC Fruits Peach & Pear Cider. But there’s no need take our word for it, just listen to “celiacmomma” on TripAdvisor:
403-609-0222 Website
Nourish Bistro, Banff
Best for Vegetarian/Vegan!
With a cool atmosphere and an awesome variety of flavours, Nourish does not have to be just enjoyed by vegans and vegetarians. The Poutine is Cajun Spiced with a Panang sauce and shredded cheese curds that you won’t forget in a hurry, while the Kimchi Burger is certainly worth a repeat visit. Their Wild Mushroom Ravioli should keep the non-GF’ers happy too!
(403) 760-3933 Website
Rocky Mountain Bagel CO, Canmore
Best for On-the-go
Want to grab something easy on the way to Lake Louise? Maybe load up for lunch on EEOR? A GF Bagel from Rocky Mountain Bagel CO will hit the spot every time! There is a varied selection of fillings to choose from and they take cross contamination very seriously, with separate knifes/toasters etc. An Eggle with Bacon is a great way to start the day, while the Mountaineer (pastrami, pickles, cream cheese ect.) is a personal favourite. Their Cold Brew coffee is excellent too!
403-678-9968 Website
Wild Orchid, Canmore
Best for Sushi!
There are a few places to get sushi in Canmore, but Wild Orchid is most definitely a step up from the rest. A delicious selection of Asian Tapas and Mains are on offer, the Beef Tataki and Pork Tan-Tan Noodle Soup being particular favourites. But the sushi is where it is at! The Crunchy Salmon Roll is a great place to start, and they have a fine selection of Sake to knock back too.
403-675-0755 Website
Fergie’s Bakery and Convenience, Canmore
Best for GF Bread!
If you’re looking for really great gluten free bread, Fergie’s is the best we’ve found in town. It is worth calling ahead to make sure that they still have some in stock though, as it is quite popular.
403-678-9565 Website
Laggan’s Mountain Bakery & Delicatessen, Lake Louise
Best for Chicken Fingers!
And also, finally, shout out to Laggan’s in Lake Louise for their GF chicken fingers, which have saved many a Celiac on their way out of town.
403-522-2017 Website
There are plenty of other restaurants and bakeries around the Bow Valley that have gluten free options, so don’t be afraid to try new places and always let their staff know beforehand if you have any issues with gluten.