Does Red Cow have gluten-free options? A comprehensive guide for diners

November 9, 2025 •

4 min read

With an estimated 1 in 100 people worldwide affected by celiac disease, finding safe dining options is a necessity, which leads many to ask, "Does Red Cow have gluten-free options?". The answer depends heavily on the specific Red Cow location and its individual protocols for preparing allergen-safe meals.

Quick Summary

This guide provides an overview of the gluten-free offerings and cross-contamination safety measures at various Red Cow restaurants. It highlights location-specific details, such as dedicated fryers and handling procedures, essential for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. General tips for safe gluten-free restaurant dining are also discussed.

Key Points

Location is Crucial: Gluten-free policies vary significantly between Red Cow locations, so confirm with the specific restaurant you plan to visit.
Minneapolis and Rochester are Reputable: The Red Cow restaurants in Minneapolis and Rochester, MN, are known for their strong commitment to gluten-free dining, including dedicated fryers and knowledgeable staff.
Check UK Red Cows Carefully: UK locations like the one in Derby have strong protocols, while others like in Chrishall explicitly caution about cross-contamination.
Dedicated Fryers are Key: Look for restaurants that advertise a dedicated fryer for fried items like fries and wings to avoid gluten cross-contact.
Always Verify Procedures: Before ordering, ask specific questions about separate preparation surfaces, equipment, and bun storage to ensure a safe meal.
Plan Your Visit: Call the restaurant during off-peak hours to discuss your needs with a manager or chef for the best results.

Navigating Red Cow's Gluten-Free Menus

While the name "Red Cow" may suggest a singular entity, it's important to recognize that it refers to multiple distinct restaurant locations, some with differing management and allergen protocols. Therefore, what holds true for one Red Cow may not apply to another. This is particularly relevant when it comes to sensitive dietary needs like a gluten-free diet, especially for those with celiac disease.

The Minneapolis & Rochester Red Cows: A Dedicated Approach

In the Minneapolis, MN, area, Red Cow locations have received positive feedback from the gluten-free community for their careful handling of dietary restrictions. Many report a robust commitment to providing safe gluten-free options, including:

Dedicated Fryers: A dedicated fryer for items like fries and wings is a crucial safety measure that prevents cross-contamination from gluten-containing breaded items.
Gluten-Free Buns: These locations offer sturdy gluten-free buns for their burgers, allowing for a more traditional burger experience.
Knowledgeable Staff: Reports from diners indicate that the staff is well-versed in celiac disease and understands the importance of avoiding cross-contact.
Marked Menus: Menus at these locations clearly mark items that are or can be made gluten-free.

The UK Red Cows: Mixed Approaches

In the UK, there are also locations named "The Red Cow," but their gluten-free commitment can vary. For example, some locations in Derby are praised for their safety protocols, with owners who are knowledgeable about celiac disease, separate storage for ingredients, and dedicated fryers. However, other UK locations, such as one in Chrishall, have been noted by online communities as not being a dedicated gluten-free facility and advise caution due to potential cross-contamination. This highlights the necessity of researching the specific location you plan to visit.

General Gluten-Free Menu Options

Regardless of location, gluten-free diners at a Red Cow might find a range of options, provided the restaurant has an established protocol. Common possibilities often include:

Burgers: Requesting a gluten-free bun or a lettuce wrap is a standard request for those on a gluten-free diet. In well-equipped locations, the staff will use a sanitized surface for preparation.
Fries and Sides: If a dedicated fryer is used, fries are a safe and popular choice. Other naturally gluten-free sides like coleslaw or salads (without croutons and with a verified dressing) may also be available.
Wings: Boneless wings fried in a dedicated gluten-free fryer are sometimes an option at locations like the ones in Rochester, MN.
Desserts: Some locations, like the one in Derby, have offered gluten-free desserts like mousse or cakes.

Comparison of Gluten-Free Preparedness at Different Red Cow Locations


Feature	Red Cow (Minneapolis/Rochester, MN)	The Red Cow (Derby, UK)	The Red Cow (Chrishall, UK)
Dedicated Fryer	Yes, commonly reported.	Yes, owner-confirmed.	Not reported.
Gluten-Free Buns	Yes, a standard option.	Yes, options available.	Yes, options available.
Separate Prep Space	Mentioned in positive reviews.	Confirmed by owner for storage and preparation.	No, cross-contamination risk acknowledged.
Menu Labeling	Menus clearly mark gluten-free items.	Menus clearly mark gluten-free items.	Gluten-free options are listed, but with a warning about cross-contamination.
Staff Training	Highly praised for being knowledgeable about celiac disease.	Praised for being knowledgeable about cross-contamination.	Waitstaff training level not explicitly detailed in reviews, but caution is advised.
Cross-Contamination Risk	Lower due to dedicated equipment and protocols.	Lower due to dedicated procedures and staff awareness.	Higher risk, openly stated due to shared kitchen.

General Tips for Safe Gluten-Free Dining

Regardless of the restaurant you choose, following these best practices can help ensure a safe experience:

Call Ahead: Reach out to the restaurant during non-peak hours to discuss your dietary needs. Ask to speak with a manager or the chef.
State Your Needs Clearly: Inform your server that you have a severe gluten allergy or celiac disease, not just a preference. Use the term "cross-contact" to emphasize the importance of separate preparation.
Ask Specific Questions: Inquire about dedicated fryers, separate cooking surfaces for burgers, clean utensils, and storage protocols.
Consider Timing: Dining during less busy hours, like a late lunch, can give the kitchen more time and capacity to handle your request safely.
Be Prepared to Walk Away: If a restaurant cannot confidently assure you of their safety measures, it is best to choose a different establishment. Your health is the top priority.

Conclusion

The question, "Does Red Cow have gluten-free options?" does not have a single answer. Many locations, such as those in Minneapolis, Rochester, and some UK pubs, have excellent reputations for accommodating gluten-free diners with robust safety measures like dedicated fryers and separate prep areas. However, other locations acknowledge a higher risk of cross-contamination due to shared facilities. For a safe and satisfying gluten-free meal, always research the specific Red Cow location you plan to visit, call ahead to confirm their current protocols, and don't hesitate to ask detailed questions about their kitchen practices.

For more detailed guidance on safe dining with celiac disease, visit the Celiac Disease Foundation's resources on dining out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, many Red Cow locations offer gluten-free buns for their burgers. However, cross-contamination is a risk with shared grills, so it is essential to confirm preparation protocols with your server.

Yes, specific Red Cow locations, such as those in Minneapolis and Rochester, MN, and Derby, UK, have been confirmed by reviews and owners to use dedicated fryers for gluten-free items like fries.

Safety for celiac disease varies significantly by location. Some Red Cows have specific protocols to prevent cross-contamination, but you must always call and confirm with the specific restaurant you intend to visit.

The most effective method is to call the restaurant directly during a non-busy time and ask to speak with a manager or chef about their gluten-free procedures and cross-contamination prevention.

Fries are only guaranteed gluten-free if cooked in a dedicated fryer. Some Red Cows use dedicated fryers, but others might use shared equipment. Always ask to be certain.

No, policies can vary by location. While some Red Cows have excellent reputations for handling gluten-free requests, others may have limited options or explicitly state a risk of cross-contamination.

Your health is the priority. If a restaurant cannot confidently assure you that your meal will be safe, it is best to choose a different establishment. You can also research other restaurants nearby using dedicated apps or websites.