Is Casa do Frango Gluten-Free? A Guide to Dining with Confidence

December 21, 2025 •

3 min read

According to numerous positive online reviews from coeliac diners, Casa do Frango offers a variety of dishes suitable for those following a gluten-free diet. While not a certified gluten-free kitchen, many of their signature menu items are naturally free of gluten, making it a viable option for many with careful communication.

Quick Summary

Casa do Frango provides many naturally gluten-free menu items, including their signature Piri-Piri Chicken and several side dishes, but cross-contamination is a risk. Diners with celiac disease must inform staff to ensure proper precautions are taken during meal preparation.

Key Points

Piri-Piri Chicken is Naturally GF: Casa do Frango's signature Frango Piri-Piri chicken is prepared with naturally gluten-free ingredients and is generally a safe choice for gluten-free diners.
Communication with Staff is Crucial: For celiac diners, a direct conversation with a server about preparation methods and cross-contamination is essential to ensure a safe meal.
Cross-Contamination Risk Exists: The restaurant operates a shared kitchen, meaning there is always a risk of cross-contamination with gluten-containing items.
Dessert Options Include Almond Cake: The traditional Portuguese almond cake is made with ground almonds and is a delicious gluten-free dessert option.
Safe Sides Available: Many sides, such as the tomato salad, are naturally gluten-free, but others like certain rice dishes should be avoided without specific modification.
Avoid Certain Items: Croquettes and traditional salt cod fritters are high-risk and likely contain gluten and should be avoided unless verified with staff.

Navigating the Casa do Frango Menu for Gluten-Free Options

For those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, dining out requires careful planning. At Casa do Frango, a restaurant inspired by the traditions of Southern Portugal, the focus is on grilled chicken and simple, flavorful dishes. This often translates into a menu rich with naturally gluten-free options. However, due to the presence of gluten-containing ingredients in the kitchen, a conversation with staff about preparation and cross-contamination is always recommended for those with severe sensitivities.

Main Courses: The Piri-Piri Chicken

The restaurant's centerpiece is its signature Frango Piri-Piri, charcoal-grilled chicken brushed with a homemade piri-piri oil. The preparation of this dish is naturally gluten-free, with the marinade and sauce based on gluten-free ingredients. This makes the Piri-Piri Chicken an excellent and popular choice for gluten-free diners, as noted by positive customer experiences. To minimize risk, it is still crucial to explicitly communicate any dietary needs to the waiter.

Side Dishes and Small Plates

Side dishes and small plates are where many gluten-free pitfalls can lie, but Casa do Frango offers some promising selections. Several rice dishes are made with naturally gluten-free ingredients, as are salads and other vegetable-based items.

Naturally Gluten-Free Sides

Chips: Freshly cut and typically fried in a designated oil, but check for potential cross-contamination with other fried items.
Tomato Salad: A simple and safe option with heritage tomatoes and white onion.
Hispi Slaw: Made with cabbage, carrot, and fresh herbs.

Sides to Avoid (or Verify)

Casa Rice: Traditionally contains chorizo and crispy chicken skin, which may be a gluten concern. A plant-based Green Rice alternative is available, but confirm its preparation.
Iberico Pork Croquettes: Contains béchamel, which is a key allergen.
Bacalhau Fritters: Salt cod and potato fritters, which are fried and need verification.

A Deeper Look at Cross-Contamination

While a dish may be made with gluten-free ingredients, the risk of cross-contamination in a shared kitchen is a major concern for those with celiac disease. In customer reviews, some diners report that staff are knowledgeable and take precautions, such as using separate prep areas and cooking utensils. However, other accounts suggest inconsistencies, particularly during busy periods. It's important to remember that the restaurant does not operate as a dedicated gluten-free facility. The management also advises informing them of any allergies before ordering.

Dessert Options

The dessert menu offers a standout naturally gluten-free option. The classic Portuguese almond cake is a favorite among gluten-free patrons and is made with ground almonds instead of wheat flour. It is always best to double-check this with the staff, as recipes can change.

Comparison Table: Gluten-Free Options at Casa do Frango


Menu Item	Gluten-Free Suitability	Notes	Communication	Potential Risks
Frango Piri-Piri	High	Piri-piri sauce is naturally gluten-free.	Always inform the waiter of coeliac or intolerance.	Cross-contamination during grilling.
Grilled Chorizo	High	Naturally gluten-free, served with a black olive mayo.	Verify sausage ingredients and sauce prep.	Shared cooking surfaces with other items.
Chips	Moderate	Likely fried in a dedicated fryer, but always verify.	Ask about dedicated fryers to prevent cross-contamination.	Other fried items with gluten present.
Casa Rice	Low	Contains chorizo and crispy chicken skin.	Order the plant-based Green Rice instead, and verify prep.	Main ingredient is not gluten-free.
Almond Cake	High	Made with ground almonds; naturally gluten-free.	Ask if prep area is separated from gluten-containing desserts.	Shared serving utensils or prep area.
Salt Cod Fritters	Low	Flour coating is likely.	Avoid unless explicitly confirmed safe after speaking with staff.	Involves flour and frying, high risk.

Conclusion

While Casa do Frango is not a dedicated gluten-free restaurant, it offers several appealing and naturally gluten-free options. The signature Piri-Piri Chicken and Almond Cake are strong choices for those managing a gluten-free diet. The availability of other safe sides like tomato salad and chips makes for a satisfying meal. However, successful and safe dining relies heavily on communication. Anyone with celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance should have an upfront conversation with their server to discuss preparation methods and cross-contamination to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience. By following these steps, you can confidently navigate the menu and enjoy the flavors of Southern Portugal. Learn more about the restaurant and their menu options by visiting the official Casa do Frango website.

Visit the official Casa do Frango website for the latest menu and allergen information.

Disclaimer: Information is based on publicly available data and customer reports. Menus, suppliers, and procedures can change. Always confirm with restaurant staff directly before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Casa do Frango does not have a separate, dedicated gluten-free menu. Instead, many items on their standard menu are naturally gluten-free, and staff can guide you on suitable choices.

Yes, many celiac diners have successfully eaten at Casa do Frango by communicating their needs to the staff. However, because it is not a dedicated gluten-free facility, there is a risk of cross-contamination, which must be managed by speaking with your server.

The Piri-Piri Chicken is naturally gluten-free, with a marinade and sauce made from gluten-free ingredients. However, always confirm with your waiter to ensure safe preparation.

Gluten-free side dish options typically include the fresh tomato salad, hispi slaw, and chips (verify frying method). Some rice dishes might require modifications or be unsuitable due to other ingredients.

Yes, the Portuguese almond cake is made with ground almonds instead of flour and is naturally gluten-free.

To minimize risk, you should inform your waiter of your severe gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Many reviewers have noted staff knowledge on how to manage allergens.

For those with high sensitivity, calling ahead is a recommended step to ensure the kitchen can accommodate your needs and has the right information before your arrival.