Navigating the Applebees Menu for a Gluten-Free Diet
For individuals following a gluten-free diet, dining out at a chain restaurant like Applebees requires careful consideration. Unlike dedicated gluten-free restaurants, Applebees operates a shared kitchen, meaning cross-contact is a significant risk for those with celiac disease or severe sensitivities. Applebees clearly labels certain items as “gluten sensitive” (GS), indicating they are made without gluten-containing ingredients according to their standard recipe. However, they explicitly state they cannot guarantee any item is completely gluten-free. This guide will break down the options and precautions necessary for a safer dining experience in 2025.
Appetizers and Salads
When starting your meal, there are some possibilities, though precautions are needed. The Chips & Salsa and Neighborhood Nachos are labeled gluten-sensitive. However, their safety for celiacs is questionable as the chips are often fried in shared oil. If you are gluten intolerant, you may find these options acceptable, but severe cases should be very cautious.
For salads, the Fiesta Chicken Chopped Salad or Grilled Shrimp 'N Spinach Salad offer promising alternatives. Always order without croutons and verify the safety of your dressing. The following dressings are generally considered gluten-sensitive:
- Buttermilk Ranch
- Chili Lime Vinaigrette
- Lemon Olive Oil Vinaigrette
- Honey French
- Bleu Cheese
- Garlic Caesar (verify no gluten ingredients in specific store dressing)
- Oriental Vinaigrette (verify no gluten ingredients in specific store dressing)
Entrees
Plain grilled meats and seafood offer some of the safest entree options, as long as you specify no seasoning and ensure no cross-contamination on the grill.
Steak and Ribs
- Sirloin Steak: Order a plain sirloin steak without any seasoning or sauces. Ask for it to be cooked on a clean surface to minimize risk.
- Double-Glazed Baby Back Ribs: These are listed as a gluten-sensitive option. However, always confirm the sauce is gluten-free and request plain ribs if uncertain.
Chicken and Seafood
- Grilled Chicken Breast: This is a versatile and relatively safe choice. Order it plain and pair it with a safe side.
- Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp: This is labeled gluten-sensitive, but as always, confirm the sauce and preparation with your server.
- Cedar Salmon with Maple Mustard Glaze: Another designated gluten-sensitive option. This is typically a very good choice for those with sensitivities.
Sides and Kids' Menu
Several side dishes can accompany your meal, but certain ones carry a cross-contamination risk.
- Safe Sides: Baked Potato, Steamed Broccoli, Garlicky Green Beans, Fire-Grilled Veggies.
- High-Risk Sides: The fries, even though potatoes are naturally gluten-free, are cooked in a shared fryer. Similarly, the Garlic Mashed Potatoes may contain gluten, so always ask a manager.
For children, the Chicken Griller, steamed broccoli, and applesauce can be ordered. Avoid the fries due to the shared fryer risk.
A Note on Cross-Contamination
For those with Celiac disease, the risk of cross-contamination at Applebees cannot be overstated. Servers and managers must be informed of your dietary needs to ensure maximum caution. Fried items, including fries and chips, are particularly dangerous as they use a common fryer. Grilled items may also be at risk if staff are not careful. The safest strategy is to request a manager and explicitly state your concerns regarding celiac disease.
Gluten-Sensitive vs. Standard Menu Comparison
To highlight the necessary modifications, here is a comparison of typical gluten-sensitive items versus their standard menu versions.
| Menu Item | Gluten-Sensitive Version | Standard Version (Contains Gluten) |
|---|---|---|
| Double-Glazed Ribs | Confirm sauce is GS, ensure careful prep. | Double-glazed sauce, potential cross-contamination. |
| Grilled Chicken | Plain, no seasoning, request clean cooking surface. | Fiesta Lime Chicken (check sauce), Bourbon St. Chicken (check sauce), breading. |
| Nachos | Chips and toppings labeled GS, chips fried in shared oil. | Toppings and sauces may contain gluten. Chips fried in shared oil. |
| Fries | Avoid, shared fryer risk. | Classic Fries and other fried sides are not safe for celiacs. |
| Salad | Greens, GS dressing, toppings (minus croutons). | Any salad with croutons or non-GS dressing, possible cross-contact from toppings. |
Conclusion
While Applebees offers menu items designed to be “gluten sensitive,” it is critical for those with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance to be aware of the inherent risks of cross-contamination in their shared kitchen. The best approach is to communicate your needs clearly with the staff, ask for a manager, and stick to simple, plain-prepared dishes like grilled chicken or steak with steamed vegetables. For more detailed allergen information, always consult the official Applebees nutrition website before your visit. A safe and enjoyable meal is possible with the right precautions.
How to Order Safely for a Gluten-Free Meal
- Review the Official Allergen Menu: Before you go, check the interactive allergen menu on the Applebee's website to identify options without gluten-containing ingredients.
- State Your Allergy Clearly: Inform your server that you have a severe gluten allergy or celiac disease. Use specific phrases like “severe gluten allergy, not a preference.”
- Request a Manager: Ask your server to have a manager handle your order directly. This ensures your needs are communicated clearly to the kitchen staff.
- Confirm Ingredients and Preparation: Even for designated “GS” items, double-check that sauces, glazes, and seasonings are safe. Request plain preparations whenever possible.
- Avoid Shared Fryer Items: Do not order any fried food, including fries and chips, due to the high risk of cross-contamination in the shared fryer.
- Verify Sides: Stick to plain sides like a baked potato (no toppings) or steamed broccoli to be extra safe.
What to Avoid at Applebees
- All Fried Items: Including fries, chips, and anything with a crispy coating, due to shared fryers.
- Bread-based Items: Burgers (unless a certified GF bun is an option), sandwiches, and anything with breading.
- Most Sauces and Dressings: Always confirm that a specific sauce is gluten-free, as ingredients can change.
- Desserts: Almost all dessert items contain gluten and are not a safe option.
