Trusted by a local with Celiac - these picks are the real deal.
If you’re gluten-free in Nashville, you already know the struggle. Most places throw out a sad fruit cup and call it brunch. As someone with Celiac, I take this personally. So when I find a spot where I don’t have to play 20 questions with the server, or worse, roll the dice on getting sick, I remember it!
This guide isn’t about places that have gluten-free options. It’s about the gluten free places that are actually worth going out of your way for. These Nashville breakfast and brunch spots go above and beyond, and they’re the kind of places I return to again and again.
Why Trust This Gluten-Free Brunch Guide?
I’ve been strictly gluten-free for years due to Celiac, and I know how rare it is to find a brunch dish that doesn’t feel like a consolation prize. These picks are places I’ve personally eaten, trust fully, and go back to often.
Nashville is known for hot chicken and biscuits, but don’t assume anything is gluten-free unless confirmed by staff or menu. Cross-contamination is real here.
Try 6 places that all take your allergy very seriously on our gluten free Nashville food tour.
Joyland - The Gluten-Free Fried Chicken Biscuit That Broke My Brain
Neighborhood: East Nashville and West Nashville
This is the Nashville breakfast that still lives rent-free in my head. Joyland’s gluten-free fried chicken biscuit is everything I thought I’d never have again - crispy, fluffy, buttery, salty, spicy, perfect. They add a lot of extras to it, which isn’t my jam, so I get it plain so that I can add blackberry jam or honey. Make sure you ask what it comes with to make sure you’re not disappointed with the toppings.
The good news: Joyland now serves their gluten-free fried chicken and biscuits all day, 7 days a week. No more racing the clock.
This is seriously one of my favorite breakfasts in Nashville, and you’ll find me here at least once a week!
What to Order:
Gluten-Free Fried Chicken Biscuit - made in a dedicated fryer.
Side of tots (confirm gluten-free day of but I've had good luck).
Sky Blue Cafe - The Best Gluten Free Pancakes in Nashville
Neighborhood: East Nashville
Sky Blue Cafe has been serving its fresh take on comfort food at the corner of Fatherland Street since 2010, and it's where I go when I want the best gluten free pancakes in Nashville. Their teff pancakes are made with an ancient grain that brings a deep, almost nutty flavor and the kind of fluffy texture that makes you forget any pancake ever had wheat in it. They also offer gluten-free toast, which sounds simple but is harder to find than you'd think.
"I love their teff gluten free pancakes. I usually pair them with a side of fruit and the Southwest omelette, which has both blackened chicken and chili. It's such a protein-packed breakfast that I feel much less guilty about the pancakes."
— Christine Wheatley, Founder of A Little Local Flavor
What to Order:
Southwest omelette with a side of fruit instead of potatoes, paired with a teff gluten-free pancake.
Open 7 days a week, 8am to 2pm at 700 Fatherland Street in East Nashville. Pair your visit with a stroll through the Five Points neighborhood after.
Henrietta Red - Elegant Plates with Gluten-Free Options Done Right
My Favorite (and regular) Gluten Free Brunch Spot in Nashville
Neighborhood: Germantown
If you’re looking for a gluten free Nashville brunch spot where you can eat and still impress your non-GF friends, Henrietta Red nails it. It is also one of my top recommendations for gluten free fine dining in Nashville. They serve brunch from 10am till 2pm Saturday and Sunday.
What to Order:
Turkish Eggs tangy, creamy, rich, with local Porter Road Butcher lamb sausages, and no gluten if you ask for no bread
Local Cheeseburger - no bun, sub a salad or creamy polenta for the fries.
Cabbage Okonomiyaki - this is my wildcard favorite. Confirm gluten-free with your server.
Ask questions about sauces and garnishes because the menu rotates, but they have a knowledgeable team that has always been honest and careful with me, but the menu rotates. Also, make a reservation - this place is popular and WORTH IT!
Acme Feed & Seed - Soul Brunch with a Side of History
Gluten Free Soul Food in Nashville
Neighborhood: Downtown Nashville
Yes, you can eat downtown and eat well - you can even eat gluten-free.
Go on a Saturday morning for Soul Brunch Nashville featuring the famous Charles “Wigg” Walker who has performed with James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and The Jackson 5. There’s live music, a rooftop view, and a dish I dream about weekly - this is truly gluten free soul food in Nashville.
What to Order:
The Hatchery - curried chickpeas over coconut rice, topped with a fried egg.
Ask for no fry bread to make it gluten-free.Amazingly, the Hatchery is on the menu all day every day, so have it for breakfast or dinner - you’ll love it either way!
Soul Brunch features live music from legendary Charles "Wigg" Walker who has performed with James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and The Jackson 5. Get there around 11:30am to grab a table and hear him sing.
Butcher & Bee - For a Worldly Brunch
Neighborhood: East Nashville
Best for: inventive seasonal plates and a stylish, airy atmosphere.
Butcher & Bee has long been a local favorite for their creative, ingredient-driven menu — and they do right by gluten-free diners. Many of their brunch dishes can be made gluten-free, and the staff is knowledgeable about cross-contamination. The menu changes often, but past favorites include:
What to Order:
Shakshuka with a side salad
Fresh vegetable plates drizzled with house-made sauces
Their beloved whipped feta (ask for cucumber slices instead of pita).
Local tip: Butcher & Bee’s brunch is popular, so book a reservation if you can. If you’re in the mood for a sweet finish, ask about their daily dessert — they often feature gluten-free options that rival the regular ones.
D’Andrews Bakery - A Downtown Gem with GF Salads and Sweets
Gluten Free Dessert and Lunch in Downtown NaShville
Neighborhood: Downtown Nashville
While this one isn’t a traditional brunch spot, it’s a great late morning or early lunch option if you’re in the heart of downtown. In fact, their salad is one of my favorite gluten free lunches in downtown Nashville.
What to Order:
Turkey Avocado Salad (ask for it as a salad; any sandwich can be made into one)
Add drunken goat cheese - thank me later.
Daily GF Dessert - changes daily, but I’ve had mouthwatering dulce cookies, delicious macaroons, and if there is a JD jr in the bakery case, GET IT! It’s the best gluten free chocolate dessert in Nashville!
It’s tucked away on Church Street, it can be easy to miss, but one of my favorite downtown lunch spots when I want something light and safe.
Germantown Café - Solid Gluten-Free Support
Neighborhood: Germantown
They don’t have GF pancakes or toast, but they do have a kitchen that listens and staff that knows how to handle dietary restrictions which makes it a great Nashville GF brunch restaurant. I’ve eaten here many times without issue.
What to Order:
Omelets, scrambles, or salads - just double check dressings and sides.
Their steak and eggs are always solid.
Brunch is popular so make a reservation, especially on holidays or Titans game weekends.
More Gluten-Free Brunch and Breakfast Spots in Nashville
(Not yet tested by me, but getting buzz in the GF community.)
Hearts Nashville – East Nashville
Rumored to have excellent GF brunch options and friendly staff who understand cross-contamination.
Dose Coffee & Tea – West Nashville & Riverside
Known for great GF pastries and rotating brunch plates. Good spot for a low-key Sunday.
Butcher & Bee – East Nashville
Middle Eastern–inspired menu with labeled allergens. Great vibe, thoughtful food, though you’ll need to confirm what’s safe.
Nashville Gluten-Free Brunch FAQs
What restaurants in Nashville have gluten-free brunch?
Joyland, Henrietta Red, D’Andrews, Acme Feed & Seed, and Germantown Café are all local favorites with GF brunch options.
Does Nashville have gluten-free biscuits or fried chicken?
Yes! Joyland offers a gluten-free fried chicken biscuit that is truly next level. Arrive early because GF biscuit quantities are limited.
Where can I get gluten-free brunch downtown?
D’Andrews and Acme Feed & Seed both offer great downtown options. Acme’s Hatchery dish is a personal favorite.
Is Acme Feed & Seed gluten-free friendly?
Yes, especially for brunch. Ask for “The Hatchery” with no fry bread. Staff is knowledgeable and careful.
Where should Celiacs eat brunch in Nashville?
These are trusted picks from someone with Celiac. Henrietta Red, Joyland, Germantown Cafe, and Acme Feed and Seed. Always double-check when ordering, but these spots have consistently been safe and delicious.
Download My Gluten-Free Nashville Guide
Want even more insider tips on gluten-free eats, drinks, and experiences in Nashville?
Grab the Free Gluten-Free Nashville PDF Guide (coming soon)
Includes:
My go-to brunches
Safe downtown dinner options
GF-friendly tours and experiences
Final Thoughts: You Deserve a Delicious Brunch
Being gluten-free shouldn’t mean giving up the best meal of the weekend. Nashville’s brunch scene has finally started showing up for us, and these spots prove it.
If you’ve got a favorite I missed, let me know. I’m always on the hunt for new gluten-free brunch gems.
Related Posts:
Top 10 Gluten Free Restaurants in Nashville: A Celiac's guide to safe and delicious dining
The Ultimate Guide to Downtown Nashville Brunch (coming soon)
What to Eat in Downtown Nashville (If You Only Have One Day)
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