The Best Gluten-Free Cafes in Melbourne
For those of us living with coeliac disease, the simple act of grabbing a coffee and a bite to eat can often be fraught with anxiety. The constant need to ask questions, assess risks, and worry about cross-contact can take the joy out of dining out.
That’s why finding cafes that genuinely understand gluten-free safety is such a game-changer. Whether they’re entirely gluten-free or offer carefully prepared gluten-free options with strict cross-contact protocols in place, these gluten-free cafes in Melbourne serve up more than just delicious food — they provide peace of mind.
Melbourne, being the incredible food city it is, along with its surrounding suburbs, thankfully has a growing number of cafes that take gluten-free dining seriously. From dedicated gluten-free kitchens to places that go the extra mile to ensure safe options for coeliacs, these cafes aren’t just alternatives — they’re havens.
You can relax, feel confident in your order, and reconnect with the simple pleasure of enjoying cafe culture without the worry. Continue reading for some of Melbourne’s top gluten-free cafes that should be on every coeliac’s radar!
100% Gluten-Free Cafes in Melbourne
Seedling Cafe – CBD
A long-standing favourite among coeliac Melburnians, Seedling Cafe is a dedicated gluten-free spot right in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. They focus on wholesome, healthy, and tasty gluten-free food for both breakfast and lunch.
I come here almost biweekly as I live in the CBD, and if I’m not sipping on a takeaway almond flat white, I’m ordering a mixed salad. You can choose either the two- or four-salad option — they rotate frequently, so be sure to check the display for what’s available. Their banana bread is a bit of a splurge, but it’s absolutely delicious warmed up with some butter!
The avo, cheese, and egg toastie is also a favourite of mine — great for breakfast takeaway or to enjoy dining in. I’m a big fan of their Raw Power Smoothie as well, which is perfect pre- or post-workout. I love this smoothie flavour so much that I even learned how to make it at home myself (because, let’s be real, buying it every week isn’t exactly kind to my wallet!).
Seedling Cafe
275 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
0493 991 489
Kudo Bakery & Cafe – CBD
Tucked away in the heart of the city, Kudo Bakery & Cafe has earned a cult following — including myself — for good reason. Known for their artisan gluten-free sourdough (seriously, it’s the best in Melbourne!) and popular canelés, this spot is a must for coeliacs who miss the joys of classic French baking. I buy the bread every couple of weeks, it’s that good!
While pastries are the star, Kudo also offers a thoughtful selection of savoury items. Think gourmet toasties, open-faced tartines, and rotating daily specials that make it easy to grab a light but satisfying bite. The potato and cheese tart and garlic and chilli twist are my favourites (when available), and their coffee is top-notch, too.
Seating inside is very limited, and it’s not uncommon to encounter a queue during peak hours. If you’re planning a visit, which you should, I highly recommend grabbing a sandwich or tartine for takeaway and strolling over to Treasury Gardens just a few minutes away. It’s a great place to enjoy your meal on a park bench near a water fountain, watch the world go by, and feel like you’re momentarily out of the office or city bustle.
Whether you have coeliac or are just gluten intolerant, Kudo is a hidden gem in a bustling city centre: a dedicated gluten-free bakery that doesn’t taste like a compromise!
Kudo Bakery
8 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Regretless – Low Carb Pleasure – CBD
If you’ve got a sweet tooth and need safe gluten-free options, Regretless – Low Carb Pleasure in the Melbourne CBD should be on your must-visit list. As Melbourne’s first Coeliac Australia-accredited restaurant, Regretless cafe specialises in low-carb, coeliac-safe treats.
When I dropped by, I tried the strawberries and cream chaffle — their keto-friendly twist on a waffle, made with cheese and eggs instead of flour. It was quite rich and a little sweeter than I expected, but I would like to come back to try their tiramisu.
While Regretless leans more toward the sweet side of brunch, they do have a few savoury options worth noting. You’ll find high-protein, low-carb sandwiches with fillings like ham, cheese & tomato or chicken, cheese & tomato, all made on their own house-made, low-carb bread. There are also savoury chaffles, which can be a nice change to toast.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free breakfast or brunch spot that won’t leave you missing the carbs, Regretless delivers — especially if dessert-for-breakfast is your vibe. Just a heads-up: it can be a little tricky to find, as it’s tucked inside Mid City Shopping Centre, so keep an eye out!
Regretless – Low Carb Pleasure
200 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
(03) 9942 2257
Glazed Gluten Free Patisserie – Elsternwick
If you have coeliac disease and haven’t yet visited Glazed Gluten Free Patisserie, you’re missing out! This Coeliac Australia-accredited bakery and café is entirely gluten-free and offers a tempting array of both savoury and sweet treats — from tasty pies and fresh breads to beautifully crafted cakes and muffins.
What sets Glazed apart is their attention to dietary needs beyond just gluten. All of their breads are not only gluten-free, but also vegan and free from dairy, nuts, and soy, making it a good choice for those with multiple food intolerances.
Their spinach and cheese puff pastry and pão de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread) are absolute must-tries — I grab these every time I stop by! Whether you’re after a quick snack or a custom cake for a special occasion, Glazed has you covered.
In addition to their delectable offerings, the cafe has plenty of seating space, making it a comfortable place to enjoy your meal. The staff and owner are also incredibly friendly and welcoming, which adds to the positive experience. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a gluten-free treat in a laid-back setting.
While Glazed is located in Elsternwick, it’s definitely worth the drive, especially if you’re heading to Elwood Beach. Pick up a box of gluten-free goodies on your way and enjoy them by the water for the perfect Melbourne day out.
Glazed Gluten Free Patisserie
Shop 2/1-3 Carre St, Elsternwick VIC 3185
(03) 9533 0315
Cafes With Safe Gluten-Free Options
Fed Cafe – Albert Park
Fed Cafe, located in the neighbourhood of Albert Park, is one of my favourite nearby non-dedicated cafes for gluten-free breakfast fare. This cosy cafe, with outdoor seating available, is bustling on weekends with locals and offers a range of delicious gluten-free dishes, ensuring everyone can enjoy a worry-free meal.
Both times I was there, I spoke with the owner, who explained that they have a separate area in the kitchen to safely prepare meals for those who have coeliac disease. They follow the necessary cross-contact procedures as well. I felt safe here because the owner shared that a family member also has coeliac disease, and it really showed in their attention to detail.
From filling breakfasts to light lunches, the menu includes gluten-free bread, healthy smoothies, and creative dishes like Okonomiyaki (Japanese-style cauliflower on top of cabbage and zucchini pancakes). My absolute favourite meal here was the hearty corn fritters — they were out of this world! I added the extra side of halloumi, which was probably a bit much, ha.
So, whether you’re stopping in for a morning coffee or a satisfying brunch, Fed Cafe’s welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff make it a perfect choice for those who have coeliac disease and are craving safe, fulfilling meals.
Fed Cafe
131 Dundas Pl, Albert Park VIC 3206
(03) 9699 7574
Roule Galette – CBD & Carnegie
Roule Galette is a traditional French crêperie with two locations — one in Melbourne’s CBD and another in Carnegie. I visited the CBD spot pre-diagnosis (I was diagnosed with coeliac disease in April 2024), but I’m sure they can accommodate you there as well. I felt really looked after at the Carnegie location — the staff were so lovely and genuinely attentive!
This welcoming cafe is known for its authentic galettes — savoury crêpes made from naturally gluten-free buckwheat flour. These are a safe and tasty option for those with coeliac disease, and the team is well-versed in gluten-free dining (the Carnegie branch has a dedicated galette pan).
The menu offers a variety of galettes filled with ingredients like cheese, ham, eggs, and more. Sweet crêpes can also be made with the gluten-free galette batter upon request — a great workaround for those with coeliac disease who still want to enjoy a sweet treat.
When I visited the Carnegie location with a friend, I ordered the Camembert galette (veg-friendly) for something savoury, and the Lady Petrova (with added banana) for dessert. Of course, I asked for the sweet version to be made with galette batter, since the crêpe batter isn’t gluten-free. If you’re dining with someone else, I’d recommend splitting a couple of options so you can sample more of the menu — that’s what we did, and it was perfect!
Roule Galette – CBD
Shop 1/241 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
(03) 9639 0307
Roule Galette – Carnegie
104 Koornang Rd, Carnegie VIC 3163
(03) 9563 1569
Maria Cafe
Maria Cafe in Upwey is a hidden gem for coeliacs exploring the Dandenong Ranges. While not a dedicated gluten-free cafe, they offer a variety of gluten-free options, and the staff are friendly and well-informed about dietary needs.
We stopped here for breakfast before tackling the Lyrebird Track. I ordered a vegetarian spin on their Bacon Brekky Burger — leaving out the bacon — and it was absolutely delicious! The chutney-style sauce added the perfect touch of sweetness and tang, bringing everything together beautifully. The gluten-free bun was the closest thing I’ve had to a brioche-style bun since going gluten-free. I didn’t realise how much I missed a proper breakfast sandwich until that first bite!
With a cosy setting and both indoor and outdoor seating, Maria Cafe is a relaxed and reliable choice for a safe brunch or lunch when in the area. Just be sure to let the team know you have coeliac disease so they can take the proper precautions.
Maria Cafe
56-58 Main St, Upwey VIC 3158
(03) 9754 8101
Final Thoughts
Melbourne and its surrounding suburbs are an absolute standout when it comes to gluten-free dining, especially for those of us with coeliac disease. From fully gluten-free bakeries to cafes that take extra precautions, there’s no shortage of safe and seriously tasty spots to enjoy. Whether you’re after a quick brekky, a flaky gluten-free pastry, or a sweet treat with your coffee, this city has something for every coeliac craving.
I’ll keep updating this list as I discover more gems, so be sure to check back before your next brunch run. If you have a favourite I’ve missed and think I should try, let me know. As always, I pay for all my own meals, and please remember to confirm cross-contact procedures yourself before eating, as locations, menus, meals, and staff can and do change often!
