If you’re living with celiac disease or simply following a gluten-free lifestyle in NJ, finding safe and delicious dining options can be a challenge. Luckily, Monmouth County and the Jersey Shore is home to a growing number of restaurants and bakeries that cater to gluten-free needs without sacrificing flavor or quality. Whether you’re a local or just visiting our awesome New Jersey beaches, this guide to the best gluten-free spots in Monmouth County will help you confidently enjoy everything from cozy brunches to decadent desserts—all with peace of mind for gluten-free diners.
Where to Stay in Monmouth County
Are you travelling to Monmouth County for a wedding or event and need a place to stay? Here are my top 3 recommendations for hotels in Monmouth County! If they aren’t located by where you need to go my recommendation is always a Courtyard by Marriott.
Breakfast
Gluten-Free Friendly
Hatch 44 Cafe – Bradley Beach
Hatch 44 Cafe in Bradley Beach offers a bright, beachy atmosphere perfect for gluten-free breakfast lovers. While I’ve not eaten here, Find Me Gluten Free says you can get almost anything gluten-free! Some of the gluten-free favorites are French Toast, waffles, and omelets as well as sandwiches and tacos for lunch. They also serve a range of artful brunch dishes and have vegan and vegetarian options
The café takes care with dietary needs and proudly labels gluten-free items on their menu. It’s a relaxed stop for locals and visitors before or after hitting the beach. Free parking and friendly staff add to the easy, welcoming vibe .
J & A Breakfast – Manasquan
J & A Breakfast in Manasquan is a cozy, community-focused spot that offers a good variety of gluten-free options. I’ve not tried J& A yet, but they serve gluten-free bagels that are celiac-friendly. The owner’s daughter has celiac so you know they take great precautions!
Locals rave about the friendly staff and high-quality gluten-free food. One Yelp reviewer said, “staff is so sweet… the amount of gluten-free options is amazing!” Their egg sandwiches and comfort foods are also praised for generous portions and great taste. I can’t wait to try a breakfast sandwich from them soon!
Quick and Easy
Dedicated Gluten-Free
Kitch Organic – Red Bank
Kitch Organic is the only dedicated gluten-free restaurant that I consider “Quick and Easy.” Although it is not necessarily the cheapest.
Kitch Organic is mostly a takeout restaurant but there are a few high top seats for you to sit and enjoy in the restaurant.
My husband and I tried a number of different items while we were there. All of them were good and flavorful. They also felt healthy and not heavy on my stomach. There were also plenty of dairy-free items to choose from as well!
I don’t recommend driving more than 20 minutes for Kitch Organic, but if you’re in the area it is a great, healthy food option – especially for celiac diners!
Gluten-Free Friendly
Panda Asian Fusion Chinese Food – Freehold
This restaurant is the one I go to the most frequently! I go to Panda at least once every other week because it’s right around the corner from my job and I’ve never gotten sick here.
The owner, Erica, is wonderful!! She’s is such a bright and positive person. Most importantly, she is always super careful when preparing gluten-free food.
When ordering online there is a separate gluten-free section of the menu and contains a wide variety of menu items. There is a separate gluten-free fryer so celiacs can enjoy fried items like General Tso’s, Sesame, and other fried chicken, shrimp, or tofu dishes.
All food comes marked with a Gluten-Free sticker on the bag which always makes me feel more secure eating here. Prices are affordable and only a moderate up-charge for gluten-free.
Panda is EASILY worth the drive when you’re craving Chinese food.
Cluck-U – Manasquan
I’ve not eaten at Cluck-U in Manasquan, but it’s at the top of the list of places I want to try next!! For how often do we get to have deep fried chicken??
Based on the Find Me Gluten Free reviews, Cluck-U in Manasquan is owned by a family with a child with celiac disease! I always trust these type of establishments immensely. When your child has celiac you know how important it is to keep them safe. And with a 4.5 Find Me Gluten Free rating they definitely make sure to keep all diners safe!
Cluck-U in Manasquan has a separate, dedicated gluten-free fryer for items such as fried chicken, french fries, and onion rings!
While I’ve not dined their yet, it is at the top of my list and do anticipate it to be safe for celiac diners.
Crust & Crumble – Asbury
I was so excited to eat at Crust & Crumble in Asbury Park last year because they supposedly have amazing gluten-free crust! But, when I got there at around 5 PM on a Saturday night I was told they were completely sold out of gluten-free crust. Bummer.
It’s understanadble that they were sold out since Crust & Crumble has one of the only homemade gluten-free pizza crusts in Monmouth County! They also cook their gluten-free pizza in a separate area, use separate utensils, and cook the pizza on dedicated gluten-free trays.
While I have not had a chance to try their gluten-free crust yet it’s only because they were sold out! With a 5 star safety rating on Find Me Gluten Free, I’m hoping to try them out next time I’m in Asbury.
Honorable Mention
Mutiny BBQ – Asbury
DiLucca’s Pizza – Millstone
Hearthly Organic – Shrewsbury
Local Smoke – Red Bank
Casual Dining
Gluten-Free Friendly
Mostly Smoked – Manalapan
Mostly Smoked BBQ in Manalapan is a gluten-free BBQ heaven, and the owner is an absolute gem. He and his staff take allergens seriously—all the proteins are gluten-free, and they take special care in handling any food for someone with an allergy. You can taste the passion in every dish, from brisket to pulled pork.
The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed. One customer raves that the “owner and staff are amazing,” and it shows in every bite. It’s easily one of the best gluten-friendly BBQ spots in Monmouth County. If you’re in Manalapan and want delicious, safe BBQ, this place is a must-visit!
Esposito’s – Matawan & Manasquan (proceed with caution)
CELIACS PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:
Esposito’s in Matawan and Manasquan is one of Monmouth County’s most popular spots for gluten-free Italian food. The owners understand celiac disease personally—their daughter has it—so they’ve created a space where gluten-free diners should feel safe. There’s a dedicated fryer, and the staff is trained to handle gluten-free orders with care. The gluten-free pasta, breaded chicken, and classic Italian dishes are a hit with many in the local GF community.
However, it’s important to note that delivery and carryout have been inconsistent. I’ve personally experienced at least three mistakes when ordering to-go, including getting sick from cross-contact. Because of that, I do not recommend takeout or delivery for those with celiac. I’ve never had an issue dining in so dining in has my full confidence. While I do recommend dining in due to past positive experiences, it’s best to speak directly with the staff and confirm all precautions when ordering.
But you should RUN, don’t walk, to try their Gluten Free Chicken Parm Alla Vodka, it’s life changing
Bamboo Thai – Bradley Beach
As of May 2026 Bamboo Thai has been bumped up from Honorable Mention to one of the best Gluten-Free restaurants in Monmouth County! The Thai food here was incredible. Everything had so much flavor and tasted fantastic.
The restaurant was incredibly busy when I went (before Memorial Day), and I was worried there would be an issue of cross-contamination. There was not! I felt perfectly fine after eating here and I fully recommend it!
Sumo Hibachi – Wall
I love both sushi and Hibachi, but it’s so hard to find places you can trust because of the risk of cross-contamination. According to Find Me Gluten Free, Sumo Hibachi in Wall is a place many gluten-free diners can trust!
Many reviewers state that they will cook gluten-free hibachi first in order to minimize the risk of cross-contamination. In addition, gluten-free meals come marked, and the kitchen will communicate with you about gluten-free preparation.
No gluten-free menu and items are not marked. But since they can use gluten-free soy sauce on most dishes, you can expect to order most things except noodles, California Rolls, and tempura dishes! Honorable Mention
Talula’s – Asbury Park
Kunya Siam Thai – Atlantic Highlands
Date Night
Dedicated Gluten-Free
Cave Bistro – Avon
Cave Bistro is the only date-night worthy restaurant that is dedicated gluten-free. However, it is definitely not my top choice.
I dined here one evening with my mother and I was incredibly disappointed. One appetizer we ordered was not fully cooked through and I had to send it back because it was ice cold at the center. My main dish was also incredibly salty.
I’m very small-business friendly and will usually give a restaurant a second try, but because of the price of this place and how poor my first experience was I don’t plan on going back.
However, there have been MANY positive reviews and experiences for Cave Bistro. So don’t let my bad experience deter you. Especially because this restaurant is 100% gluten-free!
Gluten-Free Friendly
Atlantic House – Highlands
I haven’t tried Atlantic House yet, but its rating on Find Me Gluten Free is highly impressive! Currently boasting a full 5 star safety rating, this may be one of the safest gluten-free restaurants in Monmouth County that isn’t dedicated gluten-free.
The Atlantic House boasts a separate gluten-free fryer so diners can enjoy fried seafood dishes such as gluten-free fried calamari, gluten-free fish and chips, and gluten-free crab cakes. Diners have even said that they have great gluten-free buns for sandwiches as well as amazing gluten free fries. The staff is highly knowledgable about cross contamination and are happy to help diners feel safe while eating there!
618 – Freehold
I’ve eaten at 618 twice so far – once for a date night and once as part of a party in the private room. Both times the servers were very aware of gluten and made me feel very comfortable eating here.
Many options on the regular menu are gluten-free, and a few can be made gluten-free. While upstairs, they gave me the option of having a plate of gluten-free pasta made for me. I declined to save extra room for the steak, but I did appreciate them offering to do that for me.
618 is a crowd favorite for a nice date night, and I do recommend it for anyone craving a nice steak in Monmouth County!
Waypoint 622 – Brielle
Waypoint is another great option for diners who are looking for fresh gluten-free seafood dishes a little farther south. Waypoint 622 also has a 5 star safety rating on Find Me Gluten Free, but with fewer reviews than the Atlantic House.
Waypoint has a dedicated gluten-free fryer, providing diners with a gluten-free option for fried seafood dishes. I just wish more of their sushi dishes could be made gluten-free!
Iron Whale – Asbury Park
If you’re looking for a spot that can please a crowd, Iron Whale in Asbury Park is a solid choice. It has something for everyone—whether you’re gluten-free, vegetarian, or a seafood lover, there’s a good range of options. I dined there with a group of ten, and everyone walked away satisfied (though most of us agreed it’s definitely on the pricier side!).
While Iron Whale isn’t my personal top pick on this list, it earns points for its attention to food allergies, including gluten. The staff takes dietary restrictions seriously, and the menu is diverse enough to accommodate different needs. If you’re looking for a more upscale place to celebrate a special occasion, especially with a view of the water, this one is worth considering.
Beijing Bistro – Red Bank
My husband’s family is from China, so Chinese food is important to them! We were fortunate to find Beijing Bistro 15 minutes from his grandparents’ house. It is great for us because this is one of the few chinese restaurants that are nice to dine in at in NJ.
My in-law’s consider Beijing’s food to be decent, classic chinese food but expensive. For me being gluten-free, I love it! Although it is pricey to me as well. I love the variety of their gluten-free menu and that most dishes can be prepared gluten-free. They do not mark the dishes that are gluten-free when they are served. So if your family orders a lot of dishes, make sure you confirm which ones are made gluten-free.
When our family goes, we order at least 10 dishes (half gluten-free and half not), and we have never had an issue with cross-contamination or any mix-ups!
Barrio Costero – Asbury Park
Barrio Costero is a tapas restaurant in the heart of Downtown Asbury Park. Their incredibly mindful of gluten intolerances – especially for celiacs and their food is delicious.
However, it’s not worth the price tag in my opinion. My husband and I had a fantastic dinner, but because it is only small plates we walked away hungry even though our bill was quite substantive. It is the only safe taco option in Asbury Park, so if you’re craving tacos, go for it! Just make sure you’re mindful of your wallet.
Honorable Mention
Taka – Asbury Park
Bombay River – Red Bank
If you’re looking for a more adventurous date night you could make the drive down to Atlantic City, NJ for some great gluten-free food and a fun time! Check out my gluten-free guide to A.C!!
High End
Gluten-Free Friendly
Lita – Aberdeen
Our absolute FAVORITE restaurant. Period. We LOVE Lita and every time we’ve gone (four times now) they have made me feel incredibly safe and they have been so accommodating for gluten-free. My friends and I recently went there for a “Paella Fest” – we wanted to try a lot of Paellas! One Paella had gluten in it. I told them they could make it normally, so my friends could enjoy it. Instead, the chef served the gluten item on the side so we could all enjoy it! I was so appreciative because I didn’t even request it!
Lita is NOT a cheap date. If the $100 price point is out of reach for you, consider sitting at the bar! There you can order each menu item alla carte rather than having to do the full three-course pre-fixe menu!
You can read my full review on Lita in Aberdeen here.
Scarborough Fair – Sea Girt
Scarborough Fair in Sea Girt offers an elegant dining experience with a strong focus on gluten-free fine dining. From the moment you step inside, the ambiance sets the tone—fresh, sophisticated, and welcoming.
I have not dined here yet, but almost every review on Find Me Gluten Free states how aware the servers are about the menu. As well as how accommodating both the wait staff and the chefs are for gluten-free dishes.
The chef is well-versed in accommodating gluten-related disorders, and the menu clearly marks gluten-free options. Whether you’re celebrating a special evening or enjoying a refined night out, Scarborough Fair consistently delivers on both taste and safety.
Gabriella’s – Red Bank
Gabriella’s is an experience – and that’s putting it lightly, haha. If you’re in your 20s and looking to celebrate your birthday with your group of friends than Saturday night at Gabriella’s is THE place to be! On a Saturday night, Gabriella’s is a cross between a club and a fine dining restaurant (I didn’t even know that was possible!). My girls and I had an amazing time with the dance music, the excitement of the restaurant, and great drinks. The staff went above and beyond to ensure I felt safe and enjoyed my meal. My friends said it was one of the best meals they’ve ever had.
If you want a more relaxed and traditional fine dining experience, I suggest booking an early Saturday dinner or Sunday night. There you will enjoy low-volume music and a more traditional vibe. The food is fantastic at any time and you will enjoy a high-quality, gluten-free friendly meal.
Melting Pot – Red Bank
The Melting Pot is not just a restaurant but an experience that families love! I have not been to Melting Pot since going gluten-free but many reviewers say it is one of their favorite meals for special occasions. When I went with a bunch of friends for a 16th birthday I still remember what a great time we had!
According to Find Me Gluten Free, all of the servers are very knowledgeable and most of the menu is gluten-free. You just have to be aware of the few sauces that are not gluten-free. The menu is clearly marked. At The Melting Pot, you can easily avoid cross-contamination by requesting a 100% gluten-free meal for your table, so you don’t have to worry about mix-ups. I promise the gluten lovers will not miss much going gluten-free for this meal!
I have one more high end recommendation but it’s not in Monmouth County. If you’re looking for an amazing getaway I LOVE Sojo Spa in Edgewater, NJ. It is my husband and I’s favorite place to go for a date. It costs about as much as dinner and drinks at Lita or Gabriella’s would, but in my opinion, I prefer Sojo over those two any time!
If you want to turn Sojo into a weekend getaway, I recommend staying at the Courtyard Marriott nearby Sojo! It is not worth the money to stay at Hotel Sojo in my opinion.
Check out my gluten-free guide to Sojo Spa by clicking here!
Bars
Dedicated Gluten-Free
Beach Bee Meadery – Long Branch (only alcohol, no food served)
I LOVE Beach Bee! My friends and I go here all the time – if you see me be sure to say hi! All of the alcohol is 100% gluten-free. They serve a wide assortment of ciders that are brewed in house as well as homemade mead. I recommend getting a cider flight so you can try their different flavors!
Beach Bee does not serve food, but they allow you to bring in your own food. Unfortunately, there are no quick and easy gluten-free friendly restaurants nearby. I recommend picking up from your favorite local place and bringing it with you!
Gluten-Free Friendly
D’Arcy’s – Bradley Beach
Last Wave Brewing – Point Pleasant
Technically, Point Pleasant is in Ocean County, but for gluten-free beer I’m willing to include it here because that’s worth the drive!
Alternate Ending Brewing – Aberdeen
Dessert
Dedicated Gluten-Free
Fable Vegan Ice Cream – Red Bank
Gluten-Free Friendly
Papa Ganache – Matawan & Manasquan
I sat here for 10 minutes debating about whether or not I could accurately list Papa Ganache as a dedicated gluten-free or not. Papa Ganache has an entire separate facility blocks away from their many bakery to bake all of their gluten-free items. They are then brought to their Matawan and Manasquan locations and displayed in units that are separated from their glutened baked goods. So while there is gluten sold in the same store, it is kept completely separate from gluten-free!
Papa Ganache Vegan Bakery is 100% Vegan (for both gluten-free and gluten items). I’m not vegan, but I am (mostly) dairy-free. Because I’m not vegan I do find some of their goods to be a little dry. However, their cheesecakes and their bread is phenomenal.
The price tag is a little high at Papa Ganache, but for the safety it is worth it every once and a while!
Cookman Creamery – Asbury Park
I’m obsessed! Cookman Creamery is my FAVORITE ice cream parlor in Monmouth County. I drive 30 minutes to get Cookman at least once every two weeks.
Cookman Creamery serves both dairy-free, vegan ice cream and traditional ice cream. Almost all of their vegan flavors are gluten-free. They make sure to mark GF on their menu so we can know what flavors are safe. In addition, when you tell the servers you have a gluten allergy they will get your ice cream from a separate container. That way, there is 0 risk from cross-contamination from an ice cream cone! And don’t worry, they have gluten-free cones as well!
Feel free to ask for samples to try their flavors before you order, and if you have celiac please make sure you tell them so they’ll take your samples from the fresh container. If you see the fresh container (below the one displayed) has scoops taken from it, it’s from other people with a gluten allergy! If you’re sampling strawberry or mint chip then those scoops were probably for my ice cream order! Haha.
Sundae Fundae – Point Pleasant
Main Street Donuts – Matawan
The owner of Main Street Donuts ROCKS! He’s such an awesome guy and a great member of the Matawan community. We love having this store in our town! The owner is conscientious about gluten-free and has a separate baking area for the gluten-free donuts. He does everything he can to make gluten-free diners feel comfortable having a donut and I appreciate his effort. It’s paying off with the great Find Me Gluten Free Reviews he has!
With that said, I haven’t tried Main Street Donuts, and I’m not sure if I will. I am INCREDIBLY sensitive to gluten. I can’t even enjoy a gluten-free Peroni without having a reaction. Even though the owner Joe does an amazing job of keeping gluten-free separate. Because it’s a bakery and there is airborne gluten in bakeries I don’t feel comfortable trying it. However, several celiacs on Find Me Gluten Free did NOT react to Main Street Donuts.