If you’re looking for the perfect place for a relaxing, slightly indulgent day trip in New Jersey, let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorites: SoJo Spa Club. My husband and I have been going here for the past five years, and it has become one of our go-to (and yes, expensive) date spots. Finally in 2026, Sojo Spa has become safe for gluten-free diners with decent gluten-free food!
I truly never understood what the word rejuvenated meant until I experienced SoJo—it’s an unparalleled wellness experience that blends multiple spa cultures into one stunning, re-imagined Korean bath house overlooking the Hudson River.
But if you have celiac disease, the big question is always: Is it safe to eat here? And the answer—finally—is yes (with usual precautions when ordering).
What is Sojo Spa?
SoJo Spa Club is a luxury day spa and wellness destination in Edgewater, New Jersey, just minutes from New York City. Often described as a re-imagined Korean bath house, it blends traditional spa cultures with modern design to create an immersive, all-day relaxation experience. Guests can purchase day passes for full access to the facility, which includes multiple indoor and outdoor pools, thermal baths, saunas, and a stunning rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Hudson River skyline.
What sets SoJo apart is the sheer variety of amenities that make it feel like an unparalleled wellness experience rather than just a typical spa. From Himalayan Salt saunas and charcoal rooms to the invigorating ice room and expansive lounge area, every space is designed to help you unwind and recharge. In addition to its bathing areas, SoJo also offers a food hall, spa services in private treatment rooms, and the option to extend your visit with an overnight stay at its adjacent boutique hotel. Whether you’re planning a relaxing solo escape or a full-day outing, it’s widely considered one of the best spa experiences in the region
My Gluten Free Experience at SoJo (Then vs. Now)
Eating gluten-free at Sojo Spa used to be PAINFUL. Let me tell you all about it….
A few years ago, SoJo had essentially zero safe gluten-free options. If you wanted to eat safely, you had to email ahead, notify them of your dietary restrictions, and then do something honestly… kind of ridiculous. You’d use valet parking, leave your food in your car, and when you were ready to eat, security would escort you out to your car and stand nearby while you ate.
It was awkward, inconvenient, and definitely not the relaxing day spa vibe you’re going for.
Fast forward to 2026, and things have completely changed—for the better.
Now, gluten-free items are clearly marked on the main menus in the food hall. When you get up to the counter they even have separate gluten-free menus! The staff members are also much more knowledgeable about cross-contamination. This is HUGE.
As someone with celiac, I’m always cautious about things like hidden gluten in sauces (hello, soy sauce) or shared fryers—but SoJo has stepped up their game.
What You Can Safely Eat (Finally!)
On my last visit (and the three visits before that!), I was able to enjoy multiple safe options—which honestly felt like a luxury after years of bringing my own food.
Here’s what I’ve personally had:
- A fresh salad (always a safe starting point)
- A wrap with grilled chicken added (confirm ingredients, but this worked for me)
- A smoothie from their juice bar
- Their tangerine sorbet (gluten-free AND dairy-free—think refreshing ice cream alternative)
- And most importantly… way too many orders of french fries
Yes—SoJo now has a dedicated gluten-free fryer, (it’s really a dedicated french fry fryer – but it’s gluten free!) which means you can enjoy fries without worrying about cross-contamination. For anyone with celiac disease, you know how exciting that is.
That said, always communicate your needs clearly and double-check at the time of service—even at places that do a great job, it’s always worth confirming.
When you go up to the counter when ordering always state that you have a severe gluten-intolerance, or as I always say “A Gluten Allergy.” Most people don’t understand what celiac disease is, but they do understand that allergies can be very severe!
Then when you go to pick up your food from the counter, confirm with the person giving you the food that it is indeed your gluten-free order. It’s always better to double and even triple check than getting sick!
The Spa Experience: What Makes SoJo Worth It
Beyond the food, SoJo is widely considered one of the best spa destinations in the area—and for good reason.
The rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Hudson River alone is worth the trip. Add in their incredible outdoor amenities, multiple pools, and thermal experiences, and it becomes a full-day escape.
My personal favorites:
- The SUPER HOT Japanese stone room (intense but amazing)
- The Himalayan Salt Room (so calming)
- The freezing ice room (a shock—but worth it)
- The cozy lounge area where you can truly relax and even fall asleep!
The entire experience feels like a reset for your body and mind—a true relaxation experience.
Treatments, Pricing & Tips
SoJo operates on day passes, and the daily admission cost can feel steep depending on when you go. Weekends are pricier, while weekdays are at a slightly more reasonable price.
If you’re considering a spa treatment, here’s my honest take:
I’ve never personally booked one because of the cost—but if you can go mid-week, they often offer a complimentary day pass with your treatment. At that point, it becomes much more worth it.
Treatment options include:
- Massages (including a couples massage)
- Facials in their treatment rooms
- Popular Korean body scrubs
- Even options like prenatal treatment (always follow the advice of their medical practitioner)
There’s also a fitness center, upgraded locker rooms, and even the option to turn your visit into an overnight stay at their connected boutique hotel (sometimes referred to as Hotel Sojo). You can also purchase gift cards, which honestly make a perfect gift.
Getting There & Planning Your Visit
Located in Edgewater, NJ, SoJo is easily accessible—even from NYC. You can take public transportation from the Port Authority or drive in. Sojo offers both paid valet parking and free parking down the block!
A few quick tips:
- A bathing suit is required
- Plan to stay for several hours (this is not a quick stop). I recommend at least 6 hours.
- Go on a weekday if possible
- Stay hydrated and pace yourself between hot and cold rooms
- Avoid risky foods like anything with soy sauce unless confirmed gluten-free
- Order the French Fries and their Ice Cream!
Final Thoughts
Review snippet (TLDR): If you have celiac disease and have been avoiding SoJo Spa Club because of food safety concerns, 2026 is your year to go back. The improvements to their gluten-free options, awareness of cross contamination, and the joy of a dedicated gluten-free fryer for french fries have completely changed the experience.
Yes, it’s still a splurge. But between the incredible views, the variety of amenities, and the ability to actually eat safely, it’s become one of our favorite date spots again—and truly an amazing experience every time.
Whether you go with your husband, your best friend, or even plan a solo reset day, SoJo is one of those places that reminds you what it feels like to truly unwind.