Five Guys is a beloved fast-casual burger chain that has gained immense popularity across the United States and beyond. Known for their fresh, never-frozen beef patties, hand-cut fries, and a plethora of free toppings, Five Guys has captured the hearts of burger enthusiasts with their commitment to quality and simplicity.
While indulging in a juicy burger and crispy fries may seem like a dream for most, for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, dining out can often be a daunting experience. Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, can trigger adverse reactions in individuals with these conditions, ranging from digestive issues to more severe autoimmune responses.
Fortunately, Five Guys recognizes the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs and offers a variety of gluten-free options on their menu. By providing a safe and inclusive dining experience, Five Guys enables individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease to enjoy their delicious burgers, fries, and milkshakes without compromising their health or missing out on the flavors they love.
Gluten-Free Burgers and Hot Dogs
Five Guys offers a variety of burgers and hot dogs that can be enjoyed gluten-free by opting for a lettuce wrap or a bowl instead of a traditional bun. Unfortunately, the restaurant does not currently offer any gluten-free bun options, but the burgers and hot dogs themselves are free from gluten-containing ingredients.
When ordering a burger or hot dog at Five Guys, simply request a lettuce wrap or a bowl to enjoy your meal without the bread. The staff will happily accommodate this request, wrapping your burger patties or hot dog in fresh lettuce leaves or serving it in a convenient bowl.
By choosing a lettuce wrap or bowl, you can savor the juicy flavors of Five Guys’ burgers and hot dogs without worrying about gluten contamination. This option allows you to customize your meal with a variety of gluten-free toppings, ensuring a satisfying and safe dining experience.
Gluten-Free Fries
One of the standout gluten-free options at Five Guys is their famous fries, available in both regular and Cajun-style varieties. The fries are cooked in dedicated fryers, ensuring they are free from any cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients. Additionally, Five Guys uses 100% peanut oil for frying, eliminating the risk of gluten exposure from other oils or frying mediums.
The regular fries are a classic choice, offering a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, perfectly seasoned with just the right amount of salt. For those seeking a bolder flavor, the Cajun-style fries are a tantalizing option, infused with a blend of spices that deliver a kick of heat and robust flavor.
Regardless of your preference, you can indulge in Five Guys’ fries without any concerns about gluten. The dedicated fryers and the use of peanut oil ensure that these crispy treats are not only delicious but also safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Gluten-Free Toppings and Sauces
When it comes to toppings and sauces at Five Guys, there are several gluten-free options to choose from. The restaurant offers a variety of fresh vegetables, including lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and jalapenos, all of which are naturally gluten-free. You can also enjoy gluten-free sauces like ketchup, mustard, mayo, relish, and BBQ sauce.
However, it’s important to note that the malt vinegar used at Five Guys contains gluten, so it should be avoided if you have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Be sure to inform the staff about your dietary restrictions, and they will be happy to assist you in making safe choices.
Some of the gluten-free toppings and sauces available at Five Guys include:
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Onions
- Pickles
- Jalapenos
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Mayo
- Relish
- BBQ sauce
With these options, you can customize your burger or hot dog to suit your taste preferences while adhering to a gluten-free diet.
Gluten-Free Milkshakes
One of the most delightful treats at Five Guys is their thick and creamy milkshakes. Fortunately, for those following a gluten-free diet, the milkshake base used at Five Guys is entirely gluten-free. This means that you can indulge in a refreshing milkshake without worrying about potential gluten contamination.
When it comes to mix-ins, Five Guys offers a variety of options to customize your milkshake. Many of these mix-ins are naturally gluten-free, such as peanut butter, bananas, and bacon. However, it’s essential to be aware of a few mix-ins that contain gluten.
Mix-ins to Avoid:
- Oreo Cookies: While delicious, Oreo cookies contain wheat flour, making them unsuitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Cherry Topping: The cherry topping used at Five Guys may contain gluten-derived ingredients, so it’s best to avoid it.
- Malted Milk: Malted milk powder often contains barley malt, which is a source of gluten.
To ensure a completely gluten-free milkshake experience, it’s recommended to stick to the gluten-free mix-ins or opt for a plain milkshake without any additions. The staff at Five Guys are generally knowledgeable about their gluten-free offerings and can guide you in making the right choices.
Other Gluten-Free Options
In addition to the gluten-free burgers, hot dogs, fries, and milkshakes, Five Guys offers a couple of other gluten-free options that can be enjoyed by those following a gluten-free diet.
Bulk Peanuts
One of the most popular items at Five Guys is their bulk peanuts. These peanuts are kept in large containers near the entrance of the restaurant, and customers are welcome to help themselves to as many as they’d like while they wait for their order. The peanuts are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe and tasty snack option for those avoiding gluten.
Eggs
While not a widely advertised item on the menu, Five Guys does offer eggs as a gluten-free option. Customers can request their burgers or hot dogs to be topped with a fried egg, adding an extra layer of protein and flavor to their meal. The eggs used at Five Guys are gluten-free, providing a safe and delicious addition for those following a gluten-free diet.
It’s worth noting that while these items are gluten-free, there is always a risk of cross-contamination in a shared kitchen environment. It’s essential to inform the staff about your gluten allergy or sensitivity to ensure proper precautions are taken during the preparation of your meal.
Cross-Contamination Risks and Protocols
While Five Guys takes precautions to offer gluten-free options, it’s important to understand the potential risks of cross-contamination in a shared kitchen environment. Cross-contamination occurs when gluten-containing foods come into contact with gluten-free items, making them unsafe for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
At Five Guys, the staff is trained to handle allergen requests and follows specific protocols to minimize cross-contamination. When you inform them of your gluten allergy or intolerance, they will take the necessary steps to prepare your order separately from gluten-containing items.
However, it’s crucial to note that Five Guys’ kitchens are not certified gluten-free facilities. They handle gluten-containing items, such as buns and croutons, in the same preparation areas. While they make efforts to keep surfaces clean and use dedicated utensils for gluten-free orders, there is always a risk of cross-contamination due to shared equipment and surfaces.
To mitigate this risk, Five Guys employs the following protocols:
- Dedicated fryers for fries: The fries are cooked in fryers that are separate from any gluten-containing items, ensuring they are gluten-free.
- Separate preparation areas: When informed of a gluten allergy or intolerance, the staff will prepare your order in a designated area away from gluten-containing items.
- Color-coded utensils and containers: Five Guys uses color-coded utensils and containers to differentiate between gluten-free and gluten-containing items, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
- Staff training: Employees are trained on proper food handling and allergen protocols to ensure the safety of customers with dietary restrictions.
Despite these measures, it’s essential to understand that a shared kitchen environment always carries some risk of cross-contamination. If you have a severe gluten allergy or celiac disease, it’s recommended to exercise caution and discuss your concerns with the staff to make an informed decision about dining at Five Guys.
Conclusion
Five Guys offers a variety of gluten-free options, making it a viable choice for those following a gluten-free diet.
From burgers and hot dogs served in lettuce wraps or bowls to their famous fries cooked in dedicated fryers with 100% peanut oil, there are plenty of safe and delicious options to enjoy.
While the restaurant takes precautions to minimize cross-contamination, it’s essential to inform the staff about your gluten allergy or sensitivity when ordering.
Additionally, be sure to check the latest allergen information on their website or with the staff, as ingredients and processes may change over time.
With the knowledge and tips provided in this guide, you can confidently visit Five Guys and savor their flavorful gluten-free offerings.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions and communicate your dietary needs – the staff is there to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience for everyone.