If you’re following a gluten-free diet, eating out can feel like a minefield. Navigating menus, deciphering ambiguous ingredient lists, and trusting staff to understand your needs is often a source of stress.
Yet, in a world where food sensitivities are increasingly recognized, more restaurants are stepping up to offer clear, safe options. Five Guys, the beloved American burger chain, has gained a reputation not just for their customizable meals, but also for their transparency and gluten-free friendliness.
Whether you have celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or are simply choosing to avoid gluten, finding a place where you can indulge in juicy burgers and crispy fries without worry is a welcome relief.
Five Guys’ approach to gluten-free dining is refreshingly straightforward. They don’t rely on gimmicks or complicated substitutions; instead, their menu is built around simple, high-quality ingredients that naturally avoid gluten.
This means you can enjoy a meal that feels just as satisfying as any other customer’s—without sacrificing taste or safety. But what exactly can you order, and how safe is it?
Understanding the details is crucial. From bunless burgers to allergen protocols, this comprehensive look at the Five Guys gluten-free menu will help you order with confidence and enjoy every bite.
Burgers without Gluten: The Core of the Menu
For burger lovers, the biggest concern when dining out gluten-free is often the bun. At Five Guys, the heart of their menu revolves around customizable burgers that can be enjoyed without the bun.
This flexibility is a game-changer for gluten-free diners who crave authentic, hearty flavors.
Five Guys’ beef patties are 100% fresh ground beef—never frozen, and free from fillers or additives. This simplicity is key for those avoiding gluten.
When you order your burger without the bun, you can choose to have it wrapped in crisp lettuce or simply served in a tray. Each patty is cooked on a grill dedicated to burgers only, reducing the risk of cross-contact.
The beauty of Five Guys’ burger offerings lies in their customization. You can select from a wide range of toppings and sauces, many of which are also gluten-free.
This makes it easy to build a meal that suits your taste and dietary needs. If you’re unsure about which toppings are safe, staff are trained to provide allergen information and accommodate special requests.
- All beef patties are naturally gluten-free
- Lettuce wraps are available as a bun alternative
- Customizable toppings for a personalized meal
“Five Guys doesn’t offer a gluten-free bun, but their commitment to transparency allows guests to make informed and safe choices every time.”
French Fries: Naturally Gluten-Free and Delicious
Few fast-food fries can compare to the golden, hand-cut fries at Five Guys. What sets them apart, especially for gluten-free diners, is their straightforward preparation and dedication to preventing cross-contamination.
Five Guys fries are made from fresh potatoes, cut in-house daily, and cooked exclusively in peanut oil. Importantly, the fryers used are dedicated to potatoes only—no breaded items, no gluten-containing foods.
This minimizes the risk of gluten exposure, making the fries a safe indulgence.
Guests with gluten sensitivities can indulge in both the Five Guys Style fries and the Cajun Style fries. The Cajun seasoning is also gluten-free, according to the company’s allergen information.
This means flavor options aren’t limited for those avoiding gluten.
- Fresh-cut fries cooked in peanut oil
- Dedicated fryers prevent cross-contact
- Cajun seasoning is gluten-free
“Five Guys fries are safe for gluten-free guests thanks to their simple ingredient list and strict fryer protocols.”
Toppings and Condiments: Customization Without Compromise
A burger is only as good as its toppings, and Five Guys lets you pile them high. With a wide variety of free toppings and sauces, gluten-free guests have plenty of options to create their perfect meal without worry.
Most of the standard toppings at Five Guys—including lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, grilled onions, grilled mushrooms, jalapeños, and green peppers—are naturally gluten-free. Their cheese and bacon are also safe, but it’s always wise to double-check for regional variations or supplier changes.
When it comes to sauces, the majority are gluten-free, including ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, and hot sauce. However, always verify with staff, as recipes can change and cross-contact is possible in high-traffic kitchens.
| Topping | Gluten-Free |
| Lettuce | Yes |
| Tomato | Yes |
| Grilled Onions | Yes |
| Regular Cheese | Yes |
| Bacon | Yes |
| Barbecue Sauce | Yes |
| Relish | Yes |
“Customization is at the core of Five Guys’ experience, and their toppings list gives gluten-free diners freedom without compromise.”
Allergen Protocols and Kitchen Safety
Eating out gluten-free is about more than just ingredient lists—it’s also about kitchen practices. Five Guys stands out for its commitment to clear allergen protocols and staff training, giving peace of mind to those who need it most.
The kitchens at Five Guys are open-concept, allowing guests to see exactly how their food is prepared. This transparency is reassuring, as it allows gluten-free diners to monitor the preparation of their meals.
Staff are trained to change gloves upon request and are aware of allergen protocols.
If you notify the staff of a gluten allergy or sensitivity, they will take extra care with your order. This might include cleaning prep surfaces, changing gloves, and using fresh utensils.
While no restaurant can guarantee zero cross-contact, Five Guys’ procedures minimize the risk.
- Open kitchen concept for visible transparency
- Staff trained in allergen protocols
- Special requests for glove changes and surface cleaning are honored
“As someone with celiac, I appreciate being able to watch my food prepared and knowing staff are trained to handle allergies seriously.”
Milkshakes and Beverages: Sweet Treats for All
Gluten-free dining doesn’t have to mean skipping dessert. At Five Guys, the milkshakes are a highlight—creamy, customizable, and, for the most part, gluten-free.
This is a welcome surprise for many guests seeking a sweet ending to their meal.
The base of Five Guys’ milkshakes contains no gluten ingredients, and many mix-ins are safe as well. Popular add-ins like strawberries, bananas, peanut butter, chocolate, and coffee are generally gluten-free.
However, some seasonal or specialty mix-ins may contain gluten, so always verify with staff before ordering.
For those who prefer a lighter option, the Coca-Cola Freestyle machines offer a variety of gluten-free soft drink choices. All fountain beverages, including lemonade and iced tea, are considered safe for gluten-free guests.
- Milkshake base and most mix-ins are gluten-free
- Popular add-ins (strawberries, peanut butter, chocolate) are safe
- Freestyle soda machines provide plenty of gluten-free drink options
| Milkshake Mix-In | Gluten-Free |
| Strawberries | Yes |
| Peanut Butter | Yes |
| Bacon | Yes |
| Oreo Cookie Pieces | No |
“Don’t be afraid to ask about mix-ins—staff are happy to check ingredients so you can enjoy a sweet treat without worry.”
What To Avoid: Navigating Menu Pitfalls
While Five Guys offers many gluten-free options, it’s essential to know which menu items to avoid. Staying informed helps you prevent accidental gluten exposure and ensures your dining experience remains enjoyable.
The most obvious item to skip is the traditional burger bun, which is made from wheat flour and contains gluten. Five Guys does not currently offer a gluten-free bun.
Additionally, the grilled cheese sandwich and BLT use the same buns and are unsafe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Certain milkshake mix-ins, such as Oreo cookie pieces, are not gluten-free. It’s also wise to double-check for any limited-time offerings or regional specialties, as recipes may vary.
When in doubt, ask the staff for the most up-to-date allergen information.
- Avoid traditional burger buns
- Skip grilled cheese and BLT sandwiches
- Watch out for cookie-based milkshake mix-ins
“Being clear about what to avoid is just as important as knowing what you can enjoy—always double-check ingredients and preparation methods.”
Special Dietary Needs: Beyond Gluten-Free
While gluten is a major concern for many diners, some guests have additional dietary needs. Five Guys’ simple ingredient philosophy makes it easier to accommodate other restrictions, but it’s always best to communicate your needs clearly.
For those with nut allergies, it’s important to note that Five Guys uses peanut oil for frying. While refined peanut oil is generally considered safe for most people with peanut allergies, individual reactions vary.
Always consult with your healthcare provider before dining if you’re unsure.
Dairy-free and vegan diners can enjoy a burger patty in a lettuce wrap with vegetable toppings. However, cheese, milkshakes, and some sauces contain dairy.
Five Guys does not offer plant-based meat options at this time, so choices for vegan and vegetarian guests are limited.
- Peanut oil used for all fries
- Limited vegan/vegetarian options
- Staff can provide allergen information on request
“For guests with multiple allergies or dietary needs, transparent communication with the staff is the best way to ensure a safe and satisfying meal.”
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Gluten-Free Experience
Maximizing your Five Guys experience when gluten-free involves a mix of preparation and proactive communication. By following a few simple strategies, you can reduce your risk and dine with confidence.
Always inform the cashier of your gluten allergy or sensitivity when ordering. This ensures staff take extra precautions, from changing gloves to cleaning surfaces.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about toppings, sauces, or new menu items. Five Guys prides itself on transparency and customer service.
Check the company’s online allergen chart before your visit; it’s updated regularly and provides clear information on every menu item. If you’re unsure about a particular ingredient or preparation method, ask to see packaging or request a manager’s assistance.
- Notify staff of gluten-free needs at the start of your order
- Ask questions about toppings and sauces
- Check the latest allergen chart online
- Request special handling if you’re highly sensitive
“Preparation and open communication are your best tools for a stress-free gluten-free meal at Five Guys.”
Conclusion: Enjoying Five Guys, Gluten-Free and Worry-Free
Finding a restaurant that takes gluten-free dining seriously is a huge relief for anyone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Five Guys stands out by offering a straightforward, customizable menu that naturally avoids gluten in many of its core items.
The absence of a gluten-free bun is more than made up for by the delicious lettuce wraps and the freedom to pile on fresh toppings.
With dedicated fryers for their iconic fries, transparent kitchen practices, and a staff trained in allergen protocols, Five Guys provides a reliable and enjoyable dining experience. From savory burgers to sweet milkshakes, there’s plenty to love—and plenty that’s safe—on the menu.
Of course, vigilance is always necessary, but the chain’s commitment to transparency and customer service goes a long way toward ensuring your safety.
The next time you’re craving a classic American meal, don’t let gluten restrictions hold you back. With a little preparation and clear communication, you can savor the full Five Guys experience—gluten-free, delicious, and completely worry-free.
