Freebirds World Burrito is a popular fast-casual restaurant known for its customizable burritos, bowls, and tacos. For guests with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, Freebirds offers a thoughtful gluten free menu that allows diners to enjoy flavorful meals without worry.
Understanding the importance of safe dining experiences, Freebirds has taken significant steps to accommodate gluten free diets. an in-depth look at Freebirds’ gluten free options, tips for ordering safely, and detailed menu items that cater to gluten free guests.
Gluten Free Awareness at Freebirds
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. It can cause adverse reactions ranging from mild discomfort to severe health issues for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Freebirds acknowledges these concerns by providing clear information and dedicated gluten free choices.
“At Freebirds, we strive to create an inclusive dining experience. Our gluten free menu is designed to offer delicious, safe options while maintaining the bold flavors our guests love.”
Despite their efforts, Freebirds warns that cross-contact with gluten-containing ingredients can occur due to shared preparation areas and utensils. Guests with severe allergies should communicate clearly with staff and exercise caution.
Gluten Free Menu Categories at Freebirds
The Freebirds gluten free menu primarily includes burrito bowls, salads, tacos (with corn tortillas), and sides that do not contain gluten ingredients. Here are the main categories:
- Burrito Bowls
- Salads
- Tacos (Corn Tortillas)
- Sides and Extras
- Drinks and Desserts (some options are gluten free)
Important Note:
Traditional flour tortillas are not gluten free and should be avoided. Always specify corn tortillas for tacos.
Detailed Gluten Free Menu Items
Burrito Bowls
Burrito bowls offer all the fillings of a burrito without the flour tortilla, naturally making them a great gluten free choice. Guests can customize their bowls with a variety of proteins, rice, beans, salsas, and toppings.
| Protein | Details | Gluten Status |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken | Marinated, grilled chicken breast | Gluten Free |
| Steak | Seasoned grilled steak slices | Gluten Free |
| Barbacoa | Slow-cooked shredded beef | Gluten Free |
| Pulled Pork | Slow-smoked pulled pork | Gluten Free |
| Veggie | Grilled seasonal vegetables | Gluten Free |
| Impossible™ Meat | Plant-based protein alternative | Gluten Free |
Rice & Beans
Both sides are naturally gluten free and are safe choices to accompany proteins in bowls or tacos.
- Cilantro Lime Rice – Fragrant rice cooked with lime and fresh cilantro.
- Black Beans – Slow-cooked black beans seasoned mild.
- Refried Beans – Creamy pinto beans, gluten free.
Salsas & Toppings
Freebirds offers a range of gluten free salsas and toppings to customize your meal:
- Mild Salsa – Tomatoes, onions, and mild chiles
- Medium Salsa – Slightly spicier, fresh ingredients
- Hot Salsa – Spicy red chile salsa
- Guacamole – Fresh avocados, lime, cilantro
- Sour Cream – Gluten free dairy topping
- Shredded Cheese – Cheddar and Monterey Jack blend
- Fresh Jalapeños – For an extra kick
- Lettuce – Crisp and fresh
Tacos
Freebirds tacos are available with your choice of protein and toppings. To keep them gluten free, always request the corn tortillas.
The corn tortillas are made without gluten and safe for sensitive guests.
| Taco Item | Description | Gluten Free Status |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tacos | Grilled chicken with salsa and toppings on corn tortillas | Gluten Free (with corn tortillas) |
| Steak Tacos | Seasoned steak with fresh toppings on corn tortillas | Gluten Free (with corn tortillas) |
| Barbacoa Tacos | Slow-cooked shredded beef on corn tortillas | Gluten Free (with corn tortillas) |
| Veggie Tacos | Grilled vegetables with salsa on corn tortillas | Gluten Free (with corn tortillas) |
Salads
Freebirds salads are a fresh, gluten free option. They are made with a base of mixed greens and topped with your choice of protein and gluten free toppings.
- Protein Options: Same as burrito bowls (chicken, steak, barbacoa, pulled pork, veggie, Impossible™ meat)
- Toppings: Cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and salsas
Note that dressings should be verified with staff as some may contain gluten or cross-contact risk.
Sides and Extras
Freebirds offers several gluten free sides that pair well with main dishes. These include:
- Chips & Salsa: Corn tortilla chips served with fresh salsa (gluten free)
- Guacamole & Chips: Fresh guacamole served with corn chips
- Black Beans: Gluten free and seasoned
- Rice: Cilantro lime rice, gluten free as well
Avoid sides like queso dip or any breaded items unless explicitly marked gluten free.
Gluten Free Drinks and Desserts
Freebirds offers a selection of beverages that are naturally gluten free. This includes fountain sodas, iced teas, lemonades, and bottled water.
When it comes to desserts, options are limited and may vary by location. It is essential to ask staff about gluten free dessert availability to ensure safe choices.
Ordering Tips for Gluten Free Diners at Freebirds
“Communication is key. Always inform your server about your gluten free needs to ensure proper precautions are taken.”
Although Freebirds takes care to avoid cross-contact, the fast-paced environment means some risk remains. Here are practical tips for a safer dining experience:
- Specify “gluten free” clearly when ordering and ask for corn tortillas for tacos.
- Request separate utensils and preparation areas if possible to minimize cross-contact.
- Avoid menu items with sauces or marinades unless confirmed gluten free, as these can contain hidden gluten.
- Double-check dressings and toppings for gluten ingredients.
- Be cautious with chips and salsas if cross-contact with flour tortillas could occur.
Freebirds Gluten Free Menu Summary Table
| Menu Item | Gluten Free Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Burrito Bowls | Yes | No tortilla; customize with gluten free proteins and toppings |
| Tacos (corn tortilla) | Yes | Use corn tortillas only; avoid flour tortillas |
| Salads | Yes (with protein and toppings) | Confirm dressing is gluten free |
| Chips & Salsa | Yes | Corn chips typically gluten free; verify at location |
| Queso Dip | No | Contains gluten; avoid if sensitive |
| Flour Tortillas | No | Contains gluten; avoid |
| Protein Options | Mostly yes | All main proteins are gluten free |
Understanding Cross-Contact Risks
Cross-contact occurs when gluten-free food comes into contact with gluten-containing items, leading to contamination. Freebirds’ open assembly line style means that shared utensils, grills, and prep surfaces can introduce gluten traces.
Freebirds trains staff on food safety and allergen awareness, but guests should remain vigilant. Asking questions and requesting special handling can reduce risks significantly.
Freebirds and Celiac Disease
For those diagnosed with celiac disease, strict adherence to gluten free diets is essential. Freebirds can be a suitable dining choice if safety measures are followed carefully.
Always disclose your medical condition to your server, and consider calling ahead to discuss your needs with restaurant management. Many Freebirds locations have allergen menus available online or in-store to assist you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Freebirds Gluten Free Menu
Is the rice at Freebirds gluten free?
Yes, the cilantro lime rice is gluten free and safe for consumption by gluten-sensitive guests.
Are the beans gluten free?
Both black beans and refried beans at Freebirds are gluten free.
Can I get a gluten free burrito?
A traditional burrito is wrapped in a flour tortilla which contains gluten. To enjoy a similar meal, order a burrito bowl without the tortilla.
Are the salsas gluten free?
Freebirds’ salsas are made from fresh ingredients and are gluten free, but always confirm with staff in case of recipe changes.
Are the chips gluten free?
Corn tortilla chips are typically gluten free; however, cross-contact may occur in the kitchen. Speak with staff for reassurance.
Is Freebirds safe for people with severe gluten allergies?
Freebirds makes efforts to reduce cross-contact, but it is not a dedicated gluten free kitchen. Caution is advised for those with severe allergies or celiac disease.
Conclusion
Freebirds World Burrito offers a variety of tasty and customizable gluten free options for those seeking delicious Mexican-inspired cuisine without gluten. Their burrito bowls, corn tortilla tacos, salads, and sides provide flexibility and flavor while accommodating gluten free diets.
Being an open-assembly fast casual restaurant, there is some risk of cross-contact, so communication with staff and careful ordering is important. When managed properly, Freebirds can be an enjoyable dining choice for gluten free guests.
By understanding the menu, selecting safe items, and being proactive about your dietary needs, you can comfortably savor Freebirds’ bold flavors without compromising your health.
