Wdw & Universal gluten-free Trip Report

[FreeTime]

We just returned from our first vacation since our daughter has had to start eating gluten free. We visited Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World. I had contacted both resorts in advance and Universal did nothing to help us! Disney was fabulous! Below is a list of where we ate and what they had.

Universal Themepark-I asked if they had gluten free pizza. I was told "we only have personal size!"

Confisco Grill Character Breakfast at Universal-They had the dietary restriction listed and had nothing for her to eat but bacon and eggs. And they wanted her to go to the buffet to get it. It took quite awhile for the chef to come out and listen to our needs. She made bacon and eggs and brought a cup of yogurt. Huge disappointment as we let each of our daughters pick a character breakfast and this was the breakfast that child that is gluten-free picked.

Hard Rock Cafe at CityWalk-The chef made a hot dog and fries.

WDW

Peppermill at Coronado-We dropped in and they did not have gluten free breads on hand but made her a cheeseburger and baked french fries. They also offered to get some gluten free items if we planned on being there all week.

O'hana's at the Polynesian. Mickey gluten-free waffles! They tasted great!!! Bacon, eggs, potatoes. This meal was family style and they brought hers out separate with no issues. Made more waffles when requested.

Liberty Inn at Epcot-Gluten free hot dog and bun, fried french fries, fruit, and gluten free cookies (3 kinds we got the chocolate chip). I had ordered gluten-free brownies from their menu but they said they no longer carry them. They also offered cake.

Cosmic Rays-I thought they carried gluten free items, but they did not. However, they called Pinocchio's Village House and got us a pizza. It took 3 times before they baked it without burning it though.

Rainforest Cafe-Made fresh chicken breast tenders that were breaded and french fries. They also have hamburger and hot dog buns.

Hollywood & Vine-Buffet meal. I spoke to the chef in advance and he said when we arrived he would prepare whatever she liked. (One of the members of our party was ill, so we didn't go).

I am writing a letter to Universal about how they should work at educating their staff. Also, there were many thanks to WDW chefs! If you have any questions, let me know.

[dionnek]

Where did you stay in Disney? We are going in October and are just going to be in Disney for 2 nights, at the Pop Century. Plan on doing the character dinner at Chef Mickey's one night. I am the only celiac so don't need to worry about the kiddo (luckily - it's hard enough feeding an almost 2 year old!). Thanks so much for sharing!

[FreeTime]

Where did you stay in Disney? We are going in October and are just going to be in Disney for 2 nights, at the Pop Century. Plan on doing the character dinner at Chef Mickey's one night. I am the only celiac so don't need to worry about the kiddo (luckily - it's hard enough feeding an almost 2 year old!). Thanks so much for sharing!

We stayed 1 night at Coronado Springs and 5 nights at OKW (they have kitchens, so we could cook if necessary).

We have stayed at the All Star Movies before, which is similiar to Pop Century. I think that you will enjoy it. Have a great time!

I also forgot to mention the Boardwalk Bakery. They are located at The Boardwalk. They said that they can make many gluten free items. It is necessary to check during the day with a chef to place an order. Also, at the Boardwalk, Spoodles, has gluten free pasta and bread. we didn't eat here but I stopped in so we would know for next time.

Be sure to contact the foodcourt at Pop prior to going if you are planning on eating there a lot.

[dionnek]

I will definitley contact the Pop and all restaurants we plan to eat at ahead of time. I did mention to the guy on the phone when I made the hotel reservations about my celiac, and he knew all about it and said he'd put a note on my reservations, but I will contact them again before we go. Since it is only 2 nights, we went with the "cheaper" hotel, but I think next time we will try out the Corronado or someplace similar. I've always loved Disney - now even more so!!!!!

[FreeTime]

I will definitley contact the Pop and all restaurants we plan to eat at ahead of time. I did mention to the guy on the phone when I made the hotel reservations about my celiac, and he knew all about it and said he'd put a note on my reservations, but I will contact them again before we go. Since it is only 2 nights, we went with the "cheaper" hotel, but I think next time we will try out the Corronado or someplace similar. I've always loved Disney - now even more so!!!!!

Enjoy your trip! We are long time Disney visitors so if you have any general questions about Disney, I am happy to answer as well.