3. Vivo Italian Kitchen (Universal CityWalk)

Vivo Italian at Universal CityWalk in Orlando, Florida

The majority of chefs at Universal Studio’s Citywalk dining establishments are accustomed to providing options for guests with special dietary needs. One of the best choices by far is Vivo Italian Kitchen, a wonderful Italian dining establishment which serves terrific food in a classy, modern setting. The design is contemporary and clean. It’s a great place to celebrate with the family after a long day out at the parks.

The design is really interesting!
The design is really interesting!

The chefs are more than willing to accommodate special needs diets and will gladly speak with guests over food concerns and even prepare a few specialty dishes (the Gluten-free garlic bread is outstanding!). Simply request gluten-free bread. Also, many of the meat based dishes can be easily modified to not contain gluten and or dairy (try the Chicken Marsala!).

Gluten and dairy free garlic bread...an excellent way to start a meal!
Gluten and dairy-free garlic bread…an excellent way to start a meal!
A fresh green salad (available both vegan and gluten-free) is a great addition to any Italian meal!
A fresh green salad (available both vegan and gluten-free) is a great addition to any Italian meal!
The Tuscan Bean soup is an excellent gluten & dairy free starter!
The Tuscan Bean soup is an excellent gluten & dairy-free starter!
The Chicken Marsala salad is one of the many wonderful dishes that can be made gluten-free!
The Chicken Marsala salad is one of the many wonderful dishes that can be made gluten-free!

The menu is not marked, although you can note your allergy when making a reservation and/or speak with the chef in person before your meal.

4. CFS Coffee

Sweet Toast and Americano at CFS in Orlando, Florida

Orlando’s best (and most allergen friendly) local coffee shop is CFS. With 6 different locations, it’s easy to incorporate a breakfast visit to CFS into any Orland itinerary. First off – the coffee. It’s 100% Columbian and 100% delicious! Their specialty drinks are amazing too! And the presentation in gorgeous mugs makes the experience even better. As for the food, there are plenty of options for everyone. The premier vegan option is the Sweet Toast pictured above. This entrée includes 2 pieces of multi grain toast topped with almond or peanut butter, strawberries, bananas, almonds, hemp seeds, and coconut shreds. it’s extremely filling and delicious.

Smoothie, acai bowls, tofu scramble, and oatmeal with almond milk are additional satisfying vegan options. Gluten-free options are marked as so on the menu. One interesting option is the Protein Pancakes. This “healthier” version of the breakfast staple includes oat flour, vegan chocolate protein powder, egg whites and almond milk. Or try a waffle made with Yucca flour and topped with fresh berries. Although their regular coffee is delicious, a specialty drink is fun on any vacation. Try the Mocha Frappe with any alternate milk of your choice. A refreshing cool treat on a hot humid morning!

Mocha Frappe at CFS in Orlando, Florida