Best Gluten Free Italian in San Jose

Polenteria is a rare gift for the celiac community—an entirely gluten-free Italian restaurant where you can let your guard down and simply enjoy the meal. Chef Yvonne Khananis, who has honed her craft for over 25 years and lives with celiac disease herself, brings warmth and authenticity to every dish, from pillowy homemade pasta to that focaccia everyone raves about. Here, cross-contamination worries melt away in a dedicated kitchen, and the staff genuinely understand what it means to eat safely. You know what? It’s almost surreal to have a place where every menu item is fair game—no need for those awkward ‘is this safe?’ conversations—just pure culinary joy.

If you’re longing for classic Italian flavors and the comfort of pasta without gluten worries, Il Fornaio delivers a surprisingly thoughtful experience for celiac diners. While it’s not a dedicated gluten-free facility, the staff are well-versed in celiac safety—think separate prep areas for gluten-free orders and clear communication about cross-contamination. Several locations offer a gluten-free menu with options beyond just pasta, and the kitchen is usually happy to modify dishes when you speak up about your needs. It’s not perfect—shared kitchens mean there’s always a bit of risk—but with attentive service and satisfying plates of gluten-free pasta, it feels like a small victory in the ongoing quest for safe Italian dining.

Milan brings a bit of Italy to San Jose, and while their house-made gluten-free pasta gets plenty of love, the experience comes with a side of uncertainty for folks with celiac disease. There’s no dedicated gluten-free menu or kitchen, so cross-contact is always a lurking risk—especially in a bustling Italian spot where flour tends to fly. If you’re just gluten sensitive and not strictly celiac, you might find the pasta worth asking about, but for those who need to steer clear of even a crumb, it’s best to call ahead and have an honest chat with the kitchen. Honestly, it’s hard not to wish for more transparency or a few extra safety steps—because we all know how much it means just to eat out without worry.