Lauren Less is an allergy-friendly food blogger and recipe creator. Less was diagnosed with gluten and dairy allergies and has a long, diverse list of her favorite allergy-friendly spots in Chicago. “I look for restaurants that are allergy-friendly and have editable options,” Less shared.
Allergy eating doesn’t always mean enjoying delicious and nutritious foods, but it also means knowing that your dietary restrictions are taken care of and feeling safe and comfortable.
“It’s not as simple as taking away an ingredient, people with food allergies have to be careful about cross-contamination in the kitchen or fryer, as well as ingredients in dishes that others might not think of, such as spices.”
What are Less’ top safe alternatives that prevent allergies without sacrificing great taste? “Replace the burger with lettuce on a bun, remove the cheese from the plate, use olive oil instead of the dressing, no sauce, and use minimal spices or salt and pepper instead of the seasoning mix!”
If you’re looking for an allergy-friendly, healthy restaurant that can’t replace Chicago’s deliciousness factor, check out Less’s top picks!
Lauren’s Healthy Restaurant Recommendations in Chicago
1. Emma
74 W Illinois Street Chicago, IL 60654
Food type: Mediterranean
Why she loves it: “Ema is a Mediterranean restaurant that specializes in spreads, dips and shareable small plates. I love Ema because the food is so delicious and they are very allergy-friendly and very welcoming.
Preferred order: “I love their roasted almonds and marinara sauce. It’s a must try! I also love their crispy potatoes (I’m allergic to dairy so I omit the grease and cheese).
2. Beatrice
834 W Fulton Market Chicago, IL 60607
Food type: comfort food
Why she loves it: “Beatrix serves healthy and delicious comfort food! Everything I’ve tried on their menu has been delicious and I love the atmosphere. They are also great with food allergies.
Preferred order: “I basically always go for their premium burger and Kennebec fries. They add crispy lemon zest to the fries which is great. If you go there for breakfast or brunch, I also love their coconut chia seeds pudding!
3. Oromo Cafe
1912 N West Main Street Chicago, IL 60647
Food type: Coffee/Cafe
Why she loves it: “Oromo is a cute little cafe in Chicago that focuses on organic ingredients and they even make their own homemade nut milk. I love meeting friends there for coffee/tea!
Preferred order: “I always order their matcha and hazelnut milk. Their homemade hazelnut milk is amazing!
4. Santa Monica Summer House
1954 N Halsted Chicago, IL 60614
Food type: California inspiration
Why she loves it: “Summer House offers a California-style menu with simple ingredients. The summer atmosphere in the restaurant is also great!
Preferred order: “I love their sweet potato fries and they make delicious salads too. I also tried their cookies before developing food allergies and they were amazing!
5. A true gourmet kitchen
1 W Erie Street Chicago, IL 60654.
Food type: True Food offers delicious meals made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Why she loves it: “I love that they have a seasonal menu.”
Preferred order: “Their turkey burgers are delicious! I also love their chopped salad (which I have without cheese or farro because of my allergies). They also recently added grilled fingerling potatoes which are so delicious !
Learn more about Lauren Less on her website or follow her on Instagram.
