Gluten-Free at PF Chang’s – Finally GF Chinese!

Did you know that there are a few mainstream restaurants that have gluten free menus? That doesn’t mean you can completely relax when you dine at these establishments, but it does make navigating a bit easier. During a recent trip to Los Angeles for work, my Mom drove to the West side so that we could get dinner before I took the redeye back to NYC.


My Mom and Victor were so excited to eat at PF Chang’s that Victor skipped lunch in anticipation of our meal. Because Chinese food is one of the more difficult cuisines to adapt to gluten free, I am unbelievably grateful for the opportunity to eat at PF Chang’s. The first time I ate there was more than a year after my diagnosis, and I was practically in tears I was so happy to be eating Chinese fare.

I find the easiest way to dine family-style with a willing group is to have everyone start with the gluten free menu. That way you don’t even see the other gluten options on the menu. We were more than pleased with our selections.

We started with the Chang’s Chicken Lettuce wraps. This is my favorite thing on the menu. Just make sure the server brings you the gluten free soy sauce and that the other sauces haven’t been contaminated by the regular soy sauce.


The Cantonese Shrimp sautéed with garlic and snow peas was great. It’s a little bit lighter than the other menu options.

The Chang’s Spicy chicken is dusted with cornstarch. It’s so rich you won’t believe that it’s gluten free.


The Singapore Street Noodles are rice noodles stir-fried with chicken and shrimp and topped with fried scallions.


The healthiest item on the menu is Bamboo’s Feast – a dish of steamed assorted vegetables. Luckily my Mom doesn’t “do” vegetables so there were plenty for me.


You have your choice of white or brown rice to accompany your meal.


They also offer a flourless chocolate cake for dessert. Too bad I don’t like chocolate! I’m sure you gluten free chocolate lovers would enjoy this treat.

You must specify that you want the gluten free version of each menu item. I also always double check with the person delivering the item that it is the gluten free version. Stay vigilant when eating out, and then enjoy all of the mouth-watering choices!

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Ellen said,

February 3, 2007 @ 8:16 pm

Yes, the first time I went to PF Chang’s after my diagnosis, I thought I’d hit the jackpot. And it continues to satisfy, every time we eat there!

Mike Eberhart said,

February 4, 2007 @ 2:40 am

I am definitely going to have to make a trip to a PF Changs! Thanks for the pictures and all. Everything looks awesome! I love eating Asian food, but I try to avoid eating it when out because I figure it all has standard Soy Sauce in it. This is a fabulous option for all us gluten-free people. Great review!

Catherine said,

February 5, 2007 @ 12:24 am

I never even attempt to eat at Chinese restaurants for just that reason. Thank goodness for PF Changs – I hope you enjoy it Mike!

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