For coeliacs and gluten-intolerant Melbournians, it can be pretty deflating not being able to enjoy LUNE and all those other fabulous bakeries. Although there is a gluten-free bakery to be found in Melbourne’s North, South, East or Western suburbs.
Don’t believe us?
Here is our top list of gluten-free bakeries in Melbourne. And yes – many of them offer delivery which has been a welcome hangover effect from 2020’s lockdown. It’s worth mentioning that not every gluten-free bakery in Melbourne comes with the Coeliac Australia certification. This doesn’t mean they are not compliant.
Glazed Gluten Free Patisserie
Elsternwick
You only need to have one of the Cheesy-mite scrolls from Glazed Gluten-Free Bakery, hot out of the oven, to become a loyal disciple. If you are after something a little more sophisticated, Glazed will not disappoint. Perfect bagels, artisan bread and a selection of desserts and cakes are made daily. They also have a High Tea offering at points throughout the year, with ribbon sandwiches and all the trimmings completely gluten-free. You can order online and select a collection time through their website, or walk on in and see what’s on offer.
OUR RECOMMENDATION: The Cheesymite scrolls and their family-size quiches (we love the Silverbeet & Mushroom).
Simply Gluten Free Bakery
Mentone & Cranbourne
Simply Gluten-Free Bakery is just that. Since its inception, it has grown to be a formidable food delivery service, including sweets, savoury, ready-made meals and vegan food. We recommend visiting one of the Simply Gluten-Free Bakeries in person to get a feel for what you like, and then switch to delivery thereafter. For families with one or more coeliac, ordering ready-made meals and goodies could be a great option. It’s also the perfect place to order food when catering to those with gluten-free dietary requirements.
OUR RECOMMENDATION: The Beef & Carrot Sausage Rolls and Apple Crumble Muffins.
Strada Gluten Free Bakery
Greensborough & Ivanhoe
Strada is a gluten-free bakery found in Greensborough, with the cafe in Ivanhoe. Whichever site you visit will not be disappointed. If the name sounds familiar, it is probably because Strada bakery supplied cafes and restaurants with gluten-free goods all over Melbourne. The selection baked by Paul, Bernie and their team of pastry chefs is in no way less than with the absence of barley, rye, oats and wheat. A look at their website and Instagram will show you the truly exhaustive range of bread, sweets and savoury goods. Strada gluten-free bakery has a very big cult following, so place an order or visit the Ivanhoe cafe to see what it’s about.
OUR RECOMMENDATION: The Pizza Bases and Turkish Bread.
Gluten-Free 4 U Bakery
Moorabbin, Kew, Frankston, Boronia & Geelong
Gluten-Free 4 U isn’t only a hit in Melbourne, Queensland also orders these baked goods. This is a similar operation to Simply Gluten-Free, with a website geared towards bulk orders and an enormous product list. If you have more than one allergy, you will be pleased to know that they also carry dairy, nut and egg-free products as well as fructose-friendly. Visit these Gluten-Free 4 U Bakery shopfronts or order online, and know that most of these foods can be frozen for longevity so you can bulk out your freezer for the future. Looking for something special? Order a speciality cake and choose from Black Forest, Cheesecake, Tiramasu, Mudcake or Spongecake. You can also choose the size and even a message that goes on the cake.
OUR RECOMMENDATION: Mini YoYo Biscuits and the Lasagne.
The Good Food Bakery
Mornington
Visiting The Good Food Bakery feels just like the corner-store bakery you grew up with, with all the charm and a bewildering selection. This is an absolute must-visit. Whether you are in the mood for cake, a pie, a frozen meal or some household essentials – you will find it. Another treat is that they have a selection of chocolates and lollies. When was the last time you went to a store and could buy any lolly or chocolate without looking at the ingredients? The Gummie Bears and Smarties are too good to miss. Stay for a coffee and a wrap, and leave with some sweet desserts. This gluten-free bakery is compliant with Coeliac Australia and The Aussie Coeliac. You might have even seen the yellow branded truck around Melbourne before. Next time you hit a market, keep an eye out for it.
OUR RECOMMENDATION: Chocolate Cake & Vanilla Cake.
Considerations for gluten-free bakeries in Melbourne
Generally speaking, coeliacs and gluten intolerant people can not consume anything that has the potential to be cross-contaminated with gluten. Obviously, this is a tricky requirement for any old bakery to do – especially if space is limited and a separate, compliant gluten-free bench is not accessible.
If you have a severe reaction to gluten or would like to avoid eating baked goods that are made in the space that handles barley, rye, oats or wheat – ask about their policy. Each gluten-free bakery in Melbourne will tell you if it could contain traces of gluten. You can also ask this of any gluten-free bakery.
One thing to remember. Just because these goods are gluten-free by ingredient – they might still have gluten. It can be found in dusting or crumbs when made. You can learn more about cross-contamination through Coeliac Australia.
Want to bake some of this magic at home? Find out the top flour alternatives and see what gluten-free goodies you can master. You can also check out other Melbourne food and drink articles.
