Healthy Eats: Gluten-Free in the Hub City

By: Laurie Cypret

Lubbock has endless options for those looking to avoid gluten and still enjoy a good meal – all you have to do is a little research. Lubbock has evolved quite a bit in the past six years. I am happy to report there are more gluten-free restaurants today than just 10 years ago.

When I was a sophomore in college, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease called Ulcerative Colitis. This diagnosis turned my life upside down! My doctor explained to me that  I had no choice but to change the way I ate in order to live a normal life without stomach pain or sickness. He recommended that I go gluten-free for my digestive health and overall well being. Though it was a hard transition away from gluten (who doesn’t love tortillas and warm bread?), it has been worth-while the sacrifice. With my family’s support, I’ve been completely gluten-free for six years and it has truly changed my life for the better! 

When I go out with my girlfriends or on a date with my husband, there are many incredible, gluten-free restaurants to choose from. To save you some time, I curated a list of some of my top picks in Lubbock below! 

Healthy Essentials
Hands down, my favorite place to eat breakfast and lunch is Healthy Essentials. Due to my weekly visits, I am practically a regular! The cafe is a completely gluten-free facility and the staff will treat you with the care you deserve, especially if you require a specific health diet. My personal favorite dishes are the breakfast burritos and chicken salad wraps. The almond butter cookies are also a must-try! Warning: You will be addicted! 

Evie Mae’s BBQ
Another one of my favorite places to eat is Evie Mae’s BBQ. Also being a gluten-free facility, they offer a plethora of options that will have you second-guessing if you’re cheating on your diet, but I promise you’re not! Arnis Robbins, Creator and Co-Owner of this famed barbecue joint, also has an autoimmune disease that doesn’t allow him to eat gluten. From their juicy meats to their decadent desserts, every menu item is yours for the ordering. Evie Mae’s is a safe haven for my fellow gluten-free friends. It is such a treat to be able to order whatever I want off of their menu. 

Capital Pizza
When I was diagnosed, one of the first things I thought about was pizza. Where in the world would I find a warm, melt in your mouth, fire-roasted pizza crust? Luckily for me, I found Capital Pizza. Their gluten-free pepperoni is my go-to when I’m wanting to indulge during a movie night at home.  

Albarran’s Mexican Bar and Grill
If you’re wanting to add some spice to your plate, try Albarran’s Mexican Bar and Grill. They have the best gluten-free fajitas I’ve ever had! Be sure and order corn tortillas with a side of veggies as they add even more flavor.

Dirk’s
A new place in Lubbock that boasts gluten-free food is Dirk’s in downtown Lubbock. Fall off the bone rotisserie chicken with a side of Brussels and corn make for the perfect comfort meal.

The Ruffled Cup
If you are in the mood for something sweet and not sure where to go, The Ruffled Cup is your best bet. Each cupcake and cookie are so chewy and fresh, you can’t even tell they are gluten-free!

In my opinion, Lubbock is the best place to be gluten-free. The more this city grows, the more diverse options become available! If you have a favorite spot in Lubbock to enjoy gluten-free cuisine, share using #LiveLoveLubbock and let me know! The gluten-free community is always looking for a new place to dine and enjoy.

Pro-tip: Every grocery store in town has a gluten-free aisle and many other gluten-free options throughout the store.