Red Lobster is known for their delicious Cheddar Bay Biscuits, which are served complimentary with most meals. However, for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, consuming regular biscuits containing wheat can cause issues. So an important question is: Does Red Lobster offer a gluten-free version of their iconic Cheddar Bay Biscuits?
Quick Answer
Yes, Red Lobster does offer gluten-free Cheddar Bay Biscuits upon request. Guests with gluten sensitivity can request to substitute Red Lobster’s standard biscuits with gluten-free biscuits made with rice flour.
More Details on Red Lobster’s Gluten-Free Biscuits
While Red Lobster’s standard biscuits contain wheat flour and are not gluten-free, the restaurant chain does accommodate guests who need to avoid gluten. Here are some key facts about Red Lobster’s gluten-free Cheddar Bay Biscuits:
- Made with Rice Flour: The gluten-free biscuits are made with rice flour instead of wheat flour.
- Must Request Gluten-Free: They are not automatically served with meals. Guests must specifically request the gluten-free biscuit option.
- Supplied by Gluten-Free Bakery: Red Lobster sources their gluten-free biscuits from a dedicated gluten-free bakery.
- Limited Availability: Availability can vary by location and supply.
- No Charge for Substitution: There is no additional charge for substituting the gluten-free biscuits.
Overall, while not advertised on their standard menus, Red Lobster does their best to accommodate guests who need gluten-free meals. By making a special request, those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance can enjoy biscuits at Red Lobster.
What Goes Into Red Lobster’s Gluten-Free Biscuits
While Red Lobster keeps their exact biscuit recipe private, they have revealed some of the basic ingredients that go into their gluten-free Cheddar Bay Biscuits:
- Rice Flour: This finely milled flour made from rice is the main substitute for wheat flour in the biscuits.
- Oil: The biscuits contain vegetable oil to give them a soft, rich texture.
- Baking Powder: Helps the biscuits rise properly.
- Salt: For flavor.
- Garlic: Powdered garlic adds the signature garlicky kick.
- Cheese: The biscuits contain cheddar cheese for flavor.
With a base of rice flour instead of wheat, these biscuits avoid gluten while mimicking the flavor and texture of traditional Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Rice flour has high levels of starch to help bind and provide structure to gluten-free baked goods.
Nutrition Info for Gluten-Free Biscuits at Red Lobster
Here is the basic nutrition information for Red Lobster’s gluten-free Cheddar Bay Biscuits:
| Nutrition Facts | Per Biscuit |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 |
| Fat | 11g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fiber | 0g |
While slightly lower in calories and fat compared to the original biscuits, the gluten-free version is still high in carbs with very little fiber or protein. The biscuits get a good amount of calories from fat. So while safe for celiacs, they are still a high calorie side item.
Gluten-Free Biscuit Preparation Process
To avoid any cross-contamination, Red Lobster follows careful procedures when preparing their gluten-free Cheddar Bay Biscuits:
- Separate Work Area – The gluten-free biscuits are prepared in a separate work area from regular biscuits.
- Sanitized Equipment – All equipment and surfaces are thoroughly sanitized first.
- Separate Oven – The gluten-free biscuits are baked in a dedicated oven only used for gluten-free items.
- Change Gloves – Staff change gloves before handling gluten-free biscuits.
- Pre-Portioned – Biscuits come pre-portioned and packaged from the gluten-free bakery.
- Safe Serving – Staff use separate plates/liners to serve the gluten-free biscuits.
With these strict precautions for separation and sanitation, Red Lobster does its utmost to provide truly gluten-free biscuits to guests.
Reviews of Red Lobster’s Gluten-Free Biscuits
Here are some reviews of the gluten-free Cheddar Bay Biscuits from real Red Lobster guests:
Positive Reviews
- “I was so happy to learn Red Lobster offers gluten-free biscuits! They were delicious and I didn’t even miss the regular ones.”
- “The gluten-free biscuits tasted great with my meal and I didn’t feel left out without the regular biscuits.”
- “You could hardly tell the difference between the regular and gluten-free biscuits. Great alternative for celiacs.”
Negative Reviews
- “The gluten-free biscuits were too dry compared to the originals. Still better than nothing though.”
- “They were out of gluten-free biscuits when I visited. Need better availability.”
- “The staff didn’t seem properly trained on handling gluten-free requests.”
Overall, most reviews seem positive from gluten-free diners who are happy to have a biscuit option. Constructive feedback cites a need to improve taste and keep better stock of the gluten-free biscuits.
How to Request Gluten-Free Biscuits at Red Lobster
If you need to order gluten-free biscuits at Red Lobster, follow these tips:
- Mention Gluten-Free to Staff – Notify your server as soon as you are seated that you need gluten-free biscuits.
- Reiterate with Order – Clearly state that your order must have gluten-free biscuits when placing food orders.
- Double Check Delivery – When biscuits are delivered, confirm with staff they are gluten-free.
- Send Back If Unsure – If you have any concerns about cross-contamination, don’t hesitate to send the biscuits back.
- Tip Well for Special Service – Consider adding an extra tip for the kitchen team for special accommodations.
Speaking up clearly and courteously about your gluten-free needs is key to a safe dining experience at Red Lobster.
Other Gluten-Free Menu Options at Red Lobster
Beyond biscuits, there are many delicious gluten-free menu options at Red Lobster:
Seafood Choices
- Cedar Planked Salmon
- Wood-Grilled Seafood Skewers
- Parrot Isle Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
- Walt’s Favorite Shrimp
- Any fish, shrimp, or lobster selection
Sides
- Fresh Steamed Broccoli
- Rice Pilaf
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Seasonal Vegetables
Just request any special sauces, crispy coatings or breadcrumbs on the side. Most seafood and vegetables at Red Lobster can be prepared gluten-free.
Is Red Lobster Celiac Friendly Overall?
Here is an assessment of how celiac and gluten intolerant friendly Red Lobster is overall:
| Celiac Friendly? | Analysis |
|---|---|
| Menu Choices | Yes |
| Gluten-Free Preparation | Yes |
| Staff Training | Fair |
| Risk of Cross-Contamination | Low |
While menu options and kitchen protocols are gluten-free friendly, the level of staff training on handling gluten-free requests can vary. Overall though, Red Lobster is one of the more accommodating chain restaurants.
The Bottom Line
Red Lobster does offer gluten-free Cheddar Bay Biscuits, but you have to specially request them. They take care in the kitchen during preparation to avoid cross-contamination. The biscuits get mostly positive reviews in terms of taste and texture. Beyond biscuits, you have many seafood and veggie choices to safely order gluten-free at Red Lobster.
With some extra care when ordering, good communication and an understanding kitchen team, those with celiac disease and gluten issues can enjoy Red Lobster’s food – biscuits and all!
