Dietary Restrictions? These Local Restaurants Exceed When It Comes To Food Substitutions

Written By: Kaylie Ricks

There is truly nothing worst than going to a restaurant and dreading the ordering process! It's 2023 and these days there are so many allergies, dietary restrictions or lifestyle choices to be conscious of.

But that doesn't man your dining out experience has to suffer!

We've rounded up a list of local eateries that kill it when it comes to substitutions or alterations for your specific needs! If you're in the Dayton, OH area, we've got you covered!

Check out these fan favorites (in no particular order):

Ordinarie fare located inside of Shoppe Smitten (2316 Far Hills Avenue in Oakwood, OH) creates plant-forward foods for mindful delight! They have incredible vegan and gluten-free options. From our experience all the food has been primarily plant-based, super nourishing and delicious!

Lily's (329 E 5th St, Dayton, OH) is a tropical-inspired, budget conscious, inclusive, warm, and welcoming eatery & drinkery in the Oregon District. Their menu includes favorites like their local, free-range fried chicken, shrimp & grits, deviled eggs, and other American Southern dishes with eclectic Polynesian and tropical flavors. Their vegetarian ramen is to die for! If you request a substitution, they try their best to accommodate and several of their menu offerings are gluten free!

The Meadowlark (5531 Far Hills Avenue, Dayton, OH) is not only super Instagrammable, but it's also great with dietary restrictions and allergies! Try the Seven Bridges (fresh vegetable salad) and thank us later!

Glo Juice Bar & Cafe (1120 Brown St, Dayton, OH) serves up 100% vegan, gluten-free menu items made with raw ingredients. Their primary goal is to introduce gluten-free, vegan food, to the community. And they do it in a way that tastes SO good! Next time you're in a pinch, pick up one of their handmade sandwiches to go. You won't be sorry!

Val's Bakery (1120 Brown St, Dayton, OH) is the go to spot for all coffee and sweets lovers! This location does a phenomenal job catering to those who are vegan and gluten free. You can't go wrong with any of their goodies (or their matcha)!

I Heart Ice Cream has all the vegan flavors you could possibly dream of! This is the perfect treat for you and your family! Find this local spotlight at 2nd Street Public Market- 600 E 2nd St on the weekends! Plus, coming soon they'll be opening their new location at 29 W1st St, Dayton OH.

5th Street Brewpub (1600 E. Fifth Street Dayton, Ohio) is a beer co-op serving gourmet pub fare & house brews. Don't let the name fool you! It may be a pub but on the menu you will find everything labeled from vegan, vegetarian, to any other restrictions listed. This is a hidden gem! You have the ability to order healthy meats, veggies, etc. a la carte in order to build your own meal! I think date night is calling your name!

Lucky's Taproom & Eatery in the Oregon District (520 East Fifth Street) makes eating healthy (and being vegan/ gluten free) SO easy! Everything is made from scratch to your liking. Not only is it a great place for burgers and fries, but they also have non-meat options from seitan, falafel, jack fruit, KBR patties, and Impossible Burgers. Plus, their side options are what sold us! We're talking green beans, sweet potato fries, side salads, and soups. Bonus points to them because they use a separate grill and fryer for vegan eaters! Way to revolutionize the way we eat, Lucky's!

Red Robin (6404 Miller Ln, Dayton, OH). Yes, you read that right! They may be a chain but they do a killer good job at modifying their menu to make healthier decisions. They've got several options when it comes to meats and sides. I don't know about you, but I'm craving some bottomless broccoli...

If you're local to the area, we'd love for you to spotlight some of your favorites! Who deserves some recognition!? If you're not local, we want to hear how your town, city, state does when it comes to accommodating all your dietary needs!

We feel pretty lucky to call Dayton home and have so many options! Kudos to these restaurants!