Best travel destinations for food allergies in South America
Best travel destinations for food allergies in South America
South America takes more preparation for allergy conscious travelers than some other regions, since formal allergen labeling laws are less consistent from country to country.
Andean staples like potatoes, corn and quinoa are naturally gluten free, which works in favor of travelers with celiac disease once bread and pasta are set aside. Coastal cities often have a growing number of allergy aware restaurants, particularly in areas with more international tourism, though smaller towns may have little awareness of cross contamination. Shellfish allergies deserve particular caution near the coast, since seafood shows up in far more dishes than the menu might suggest. Carrying translated allergy cards and a few backup snacks makes a real difference across most of the continent.
The destinations on our list for South America reflect that need for a bit more planning alongside genuinely rewarding food.
Lists by region
City in Argentina
Buenos Aires
Where Tango and Culture Thrive
Argentina's coeliac law dates to 2009 and was amended in 2015. Decree 218/2023 requires restaurants and bars to offer at least one gluten free option or menu. The rules also set standards against cross contamination. Phase in periods gave businesses about a year to comply.
City in Peru
Lima
Historic Charm Meets Coastal Vibes
Twins Cafe GF in Barranco and Veda in Miraflores are fully gluten free. Ceviche de pescado is typically gluten free. Soy sauce in lomo saltado and crackers in papa a la huancaína are common hidden sources. Central and Maido can adapt their tasting menus when told at booking.
City in Argentina
Córdoba
Colonial Heritage, Student Energy, Sierras
A 2022 article from Cadena 3 listed five places in the city with gluten free menus. San Pietro, an Italian restaurant in Barrio General Paz, runs a separate kitchen for sin TACC dishes. Saltimbanco keeps two kitchens to avoid cross contamination. Santa Lucía tea house serves gluten free cakes and breakfasts.
City in Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
The heartbeat of Brazil's coast
Brazilian Resolution 26 of July 2015 requires allergy alerts on packaged food labels. A 2020 study found about 12 percent of analysed foods lacked the alert. One crowd sourced listing shows dedicated gluten free kitchens in Barra da Tijuca and Campo Grande. Spots in Gávea and Ipanema also appear.
City in Chile
Santiago
A vibrant city between mountains
Chile's Law 21,362 was published on 18 August 2021. Gluten free processed foods must carry the term and a crossed out spike symbol. Stores other than micro and small businesses must display packaged dry gluten free foods on exclusive shelves. Tenders for school and hospital food service must include conditions for people with allergies.
City in Brazil
São Paulo
A vibrant mix of culture and cuisine
One crowd sourced listing counts 36 gluten free restaurants in the city. Eight carry a 100 percent dedicated badge, including Pizza For Fun in Vila Madalena and Recanto Padaria Inclusiva. Accommodating spots in Pinheiros and Vila Mariana also appear. Many entries remain unverified, so travellers should confirm details before visiting.
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