Traveling with kids, teens, and dietary restrictions can make finding places to eat a challenge. On our family trip to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho (with a group of 11, including multiple gluten- and dairy-free eaters), we were pleasantly surprised by the number of allergy-friendly and family-friendly restaurants. Here’s our guide to the best spots to grab a safe, healthy, and delicious meal—or treat—around Coeur d’Alene and Spokane (whether you’ve got allergies or not).
1. Cole’s Bakery and Café (Spokane)
Website: Cole’s Bakery & Café
Address: 521 E. Holland Ave, Spokane, WA 99218
Why Go: Spokane’s first and only full-service gluten-free restaurant—also peanut-free, with plenty of dairy-free, vegan, and keto options. Everything is made from scratch, from baked goods to pizzas, sandwiches, and full meals.
Our Notes: This is the perfect stop on your way from the Spokane airport. Safe for serious dietary restrictions, with comfort food favorites like pancakes and unique treats such as vegan cinnamon twists. Do not miss the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes! They were melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
2. Belle’s Brunch House (Hayden, ID)
Website: Belle’s Brunch House
Address: 324 W Lancaster Rd Suite A&B, Hayden, ID 83835
Why Go: A charming, welcoming brunch spot with a huge selection of gluten-free dishes: biscuits, crispy chicken, waffles, cinnamon rolls, and French toast.
Our Notes: This is a hearty brunch stop just outside Coeur d’Alene. The gluten-free cinnamon rolls (and yes, the gluten-filled ones too) were a hit with the whole family. Warm, bustling, and family-friendly—get there early, as it fills up fast.
3. Izzy’s Comfort Kitchen (Coeur d’Alene)
Website: Izzy’s Comfort Kitchen
Address: 726 N 4th St, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814
Why Go: A small but mighty café with a big heart. It’s celiac-friendly, offers a wide gluten-free menu, and the chef goes above and beyond to make allergy-aware dining approachable.
Our Notes: This was hands-down our top pick in Coeur d’Alene. The chef is incredible, the food was phenomenal, and everything felt both healthy and indulgent (order extra cornbread and peach cobbler to-go)! If they had a cookbook, I’d buy it. If I could DoorDash from Idaho, I would. Truly unforgettable.
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4. Dockside (Coeur d’Alene Resort)
Website: Dockside CDA
Address: 115 S 2nd St, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814
Why Go: A casual lakeside restaurant with gorgeous views and an extensive menu that includes gluten-free buns, omelets, scrambles, huckleberry pancakes, and burgers. It’s also home to the legendary “Gooey” dessert bar.
Our Notes: The setting is beautiful and family-friendly, making it a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The kids absolutely loved the Gooeys—a mix of cookies, ice cream, and toppings served in giant sundae form. (Heads up: they’re not gluten-free, but definitely memorable!)
5. Hula Pot (Downtown CDA)
Website: Hula Pot
Address: 113 N 4th St, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814
Why Go: A lively, interactive dining experience blending Hawaiian BBQ and hot pot. Perfect for adventurous eaters, teens, and large groups.
Our Notes: While not specifically GF/DF-focused, we found it easy to eat healthy and work around allergies here. Cooking your own food at the table made it a unique, fun experience. The kids (and adults) loved it. Definitely a meal we’ll remember!
6. Panhandle Cone & Coffee (Downtown CDA)
Website: Cone & Coffee
Address: Coeur d’Alene (local location; also in Sandpoint, ID)
Why Go: An artisan ice cream shop known for rotating, creative flavors—including several dairy-free options. They also offer gluten-free cones.
Our Notes: I’m not going to call it “healthy”… but everyone deserves ice cream on vacation! Their dairy-free flavors were delicious—my personal favorites were Strawberry Lime Avocado and Peanut Butter Chocolate. The regular ice creams were also a hit with our crew of kids and teens.
Places on Our List for Next Time
Thai Bamboo Restaurant – Known for its unique galaxy-lounge vibe and careful attention to celiac safety, this is a flavorful and allergy-conscious twist on traditional Thai dining.
Le Peep – A relaxed café along the Spokane River with a dedicated gluten-free menu, outdoor patio seating, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese – A fun, casual spot that serves up creative grilled cheese sandwiches with gluten-free bread and dairy-free options—perfect for teens craving something familiar and indulgent.
Way to Go Idaho!
Coeur d’Alene surprised us with how allergy-friendly and family-friendly the food scene is. From gluten-free bakeries in Spokane to lakeside views in CDA and dairy-free ice cream to finish the night, our group of 11 found something for everyone. Traveling with gluten-free and dairy-free kids doesn’t have to be stressful—you can eat well, stay safe, and still indulge in some vacation treats.
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