Eat well. Travel informed.
Practical advice for visitors and residents who need to eat gluten-free in Cyprus.
1. Gluten-free or coeliac-safe?
Gluten-free ingredients are not enough for people with coeliac disease. Gluten can get in through shared fryers, surfaces, utensils and storage. Ask whether the staff know what coeliac disease means and whether they prepare gluten-free food separately.
2. Five questions to ask before ordering
Is this dish made with gluten-free ingredients? Do you use a shared fryer? Are surfaces and utensils cleaned or separate? Have the sauces, dressings and marinades been checked? Can the kitchen safely cater for coeliac disease?
3. Cypriot food to watch
Many meze dishes use flour, breadcrumbs or batter, and fried food often shares oil with breaded items. Grilled meat and fish, salads and many vegetable dishes can be safe, but always ask about marinades, sauces and the grill.
4. Shopping for gluten-free food
Larger supermarkets usually have a free-from shelf. Read the label every time, even on familiar products, and look for a clear gluten-free statement. What is in stock changes by store and season.
5. Hotels and travel days
Contact your hotel before you arrive. Say clearly that you have coeliac disease, and ask how breakfast is handled: a separate toaster, sealed bread, a member of staff to help. Pack snacks for travel days.
6. Vegan is not gluten-free
A vegan dish can contain wheat, barley or rye. On our site vegan options and gluten-free information are always shown separately.