Author: Alisa Fleming

Alisa is the founder of GoDairyFree.org, Food Editor for Allergic Living magazine, and author of the best-selling dairy-free book, Go Dairy Free: The Guide and Cookbook for Milk Allergies, Lactose Intolerance, and Casein-Free Living, and the new cookbook, Eat Dairy Free: Your Essential Cookbook for Everyday Meals, Snacks, and Sweets. Alisa is also a professional recipe creator and product ambassador for the natural food industry.

Updated February 2024! You’ll have to skip the shake half of this diner-style, fast-food restaurant hybrid. But the savory menu at Steak ‘n Shake holds quite a few dairy-free surprises, especially if you custom order. Our dairy-free guide includes various burgers, sides, and even breakfast options, along with a smattering of vegan eats. Meal photo by @tastingsanantonio via Steak ‘n Shake Facebook Steak ‘n Shake Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Allergen Notes & Vegan Options Butter Note: The Liquid Margarine (used for grilling the meat and buns), Frying Oil, and Cooking Spray are all dairy-free, but do contain soy. They do…

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Updated February 2024! Asian food might seem obvious for dairy-free diners, but P.F. Chang’s is a different beast. They actually use milk in a lot of surprising places. However, they are also known for their allergy-friendly practices. They have staff trained in allergen protocols, they serve gluten-fee orders on separate plates, and they can quickly offer guidance on 15 different food allergens. But to help get you started, we’ve gathered the dairy-free menu items at P.F. Chang’s below, and included the gluten-free options, allergen notes, and a separate vegan menu. P.F. Chang’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Allergen Notes & Vegan Options…

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Updated February 2024! Many years ago, a reader named Amy let us know about McAlister’s Deli. This American fast casual chain is run by the same company that owns Schlotzky’s, but it’s far more friendly to dairy-free customers. The staff at McAlister’s Deli will build a sandwich, toss a salad, custom top a baked potato, put a soup in a bread bowl, and even bake a cookie (or two!) for dairy-free orders. You can see all of the potential options below in this dairy-free menu guide. McAlister’s Deli Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Allergen & Vegan Notes This menu guide includes…

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Get your glass of dairy-free milk ready! These perfectly balanced dairy-free egg-free brownie cookies just beg to be chased by a cool creamy beverage. They’re densely cocoa and littered with dairy-free chocolate chips. We like them with dairy-free semi-sweet chocolate chips, but dark chocolate chips are also delicious. Photos by Nicole Carpenter. She originally reviewed Sweet Utopia for us and made this recipe back when it was released! Dairy-Free Egg-Free Brownie Cookies with a Double Dose of Chocolate This cookie recipe is adapted ever-so-slightly from the vegan Fudgy Chip Cookies in Sweet Utopia by Sharon Valencik. We originally shared these…

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Updated February 2024! A&W Canada separated from the corporate A&W Restaurants back in 1972, which is why we created this separate listing. It is reportedly Canada’s second largest burger chain, and has many more dairy-free options than the A&W Restaurants in the U.S. In fact, almost the entire menu at A&W Canada can be ordered without dairy! We’ve outlined the choices below along with custom order options and a full vegan menu guide. A&W Canada Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Custom & Vegan Options This menu guide includes dairy-free menu options first, followed by custom order components. Be aware of special…

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Updated February 2024! When we first posted about Krispy Kreme, over a decade ago, we had very little to share. But slowly this donut chain is coming on board with the rising demand from dairy-free consumers. Some of you will still be disappointed in the menu guide below, while some of you will be surprised and excited – especially in the United Kingdom. But Krispy Kreme is making progress for us in the United States, too. I’ve outlined the current status of their dairy-free and vegan options in both countries via the menu guide below. Dairy-Free Krispy Kreme Menu Guide…

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Last Update in March 2024! When it comes to dairy-free ice cream and other vegan eats, Cleveland does rock. But so do Columbus, Cincinnati, and various other Ohio cities. That’s why we’ve been able to create this ever-growing guide to restaurants, bakeries, cafes, and ice cream shops in Ohio that are friendly to dairy-free diners. It’s a collection based on research and reader recommendations (send yours!), that’s divided into restaurants & shops by city (first) and major chains found throughout the state (second). And we’ve started a section for specialty dairy-free foods produced in this state. We Update Continuously! You…

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Updated February 2024! Who doesn’t like noodles? And thanks to Noodles & Company, just about anyone can enjoy them. This casual, pasta-centric restaurant chain offers a customizable menu for all types of dietary needs (top allergens, gluten-free, paleo, keto, vegetarian, etc), and isn’t shy about sharing ingredients. Below is a dairy-free menu guide to help simplify the ordering process at Noodles & Company. Noodles & Company Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Allergen Notes & Vegan Options You can mix and match many of the noodles, toppings, and sauces and Noodles & Company to make your perfect bowl. For some swaps, you will…

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Updated February 2024! If you’re craving a good old-fashioned burger, then Freddy’s could be your spot. It’s a chain that began in the Midwest and serves typical American fast casual fare. The Frozen Custard is out for dairy-free diners, but Freddy’s does make many Steakburgers, Sandwiches, and Sides without milk. We’ve compiled the options, with notes, into this milk-free quick guide. Dairy-Free Menu Guide for Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers Freddy’s Steakburgers are made with 100% premium beef and hand-crafted when you order. Their patties have thin, crispy edges and a thicker middle. This menu guide includes dairy-free menu options first,…

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Updated March 2024! I can’t even count the number of people who have messaged me about Mellow Mushroom. This popular pizza parlor has locations across the the United States, and is known for catering to special diets. In fact, they even have a “lifestyle” section to their online ordering platform, which includes menus for gluten-free, vegan, and keto. But we’re going to go beyond that in this updated post, and give you more helpful details for your dairy-free order. As a bonus, I’ve also included vegan and gluten-free notes! Mellow Mushroom Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Vegan & Gluten-Free Options This menu…

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Updated February 2024! If you’re tired of paying for “no cheese” then visit The Habit Burger Grill. Most of their savory menu is dairy-free, and cheese is an “extra” that comes with an upcharge. And really, it isn’t needed. They offer flavorful fare with a range of buns, proteins, and toppings, and everything is grilled to order. Dairy-free guests can enjoy the majority of the burgers, sandwiches, and salads at this counter-serve, fast-casual spot. Just make sure to read all of our notes! The Habit Burger Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Vegan & Custom Options This menu guide includes dairy-free menu…

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Updated February 2024! Despite the regional name, Moe’s Southwest Grill started in Atlanta, and I’ve never seen one in the Southwest. There also is no Moe. Moe’s is an acronym for “Musicians, Outlaws and Entertainers,” which is why they have music and art themes at their restaurants. Nevertheless, Moe’s is a favorite or build-your-own fresh Mex. And they have a big menu of options for dairy-free guests. In fact, much of their menu is dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free, and gluten-friendly. We’ve even outlined the vegan options below. Moe’s Southwest Grill Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Allergen, Gluten & Vegan Notes This menu…

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Updated February 2024! Jimmy John’s specializes in freshly made sandwiches, and heavily promotes their speedy delivery. They also slice all-natural meats daily that have no artificial ingredients or added nitrates, nitrites, hormones, or MSG. As an added bonus, nearly the entire menu at Jimmy John’s can be ordered dairy-free! We’ve updated our guide below to include dairy-free menu sandwiches, custom order options (usually just no cheese), and all sandwich components and sides. We have also included vegan option and allergen notes for gluten-free, egg-free, nut-free, and soy-free needs. Jimmy John’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Allergen Notes & Vegan Options This menu…

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Updated February 2024! Chipotle Mexican Grill specializes in San Francisco-style burritos, and they have numerous options for dairy-free diners and other special diet needs. In fact, they’ve put dairy-free, paleo, whole30, and vegan bowls right on their main menu. Consequently, we’ve been able to put together this very full dairy-free guide with allergen notes and vegan options! Chipotle Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Allergen Notes & Vegan Options This menu guide includes dairy-free menu options first, followed by custom order components. Chipotle offers a handful of “lifestyle bowls” on their menu, but it’s primarily a build-your-own burrito, taco, bowl, or salad…

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Updated March 2024! Why is Trader Joe’s one of America’s favorite grocery stores? The answer is easy. They are constantly sourcing their own versions of unique foods and whimsical staples at completive prices. Their stores aren’t big, but still have a one-stop-shop feel and are a fun place for new and seasonal finds. But their charm is also a source of contention. Many wonderful products are often rotated out to make room for their latest creations and discoveries. That’s why we’re keeping this running list of New Dairy-Free Trader Joe’s Products. Check back often to find out what food and…

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Last Update in March 2024! Sun and sea dominate the scene in sizzling Florida. And unlike neighboring states, they also have strong Caribbean and Cuban influences in their cuisine. This brings a new range of dairy-free flavors to the table at many local dining spots. That’s why we’ve been able to create this ever-growing guide to restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and ice cream shops in Florida that are friendly to dairy-free diners. It’s a collection based on research and reader recommendations (send yours!) that’s divided into restaurants & shops by city (first) and major chains found throughout the state (second). And…

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Updated February 2024! Over the years, we’ve received many Red Robin raves from our dairy-free readers. They were one of the first restaurant chains to implement a full allergen menu and allergen protocols, followed by an interactive allergen menu. And they have no shortage of dairy-free options – especially with their improved menu that boasts more “gourmet” touches. Red Robin has upgraded their burgers with new ingredients and techniques, and they’ve added several items to their appetizer, entree, and beverage selection. Red Robin Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Allergen Notes & Vegan Options Be sure to read all of the allergen information…

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Updated February 2024! It might be formally known as the International House of Pancakes, but dairy-free guests will be happy to see many other dishes on the IHOP menu. Yes, their pancakes and waffles are all made with milk, but they still have a good selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options to choose from, with the help of our dairy-free menu guide. We’ve also included a separate, albeit smaller, vegan menu guide. IHOP Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Allergen Notes & Vegan Options Be aware of special order requirements in parentheses () next to the menu items, and see the…

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You know a cookbook is amazing when new editions continue to be released. And Vegan Soups and Stews for All Seasons, by bestselling author Nava Atlas, is now in its 5th edition! This latest version has 20 brand new recipes and dozens of vibrant full-color photos. The recipes range from rich fall favorites, like New England Clam-Less Chowder, to springy Masala Vegetable Stew. But we chose to feature this dairy-free Macaroni & Cheese Soup recipe, which has timeless appeal. Dairy-Free Macaroni & Cheese Soup for Every Season Nava’s dairy-free Macaroni & Cheese Soup is from the Winter section of Vegan Soups and…

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Updated February 2024! Papa John’s is one of the largest pizza chains in North America, and they’re actually a trendsetter for vegan options in the U.K. Their dairy-free and vegan menu items aren’t as prolific in the U.S. and Canada, but they still have a good selection of custom order cheese-less pizza options, sides, and sauces to nosh on. And unlike Pieology who added milk to their pizza dough, Papa John’s removed it from their thin crust! We’ve detailed them all below in our very complete, but quick menu guide. Papa John’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide with Allergen & Vegan Notes Be…

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