When most people think of Lyon, they imagine a city that’s a veritable paradise for food lovers – a gastronomic capital famous for hearty bouchons, fine cheeses, and exquisite wines. Yet while coq au vin and quenelles may be the talk of the town, that doesn’t mean you can’t satisfy a pizza craving here, especially if you follow a gluten-free diet. In fact, Lyon’s culinary scene has adapted wonderfully to modern dietary needs, and you can now find top-notch gluten-free pizzas in the same city that introduced the world to such culinary heavyweights as Paul Bocuse.
So if you’re a coeliac traveller, gluten-sensitive local, or simply intrigued by the notion that wheat-free pizzas can still be lip-smackingly good, read on. We’ll be exploring six pizzerias and eateries in Lyon that serve up slices bursting with flavour – from crisp, thin bases to lavish toppings that put soggy stereotypes to rest. Ready to eat your way through the gastronomic capital without fear? Let’s roll out the dough (wheat-free, of course) and dive into these must-visit spots!
1. Sans Gluten Pizza Épicerie
Address: 88 Grande Rue de la Guillotière
If you’ve ever bemoaned the lack of proper crispness in gluten-free pizza bases, pop along to Sans Gluten Pizza Épicerie and let your worries melt away like mozzarella under the grill. Tucked away at 88 Grande Rue de la Guillotière, this 100% gluten-free pizzeria crafts its dough from a five-flour blend specially chosen to recreate the crunch and structure of classic Italian pies. The result? A wafer-thin, slightly crispy crust that even your wheat-eating mates might envy.
Once you’ve marvelled at the crust, it’s time to delve into the toppings. The Quatre Fromages showcases a decadent quartet of tomato sauce, mozzarella, goat cheese, gorgonzola, and fresh mozzarella – an overflowing tribute to creamy, tangy goodness. If you’re after something more vegetal, the Végétarienne might tempt you with mushrooms, aubergines, zucchinis, red peppers, spinach, and black olives. Each veg is cooked just enough to retain some bite, leaving the pizza neither limp nor overdone. Alternatively, you might satisfy a sweet-savoury urge with the Chèvre Miel à la Ricotta, featuring goat cheese, honey, black olives, and oregano – the drizzle of honey complements the cheeses in a way that’ll have you planning your next visit before you’ve finished your first slice.
In keeping with the times (and acknowledging that dietary restrictions seldom come one at a time), Sans Gluten Pizza Épicerie also offers lactose-free and vegan cheese variants. So if you find standard mozzarella out of bounds, you can still indulge in a comforting cheese-laden experience. The ambience is casual and unpretentious – perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner with friends. And given that the entire place is dedicated to gluten-free cooking, you can exhale with relief knowing cross-contamination is taken seriously.
2. Les Gasteliers
Address: 123 Rue de Sèze
While gluten-free pizzerias are increasingly common, it’s not every day you come across a 100% gluten-free bakery that also whips up its own savoury pizzas. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Les Gasteliers on 123 Rue de Sèze. The name alone suggests artisanal flair, and the reality is no exception: from pastries and breads to hearty quiches and – crucially – gluten-free pizzas, this bakery is a veritable temple for those who love the art of flour-based treats but must avoid wheat.
Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by displays of meticulously baked loaves, flaky pastries, and perhaps a slice or two of freshly made GF pizza. The dough often changes with seasonal inspirations, so you might see a pizza topped with lush local vegetables in the summer or a more robust combination of cheese and mushrooms when the weather cools. The staff’s artisanal approach means each item is carefully crafted, rejecting the notion that gluten-free must mean second-best.
Beyond pizza, you can sample a classic quiche reimagined in GF form. Whether the filling is spinach and goat cheese, salmon and leek, or something else, you’ll discover that the crust – though absent of wheat – is crisp and flavourful. Pair your slice with a side salad or one of their daily soup specials for a quick but deeply satisfying lunch. The cosy interior and polite staff make for an easygoing atmosphere: linger to watch the world pass by the window, or grab your goodies to go.
3. Chez Grégoire
Address: 6 Rue Constantine
Stepping up next is Chez Grégoire, located at 6 Rue Constantine – a primarily gluten-free and lactose-free patisserie that’s better known for sweet treats like cakes and pastries. The question arises: why mention them in a round-up of top GF pizza spots? The answer, dear reader, is that Chez Grégoire doesn’t just do pastries. Their savoury selection includes items like Quiche aux Légumes and more, bridging that gap between sweet indulgence and meal-time must-haves.
Yes, you read that right: while it’s not a “pizza place” in the strict sense, the principle remains – everything they offer is crafted from GF flour, making it an oasis for coeliacs who might also avoid lactose. Their savoury bakes can be surprisingly pizza-like at times – featuring tomato sauce, cheese (dairy-free if needed), and a variety of vegetables or proteins. The result is akin to a quiche-pizza hybrid, which might hit the spot if you’re pining for a wedge of comfort but fancy a twist.
Still, if you pop in for these savoury items, do not skip the dessert corner. Many a sweet tooth has been sated by their Tarte Citron, balancing tanginess and sweetness with a crumbly GF base that’ll test your “just one slice” self-control. If you’re coeliac and lactose-intolerant, it’s a near-utopian scenario: the intimate setting brims with the aroma of freshly baked goods, and you can say “yes” to nearly everything in the display cabinet.
4. Zappo
Address: 6 Rue Challemel-Lacour
When you think of an Italian restaurant in Lyon, you might picture homely trattoria vibes or red-chequered tablecloths. Zappo at 6 Rue Challemel-Lacour offers something a bit different: a modern twist on Italian classics, including a dedicated GF menu that ensures no diner has to compromise.
At Zappo, it’s all about authenticity with a side of contemporary flair. Their Margherita – arguably the benchmark for any pizzeria – arrives with sweet tomato sauce, milky mozzarella, and fresh basil scattered across a crisp GF crust. If you crave stronger flavours, try the Napolitana, with anchovies, capers, and olives lending a salty, briny kick that pairs marvellously with the sauce. Veg-lovers, meanwhile, can savour the Vegetariana bursting with courgettes, aubergines, and bell peppers, each chunk cooked until lightly caramelised.
What truly sets Zappo apart, however, is the staff’s mindful approach to gluten-free diners. They’re accustomed to cross-contamination concerns, so they’ll carefully note your requests and reassure you about kitchen protocols. The result is a sense of calm and belonging: you can focus on tasting the subtle tang of the sauce or the slight char on the crust, rather than worrying about stray wheat. Warm lighting and a comfortable interior seal the deal, making it a brilliant dinner option after a day of exploring the city.
5. Festa Love da Antonio & Marco Morreale
Address: 19 Rue Thomassin
Set in the city centre at 19 Rue Thomassin, Festa Love da Antonio & Marco Morreale is a pizza-lovers’ haven that also caters to gluten-free diners. While the standard menu includes everything from hearty Italian classics to luscious desserts, the GF range is no afterthought. Instead, you’ll find carefully crafted pizzas that can stand proudly alongside their wheat-based siblings.
The menu features creations such as the Fratello Antonio, with sausage fennel, grilled peppers, and onions adding a slightly sweet, smoky note. Or opt for the Fratello Marco, a real cheese-lover’s dream: cream, mozzarella, gorgonzola DOP, parmesan DOP, and provolone. Indulgent? Absolutely. The synergy of multiple cheeses on a well-baked GF dough is reason enough to pop your belt a notch, especially if you add a starter or two. Meanwhile, the Vegetariana arrives loaded with zucchini, aubergines, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, plus a flourish of rocket and parmesan DOP shavings after it’s baked.
Given the central location, stopping by is hassle-free – perfect if you need a midday pick-me-up while weaving through Lyon’s atmospheric streets. If the weather’s fine, meander around after your meal, soaking up the city’s architectural beauty. Then again, if you prefer a slow lunch, the staff’s friendly manner and the restaurant’s comfortable ambience make staying put equally appealing.
6. Dolce Follia
Address: 5 Place du Change
Sometimes, you want your pizza with an extra dash of old-world charm. Dolce Follia at 5 Place du Change offers just that. Nestled in a charming setting (especially if you snag an outdoor seat in balmy weather), Dolce Follia marries classic Italian traditions with a contemporary approach to dietary needs. The result? Gluten-free pizzas that allow coeliacs to relish the wonders of a well-made crust.
The menu covers everything from the humble Margherita to the crowd-pleasing Four Seasons, loaded with artichokes, ham, mushrooms, and olives. Looking for something sweet-savoury? The Chèvre Miel features goat cheese and honey, showcasing that beloved combination of tang and sweetness. Meanwhile, if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s also a Calzone – that folded pizza stuffed with sauce, cheese, and typically ham or mushrooms, then baked until golden. The entire concept of a GF calzone might have seemed impossible a few years back, but Dolce Follia proves otherwise.
Tuck into your slice (or folded masterpiece) amid the backdrop of a centuries-old city square. The synergy of historic architecture and modern-day inclusivity is testament to how far Lyon’s gastronomic scene has come. And while the staff focus on delivering top-quality dishes, they never lose sight of cross-contamination safety – ensuring that GF remains strictly GF.
Tips for Navigating Lyon’s Gluten-Free Pizza Scene
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Always Inform Staff: Even in 100% GF environments, it’s good practice to mention coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity. This ensures they apply all safety measures from start to finish.
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Peek at the Menu: Some pizzerias might have daily specials that put a fresh spin on typical toppings. If you spot something unusual – think honey-drizzled cheese or seasonal mushrooms – go for it!
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Reserve if Possible: Lyon’s culinary prowess means popular spots can fill up fast, especially on weekends. A quick phone call could spare you a queue.
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Try Beyond Pizza: If you have extra time or belly space, consider sampling quiches or pastries from places like Les Gasteliers or Chez Grégoire. After all, variety is the spice of life.
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Keep an Eye on Seasonality: Many establishments embrace local produce. You may find your favourite pizza topped with earthy root vegetables in winter or bright, fresh tomatoes in summer.
Why Gluten-Free Pizza in Lyon is Worth the Hype
In a city as richly steeped in haute cuisine as Lyon, you might assume that old-school gastronomic traditions leave no room for dietary quirks like gluten-free. Yet these pizzerias paint a different picture: one of innovation, adaptability, and respect for every diner’s needs. From the carefully researched flour blends at Sans Gluten Pizza Épicerie to the artisanal approach of Les Gasteliers, or the comforting tradition reimagined at Mama Eat, each location goes beyond merely “tolerating” GF diets. They embrace them, weaving authenticity and flavour into every slice.
This synergy of old and new is precisely what endears Lyon to so many travellers. Walk through the Presqu’île’s 19th-century buildings or cross the Rhône, and you’ll come face to face with a city that’s always balanced tradition and evolution. The same holds for its approach to pizza. Chefs who once exclusively worked with wheat have branched into combinations of rice flour, corn flour, and more. The result is a city where GF travellers can confidently join the crowd, tucking into a piping-hot Margherita or Quatre Fromages without fear.
Conclusion: Tucking into Lyon’s Gluten-Free Future
Whether you’re a devout coeliac, a gluten-intolerant diner, or a curious epicure with a penchant for variety, Lyon’s gluten-free pizza scene has blossomed into something rather special. These six spots are just the tip of the iceberg, proof that the city’s gastronomic heritage is ever-evolving, inclusive, and creative. Gone are the days of cursing your luck if you can’t stomach wheat – in Lyon, you can experience crisp bases, tangy sauces, and sumptuous cheeses that rival any conventional pizzeria.
As with any dining experience, communication is key. Make sure to mention your dietary needs, even at 100% GF places, just so staff can offer that extra level of care. Then let the aroma of baking dough, fresh herbs, and melting cheese wash over you. This is the gastronomic capital of France, after all, and even the humble pizza gets the culinary respect it deserves here.
So go ahead: roam the city’s winding streets, admire the historical facades, and dig into a sensational gluten-free slice at your chosen pizzeria. Each mouthful is a testament to how far the gluten-free revolution has come – and, if you’re anything like the other GF travellers who’ve trodden this path, you’ll leave Lyon convinced that top-tier pizza is no longer the sole domain of wheat. Bon appétit – or rather, bon pizza!
