Avete piatti senza glutine?

Do you have gluten-free dishes?

Pronunciation

glu-TI-ne — three syllables, stress on the middle. The 'gl' is hard, not like 'gli'.

When to use it

Essential phrase for anyone with coeliac disease or a gluten intolerance. Ask before sitting down to avoid issues later.

What it means

'Senza' means 'without'. 'Glutine' is gluten. Italy has a very active coeliac association (AIC) and many restaurants are certified gluten-free. Look for the AIC logo outside the restaurant.

Variations

Sono celiaco/a — potete aiutarmi?

I have coeliac disease — can you help me?

'Celiaco' (male) / 'celiaca' (female) — the medical term Italians understand immediately

Questo piatto è senza glutine?

Is this dish gluten-free?

Ask about a specific item once you have the menu

Avete pasta senza glutine?

Do you have gluten-free pasta?

Specific to pasta — many restaurants now stock it

Mini Dialogue

— Avete piatti senza glutine? — Sì, abbiamo una sezione dedicata nel menù. Siete celiaci? — Sì, sono celiaca. — Non si preoccupi, la cucina è attrezzata — vi spiego cosa possiamo preparare.

— Do you have gluten-free dishes? — Yes, we have a dedicated section in the menu. Do you have coeliac disease? — Yes, I have coeliac disease. — Don't worry, the kitchen is equipped — let me explain what we can prepare.

Cultural Note

Italy has one of the highest rates of coeliac disease diagnosis in the world and is very gluten-free aware. The Italian Coeliac Association (AIC) certifies restaurants — an AIC sticker on the door means cross-contamination protocols are in place.

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Per me la pasta al pomodoro.

Il conto, per favore.

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