It’s not always easy to eat gluten-free at sandwich shops and restaurants. Bread is usually the main ingredient, and that can make it tricky if you’re avoiding gluten.
Fortunately, with Firehouse Subs, you have a few options. But those options are only there when you know how to order.
I created this piece to show you what you can eat, what to avoid, and how to eat safely if you’re gluten-free, sensitive, or living with celiac disease. No guesswork. Just clear advice.
What You Can Eat: Gluten-Free-Friendly Ingredients to Start With
On the restaurant’s website, you won’t find a full gluten-free menu. But that doesn’t mean they don’t have gluten-free options. Here are some safe ingredients you can start with:
Safe Proteins
If you want to keep things completely gluten-free, here are some safe protein options you should try:
- Grilled chicken
- Turkey breast
- Ham
- Roast beef
- Pastrami
Those are gluten-free proteins. These protein options don’t use breading and aren’t marinated with flour-based sauces.
You can also ask the staff to double-check the allergen list before they start preparing your meal. Most of their meals are prepared on order. Meaning they will start putting all the pieces together upon your order. So you can ask them to make it the way you want.
Veggies and Cheese
For a gluten-sensitive person, veggies would have to be your friend. Opt for veggies like:
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Cucumber
- Bell peppers
- Pickles
- Onions
They are all safe for gluten-sensitive people. Not all options are safe for you when it comes to cheeses. The safe options on the Firehouse Subs menu are:
- Cheddar
- Pepper jack
- Provolone
Try those gluten-free options and thank me later.
Condiments You Can Use
Condiments are another thing to consider if you’re gluten-sensitive. I recommend you stick to simple condiments like:
- Yellow mustard
- Oil & vinegar
- Hot sauces labeled gluten-free
Mayo-based sauces shouldn’t be on your list of condiments to try. Also, avoid house blends except they are verified gluten-free.
Gluten-Free Buns: Available but Limited
You can find a gluten-free sub roll in some Firehouse Subs locations. However, availability is based on region, and so is how it’s handled. It’s not available in all locations.
Even if a bun does not contain gluten, the kitchen might not adhere to strict allergy protocols when preparing orders. So, the bun could come into contact with crumbs or knives used on regular bread.
But I believe a simple contact shouldn’t pose a threat, except you have severe allergy issues.
If your local shop has gluten-free buns and you’re not highly sensitive, it could be worth trying. Still, ask them to be careful when prepping them, though.
When There’s No Bun: Best Bread-Free Options
Do you know you can skip bread and still have a great meal at Firehouse Subs? Yes. Skipping bread doesn’t mean skipping flavor.
Here are some alternatives:
Ask for a Bowl
Customization is one of the biggest flexes with Firehouse Subs. Your meal, your way. You can ask Firehouse Subs to make you a sub in a bowl or salad-style.
Depending on the outlet you visit, this option might not always be on the menu. However, you can always ask the staff to make it that way for you. They will most likely accommodate your request.
This is one of the best ways to maintain the core flavors while eliminating gluten. You won’t be eliminating only gluten but also carbs.
Add Flavor Without the Roll
Try throwing in some extra pickles, peppers, and a strong cheese like pepper jack. This will introduce a lot of flavor to your meal and make it more enjoyable.
You can top it up with good mustard or hot sauce. These condiments will enhance your meal with a lot of flavor.
Flavorite Gluten-Free Combos That Actually Work
Want to enjoy a combo that’s completely free of gluten at Firehouse Subs? That’s actually possible.
Here are some bowl-style orders I have tried that tasted good and didn’t leave me feeling like I missed out:
- Grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, and spicy mustard.
- Ham, provolone, pickles, and oil & vinegar.
- Turkey, cheddar, onion, hot sauce, and bell peppers.
If you find gluten-free buns in your location, you can build a full sub using the same ingredients.
My advice is for you to keep things simple and avoid sauces you’re not sure about.
What to Avoid at Firehouse Subs If You’re Gluten-Free
I consider the following red flags, and you should avoid them if you’re gluten-free:
- Meatballs (they contain breadcrumbs)
- Soups and chili (often thickened with flour)
- Cheese sauce and mac & cheese (gluten-based roux)
Here are some sneaky cross-contaminations:
- Shared knives, counters, and gloves can lead to gluten exposure.
- Toasting stations are usually used for all breads.
These little exposures can be a big deal if you’re celiac. Don’t hesitate to ask the workers to clean the prep area or use fresh gloves when making your order.
Calling Ahead: Why It Helps
Don’t rely on what’s posted online alone. Not every location follows the same standards.
By calling ahead, you can ask:
- Do you carry the gluten-free bun?
- Can you make subs into bowls or salads?
- Do you have separate prep tools for allergy requests?
You’ll get a better sense of how safe that location is for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Firehouse Subs have a gluten-free menu?
Not a full one, but they do provide an allergen guide and a gluten-free roll at some locations.
Can you ask for a bowl instead of a sandwich?
Yes. Many locations will make your sub as a bowl or salad—just ask.
Are the chips gluten-free?
Only the plain kettle-cooked chips are usually gluten-free. Always check the label on the bag.
Is the gluten-free roll celiac-safe?
It depends on how it’s prepared. There’s always a risk of cross-contact in a shared kitchen.
Wrapping Up
Firehouse Subs might not be your first thought when it comes to gluten-free food. But with a little planning and clear communication, you can build a meal that’s both safe and satisfying.
