Eat Well, Feel Great: Top Gluten-Free Lunch Options on the Sunshine Coast

Janice Kuz • January 16, 2026

Finding a Good Gluten-Free Feed on the Sunny Coast Shouldn't Be Hard

Modern interior of The Nines, a top spot for a Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast with friends.

Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast options are easier to find than ever, but finding a spot that actually delivers on flavour? That's the real challenge. Here's what you need to know:

  • Classic Roll (GFO) - Fried egg, bacon, cheese, tomato relish on a GFO bun with hash brown
  • Avo Toast (GFO, V) - Smashed avo, roasted beetroot, dukkah, poached eggs, balsamic glaze
  • Pumpkin Salad (GFO, V) - Roasted pumpkin & beetroot, pearl couscous, fetta, cherry tomatoes, dill dressing
  • Double Beefer (GFO) - Beef brisket patties, cheese, beetroot, fried egg, grilled pineapple, served with GFO fries
  • Bowl of Fries (GFO, V) - Crispy shoestring fries with aioli

Let's be real: eating gluten-free shouldn't mean settling for boring food or feeling like you're missing out. Whether you're coeliac, gluten-sensitive, or just prefer to skip the gluten, you deserve a meal that's vibrant, flavourful, and doesn't taste like cardboard.

The Sunshine Coast is brilliant for laid-back living, but when it comes to gluten-free lunch options, the scene can be hit or miss. Some places slap a "GFO" label on the menu and call it a day, without much thought to cross-contamination or whether the dish actually tastes good. Others charge you extra for a dry GF bun that falls apart before you've finished your first bite.

At The Nines Emporium in Maroochydore, we don't do boring. That applies to everyone, gluten-free or not. Our philosophy is simple: food should be damn good, no matter your dietary needs. We've built our menu around fresh, quality ingredients and bold flavours, with plenty of gluten-free optional (GFO) dishes that don't feel like an afterthought. From our loaded Aussie Burg on a GFO bun to our vibrant Pumpkin Salad, we're all about creating meals that make you feel great, not like you're compromising.

I'm Janice Kuz, owner of The Nines, and I've spent over 20 years in the hospitality scene on the Sunshine Coast, learning what locals and visitors really want from their Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast experience: quality, flavour, and a welcoming vibe where everyone feels included. Let's explore the best gluten-free lunch options we've got on offer.

Our Top Picks for a Gluten Free Lunch Sunshine Coast Locals Rave About

When you're searching for a Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast , you're looking for more than just a meal; you're looking for peace of mind and pure deliciousness. We're proud to offer a diverse range of gluten-free optional dishes that are crafted with care and bursting with flavour, ensuring that your dietary needs are met without sacrificing taste. From hearty classics that hit the spot to fresh, vibrant salads, our menu is designed to make every lunch a winner.

If you are new to gluten free living or want to dig deeper into what gluten actually is and how it affects coeliac disease, resources from groups like Coeliac Australia and general explainers such as the gluten entry on Wikipedia are a handy starting point before you head out to eat.

The Brekkie-for-Lunch Classics (GFO)

Who says breakfast food is just for mornings? On the Sunny Coast, we live by our own rules, and that definitely includes enjoying brekkie favourites well into the afternoon. Our kitchen is open until 2:30 pm every day, so you can dive into these GFO legends whenever the craving strikes!

A loaded breakfast burger with a runny egg, part of a great Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast.

First up, the Classic Roll. This bad boy is the ultimate handheld delight, perfect for a quick, satisfying Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast . Imagine this: a perfectly fried egg, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, all snuggled into a soft, gluten-free bun, drizzled with our house tomato relish, and served with a golden hash brown. It is simple, it is saucy, and it is a flavour explosion that proves gluten-free does not mean glory-free. We know the struggle is real when it comes to GF buns that actually hold up, but ours is made to impress, no crumbly disasters here, just pure enjoyment.

And for those who appreciate the timeless simplicity of a classic, our Bacon & Eggs (GFO) is a no-brainer. It is the kind of hearty, no-fuss option that feels like a warm hug, any time of day. We are talking crispy bacon, perfectly cooked eggs, and toasted gluten-free sourdough that is just begging to be devoured. It is a foundational favourite that fuels your day without weighing you down. These are not just meals, they are an experience, designed to give you that all-day breakfast vibe, because, ya know, sometimes you just need that brekkie energy at lunch!

For more info about our brekky classics, including our other delicious burgers and chips that can be made GFO, check out our full menu. We have made sure that our options are clearly marked, so you can order with confidence, knowing you are getting a quality feed.

More info about our brekky classics

Fresh Feeds That Pack a Punch (GFO)

Sometimes, you are after something a little lighter, a little brighter, but still packed with serious flavour. Our fresh, vibrant options are perfect for a nourishing Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast that leaves you feeling energised and satisfied.

Take our Avo Toast (GFO, V), for instance. This is not just any avo toast, it is a masterpiece of textures and tastes. We start with perfectly smashed avocado piled high on toasted gluten-free sourdough, then we get fancy with roasted beetroot, a sprinkle of our house dukkah, perfectly poached eggs, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It is visually stunning, bursting with earthy and fresh flavours, and it is a brilliant vegetarian option that just happens to also be a gluten-free option. It is the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out.

Then there is our Pumpkin Salad (GFO, V), a true showstopper for a light yet incredibly satisfying Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast . This colourful bowl features roasted pumpkin and beetroot, fluffy pearl couscous, crumbled fetta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a refreshing dill dressing that ties it all together beautifully. It is a vibrant mix of sweet, savoury, and tangy, creating a nourishing option that is both hearty and fresh. It is perfect for those warmer Sunny Coast days or when you just want a wholesome meal that does not compromise on taste. We are all about those fresh, seasonal ingredients, and this salad is a prime example of how we make healthy taste absolutely epic.

The Big Bites for a Full Belly (GFO)

For those days when your hunger means business, we have got the big bites that promise a full belly and a happy heart. Our GFO options are hearty, indulgent, and designed to satisfy even the biggest appetites.

Aussie Burg on a GFO bun with a side of fries - Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast

You absolutely have to try our Aussie Burg/Double Beefer (GFO). This is not just a burger, it is a true Aussie classic with a Nines twist, and it is a fantastic Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast option. Picture this: a juicy beef brisket patty, melty cheese, slices of beetroot (because, Australia!), a fried egg, a sweet grilled pineapple ring, crisp lettuce, and our tangy house tomato relish, all served on a perfectly toasted gluten-free bun. And because a burger is not complete without its trusty sidekick, it comes with a generous serving of crispy shoestring fries, which are also GFO. It is messy, it is bold, and it is a flavour party in your mouth. This burg is so good, you will forget it is gluten-free!

And speaking of those glorious shoestring fries, sometimes you just need a Bowl of Fries (GFO, V). They are crispy, golden, and utterly addictive, perfect as a side to any of our big bites, or as a cheeky shareable snack if you are feeling generous (we will not judge if you keep them all to yourself, though!). These fries are a testament to how we ensure every part of your meal, even the humble side, is top-notch and safe for our gluten-free mates. Because let us be honest, who doesn't love a good pile of chips?

Why Our GFO Game is Stronger

We are not just throwing a gluten-free bun on a plate and calling it a day, ya know? Our commitment to delicious and safe Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast options runs deep. It is all part of our "We Do not Do Boring" motto. We believe that everyone deserves a flavour-first experience, where dietary needs are met without any compromise on taste or excitement.

The Nines' vibrant interior and welcoming exterior - Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast

Our team is made up of seasoned hospitality pros, and we get it. We understand the nuances of dietary requirements, especially when it comes to coeliac disease and gluten sensitivities. That is why our staff are knowledgeable and always ready to chat through ingredients and preparation methods. We encourage you to speak up, we are here to make sure your meal is not only delicious but also safe. This commitment to transparency and careful kitchen preparation is something we pride ourselves on. While we are not an exclusively gluten-free venue, we take immense care to minimise cross-contamination, ensuring that our GFO dishes are prepared with the attention they deserve. This aligns with the growing number of Sunshine Coast eateries recognised for their dedication to accommodating dietary needs, and we are always looking to resources like Coeliac Australia's accreditation standards to stay informed on best practices.

We constantly listen to community feedback and strive to exceed expectations. Our welcoming vibe extends to every plate we serve. We want you to feel confident and comfortable when you choose us for your Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast . That dedication is reflected in how diners choose restaurants. OpenTable, for example, highlights how diner reviews are crucial for identifying gluten free friendly establishments, and we strive to meet those high standards daily.

Your Next Move: Nailing That Gluten-Free Lunch

Finding a great Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast should be an enjoyable experience, not a stressful one. We want to empower you to dine out with confidence, knowing what to look for and how to ensure a safe and delicious meal.

Pro Tips for Ordering a Gluten-Free Lunch on the Sunshine Coast

Even at places with great GFO options (like us, just sayin'), a little proactive communication goes a long way. Here are some pro tips for nailing your next gluten-free lunch:

  • Chat with staff: Don't be shy! Our team is here to help. A quick chat about your dietary needs—especially if you have coeliac disease—can make all the difference. We appreciate you letting us know so we can take extra care.
  • Ask about ingredients: If you're unsure about a dish, simply ask. We're happy to clarify what goes into our food and how it's prepared.
  • Mention coeliac needs: This is super important. Highlighting that you have coeliac disease signals to our kitchen staff the need for heightened awareness regarding cross-contact. Many places are aware and take extra precautions when informed.
  • Look for GFO on menus: Always scan the menu for "GFO" (Gluten-Free Optional) or "GF" (Gluten-Free) indicators. We make sure our menu is clear and easy to navigate.
  • Don't be afraid to ask questions: Seriously, ask away! Your health and enjoyment are our priority. We'd rather you ask than worry.
  • Trust your gut: If a place doesn't seem confident or knowledgeable about gluten-free preparation, it might be worth finding somewhere else. Luckily, on the Sunshine Coast, there's a growing number of eateries, like ours, that genuinely care.

Ready for a Feed? Come Say G'day!

So, there you have it, mates! Finding a fantastic Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast doesn't have to be a mission. Here at The Nines Emporium, we're all about serving up epic feeds that cater to everyone, ensuring no one misses out on the good stuff.

We're located at Shop 17A, Sunshine Homemaker Centre, 100 Maroochydore Rd, Maroochydore. Our doors are open from 7 am to 3 pm every single day, with the kitchen firing until 2:30 pm. Whether you're flying solo, catching up with your crew, or bringing the whole family (furry mates included, because we're dog-friendly!), you'll find a welcoming atmosphere and sunny tables perfect for a relaxed lunch. We've even got a dedicated kids' menu with options like Mini Pancakes (V) and Nuggets & Fries, so the little ones are sorted too!

We're constantly cooking up something new and exciting, so keep an eye on our socials for our monthly specials. These limited-time creations are our kitchen team's chance to show off, and they're always next-level good.

Stop by The Nines Emporium and experience the difference. We're confident you'll find your new favourite Gluten free lunch Sunshine Coast right here.

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