As someone with dietary restrictions, I know the struggle of trying to find something to eat when you’re out and about. Its not as simple as just going up and placing your order for whichever blown-up image of bacon wrapped churros caught your eye (and yes, that’s a real thing).
That’s why I made it my personal mission to scope out the gluten-free options at the OC Fair, which is underway Wednesdays through Sundays in Costa Mesa until Aug. 16.
Here’s my list of safe options, in case you’re a gluten avoider like me.
Tasti Chips
My favorite item I tried, surprisingly, was the chips, even though none of the toppings are gluten-free. I thought they wouldn’t be worth it considering the lack of cheese and other additions, but after some convincing from the employees, I decided to give them a try. Turns out, the workers were right!
The chips were fresh, crispy and some almost melted in my mouth. After dipping them in ketchup, I was in potato-chip heaven.
Plus, I’m always happy on the rare occasion that I find a gluten-free corn dog, so I was delighted to hear that Tasti Chips has a separate fryer where they cook their corndogs to make sure they remain safe for people like me.
Corn Star & Hot Potato Club
If you’re looking for a catch-all gluten-free stand, the OC Fair isn’t the place. But Corn Star might be your best bet.
Since potatoes and corn are naturally gluten-free, this stand has a lot of options.
You can get a baked potato or a corn cup and top it with cheese sauce, chives, bacon bits, broccoli, jalapenos, Hot Cheetos, butter or basically anything. Their roasted corn on the cob is also a solid choice.
However, be sure to avoid their mayo and shredded cheeses, as they are not gluten-free due to certain additives.
Pink’s
This hot dog spot had the most allergen-educated employees out of all of the food stands I visited, which was very comforting.
All of their hot dogs are gluten-free, and they offer a gluten-free hot dog bun that is warmed in its own individual package.
They also have a laminated allergen guide that you can request, in case you have further questions.
Unfortunately, the chili and fries are not gluten-free.
Pineapple Whip Express
The award for the most creative gluten-free option goes to the Watermelon Dole Soft Serve Taco here, which is exactly what it sounds like. Cold, refreshing Dole Whip in between slices of chilled watermelon, topped with Tajin and chamoy.
I was the most excited about this option out of all of them I tried, and I was right to feel that way. The sweet, spicy and sour combo was exactly what I needed on a swelteringly hot Costa Mesa day. The treat is also dairy-free, which is totally a win for the lactose intolerant and vegan folks.
There are other options at the stand that are gluten-free as well, including Dole Whip floats and regular soft-serve cups cups (not cones).
Pepe’s Mariscos
Shrimp cocktail was the only dish that the employees at Pepe’s were confident was gluten-free, because it is pre-prepared. The serving was a decent size for a meal for one, or a snack for two people to share. It was cold, which I appreciated, but kind of watery for my liking, and could have used more avocado for the price.
The stand also has ceviche, a cold dish with raw fish marinated in citrus, and tanghulu, skewered fruits coated in sugar syrup, which are commonly gluten-free. However, the worker I spoke to didn’t seem to want to recommend those to me, so I would be extra cautious if you choose to go that route.
Vegging Out
Being plant based, you might think this stand would have a variety of gluten-free choices. You’d unfortunately be wrong.
Chorizo Tacos are the only gluten-free item on the menu. They are vegetarian, with a vegan option available if you ask, and are served with the classic taco toppings: cilantro, onions, salsa and lime.
Beverages
If you’re an ICEE fan, you’re in luck. There are two ICEE stands at the OC Fair, both of which have gluten-free beverages in the familiar movie theater flavors like cherry and blue raspberry.
Tasti Whip also offers gluten and dairy-free floats with fun varieties like strawberry, lemon and mango.
If you need more OC Fair food information, check out the food finder and our guide to the quirky, new foods as of 2026.