If you’ve been scanning menus for gluten-free options like I have, you’ve probably wondered: does Potbelly have gluten free bread? I sure did the first time I stepped into a Potbelly shop after moving to Dubai. Craving a toasted sandwich but avoiding gluten, I was hopeful they had something I could actually eat without worry. As someone who’s been baking and living gluten-aware for years, it’s not just about the label—it’s about the taste, texture, and safety too. So today, let’s uncover the real deal about Potbelly’s gluten-free options, what to expect, and whether you can still enjoy their signature sandwich experience.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Does Potbelly Have Gluten Free Bread? Here’s What You Need to Know
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 guide
Description
Does Potbelly have gluten free bread? Learn what gluten-free options are available at Potbelly and how to enjoy safe alternatives.
Ingredients
No gluten-free bread at Potbelly
Alternative sandwich options like salads
Trusted gluten-free brands: Udi’s, Canyon Bakehouse, Schär
Tips for gluten-intolerant dining
DIY sandwich ideas at home
Instructions
1. Ask Potbelly staff about gluten-free options
2. Order a salad or sandwich bowl without bread
3. Avoid cross-contact: request clean prep tools and gloves
4. Compare with other chains like Jersey Mike’s
5. Recreate Potbelly-style sandwiches using gluten-free bread at home
Notes
Potbelly currently does not offer gluten-free bread.
Always ask about prep practices to avoid cross-contamination.
Use certified brands for a safer sandwich experience.
- Prep Time: 0 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Food Review
- Method: Guide
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 read
- Calories: 0
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 0
- Fat: 0
- Saturated Fat: 0
- Unsaturated Fat: 0
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 0
- Cholesterol: 0
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- A personal story and first impressions from Potbelly
- What bread choices Potbelly offers and how gluten fits into the picture
- How Potbelly compares to other sandwich chains on gluten-free options
- Answers to the most-searched questions (FAQs) about gluten-free sandwich options
Let’s get right into it!
A Craving for Comfort: My First Potbelly Visit
The first time I spotted a Potbelly Sandwich Shop in the U.S., I was drawn in by the toasted aroma and bustling counter. But as someone who eats mostly gluten-free (thanks to years of recipe-testing and family sensitivities), I didn’t just dive in. I scanned that menu like a hawk, eyes peeled for any sign of gluten-free bread. Spoiler: it wasn’t on the main board.
Curious, I asked the staff—friendly, but unsure. “We don’t have a gluten-free bread, but we have salads,” was the answer. Not quite what I was hoping for. It reminded me of all those moments back in my Vermont childhood when we’d try to recreate sandwich shop flavors at home—except now, with gluten-free flours and more awareness.
As a pastry chef living in Dubai now, I see how global chains handle dietary needs differently across locations. And while Potbelly’s sandwiches are beloved, their U.S. branches currently don’t offer a dedicated gluten-free bread. This might change in the future, but for now, guests looking for gluten-free options need to navigate carefully.
If you’re hunting for ideas, I’ve even recreated gluten-free bread recipes at home that come pretty close to that satisfying sandwich base—soft inside, crisp crust, and totally celiac-safe.
Inside Potbelly’s Bread Menu
The Classic Potbelly Bread Lineup
Potbelly offers a hearty, toasted sandwich experience with a few signature bread options: original white, multigrain wheat, and flatbread. All of these contain gluten, making them unsuitable for anyone with celiac disease or severe intolerance. Their flavor and chewiness are part of what fans love, but it’s also where the challenge starts for gluten-sensitive diners.
Can You Customize for Gluten-Free Diets?
Yes and no. While you can technically remove the bread and turn your sandwich into a “sandwich salad” bowl (or order a salad outright), Potbelly does not currently provide a gluten-free bun or certified alternative. Cross-contamination is also a concern, especially in shared prep spaces. If you’re strictly avoiding gluten, make sure to let the staff know to change gloves and use a clean prep area—though it’s not guaranteed.
Some diners opt for a DIY approach—ordering just the meat and veggies in a bowl and pairing it with their own bread at home. It’s not ideal, but it’s a workaround for now.
How Potbelly Compares: Is There Any Gluten-Free Bread in Sight?
What Other Chains Offer That Potbelly Doesn’t (Yet)
If you’re still asking, does Potbelly have gluten free bread, the answer is clear: not at this time. And that becomes even more obvious when you compare it with competitors like Jersey Mike’s and Subway. Jersey Mike’s, for instance, carries a certified gluten-free sub roll made by Udi’s in most locations. They even train their staff to reduce cross-contamination—now that’s a win.
So, when someone asks, does Potbelly have gluten free bread in any form? No dedicated bread, no certified gluten-free rolls, and no indication that one’s coming soon. That puts gluten-avoiding diners at a disadvantage, especially when other national brands are starting to prioritize allergy-friendly menus.
Subway, while not always consistent, offers a gluten-free bread option in select markets. And even fast-casual chains like Panera Bread provide gluten-conscious choices, though not all are celiac-safe. In contrast, Potbelly’s response has been to encourage salad bowls or “breadless” orders, which doesn’t quite cut it for sandwich lovers hoping for a real alternative.
Can You Bring Your Own Gluten-Free Bread to Potbelly?
Funny enough, some people wonder if they can BYOB—bring your own bread. While there’s no official Potbelly policy against it, local managers might react differently. Technically, it’s not on the menu, and there’s still the risk of cross-contact unless you’re incredibly cautious. So even if you bring gluten-free bread from home, you’ll need to explain your allergy or intolerance clearly and request separate prep tools if possible.
That said, if you’re someone who loves sandwiches and lives gluten-free, it might be better to recreate your own shop-style sandwich at home. I’ve done this dozens of times in my kitchen here in Dubai, experimenting with flours that mimic the crusty-soft magic of Potbelly’s bread—but without the gluten. For inspiration, check out my recipe for a soft, chewy gluten-free Greek dessert that captures that balance of indulgence and food sensitivity.
Still wondering does Potbelly have gluten free bread? You’re not alone. Until they change the game, we gluten-free eaters will need to stay creative.
What Brands Actually Offer Gluten-Free Bread?
Exploring Bread Brands That Do What Potbelly Doesn’t
When you search does Potbelly have gluten free bread, it’s easy to feel discouraged. But the good news? Plenty of other brands are stepping up with delicious, safe options for gluten-free eaters.
Their sandwich rolls are soft, slightly sweet, and widely available—Jersey Mike’s actually uses Udi’s in most U.S. locations. This makes the question does Potbelly have gluten free bread sting a little more, because clearly, it’s possible to offer it.
Then there’s Canyon Bakehouse, a grocery store staple. Their sub rolls, hamburger buns, and deli slices hold up beautifully when toasted. Many gluten-free fans keep them stocked at home, just in case they’re headed somewhere like Potbelly that doesn’t yet offer a proper gluten-free sandwich option.
Another solid brand? Schär. Based in Europe but widely distributed in the U.S., Schär’s gluten-free baguettes and ciabatta rolls deliver that classic chewy bite that’s often missing in gluten-free baked goods. And when compared side-by-side, the answer to does Potbelly have gluten free bread like Schär or Udi’s becomes an easy no.
What This Means for Celiac-Safe Dining
If you’re managing celiac disease, the stakes are even higher. And that makes the question does Potbelly have gluten free bread not just a convenience issue, but a health one. While it’s tempting to just “go breadless” or try a salad, the lack of a clear gluten-free bread option at Potbelly signals that the chain isn’t quite ready to serve this growing community.
That’s why diners often choose chains that do more than offer a safe roll—they invest in safe preparation, separate surfaces, and allergen awareness. So when you wonder, again, does Potbelly have gluten free bread, know that while the answer is currently no, there are trusted brands and restaurants out there putting in the work.
What to Do If You’re Gluten-Free and Still Craving Potbelly
Can You Still Enjoy Potbelly Without Gluten-Free Bread?
If you’ve made it this far, it’s clear you’ve been wondering—probably more than once—does Potbelly have gluten free bread?
Sure, it’s a letdown. When you walk into a sandwich shop and all you see is wheat, the first instinct is to walk right out. But if Potbelly is your only nearby option—or a nostalgic favorite—there are still ways to enjoy it safely.
First, opt for a salad version of your favorite sandwich. While this obviously doesn’t answer does Potbelly have gluten free bread, it does let you enjoy the fillings—grilled chicken, roast beef, avocado, veggies—without the gluten risk. Just remember to be clear with the staff: ask them to change gloves and prepare your meal on a clean surface. It won’t solve everything, but it’s a step toward safety.
The Homemade Workaround: Recreate It Yourself
For many of us, the answer to does Potbelly have gluten free bread leads to one solution: do it yourself. And honestly? That’s where the fun starts. In my kitchen in Dubai, I’ve recreated sandwich shop flavors with homemade gluten-free breads that feel like comfort food. From chewy sub rolls to crusty baguettes, baking gluten-free isn’t limiting—it’s empowering.
You can start simple with sorghum, rice flour, or even almond-based recipes. The textures may vary, but when done right, they come close to the real thing. Pair your gluten-free bread with roasted meats, tangy pickles, and spicy mustard—now you’ve got a Potbelly-style sandwich, minus the gluten.
And yes, does Potbelly have gluten free bread is still a relevant question. Hopefully, one day, the answer will be yes. Until then, knowing how to enjoy those same flavors on your own terms is a win.
FAQ: Does Potbelly Have Gluten Free Bread?
Is Potbelly bread gluten-free?
No, Potbelly’s standard bread options are not gluten-free. All of their breads—including white, multigrain, and flatbread—contain gluten. If you’re following a strict gluten-free diet, especially for medical reasons like celiac disease, Potbelly’s bread is not a safe option. While you can request a sandwich without bread or opt for a salad, there’s no certified gluten-free bread offered by Potbelly at this time.
What kind of bread does Potbelly have?
Potbelly offers three main types of bread: original white, multigrain wheat, and flatbread. Unfortunately, none of these options are gluten-free. So if you’re searching does Potbelly have gluten free bread, the short answer is no. These breads are baked for that signature chewy, toasted texture—but they all contain wheat and gluten.
What brands have gluten-free bread?
Several reputable brands offer gluten-free bread that’s safe and delicious. Udi’s, Canyon Bakehouse, and Schär are the most popular. Their gluten-free options are sold in major grocery stores and used by restaurants like Jersey Mike’s. If you want a true sandwich experience and have asked yourself does Potbelly have gluten free bread, consider recreating it at home using these trusted brands.
Does Jersey Mike’s make gluten-free bread?
Yes, Jersey Mike’s offers a certified gluten-free bread in most locations. They partner with Udi’s to provide a gluten-free sub roll and take steps to minimize cross-contact during preparation. Compared to Potbelly, which does not offer any gluten-free bread, Jersey Mike’s is a better choice for those needing or choosing a gluten-free lifestyle.
Conclusion: Does Potbelly Have Gluten Free Bread?
So, does Potbelly have gluten free bread? As of now, the answer is still no. Potbelly does not offer any certified gluten-free bread at any of its locations. If you follow a gluten-free diet due to celiac disease, sensitivity, or preference, the lack of gluten-free bread makes Potbelly a tough choice. Many customers continue to ask, does Potbelly have gluten free bread, but the company has yet to respond with a solid solution.
Compared to other sandwich shops like Jersey Mike’s—which proudly serves Udi’s gluten-free rolls—Potbelly hasn’t caught up. The repeated question, does Potbelly have gluten free bread, highlights a real gap in their menu offerings. Until they introduce a gluten-free bread option, diners must settle for breadless bowls, salads, or skip Potbelly altogether.
But all is not lost. If you’re still craving that sandwich shop flavor, recreate it at home. With brands like Udi’s, Canyon Bakehouse, or Schär, you can enjoy your own safe, gluten-free sandwich. You’ll no longer need to wonder does Potbelly have gluten free bread—because you’ll already have a better version waiting in your kitchen.
In the future, maybe Potbelly will answer the call. Until then, those of us living gluten-free will keep asking: does Potbelly have gluten free bread—and hoping the answer changes.
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