Poke the Bear Cafe
GF items like burgers, poke bowls, and desserts are available, but the cafe does not have a dedicated GF menu or kitchen.
Per-allergen evidence
GF items like burgers, poke bowls, and desserts are available, but the cafe does not have a dedicated GF menu or kitchen. Staff awareness is good: a coeliac diner reported the server changed gloves and cleaned surfaces, and another reviewer noted the server was also coeliac. That said, this is a shared kitchen with no dedicated fryer or prep area mentioned. Coeliac safety depends heavily on the shift and the person spoken to. Calling ahead and stressing dietary needs before ordering is advisable.
[1] Aggregator The Best Gluten-Free Restaurants and Bakeries in Northcote, Australia, FindMeGlutenFree
Lists Poke the Bear Cafe in Northcote GF restaurant roundup; notes no GF menu but GF items (burgers, poke, dessert) and a coeliac server who ensures safe prep.fetched May 25, 2026[2] Aggregator Poke the Bear Cafe - Gluten-Free Cafe in Northcote, FindMeGlutenFree
Venue page: 2 ratings, no GF menu, GF items (burgers, poke, dessert), coeliac server changes gloves and cleans surfaces; also marked good for dairy-free by 2 reviewers.fetched May 25, 2026[3] Verified blog Top 13 Gluten-Free Dining Spots to Explore in Northcote, atly.com
The Atly travel list places Poke the Bear at #8 on its ranking. The list labels the cafe as 'Unverified' but notes that staff members are knowledgeable and careful, and that they follow strict hygiene practices for gluten-free guests.fetched May 25, 2026[4] Verified blog Poke the Bear Cafe - Gluten-Free Restaurant in Northcote, atly.com
An Atly venue page reports that the venue is unverified, staff are knowledgeable, and they changed gloves and cleaned surfaces. One coeliac reviewer confirms safe meal prep.fetched May 25, 2026Two FindMeGlutenFree reviewers marked the venue as 'good for dairy-free', but no structural kitchen details (dedicated equipment, staff training for dairy, or menu markings) are available from any source. The same cross-contamination risks that apply to gluten likely apply to dairy as well. Asking staff directly about dairy-free options and preparation practices is advisable.
Always confirm with venue staff before ordering. Tiers and accreditations are guides, not guarantees.
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