Important Notice for Celiac Diners

Thundercloud Subs is NOT a dedicated gluten-free kitchen. While they offer gluten-free bread options, all food is prepared in a shared environment with regular bread, flour, and gluten-containing ingredients. Cross-contamination is possible.

This restaurant is best suited for:

  • Those with gluten sensitivity or intolerance (non-celiac)
  • People following a gluten-free diet by choice
  • Those comfortable with shared-kitchen preparation

Not recommended for: Those with celiac disease or severe gluten allergies who require strict gluten-free preparation.

About Thundercloud Subs

Thundercloud Subs has been an Austin institution since 1975, when the first shop opened near the UT campus. Now with over 30 locations across the Austin metro area, Thundercloud has become synonymous with quick, fresh, affordable subs made with quality ingredients.

What started as a small sub shop has grown into a beloved local chain that has resisted going national, keeping its Austin roots strong. The company is known for its community involvement, sponsoring local sports teams, charity events, and the famous Thundercloud Subs Turkey Trot—Austin's largest running event held every Thanksgiving.

For gluten-free diners, Thundercloud now offers Smart Flour gluten-free bread at all locations, making their signature subs accessible to those avoiding gluten. They also offer a "Sub-in-a-Bowl" option that skips the bread entirely.

Gluten-Free Options

  • GF Bread (Smart Flour): Available at all locations for any sub. Add $1.50 for GF bread substitution.
  • Sub-in-a-Bowl: Get all your sub ingredients served in a bowl without any bread—a naturally gluten-free option.
  • Fresh Meats & Veggies: Deli meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables are naturally gluten-free.
  • Chips: Many chip options are gluten-free (check labels).

Popular Subs (Order on GF Bread or as Bowl)

  • Turkey: Turkey breast, lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo
  • Smoked Turkey: Smoked turkey with all the fixings
  • Italian: Ham, salami, pepperoni, cheese, veggies
  • Veggie: Avocado, sprouts, cheese, and fresh vegetables
  • BLT: Bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo
  • Roast Beef: Roast beef with horseradish sauce option
  • Tuna: House-made tuna salad with fresh veggies
  • Office Favorite: Turkey, bacon, avocado—a customer favorite

What to Know Before You Go

  • Tell staff you need GF: Let them know when ordering so they can take precautions
  • Bread is handled near regular bread: Same prep area, same knives, same cutting boards
  • Toaster is shared: If you want your sub toasted, it goes through the same oven
  • Condiments are shared: Mayo, mustard, and other condiments may have gluten cross-contact
  • Best practice: Order a Sub-in-a-Bowl with fresh ingredients for least cross-contact risk

Tips for Ordering

To minimize cross-contamination risk:

  1. Order a Sub-in-a-Bowl instead of using GF bread
  2. Ask for fresh gloves when they make your sub
  3. Skip the toaster if you're concerned about cross-contact
  4. Request a clean cutting board if possible
  5. Go during non-peak hours when staff has more time to accommodate requests

The Thundercloud Experience

Thundercloud shops are casual, counter-service spots designed for quick lunches. Most locations are small with limited seating, making them ideal for takeout. The vibe is laid-back and very Austin—expect to see local flyers, community event posters, and friendly staff who know the regulars.

One thing that sets Thundercloud apart is their commitment to Austin. They've stayed local, supported community causes, and remained affordable while maintaining quality. The Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning has become an Austin tradition, with thousands of runners participating each year before their holiday feasts.

Find a Location

Thundercloud has 30+ locations across Austin, including:

  • Downtown / UT Campus area
  • South Austin (multiple locations)
  • North Austin / Domain area
  • East Austin
  • West Austin / Lakeway
  • Round Rock
  • Cedar Park
  • Pflugerville

Visit thundercloud.com/locations to find the nearest location to you.

Community Reviews

"I'm gluten-intolerant (not celiac) and the GF bread option is great! Finally can enjoy Thundercloud again." — Sarah M., Austin
"The Sub-in-a-Bowl is my go-to for a quick lunch. Fresh ingredients and I don't have to worry about bread." — Marcus T., Round Rock
"As a celiac, I tried the GF bread once but got glutened. It's a shared kitchen, so celiacs beware. Great for gluten-free by choice though!" — Jennifer K., Austin

Related Restaurants

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Other Quick-Service GF Options