While there's been a lot of buzz around eating gluten-free or without gluten at the local restaurant level, not many major chains have incorporated these options into their menus. IHOP, however, just took a big step forward in that regard, adding a permanent lineup of gluten-friendly pancakes and waffles to their repertoire.

Photo courtesy of IHOP

The new breakfast items are made with a base of rice flour, sugar, milk, and eggs, and are tailored to have IHOP's recognizable buttermilk pancake flavor. While IHOP doesn't call these gluten-free due to potential for cross-contamination in the kitchen, the batter is made with entirely gluten-free ingredients.

With these new gluten-friendly options, IHOP becomes the first major diner chain in the country to have such a dedicated menu. The only other major chain of comparable size and scale with similar options is Chick-fil-A.

Granted, those with Celiac disease will probably want to wait until IHOP dedicates specific griddle space to limit any chances of cross-contamination. For those without the condition that desire gluten-free foods, however, this is an addition that is readily available just about everywhere.

You can get the new pancakes or waffles on their own, or as part of a breakfast combo with eggs, sausage or bacon, and hashbrowns (which are also gluten-friendly). There's also a menu of six burgers with gluten-friendly buns available for lunch or dinner.