Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stay at a genuinely gluten-free bed and breakfast? The Inn Berlin, located near the Maryland coast, is a standout example — a thoughtfully run, 100% gluten-free retreat that puts celiac-safe dining at the center of the guest experience.
In this post I share why the Inn Berlin belongs on any gluten-free traveler’s list: what the inn offers, how to get there, what the rooms and property are like, and what to expect from the food, bakery, and nearby activities.
This post is sponsored by the Inn Berlin. My stays were hosted in exchange for content and social media coverage. For disclosure information, please refer to my disclosure page. My opinions remain my own. This post was updated in June 2023 with new information and photos.
About This Blog Post
In spring 2021 I learned about a new boutique bed and breakfast just outside Ocean City, Maryland. What made it instantly interesting was that the innkeeper, Maya Tomasello, designed the property to be completely gluten-free because she has celiac disease. That commitment to safety and flavor is what sets the Inn Berlin apart.
Since that first visit I have returned multiple times with family and friends. Each stay has confirmed the same thing: this inn is a celiac oasis where every meal, snack, and baked good is prepared with care in a gluten-free environment. The combination of thoughtful hospitality, creative cooking, and a peaceful setting near the beach makes it a memorable getaway.
About The Inn Berlin: Gluten-Free Bed & Breakfast
Owned and operated by the Tomasello family, the Inn Berlin is a recently renovated historic property in downtown Berlin, Maryland. The inn has five guest rooms across the second and third floors and several inviting common areas on the first floor: a parlor, dining room, front porch, back veranda with a pergola, and a brick-paved patio. Because of the building’s historic character there is no elevator, so the inn is not ADA accessible. The property tends to cater to adults, though well-behaved children over ten are welcome.
The inn also hosts private events and weddings, which can be a wonderful option for couples seeking a gluten-free venue. In 2023 the inn added Boulangerie Berlin, an on-site bakery offering pre-ordered gluten-free breads and treats for weekend pickup, allowing visitors who aren’t staying overnight to enjoy the baked goods.
Getting To Berlin, Maryland
Berlin is about a 15-minute drive from Ocean City. The nearest regional airports are Salisbury or the small Ocean City airport; for more flight options travelers often use Baltimore or Washington, D.C., which are roughly two to three hours away by car. If you fly into a larger airport, renting a car is recommended — the drive to Berlin is scenic, with farms, waterways, and bridges along the route. Note that the Chesapeake Bay Bridge can cause weekend traffic delays; plan extra time on busy travel days.
The Rooms At The Inn Berlin
Each room is named after a flower — Peony, Poppy, Honeysuckle, Aster, and Magnolia — and offers a cozy, upscale atmosphere. Rooms include comfortable mattresses, air conditioning, plenty of natural light, and well-appointed bathrooms with toiletries and terrycloth robes. Some bathrooms feature a clawfoot tub. Rooms also come stocked with bottled water, beverage menus, and gluten-free snacks, while bee-themed decor celebrates the town’s honeybee motif.
The Property Of The Inn Berlin
The Tomasello family completed a full renovation of the historic building in 2020 and opened the inn in 2021. Outside spaces like the veranda, front porch, patio, and landscaped gardens create comfortable spots for morning coffee or evening wine by the firepit. The inn’s outdoor areas are especially charming in summer, when breakfasts and dinners can be enjoyed al fresco.
100% Gluten-Free Bed and Breakfast
Food at the Inn Berlin is the highlight for many visitors. Because the inn is entirely gluten-free, guests with celiac disease can relax and order confidently. Before arrival, guests receive a survey to describe dietary restrictions and preferences so the kitchen can prepare accordingly. Portions are generous, and the flavors are memorable.
Gluten-Free Breakfast At the Inn
Breakfasts typically begin with water, juice, coffee or tea, a seasonal baked sweet, and Greek yogurt with fresh berries. Guests can choose a continental option with eggs and sides or a breakfast special — past highlights include outstanding eggs Benedict served with house-made gluten-free bread, biscuits, and a standout hollandaise.
Gluten-Free Picnic Lunches & Charcuterie
A picnic lunch or custom charcuterie box is a great add-on for days at Assateague or for casual evenings downtown. Picnic options include sandwiches, finger foods, drinks, and all necessary utensils; charcuterie boards are tailored to your preferences and are popular for sharing during local events like the Berlin Bathtub Races.
Gluten-Free Private Dining At The Inn
Booking at least one private dinner is highly recommended. Meals are typically served on the patio or in the dining room and showcase seasonal, inventive menus. Past private dinners have ranged from barbecue and Spanish-inspired tapas to Mediterranean and Asian-inspired multi-course meals. Note: beginning in summer 2023 private dining nights are limited; guests are encouraged to confirm availability in advance with the inn. For questions, contact [email protected].
Gluten-Free Snacks & Drinks on the 2nd Floor Landing
A landing on the second floor provides easy access to snacks and beverages throughout the day. A cupboard offers tea, coffee, granola bars, and salty snacks; a mini fridge and water cooler keep drinks cold. A cookie jar and fresh fruit are often available for quick bites between meals.
Gluten-Free Bakery at The Inn
New in 2023: Boulangerie Berlin offers weekend pickup for pre-ordered gluten-free breads and pastries prepared on-site. The bakery menu changes weekly, featuring items like yeast fried donuts and seasonal cakes. Pickup is typically available on weekends; check the bakery’s schedule for ordering deadlines and menus.
Gluten-Free Drinks at The Inn
The inn maintains a curated selection of gluten-free beers and wines. A menu in each room lists available beverages. Guests often discover new favorites here, including local gluten-free beers that highlight regional breweries’ approaches to GF brewing.
The Benefits of a Gluten-Free Bed and Breakfast
The biggest advantage of staying at a 100% gluten-free property is peace of mind. Dining becomes effortless: you can relax, share plates, and try new dishes without worrying about cross-contact or hidden ingredients. For anyone with celiac disease or serious gluten sensitivity, that freedom makes the trip far more enjoyable.
Other Add-Ons At The Inn Berlin
The inn offers a variety of add-ons to enhance your stay, including massages, yoga, guided tours of downtown Berlin and Assateague, picnic lunches, private dining, and airport transportation. Popular choices we’ve tried include picnic lunches for Assateague and private dining nights tailored to guests’ preferences. Contact the inn directly to arrange add-ons and confirm availability.
Things to Do
When you’re not enjoying gluten-free cuisine at the inn, there are several nearby activities that make for a relaxed weekend escape.
Explore Downtown Berlin
Berlin’s charming Main Street is lined with boutiques, antique shops, galleries, coffee shops, and local eateries. On summer Sundays, a farmers market offers local produce and treats — a pleasant way to spend a morning before returning to the inn for a leisurely meal.
Visit Assateague National Seashore
Assateague National Seashore, a short drive from the inn, is known for wild horses, undeveloped beaches, and marshland. Visit early to avoid long entrance lines on busy days, keep a respectful distance from the horses, hike short trails or boardwalks, try a guided kayak tour, or spend a few hours on the beach with a picnic from the inn.
Check Out The Ocean City Boardwalk
Ocean City is lively and full of boardwalk attractions, rides, and seaside dining. It’s a quick drive from the Inn Berlin and can be a fun contrast to the inn’s quiet, restorative setting.
The Inn Berlin: Final Thoughts
The Inn Berlin delivers exactly what it promises: a safe, delicious, and welcoming gluten-free retreat. For anyone with celiac disease or a strict gluten-free diet, the inn removes the stress of dining away from home and replaces it with thoughtfully prepared food, comfortable rooms, and a peaceful setting near beaches and small-town charm.
If you’re considering a gluten-free getaway, the Inn Berlin is worth exploring. For reservations, private dining options, bakery ordering, or add-ons, contact the inn directly for current availability and details. Have you visited the Inn Berlin, or would you try a 100% gluten-free bed and breakfast? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Looking for more gluten-free travel posts?
For tips on traveling with celiac disease, packing checklists, and gluten-free destination guides, look for posts covering strategies for travel with celiac, essential travel accessories, and destination guides for cities like Boston, New York, Madrid, and Buenos Aires.