Low FODMAP at Masa - Fine Dining Guide
Navigate low FODMAP dining at Masa in New York City. Tips for communicating dietary needs at this three-Michelin-star Japanese omakase restaurant.
✓ Safe Items to Order
| Item | Notes | Modifications |
|---|---|---|
| Sashimi | Premium raw fish | Request gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce |
| Sushi Nigiri | Fish on seasoned rice | Use gluten-free tamari for dipping |
| Grilled Fish | Simply prepared seafood | Request no teriyaki or soy-based glazes |
| White Rice | Sushi rice or plain | Safe starch |
✗ Items to Avoid
- • Regular soy sauce (contains wheat)
- • Miso soup (high FODMAP)
- • Teriyaki preparations
- • Tempura (wheat batter)
- • Eel sauce (contains wheat)
- • Dishes with garlic or onion
Example Orders
Omakase Approach
- ✓ Contact restaurant in advance
- ✓ Explain dietary restrictions to chef
- ✓ Request gluten-free soy sauce alternatives
Tip: Chef Masa's precision allows for adaptation
About Masa
Masa is the most expensive restaurant in America, offering an intimate omakase experience at the counter of chef Masa Takayama. The three-Michelin-star restaurant features premium Japanese ingredients flown in from Tokyo.
Quick Summary
Best approach: Contact the restaurant before your visit. Given the intimate omakase format and direct interaction with chef Masa, your dietary needs can be communicated effectively.
Key advantage: Traditional Japanese sashimi and nigiri are naturally FODMAP-friendly. The challenge is avoiding wheat-containing soy sauce.
The Japanese Omakase Experience
Traditional Japanese cuisine has natural advantages for FODMAP diners:
- Fresh sashimi is FODMAP-free
- Simple preparations highlight ingredients
- Less reliance on alliums than Western cuisine
- Rice is a FODMAP-safe staple
Challenges include:
- Soy sauce contains wheat
- Miso is high FODMAP
- Some preparations use garlic
How to Communicate Your Needs
Before Your Visit
- Contact the restaurant - Given the intimate omakase format, advance notice is courteous
- Explain clearly - Note that you need gluten-free soy sauce and cannot have miso
- Trust the chef - Masa’s expertise means he can adapt the omakase
Key Requests
Essential substitutions:
- Gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce
- No miso soup or miso-based preparations
- No teriyaki glazes
- Skip tempura courses
The Omakase Advantage
In an omakase setting:
- The chef controls every course
- Direct communication is possible
- Dishes can be modified on the spot
- Your experience is personalized
What to Expect
At Masa:
- Exceptional quality sashimi and sushi
- Chef’s attention to your dietary needs
- Modified courses within the omakase framework
- A memorable, intimate dining experience
This guide provides general FODMAP guidance for fine dining. Omakase menus vary daily. Always confirm ingredients directly with the restaurant.