Low FODMAP at Per Se - Fine Dining Guide
Navigate low FODMAP dining at Per Se in New York City. Tips for communicating dietary needs at this three-Michelin-star Thomas Keller restaurant.
✓ Safe Items to Order
| Item | Notes | Modifications |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled or Roasted Proteins | Premium meats and seafood | Request no garlic, onion, or high-FODMAP seasonings |
| Simply Prepared Vegetables | Seasonal produce | Request low-FODMAP preparations |
| Plain Starches | Rice, potatoes | Request without cream or butter if lactose-sensitive |
✗ Items to Avoid
- • Garlic-based sauces
- • Onion, shallot, or leek preparations
- • Cream-based sauces (unless lactose-free)
- • Classic French preparations with alliums
- • Bread and butter service
- • Tasting menu courses with undisclosed ingredients
Example Orders
Tasting Menu Approach
- ✓ Contact restaurant 72+ hours in advance
- ✓ Request modified tasting menu
- ✓ Ask chef to substitute high-FODMAP ingredients
Tip: Per Se's service excellence includes dietary accommodation
Communication Strategy
- ✓ Email reservations with detailed requirements
- ✓ Follow up by phone
- ✓ Request confirmation that kitchen can accommodate
Tip: Three-star service means exceptional attention to guest needs
About Per Se
Per Se is Thomas Keller’s New York flagship, located in the Time Warner Center with stunning Central Park views. The restaurant holds three Michelin stars and is renowned for its exacting standards of French-American cuisine and impeccable service.
Quick Summary
Best approach: Contact the restaurant 72+ hours in advance. Per Se’s commitment to guest experience and technical precision means they can accommodate most dietary requirements with advance notice.
Key strength: Thomas Keller’s restaurants are known for meticulous preparation and control over every element of the dining experience.
The French Cuisine Challenge
Classic French technique relies heavily on:
- Shallots as an aromatic base
- Butter and cream in sauces
- Complex reductions with onion
- Rich preparations
However, Per Se’s technical excellence means they can adapt dishes while maintaining quality.
How to Communicate Your Needs
Before Your Visit
- Contact reservations early - Include dietary needs when booking
- Send a follow-up email - Detail specific restrictions
- Confirm before arrival - Verify the kitchen has your requirements
Sample Communication
I have a reservation on [date] and follow a medically-required low FODMAP diet. I cannot consume garlic (in any form), onion, shallots, leeks, cream/butter (unless lactose-free), or wheat. I can have garlic-infused oil (with garlic removed), lactose-free dairy alternatives, and most proteins and vegetables prepared simply.
Given Per Se’s reputation for excellence, I’m confident the kitchen can create a memorable experience within these constraints. Please advise if you need any additional information.
What to Expect
At Per Se:
- Your requirements will be noted and communicated to the kitchen
- Modified courses will maintain the restaurant’s high standards
- Service team will explain each adapted dish
- The experience will still be exceptional
The Thomas Keller Standard
Thomas Keller restaurants are known for:
- Precision in every dish
- Control over all ingredients
- Staff training excellence
- Guest experience as priority
Your dietary needs become part of their commitment to excellence.
This guide provides general FODMAP guidance for fine dining. Menu items change seasonally. Always confirm ingredients directly with the restaurant.