January 2026 Update

Uchi remains Austin's premier destination for gluten-free Japanese cuisine. The kitchen continues to excel at accommodating celiac diners—just mention your needs when booking or to your server. Pro tip for 2026: Ask about the omakase experience with GF modifications. The chefs are incredibly skilled at creating a memorable multi-course meal that's entirely gluten-free. Reservations essential!

About Uchi

Uchi is Austin's crown jewel of Japanese cuisine—a James Beard Award-winning restaurant that has earned national acclaim for its innovative approach to sushi and Japanese cooking. What makes Uchi remarkable for the gluten-free community is the staff's exceptional knowledge and willingness to accommodate celiac diners without compromising the artistry of their dishes.

Founded by Chef Tyson Cole in 2003, Uchi (meaning "house" in Japanese) transformed Austin's dining scene and continues to set the standard for creative omakase experiences. For gluten-free diners, this means access to world-class sushi prepared by chefs who genuinely understand cross-contamination concerns.

Gluten-Free Dining at Uchi

While Uchi is not a dedicated gluten-free restaurant, their approach to accommodating celiac guests is among the best in Austin:

  • Knowledgeable Staff: Servers are trained to identify GF-safe dishes and communicate with the kitchen
  • Tamari Available: Gluten-free soy sauce provided upon request
  • Chef Communication: Request to speak with a chef for omakase modifications
  • Allergy Protocols: Kitchen uses separate prep areas when notified of celiac
  • Naturally GF Options: Many sashimi and nigiri items are inherently gluten-free

Important: Always mention celiac disease (not just "gluten-free preference") when making reservations and again when seated. This triggers their more rigorous protocols.

Must-Try Gluten-Free Dishes

Uchi's menu changes seasonally, but these items are consistently available and can be prepared gluten-free:

  • Machi Cure ($16): Uchi's signature dish—bigeye tuna with marcona almonds, myoga, and ponzu. Request GF ponzu (tamari-based).
  • Hama Chili ($18): Yellowtail sashimi with Thai chili, ponzu, and orange. A flavor explosion that's naturally GF.
  • Nigiri Selection (varies): Simple nigiri with fresh fish over rice. Ask for tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
  • Wagyu Beef Sashimi ($24): Melt-in-your-mouth wagyu with sea salt and citrus. Naturally gluten-free.
  • Jarred Uni ($28): Fresh sea urchin with cucumber and rice crackers—request without crackers for GF.

Pro tip: Ask for the "gluten-free omakase" option. Many guests report that chefs create stunning multi-course experiences within GF parameters when given advance notice.

What to Avoid

Some items at Uchi cannot be made gluten-free due to their core ingredients:

  • Tempura dishes: The batter contains wheat flour
  • Most hot dishes with teriyaki: Unless GF sauce is available
  • Fried items: Shared fryers are used
  • Some specialty rolls: May contain hidden gluten in sauces

When in doubt, ask your server to confirm with the kitchen. The staff genuinely cares about getting it right.

Reservations & What to Expect

Uchi is a destination dining experience with a few things to know:

  • Reservations Required: Book 2-4 weeks ahead for weekends; easier availability weeknights
  • Note Celiac in Reservation: Add "celiac disease - gluten-free required" in the notes when booking
  • Price Point: Expect $75-150 per person depending on what you order
  • Dress Code: Smart casual—you'll feel comfortable in nice jeans or a dress
  • Bar Seating: Walk-ins can sometimes snag bar seats with shorter waits

Parking: Valet available ($10) or street parking on South Lamar—but spaces fill quickly on weekends.

The Uchi Experience

Located in a converted 1930s bungalow on South Lamar, Uchi offers an intimate, sophisticated atmosphere. The main dining room features sleek Japanese-inspired design with warm woods and subtle lighting. Request a seat at the sushi bar for the full experience—watching the chefs work is part of the magic.

The restaurant is ideal for special occasions, date nights, or anytime you want to treat yourself to exceptional Japanese cuisine without sacrificing safety.

Community Reviews

"I've been to Uchi four times since my celiac diagnosis, and every experience has been flawless. They take it seriously and the food is transcendent. Worth every penny." — Michelle K., Dallas
"For my 40th birthday, I told them I have celiac and asked for omakase. The chef created a 10-course gluten-free tasting menu that was the best meal of my life." — Robert L., Austin

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