Best Gluten Free Japanese in Tampa

Union New American stands out in Tampa for its thoughtful gluten-free labeling right on the main menu and staff who genuinely understand celiac needs—what a relief, honestly, in a sea of uncertainty. While not a dedicated gluten-free facility, they clearly mark GF options (hello, steak and sushi lovers!) and even stock gluten-free soy sauce, which is a small but meaningful detail for many of us. The team takes allergies seriously and servers are well-versed in safe choices—still, you’ll want to have that familiar chat about cross-contamination since the kitchen is shared. If you’re craving an upscale night out without feeling like a burden, this spot does offer a sense of normalcy and a dash of indulgence, though extra caution is always wise.

Tori Bar offers a refreshing breath of clarity for gluten-free diners, thanks to a menu that thoughtfully marks gluten-free dishes and even stocks gluten-free soy sauce—something many sushi spots still overlook. The variety is impressive, from hand rolls to grilled skewers, with plenty of naturally gluten-free options flagged right on the menu. But here's the thing: while staff encourage guests to share allergy needs and seem aware of celiac concerns, Tori Bar isn't a dedicated gluten-free facility and doesn't detail their cross-contamination protocols. If you're highly sensitive, it's worth an honest chat with your server before ordering, but for those comfortable in mixed-kitchen settings, Tori Bar's transparency and selection offer a welcome taste of inclusion (and some seriously fresh sashimi).

Kelp Sushi Joint offers a separate gluten-free menu if you ask, and the staff generally seem willing to guide celiac diners through safe options—though it's not a dedicated facility. You'll want to be extra clear about your needs, as some sushi rolls are fried and there’s no dedicated fryer, which means cross-contact can sneak in if staff aren’t vigilant. On the bright side, regulars with celiac have reported good experiences when they clearly communicate their allergy, but inconsistency in staff knowledge and procedures means it’s not totally stress-free. If you're craving sushi in Tampa and don’t mind advocating for yourself, this spot can work—but for those ultra-sensitive, caution is still the name of the game.