Can You Request Substitutions at Omakase?

Yes, within limits. Omakase means "I leave it to you", but good counters adjust for allergies, dietary needs and strong dislikes — if you tell them in advance. What does not work is asking for changes piece by piece during the meal.

How it works. Allergies: tell the restaurant at booking, in writing. Dislikes: mention one or two, such as uni or shellfish. Pregnancy: ask for a cooked menu — some counters can, some cannot. At the table: changes are hard once fish is cut.

Why notice matters

Counters buy fish for the exact number of bookings each morning. If the chef knows in advance, they can buy an alternative. If you ask at the counter, the only option may be skipping a piece.

Allergies

Shellfish is the most common allergy at sushi counters, and cross-contact is real: the same board, knife and hands handle every piece. Many soy sauces and nikiri glazes contain wheat. Sesame appears in garnishes. Some counters can manage a shellfish-free menu; others will say honestly that they cannot. See shellfish allergy at sushi restaurants.

Dislikes

Name one or two ingredients you really do not eat, such as uni, roe or silver fish. Chefs usually substitute another piece. A long list of dislikes is better served by an à la carte restaurant.

Say it simply: "No shellfish, please — allergy" or "No uni — I don't enjoy it." Clear, specific requests are easier to handle than vague ones.

Pregnancy and raw fish

Hong Kong's Centre for Food Safety advises pregnant women to avoid raw and undercooked seafood. Some counters can build a cooked menu with anago, tamago, cooked prawn and seared items; others are almost entirely raw. Ask at booking. See sushi for pregnant women.

Wasabi and rice

You can ask for no wasabi (sabi nuki) or less rice (shari sukuname). These are routine requests at most counters.

Booking note template: "Allergy: shellfish (severe). Dislike: uni. Other: less rice please." Short, clear, in writing.

Severe allergies need a frank conversation. If a counter cannot guarantee no cross-contact, choose another restaurant. Do not rely on skipping pieces.

Common questions

Can I say no to a piece?

Yes, but tell the chef before it is cut.

Will they charge less for substitutions?

Usually not. The menu price stays the same.

Is omakase vegetarian-friendly?

Rarely. Ask directly, or choose a vegetable-focused restaurant.

Where else can I look?

See omakase etiquette and English-speaking omakase chefs.

Compiled by our editorial team from restaurant information, current venue listings, diner reviews and published menus, retrieved September 2026. Reviews are individual opinions. Prices exclude the 10% service charge unless stated and change without notice. No restaurant paid for inclusion. General information only, not medical advice.