Is Coco Curry Gluten-Free in Tokyo? Your Guide to Allergen-Free Options

January 4, 2026 •

3 min read

While standard Japanese curry, including CoCo Ichibanya’s, traditionally contains a wheat-based roux, travelers to Tokyo with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity can rejoice, as CoCo Ichibanya offers a specially prepared, allergen-free curry. This option comes in a sealed pouch to prevent cross-contamination, offering a much safer dining experience.

Quick Summary

CoCo Ichibanya offers an allergen-free curry in Tokyo that is safe for gluten-sensitive diners, served in a sealed pouch to minimize cross-contamination. Its standard curry is made with a wheat-based roux and is not safe for celiacs.

Key Points

Allergen-Free Option Exists: CoCo Ichibanya in Tokyo offers a special allergen-free curry, which is also wheat/gluten-free.
Sealed Pouch for Safety: The allergen-free curry is served in a sealed, pre-packaged pouch to prevent cross-contamination.
Standard Curry is NOT Gluten-Free: The regular CoCo Ichibanya curry contains a wheat-based roux and is unsafe for celiacs.
Know Where to Look: The allergen-free option is often found in the kids' menu section or listed on a special allergy menu.
Communicate Effectively: Use a Japanese allergen card to ensure staff understand your dietary needs, especially regarding cross-contamination.

Navigating the Gluten Question at CoCo Ichibanya in Tokyo

For many travelers, trying local Japanese curry is a must, and CoCo Ichibanya, affectionately known as 'CoCoCurry,' is a popular and accessible chain. However, a common concern for those with dietary restrictions is whether this ubiquitous dish is safe. While it's true that the traditional Japanese curry roux, including the one used in CoCo Ichibanya's standard recipes, is made with wheat flour and is therefore not gluten-free, there is a silver lining for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

The Standard Menu: A High-Gluten Warning

The key ingredient that makes most Japanese curry unsafe is the roux. This thickener is typically a mixture of wheat flour and fat cooked together with spices. For those with celiac disease, even a small amount of gluten can be harmful, and the high risk of cross-contamination in a busy kitchen environment makes ordering the standard curry a non-starter.

The Allergen-Free Solution

Fortunately, CoCo Ichibanya has a dedicated allergen-free option designed for diners with common food allergies. This special curry, which is free from the 7 major allergens in Japan (including wheat), is your golden ticket.

Sealed Pouch: The curry arrives in a sealed, pre-packaged retort pouch. This is a critical safety measure as it is heated separately and opened only at your table, virtually eliminating the risk of cross-contamination from the main kitchen.
Safe Ingredients: The allergen-free curry is made with ingredients that are safe for a gluten-free diet. It's a comforting and reliable choice when most other options are off the table.
Where to Find It: The allergen-free curry is often listed on the kids' menu or a special allergy menu. Don't be afraid to ask staff by mentioning "arerugii furii kare" (allergy-free curry) or showing a Japanese allergen card.

Understanding the Allergen Menu

While the allergen-free curry is safe, it's important to be vigilant about other items. The standard toppings, like fried katsu, are not gluten-free. Stick to plain rice and confirm with staff that any additional sides are prepared safely. Cross-contamination can be a concern with shared fryers or cooking surfaces.

Comparison Table: Standard vs. Allergen-Free Curry


Feature	Standard CoCo Ichibanya Curry	Allergen-Free CoCo Ichibanya Curry
Curry Base	Wheat-based roux	No wheat, allergen-free
Preparation	Cooked in standard kitchen	Sealed pouch, heated separately
Cross-Contamination	High risk	Minimal to no risk
Available Toppings	Extensive (mostly unsafe)	Rice only (confirm other sides)
Menu Location	Main menu	Often on kids' or special allergy menu

Finding Other Gluten-Free Options in Tokyo

Tokyo is a foodie paradise, and with a little preparation, you can enjoy many delicious gluten-free meals. Besides CoCo Ichibanya's allergen-free option, consider these alternatives:

Sushi and Sashimi: Naturally gluten-free, but always request tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) instead of regular soy sauce.
Yakitori: Skewered and grilled meats can be safe, but be sure to ask for shio (salt) seasoning instead of the tare (sauce), which usually contains gluten.
Tempura: Typically made with a wheat flour batter, but some restaurants may offer a gluten-free version using rice flour. Always confirm.
Specialty Restaurants: Tokyo has a growing number of dedicated gluten-free restaurants and cafes. Use apps like Find Me Gluten Free to locate verified celiac-safe venues.

Tips for Dining Out with Celiac Disease

Bring an Allergen Card: Carry a card in Japanese that clearly explains your need for a completely gluten-free meal and the risks of cross-contamination. This is crucial for non-chain restaurants.
Use Translation Apps: While not foolproof, translation apps can help bridge the language barrier with restaurant staff.
Stick to Safer Cuisines: When in doubt, default to inherently safer dishes like sushi or sashimi, or seek out certified gluten-free establishments.

Conclusion: Eat with Confidence in Tokyo

It is possible to safely enjoy Japanese curry from CoCo Ichibanya in Tokyo, thanks to their dedicated allergen-free menu item that uses a sealed pouch to prevent contamination. However, awareness is key, and you should always confirm the item and its preparation. By understanding the distinction between the standard and allergen-free curries, and exploring other safe culinary options, you can navigate Tokyo's vibrant food scene with confidence. Remember to communicate clearly with staff and use the available resources to ensure a safe and delicious experience.

For more detailed information on traveling gluten-free in Japan, consulting a celiac travel blog can provide invaluable firsthand accounts and tips. The Tokyo Chapter provides insights into safe eating at CoCo Ichibanya and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the standard curry roux used in CoCo Ichibanya's regular curry is made with wheat flour and is not gluten-free.

While not a dedicated 'gluten-free' menu, CoCo Ichibanya offers a special allergen-free curry that is free of the 7 major allergens, including wheat, and is safe for gluten-sensitive diners.

You can ask for the 'allergy-free curry' (arerugii furii kare) and clarify that it must come in the sealed, pre-packaged pouch. A Japanese allergen card is highly recommended.

Because it comes in a sealed pouch and is not prepared in the same kitchen area as the standard curry, the risk of cross-contamination is significantly reduced, making it a safe option for many with celiac disease.

The plain rice is gluten-free, but most fried toppings like katsu contain gluten and may be subject to cross-contamination. Always ask staff about specific sides.

Beyond the allergen-free curry and plain rice, there are no other dedicated gluten-free options that can be safely guaranteed. It's best to stick to the sealed curry.

The allergen-free curry is often listed on the kids' menu or on a separate special menu for allergens. It's important to specify this option when ordering.