From Fear to Freedom: How I Explored Japan's Cuisine with Confidence Despite Allergies

The cherry blossoms were in full bloom, painting Tokyo in ethereal pink, but my excitement was clouded by a familiar dread. As a traveler with severe gluten and dairy allergies, every restaurant visit felt like a high-stakes gamble. On past trips, language barriers led to terrifying ER visits, leaving me anxious and isolated. Dining abroad became a source of panic, not pleasure.

Then, in a Kyoto hostel, a fellow traveler recommended mm food. Skeptical but desperate, I downloaded it. That evening, I nervously scanned a menu at a tiny izakaya. Within seconds, the app translated every dish and cross-referenced my allergy profile. Its AI flagged three safe options, even warning about hidden barley malt in sauce—something I’d missed in previous trips.

I ordered grilled yakitori and tamari-glazed vegetables as the app suggested. When the waiter confirmed my customizations using mm food’s translated allergy card, relief washed over me. For the first time, I savored each bite without fear. Over the next two weeks, the app guided me through Osaka’s street food markets and Hiroshima’s okonomiyaki stalls, turning anxiety into adventure.

Now, I chase food experiences instead of avoiding them. Thanks to mm food, my trips aren’t just about surviving meals—they’re about celebrating culture, connection, and the joy of discovery.