Having authentic Japanese meals when in Japan is a must. Sushi, sashimi, tempura, onigiri, yakitori, the list goes on… This is what tourists typically crave for when they travel to Japan. However, there are also a whole lot of popular chain restaurants and fast-food stalls among the local Japanese, which tourists should not miss out on! They may not be as fancy as traditional local Japanese restaurants, but they are reasonably priced and taste amazing (I personally love all of them and find them fancy). I reckon most Japanese would have tried these at least once in their lifetime, and you should do the same! We have picked videos that people are reviewing each restaurant, so if you are interested, don’t forget to check out those, too.

1. Saizeriya

Saizeriya is an Italian-influenced chain restaurant mainly targeted towards families. Their food is extremely reasonable, even compared to other restaurants on this list. Options for mains range from pizza, pasta and doria, which you can easily enjoy for just $10. They aren’t authentic Italian dishes, but it’s a great option if you’re travelling with family since it offers so much for such a reasonable price. Be sure to try “Doria with Meat Sauce”, everyone’s all-time favourite, at just about $4.

2. Denny’s 

Denny’s may just be the hottest chain restaurant in Japan. As you may already know, Denny’s Japan is the same as the one in America. That being said, the contract and operations with Denny’s USA have creased and Denny’s Japan is now managed independently. Of course, there are many original dishes available and in addition to that, some unique Japanese dishes will be on the menu too.

3. Royal Host 

Royal Host is another classic chain restaurant in Japan. You may find that the prices here are not as reasonable as others on this list, but it is definitely worth a shot! The atmosphere of the store is more likely to be calmer and relaxed as compared to other restaurants. Choose from western to Japanese-style dishes from their morning and afternoon sets. It’s certainly a nice place to chill and will satisfy you whenever you visit. 

4. Yoshinoya 

Yoshinoya is a fast-food chain store mainly offering various options of Gyudon (beef bowls). Just as their motto states: “Tasty, low-priced, and quick”, their service is speedy, food is super tasty and reasonably priced. They offer Teishoku (set meals) with miso soup to ensure you maintain a healthy diet. Most of their stores are also open 24/7, which is perfect to satisfy your midday or midnight cravings. 

5. CoCo Ichibanya

If you love Japanese curry, this is the place for you. Coco Ichibanya is the largest Japanese curry fast-food chain store, where you can customise your ideal Japanese curry dish. From type of curry sauce, level of spiciness and toppings, including meat, vegetables and fish. There are special seasonal menus as well, so just drop by whenever you have the chance!

6. Gyu-Kaku 

Gyukaku is a Japanese-style BBQ chain restaurant that has over 600 stores in Japan alone, and nearly 40 overseas (not in Australia, unfortunately). They offer 90-minute all-you-can-eat courses, which they are famous for, and cost approximately $40 or $60 depending on your choice of course. A variety of side dishes such as noodles, bibimbap and even sweets are available aside from the classic Premium Wagyu choice. 

Hopefully, this provides some variety to the traditional restaurants on your list of places to visit when you’re in Japan once the travel restrictions have been lifted. What’s better than yummy food at reasonable prices that won’t break the bank!