The 7 Best Family Restaurants in Japan
Family restaurants, commonly known in Japanese as "famiresu," are casual sit-down restaurants popular with Japanese people of all ages. At these restaurants, you'll find everyone from families enjoying a meal, to office workers on their lunch break, to students studying for their exams. Born from Japan's economic boom in the 1970s, these family restaurants have evolved over the years to serve a wide range of food and often have large menus that are bound to have something for everyone to eat. Best of all, these restaurants are generally affordable options if you want to eat out but don't want to break the bank or hit up a local fast-food joint.
Let's take a look at what makes family restaurants so popular, and learn about some of the most popular family restaurants in Japan.
What is So Great About Family Restaurants?
Japanese family restaurants are beloved because of their blend of convenience, comfort, and variety. Here are some reasons why you might want to have your next meal in Japan at one.
・Big Menus: Family restaurants usually have a huge variety of food to choose from, with multiple-page menus. Many offer everything from Japanese comfort food like curry to Western dishes like spaghetti and hamburgers. Many often have dishes that blend the two worlds of cuisine together. You will definitely be able to find something you want to eat at one of these restaurants.
・Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Like their name suggests, these restaurants are meant to be family-friendly, and as such the atmosphere in each restaurant is kept casual. Seating is usually spacious to sit larger families, and there are always menu items that kids can choose from.
・Prices: One of the most attractive features is how affordable these restaurants can be. The prices are typically lower than those at traditional restaurants, making it easy for families to dine out without spending a lot.
・Accessibility: Many family restaurants are located near train stations or within suburban shopping malls, making them easy to find.
・Long Hours: Most family restaurants offer extended operating hours, with some open 24/7, accommodating everyone from early risers to late-night diners.
Popular Family Restaurants in Japan
Here are some of the most popular family restaurants in Japan.
・Gusto
Gusto stands out for its huge menu, which includes Japanese and Western dishes. The restaurant is particularly famous for its morning combos, making it a popular breakfast spot.
Learn more here.
・Saizeriya
Known for its incredibly low prices and Italian-inspired menu, Saizeriya offers an array of dishes such as rice gratin (known as doria), pasta, and pizza. It's a hit among students and families looking to enjoy a lot of food on a budget. They also offer a "drink bar" where you can get as many self-serve refills as you want of hot and cold drinks.
Learn more here.
・Coco's
Coco's is renowned for its Western-style meals, particularly its steak and hamburger dishes. The comfortable seating and American diner-like decor make it a favored choice for those craving a taste of the West.
Learn more here.
・Royal Host
Distinguished by its slightly upscale ambiance, Royal Host offers high-quality ingredients and a focus on health-conscious meals. It's ideal for those looking for a more gourmet family dining experience.
Learn more here.
・Joyfull
Joyfull is a family restaurant chain mainly located in Western Japan, known for being open 24/7. The restaurant uses local ingredients to offer a mix of regional specialties and standard fare at affordable prices. Joyfull's welcoming atmosphere caters to families, groups, and solo diners alike.
Learn more here.
・Ootoya
Ootoya is known for serving home-style Japanese meals. The menu features a wide range of dishes, including grilled fish, tempura, and tofu, all prepared with a focus on healthy ingredients. Ootoya's atmosphere is cozy and reminiscent of a Japanese home, making it a popular choice for those seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience.
Learn more here.
・Washoku Sato
Washoku Sato is a popular Japanese family restaurant chain renowned for its wide range of traditional Japanese dishes at affordable prices. The restaurant specializes in a variety of sushi, tempura, and tonkatsu, serving them in a homely atmosphere that echoes the warmth of Japanese dining culture.
Learn more here.
Enjoy Eating Out in Japan!
If you're traveling or living in Japan on a budget, check out one of these family restaurants! You're bound to find something delicious to eat. And even if you're not on a budget, it is worth it to hit up one of these restaurants to enjoy the atmosphere.
