Discover Japan’s Favorite Family Restaurant: Top 10 Must-Try Dishes at Gusto

Discover the top 10 must-try dishes at Gusto, Japan's favorite family restaurant. Perfect for travelers seeking affordable, authentic local dining experiences.
Food & Drinks

When visiting Japan, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of sushi bars, ramen shops, and street food stalls. But if you want to experience how Japanese families dine out affordably and comfortably, look no further than Gusto—one of Japan’s most beloved family restaurant chains.

What is Gusto?

Gusto is a popular “family restaurant”, known in Japan as a famiresu. These are casual, Western-style diners that cater to everyone—from children to the elderly. With over 1,300 locations across Japan, Gusto is part of the Skylark Group, which operates a range of accessible dining options. Gusto stands out for its wide-ranging menu, affordable prices, and relaxed atmosphere.

 

Founded in 1992, Gusto has grown into a go-to spot for locals who want to enjoy consistent, high-quality meals without breaking the bank. It's especially convenient for travelers seeking a safe, clean, and welcoming environment with dishes that balance both Japanese and Western flavors.

Why Foreign Visitors Should Try Gusto

  • English Menus Available: Most Gusto locations offer multilingual menus and picture-based ordering, making it easy for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Kid-Friendly and Vegetarian Options: Gusto offers kids’ menus and a few plant-based dishes, making it a good choice for diverse dietary needs.
  • Convenient Ordering System: Many restaurants use tablets for ordering, with language options built in.
  • Open Late: Most Gusto locations are open until midnight or even 2 a.m., making it great for a late-night bite.

🏆 Top 10 Most Popular Dishes at Gusto (2025)

Based on a 2025 internal survey of Gusto employees, here are the most recommended dishes, each with its own twist on comfort and flavor:

1. Fried Chicken Set (Karaage Teishoku)

  • Flavor Profile: Crispy on the outside, juicy inside. Served with rice, miso soup, pickles, and shredded cabbage.
  • Why It’s Popular: A staple of Japanese home cooking, elevated with Gusto’s special soy-garlic marinade.
  • Great For: Fans of fried food and newcomers to Japanese cuisine.

2. Spicy Grilled Chicken Steak (Chikiteki)

  • Flavor Profile: Boldly seasoned grilled chicken thigh with crispy skin and juicy meat.
  • Why It’s Popular: Balanced spice and umami flavor. Served on a hot iron plate.
  • Great For: Those who enjoy hearty, protein-rich dishes.

3. 100% Beef Thick Hamburger Steak

  • Flavor Profile: Rich, meaty flavor with a slightly coarse texture. Often topped with demi-glace or soy-onion sauce.
  • Why It’s Popular: Japan’s answer to steak for the everyday diner.
  • Great For: Western visitors craving beefy comfort food.

4. Mentaiko Cream Carbonara

  • Flavor Profile: A fusion of Italian and Japanese. Creamy sauce with spicy cod roe (mentaiko).
  • Why It’s Popular: A rare blend of creamy and umami-rich flavors.
  • Great For: Pasta lovers looking for something uniquely Japanese.

5. Cheese-on-Cheese-in Hamburger Steak

  • Flavor Profile: Cheese inside and out! A double-layered cheese sensation over juicy beef.
  • Why It’s Popular: Ultimate indulgence with gooey melted cheese.
  • Great For: Cheese enthusiasts and Instagram foodies.

6. Chocolate Banana Mascarpone Pancakes

  • Flavor Profile: Sweet, creamy, and fruity. Topped with chocolate sauce and fresh banana slices.
  • Why It’s Popular: Dessert that feels both luxurious and homemade.
  • Great For: Sweet tooths and brunch fans.

7. Pork Kimchi Hotpot with Udon (Buta Chige)

  • Flavor Profile: Spicy, savory broth with pork slices and thick udon noodles.
  • Why It’s Popular: Warms you up on cold days. Korean influence meets Japanese comfort.
  • Great For: Cold weather visits and spice lovers.

8. Corn and Mayo Pizza

  • Flavor Profile: Sweet corn, creamy mayo, and melty cheese on a crispy crust.
  • Why It’s Popular: Quirky but beloved Japanese-style pizza.
  • Great For: Adventurous eaters curious about local flavor trends.

9. Gusto Hamburger & Chicken Nanban Combo

  • Flavor Profile: Juicy hamburger paired with fried chicken in sweet vinegar and tartar sauce.
  • Why It’s Popular: Two Japanese favorites on one plate.
  • Great For: Those who can’t choose just one.

10. Rich Meat Sauce Spaghetti

  • Flavor Profile: Thick spaghetti topped with hearty, slow-simmered meat sauce.
  • Why It’s Popular: Classic and satisfying. A favorite among kids.
  • Great For: Families and picky eaters.

FAQs for First-Time Gusto Visitors

Q: Do they accept credit cards?
A: Yes, most locations accept major credit cards and IC cards like Suica and Pasmo.

 

Q: Is there free Wi-Fi?
A: Some branches do, but it's not guaranteed. Check at the entrance or ask staff.

 

Q: Can I dine solo?
A: Absolutely. Solo dining is common in Japan and Gusto is solo-friendly.

 

Q: Are there vegetarian options?
A: A few, such as salads and pasta, but options are limited. Always check the latest menu.

Final Thoughts

Gusto offers a window into everyday Japanese dining culture. It’s not flashy or trendy, but it delivers comfort, taste, and a sense of home. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Japan traveler, sitting down for a meal at Gusto is a simple pleasure you won’t want to miss.

 

So next time you’re in Japan and see the red Gusto sign, walk in and try a dish from this top 10 list. You might just discover a new favorite.