Japan Rankings
If you're traveling to Japan and looking for a satisfying, affordable, and authentic Japanese meal, Matsuya (松屋) is a name you should know. This popular chain restaurant offers far more than just beef bowls — it delivers Japanese comfort food with speed, value, and surprising variety.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the Top 10 most popular Matsuya menu items, updated for 2025, and explain why locals love them.
Founded in 1966, Matsuya is one of Japan’s “Big Three” beef bowl chains, alongside Yoshinoya and Sukiya. It currently operates over 1,000 locations nationwide.
Unlike its competitors, Matsuya stands out for:
Based on a reader poll conducted by macaroni (a popular Japanese food site), here are the most beloved Matsuya dishes.
The classic. Thin slices of beef simmered in a sweet soy-based sauce, served over rice.
🔥 Why it’s popular: It’s simple, fast, flavorful, and costs just a few hundred yen. A perfect intro to Japanese fast food.
A lightly charred, juicy fillet of salmon served with rice, miso soup, and pickles.
🍣 Why it’s popular: Clean, traditional Japanese flavors. Great for those who want a healthy, non-meat option.
A spicy soy sauce blend, topped with fresh chopped green onions and a soft-boiled egg.
🌶️ Why it’s popular: Bold, savory, and packed with texture. The egg balances the spice beautifully.
Matsuya’s classic gyumeshi topped with rich, melted cheese.
🧀 Why it’s popular: Comfort food at its finest — savory beef + creamy cheese = satisfying.
A Japanese curry loaded with big pieces of tender chicken.
🍛 Why it’s popular: Hearty, warming, and ideal on a rainy or cold day. One of Matsuya’s hidden gems.
Classic gyumeshi topped with spicy Korean kimchi.
🇰🇷 Why it’s popular: Adds punch and acidity to the sweet beef — great for spice lovers.
Topped with coarse-grated daikon radish and tangy citrus-based ponzu sauce.
🧊 Why it’s popular: Refreshing, light, and perfect for hot summer days.
Beef short ribs (kalbi) and spicy kimchi over rice.
🥩 Why it’s popular: Juicy, fatty beef + spicy tang = maximum flavor impact.
A Western-style hamburger patty with a rich brown demi-glace sauce, served with rice and miso soup.
🍽️ Why it’s popular: A Japanese take on Salisbury steak — rich, satisfying, and nostalgic.
The same grilled salmon, but served as a morning set with rice, miso soup, seaweed, and a raw egg.
🌅 Why it’s popular: A traditional Japanese breakfast at a fast-food price.
Matsuya restaurants are everywhere — in train stations, business districts, and suburban areas. They’re easy to spot thanks to the bright yellow signs.
