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Craving comfort food, friendly vibes, and budget-friendly options in Japan? Look no further than ファミリーレストラン family restaurant or ファミレス famiresu, the universal family restaurants loved by locals and travelers alike. From juicy hamburg steaks to creamy pasta, famiresu offers a diverse menu catering to all ages and tastes. This blog will introduce a few famiresu in Japan and teach you some useful phrases!
A Quick Jump To…
Most Common Famiresu
Denny’s
- Ambiance: American diner vibes with booths and classic decor.
- Menu: Focuses on American comfort food like pancakes, burgers, and steaks. Wide variety of breakfast options.
- Price: More expensive than other famiresu, with main dishes averaging around ¥1000-1500.
- Unique offering: Grand Slam breakfast menu and pancakes known for their fluffiness.
- Best for: Those craving American-style diner food and a familiar atmosphere.
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Royal Host
- Ambiance: Relaxed and family-friendly with booth seating and open spaces.
- Menu: The menu is diverse, with Japanese, Western, and Asian-inspired dishes, including pasta, steak, and curry rice,. There are also strong breakfast offerings.
- Price: Slightly higher than Saizeriya and Jonathan’s, with main dishes averaging around ¥800-1200.
- Unique offering: Extensive breakfast menu, known for its Japanese-style breakfast sets.
- Best for: Families with diverse palates seeking a comfortable and reliable option.
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Saizeriya
- Ambiance: Casual and affordable, with a simple and modern aesthetic.
- Menu: The restaurant’s menu primarily features Italian-inspired dishes like pasta, pizza, and gratins, alongside Japanese options. It is known for its “all-you-can-drink” bar.
- Price: Very affordable, with main dishes averaging around ¥500-700.
- Unique offering: “All-you-can-drink” bar at an additional cost, good value for budget-conscious diners.
- Best for: Those seeking a casual and affordable meal with Italian fare in a relaxed setting.
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Jonathan’s
- Ambiance: Warm and welcoming, with booth seating and wood accents.
- Menu: Diverse menu with Western and Japanese dishes, including steaks, pasta, and pizza.
- Price: Mid-range, with main dishes averaging around ¥800-1200.
- Unique offering: Large portions, known for its value-for-money steaks and meat dishes.
- Best for: Those seeking hearty portions of classic Western and Japanese dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
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Gusto
- Ambiance: Step into a warm, welcoming space with booth seating, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
- Menu: Indulge in a diverse menu featuring both Western and Japanese favorites. From sizzling hamburg to pizzas loaded with toppings, there’s something to tantalize every taste bud.
- Price: Mid-range, with most main dishes averaging around ¥800-1200.
- Unique Offering: They are renowned for having both Japanese and Western dishes with great portions. They also have collaborated with famous anime sometimes.
- Best for: It’s a great option for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a good value meal.
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Bonus Tip: Famiresu often have private booths, making them ideal for families with young children. They also typically stay open late, offering a convenient option for late-night bites.
Useful Japanese Phrases
- いただきます。Itadakimasu. – Thank you for the food (said before eating).
- ごちそうさまでした。Gochisousama deshita! – Thank you for the meal (said after eating).
- 水をください。Mizu o kudasai. – Can I please have water?
- [Dish Name]をお願いします。[Dish Name] o onegaishimasu. – Can I please have [Dish Name]?
- オススメはなんですか？Osusume wa nandesuka? – What do you recommend?
- もう少し考えてもいいですか？Mō sukoshi kangaete mo ii desu ka? – Can I have a little more time to think?
- お会計お願いします。Okaikei onegaishimasu. – Can I have the bill, please?
- 支払いは別々でお願いします。Shiharai wa betsubetsude onegaishimasu. – Can we pay separately?
- 持ち帰りにできますか？ Mochikaeri ni dekimasuka? – Can I take this home?
You Might Be Wondering…
What are common dishes at famiresu?
- Hamburg steak: A must-try! Savory patties are often topped with a fried egg or demi-glace sauce.
- Pasta: From creamy carbonara to classic spaghetti Bolognese, pasta is a familiar comfort food.
- Japanese classics: Tempura, katsu curry, and other popular Japanese dishes also grace the menu.
- Desserts: Indulge in parfaits, cakes, and ice cream sundaes.
What's the deal with the drink bar?
Many famiresu offer an “all-you-can-drink” bar with soft drinks, juices, and sometimes coffee. It’s a great way to quench your thirst without breaking the bank.
Most famiresu have English menus or picture menus, making ordering a breeze. Don’t hesitate to ask staff for help if needed.
How much does it cost?
Famiresu are known for their affordability. Expect to pay around ¥500-1000 for a main dish and ¥200-300 for drinks.
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