Top 10 Popular Family Restaurants in Japan for 2024 Reached

Family restaurants in Japan, known as "famiresu," are beloved for their convenience, variety, and affordability, making them ideal for families, friends, and even solo diners. Here are the top 10 popular family restaurants in Japan, each offering unique features and value.

What is a Family Restaurant?

Family restaurants are casual, chain restaurants that cater to people of all ages. They typically serve a combination of Japanese and Western dishes, including pasta, hamburgers, and traditional Japanese fare like udon and curry rice. These restaurants are often open from early morning to late at night, some even 24/7, and offer self-serve drink bars with various non-alcoholic beverages.

Top 10 Popular Family Restaurants

1. Gusto

Gusto is one of the most recognizable family restaurants in Japan, with over 1,340 locations across the country. It is famous for its extensive menu, which includes seasonal dishes, and its kid-friendly atmosphere. The approximate cost per meal is around 1,000 yen for adults and 800 yen for children. Gusto is particularly popular for its morning combos, making it a favorite breakfast spot.

2. Saizeriya

Saizeriya is an Italian-style family restaurant with over 1,090 locations. It stands out for its incredibly low prices, with dishes like the "Milano Fuu Doria" (a doria with cream and meat sauce) starting at just 300 yen. Saizeriya offers a 500-yen lunch menu that includes a side salad and soup bar, making it a hit among students and families looking for affordable meals.

3. Joyfull

Joyfull is a popular family restaurant chain with over 800 locations, primarily in the Kyushu region. It offers a wide selection of both Western and Japanese dishes, including breakfast items available all day. Joyfull is known for its 24/7 operation and its set deals, which provide great value for money. For example, you can get a cake set for an additional 199 yen with any a la carte dish over 299 yen.

4. Big Boy

Big Boy is a meat-centric family restaurant that serves sets with hamburgers, steak, and chicken. While the menu can be a bit more expensive, it still offers pasta and omelet rice options to keep costs under 1,000 yen per plate. Big Boy also features a buffet bar with rice, salad, curry, and soup, along with a drink bar.

5. Jonathan's

Jonathan's is a family restaurant chain mainly operating in Tokyo and its surrounding areas. It offers a diverse menu that includes Japanese food, Western-style meat plates, pasta, and pizza. Prices range from 699 yen to 1,499 yen, and the restaurant features a drink bar with unlimited refills of soft drinks, teas, and coffees.

6. COCO'S

COCO'S is renowned for its Western-style meals, particularly its steak and hamburger dishes. The restaurant has a comfortable seating arrangement and an American diner-like decor, making it a favorite for those craving Western cuisine. COCO'S offers a variety of dishes at affordable prices, making it a great option for families.

7. Royal Host

Royal Host is distinguished by its slightly upscale ambiance and focus on health-conscious meals. It offers high-quality ingredients and a menu that caters to those looking for a more gourmet family dining experience. Royal Host is ideal for families seeking a bit more sophistication without breaking the bank.

8. Bikkuri Donkey

Bikkuri Donkey is a family restaurant known for its unique menu items and affordable prices. It offers a mix of Japanese and Western dishes, including some specialty items that set it apart from other family restaurants. Bikkuri Donkey is a great option for those looking for something a bit different.

9. Denny's

Denny's is an international chain with a strong presence in Japan. It offers a wide range of dishes, including American-style breakfast items available all day. Denny's is known for its comfortable seating and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

10. Bamiyan

Bamiyan is a Chinese-style family restaurant with over 300 locations in Japan. It stands out for its wide variety of Chinese dishes and all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu hot pot options. Bamiyan also offers other Chinese favorites like Kitakata Ramen and Sichuan Pepper and Chili Oil Tantanmen, making it a great choice for those craving Chinese cuisine.

What Attracts People to Family Restaurants?

Family restaurants are popular due to several key factors:

Variety of Dishes

These restaurants offer a huge variety of food, including Japanese comfort food, Western dishes, and sometimes a blend of both. The menus are often extensive, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

The atmosphere is kept casual and spacious, making it ideal for larger families. There are always menu items available that kids can enjoy.

Affordability

Family restaurants are known for their affordability, with meal prices typically ranging between 1,000 and 2,000 yen. This makes dining out accessible for families without breaking the bank.

Accessibility

Many family restaurants are located near train stations or within suburban shopping malls, making them easy to find. Some are even open 24/7, accommodating diners at any time.

Convenience

These restaurants often feature self-serve drink bars and sometimes bilingual menus, making them convenient for both locals and tourists. The use of call buttons at tables also reduces the need for conversation, enhancing the dining experience.