1. Introduction
Want Italian food in Japan without breaking the bank?
Saizeriya is Japan’s answer to fast, cheap, and surprisingly tasty Italian-style meals.
Popular with students, families, and anyone on a budget, this casual eatery offers pasta, pizza, and more—often for less than $4 a dish.
Let’s walk through how to order and what to expect at Saizeriya.
2. What to Expect at Saizeriya
Saizeriya offers:
- Italian-inspired dishes at incredibly low prices
- A casual, cafeteria-like atmosphere
- Simple paper menus and fast service
- Optional drink bar with unlimited soft drinks
It’s not fancy—but it gets the job done deliciously cheap.
3. How to Order – Step by Step
3-1. Wait to Be Seated
Enter and wait to be guided by staff.
During busy times, you may need to write your name on a waiting list near the entrance.
3-2. Browse the Menu
Menus are usually in Japanese, but some locations have English versions.
You’ll find:
- Pasta, pizza, rice gratin (doria), and meat dishes
- Salads, soups, desserts
- A famous selection of surprisingly cheap wines
3-3. Fill Out the Order Sheet
Each table comes with a small order sheet and pencil.
Write the item numbers and quantities, then hand the sheet to the staff.
Pro tip: Staff won’t come unless you call them, so press the call button!
3-4. Pay at the Register
After finishing your meal, bring your bill to the front register to pay.
Cash and digital payments are usually accepted.
4. Menu Highlights
4-1. Signature Dishes
- Milano-style Doria – Cheese-topped rice gratin with meat sauce (around $2–3!)
- Carbonara Pasta – Creamy and satisfying
- Margherita Pizza – Crispy, simple, and under $4
- Grilled Chicken with Herb Sauce – One of the best deals for protein
- Garlic Focaccia – Addictive side bread
4-2. Desserts & Drinks
- Tiramisu, pudding, and matcha ice cream
- Italian wines (glass or bottle) starting from around $1
- Drink bar with coffee, soda, and tea for a small extra charge
5. Payment Methods
Saizeriya usually accepts:
- Cash
- IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.)
- Some credit cards
- QR code payments at selected locations
Check the signs near the entrance or register for accepted methods.
6. Tips & Useful Phrases
- “Kore to kore onegaishimasu” – I’ll have this and this
- “Onaji mono futatsu” – Two of the same item
- “Drink bar tsukemasu” – I’ll add the drink bar
- “Okaikei onegaishimasu” – Check, please
♻️ No tipping.
🍴 You may need to grab utensils from a nearby counter.
7. Final Thoughts
Saizeriya proves that dining out in Japan doesn’t have to be expensive.
With its ultra-affordable menu and stress-free ordering system, it’s a solid choice for a quick and tasty meal.
Grab that order sheet, press the call button, and dive into Italian-Japanese budget magic!
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