Curious about Japan’s take on hamburger steak?
Bikkuri Donkey is a beloved chain specializing in hamburg steaks—juicy, saucy patties served with rice, salad, and a whole lot of personality.
With its woodsy, whimsical interiors and surprisingly broad menu, it’s a fun and filling stop whether you’re solo or with friends.
Here’s how to order and what to expect.
1. What to Expect at Bikkuri Donkey
Bikkuri Donkey offers:
- Juicy hamburg steaks served on wooden plates
- Unusual but cozy interior design (like a fairytale lodge)
- Menus built into giant wooden picture frames
- Family-friendly service with generous portions
It’s not fast food—it’s “slow casual” with a distinctly Japanese flair.
2. How to Order – Step by Step
2-1. Wait to Be Seated
Staff will guide you to your table.
During busy hours, you may need to wait in line or write your name on a waiting list.
2-2. Browse the Menu
The menu is embedded in a large wooden frame—fun but slightly overwhelming!
Most locations have English menus available.
Main categories include:
- Hamburg steak sets
- Cheese or grated radish toppings
- Combo plates with egg, curry, or sausage
- Side dishes, salads, desserts, and drinks
2-3. Place Your Order
Order by speaking or pointing.
Staff may ask you:
- “What size rice?” (Small, Medium, Large)
- “Soup or miso soup?”
- “Set or à la carte?”
Don’t worry—if you look confused, they’ll often bring a picture menu.
2-4. Wait and Enjoy the Vibe
It’s not fast food, so sit back and relax.
You’ll hear quirky music and see wood panels, stained glass, and hanging signs everywhere.
Welcome to Donkeyland.
2-5. Pay at the Register
After your meal, bring your bill to the register.
Cash, IC cards, and credit cards are usually accepted.
3. Menu Highlights
3-1. Signature Hamburg Steaks
- Cheese Hamburg Dish – Melty cheese on top of juicy steak with rice and salad
- Grated Daikon Hamburg – Refreshing and tangy, popular in summer
- Egg Hamburg Combo – Served with a soft fried egg on top
- Double Hamburg Plate – For serious meat lovers
- Pineapple Hamburg – Sweet-savory and controversial (!)
3-2. Sides & Sets
- Miso soup or corn potage
- Curry rice, sausage, or fried shrimp add-ons
- Salads with house dressing (it’s legendary!)
- Donkey parfaits and seasonal desserts
3-3. Drinks
- Coffee, tea, and juices
- Beer, highballs, and floats
- Giant-size drinks available (because why not?)
4. Payment Methods
Bikkuri Donkey generally accepts:
- Cash
- IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.)
- Credit cards
- QR code payments at some locations
Ask the staff or check near the register for accepted options.
5. Tips & Useful Phrases
- “Cheese hanbāgu onegaishimasu” – Cheese hamburg, please
- “Oomori gohan de” – Large rice, please
- “Misoshiru arimasu ka?” – Do you have miso soup?
- “Okaikei onegaishimasu” – Check, please
♻️ No tipping.
🍽️ Water is usually self-serve or brought at the beginning.
6. Final Thoughts
Bikkuri Donkey is more than a meal—it’s an experience.
From the wooden menus to the juicy steaks and eccentric atmosphere, it’s a truly memorable take on “hamburg in Japan.”
Come hungry. Leave smiling. Possibly confused. But definitely full.
