How to Order at Gyu-Kaku – Japanese BBQ with a DIY Twist

Craving grilled meat that you cook yourself?
Gyu-Kaku is Japan’s most popular yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) chain, where you get to grill meat right at your table—fun, flavorful, and perfect for groups.

Whether you’re a BBQ newbie or a yakiniku veteran, this guide will help you navigate the menu and master the grill like a local.

1. What to Expect at Gyu-Kaku

Gyu-Kaku offers:

  • A built-in charcoal or gas grill at each table
  • A huge menu of meats, sides, and sauces
  • All-you-can-eat plans or à la carte ordering
  • Casual vibes great for friends, families, or dates

Smoky, social, and seriously satisfying.

2. How to Order – Step by Step

2-1. Wait to Be Seated

Staff will guide you to a table with a grill.
During peak times, you may need to wait or write your name down.

2-2. Choose Your Style: All-You-Can-Eat or À la Carte

Gyu-Kaku usually offers:

  • All-You-Can-Eat Courses – Choose from several time-limited plans (e.g. 90 min)
  • À la Carte – Order individual dishes at your own pace

Let the staff know which you prefer. Some locations may only offer one option during lunch.

2-3. Browse the Menu

The menu includes:

  • Beef, pork, chicken, and seafood cuts
  • Vegetables and side dishes for grilling
  • Rice bowls, noodles, soups, and kimchi
  • Dipping sauces and flavor options
  • Desserts and drink bar

Many locations offer English menus or QR code ordering with English support.

2-4. Place Your Order

Order by:

  • Using a paper order sheet
  • Calling staff via the table button
  • Using the tablet menu (if available)

You can always ask for recommendations or popular sets.

2-5. Grill Your Own Food

Once your food arrives, start grilling!
Use the tongs provided and don’t overcrowd the grill.

Most meats cook in 1–3 minutes. Flip once, enjoy fresh, and dip in your favorite sauce.

2-6. Order More (if All-You-Can-Eat)

During all-you-can-eat, you can keep ordering as long as you’re within the time limit.
Be careful not to over-order—leftovers may incur a charge!

2-7. Pay at the Register

When you’re full and satisfied, bring your bill to the register to pay.
Cash, IC cards, and credit cards are usually accepted.

3. Menu Highlights

3-1. Must-Try Meats

  • Gyu-kaku Karubi (Short Rib) – The king of yakiniku
  • Harami (Skirt Steak) – Flavorful and juicy
  • Spicy Miso Pork Belly – Rich and bold
  • Garlic Shrimp – A sizzling seafood favorite
  • Assorted Meat Platters – Great for beginners

3-2. Sides & Sauces

  • Grilled mushrooms, sweet potato, and corn
  • Seaweed soup, miso soup, and chilled tofu
  • Signature tare sauces: sweet, spicy, or garlic
  • Ice cream or s’mores for dessert (!)

3-3. Drinks

  • Beer, highballs, and Japanese sake
  • Soft drinks and all-you-can-drink plans
  • Drink bar (with tea, soda, juice) at some locations

4. Payment Methods

Gyu-Kaku generally accepts:

  • Cash
  • IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.)
  • Credit cards
  • QR code payments at many locations

Ask staff or check signs near the register for accepted options.

5. Tips & Useful Phrases

  • “Karubi onegaishimasu” – Short rib, please
  • “Yakiniku tabehodai arimasu ka?” – Do you have all-you-can-eat BBQ?
  • “Motto chūmon shite ii desu ka?” – Can I order more?
  • “Okaikei onegaishimasu” – Check, please

♻️ No tipping.
🔥 Flip meats only once for best flavor—and avoid charring!

6. Final Thoughts

Gyu-Kaku brings together fire, flavor, and fun in one smoky, mouthwatering experience.
It’s a perfect intro to Japan’s unique take on BBQ—and a great excuse to play with fire at the dinner table.

So grab those tongs, fire up the grill, and let the meat magic begin!


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