In America, there are numerous diners that people flock to for breakfast or late night meals, may it be Denny’s, iHop, Sizzler, etc. or even local diners, in Japan, a family restaurant that is well-known for its western-style cuisine is Cafe Restaurant Gusto.
Operated by The Skylark Group, a pioneer in the family restaurant business in Japan, the company is responsible for restaurants like Gusto, Jonathan’s Bamiyan, Yumean, Steak Gust, Grazie Gardens, S Gsto, Aiya, Tomato and Onion, Musashi no Mori Coffee to name a few.
I decided to stop by Cafe Restaurant Gusto in Ikeburo for breakfast When I went to the restaurant, I was surprised of how big it was and how packed it was. I’ve walked past this restaurant many times and saw people go in but I thought it was some small eatery, like other places I have been to Tokyo, but it was actually quite big.
Of course, there will be differences from other countries when it comes to dining, no ketchup but you do have your cleaning cloth, nori (seaweed) and other things. Let’s take a look at the menu. You’ll notice that certain sets come with a free drink and also listed in small type are the calories.
The lunch and dinner items look so good and they are inexpensive. Glad to see children’s meals being offered and the Anpanman tie-in.
But it’s breakfast I wanted, so it’s breakfast is what I got. And learned there are free drink refills at Cafe Restaurant Gusto, so, let’s see what kind of drinks are offered. And I was surprised, many types of coffee, tea, soda, juices (including vegetable juice), etc.
As I head back to my table, my breakfast is ready and my set came with an egg, hot dog (wiener), sausage and small salad. I also ordered a pancake on the side.
The meals are slightly smaller than the US but then again, while comparable to some local diners in price, bigger chain diners tend to charge more towards $10 or over. I can say that one local diner here in California charges twice the amount of Cafe Restaurant Gusto, so this is a good deal. This is for breakfast, so next time I’ll need to try it for lunch or dinner.
But overall, Cafe Restaurant Gusto is marketed as affordable family dining and I agree. It’s inexpensive when you see the prices on the menu. I also like the diner atmosphere in which people can just kickback, talk and not worry about being rushed to leave and eat.
The Gusto restaurants are everywhere and you’ll find thee different Gusto restaurants: Cafe Restaurant Gusto, Steak Gusto for those who want primarily steak and salad and then there is S-Gusto. for those who want something quick and on the move.
The Gusto stores allow you to order early in advance via the Internet and they also offer seasonal menus as well.
So, while there is a Denny’s in Japan, for a more affordable dining experience day or night, definitely give Cafe Restaurant Gusto a chance.
