びっくりドンキー
(Bikkuri Donkey)
■Franchise / Hamburg steak / Price per Person: ¥1,500-¥2,000
※Prices are based on my visit and may vary by location or time.
Bikkuri Donkey is a famous hamburg steak chain that can be found all across Japan. As the name suggests, “bikkuri (びっくり)” means “surprised” in Japanese, and every time I visit, I’m genuinely “bikkuri” at the generous portions and great value.
What makes this place special is not just the quantity. From the hamburg steak itself to side dishes, desserts, and drinks, every item is served in generous portions yet still manages to taste delicious. To be honest, I’m not usually a big fan of hamburg steak, but Bikkuri Donkey is the only place where I actually crave it from time to time.
Since it is a nationwide chain, it’s easy to find a nearby branch. Most of the restaurants are spacious and comfortable, and even during busy times, such as weekend lunch in Osaka, I’ve sometimes been able to get a seat right away without waiting. With its casual and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a place that both families and solo diners can easily enjoy.
I had some errands in Osaka’s Namba area, and while I was there, I visited the Bikkuri Donkey Amerikamura branch near Shinsaibashi.
Bikkuri Donkey: Bikkuri Menu
At Bikkuri Donkey, even the menu itself is “bikkuri (surprisingly)” huge. It can truly be called the restaurant’s signature. The moment it is placed on the table, its overwhelming size captures your attention and builds anticipation for the hearty dishes to come.
Although the size is hard to convey in photos, the wooden menu board actually measures 43 cm wide and 66 cm long—so large that it nearly fills the entire table. However, in recent years, this giant menu has gradually been disappearing, being replaced by tablets instead.
The signature dish at Bikkuri Donkey is, of course, the hamburg steak. Most hamburg steaks come in two portion sizes: 150g or 300g. This weight refers only to the meat itself, but since generous portions of rice and salad are also served on the side, it’s a good idea to keep that in mind when choosing. You can also adjust the amount of rice according to your preference.
In addition, toppings such as fried egg, cheese, and pineapple can be added, allowing you to customize your meal to suit your appetite and taste.
Bikkuri Donkey doesn’t only serve hamburg steaks—it also offers steak dishes. Unlike the hamburg plates, the steak is served with grilled vegetables and potato salad instead of rice and a side salad.
The steak is served on a hot iron plate, so be careful when it arrives, as the plate is extremely hot. If you are dining with children, make sure they don’t accidentally touch it. The sizzling sound and aroma when the steak is brought to the table add to the excitement, making the meal feel even more special.
In addition to hamburg steaks and steaks, Bikkuri Donkey also offers a wide variety of dishes such as salads, French fries, meat spaghetti, and Margherita pizza. These are great options for those who don’t eat meat or for groups who want to share different dishes together.
The menu also features a rich selection of desserts and drinks, including parfaits, chocolate cake, and fruit juice. They are perfect for enjoying after a meal. Since the portions are also quite large, it’s good to keep that in mind when ordering.
Bikkuri Donkey: Bikkuri Hamburg Steak
At the time of my visit, the restaurant was offering a limited-time set featuring hamburg steak and menchi katsu. I added a corn soup to my order, which paired perfectly with the rich flavor of the meat and made the meal even more satisfying. The hamburg steak in the photo is the 150g size. While it may look modest on its own, the generous portions of rice and salad served alongside make it a very filling dish.
What makes Bikkuri Donkey so appealing is not just the large portions. The hamburg steak is tender and juicy, and when enjoyed together with the side dishes, it becomes a truly satisfying meal. This is why the restaurant is loved not only by locals in Japan but also by travelers looking for a hearty meal. The casual and welcoming atmosphere makes it comfortable to dine alone, while the generous servings also make it fun to share with family or friends.
If you’re looking for a hearty and reasonably priced meal in Japan, I can confidently recommend Bikkuri Donkey, where you can enjoy both generous portions and delicious hamburg steak.
■Bikkuri Donkey
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