Tabelog ratingSukiyaki to Gyumabushi Momoshiki (すき焼きと牛まぶし ももしき) has built its reputation on two signature dishes that celebrate Nara's local produce. The first is its sukiyaki, featuring premium Yamato beef in a thoughtfully seasoned warishita (broth) made with local Yoshino soy sauce and dried shiitake. The second is the gyu-mabushi, a dish of grilled beef over rice that is served in three distinct stages: first plain, then with a selection of condiments, and finally with a savory dashi broth poured over it.
Guests consistently praise the melt-in-the-mouth texture of the Yamato beef and the rich yet balanced flavor of the sukiyaki. The multi-stage gyu-mabushi, particularly the seared lean beef version (akami tataki), is another highlight. The staff receive frequent compliments for their patient, multilingual explanations and for assisting with cooking at the table, making the experience accessible for international visitors. The availability of private rooms and a welcoming attitude towards families with children are also noted positives.
While overwhelmingly positive, a few reviews, mostly from domestic diners, mention that the portion sizes feel a little small for the price. A couple of guests also wished for a more theatrical tableside preparation rather than having the meat arrive pre-set in the pot. These are minor points in a sea of glowing reports.
Expect to spend around ¥2,000–¥2,999 for lunch and ¥5,000–¥5,999 for dinner. For specific examples, reviewers recently paid around ¥2,420 for the Yamato Gyu-mabushi Akami Tataki and ¥7,680 for the Jo Sukiyaki Course (180g). Most diners find it offers good value for the quality of the beef and the attentive service.
- Location: The restaurant is on the 2nd floor of the Asakawa Harvest Building, just a one-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.
- Reservations: Booking is recommended, as the restaurant is popular with both locals and tourists.
- Service: Staff can assist with cooking and provide explanations. Menus are available in multiple languages, including English.
- Payment: Credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners, UnionPay), electronic money (transportation IC cards, Rakuten Edy, iD, etc.), and QR code payments (PayPay, Alipay, WeChat Pay, etc.) are all accepted.
- Family-Friendly: Children are welcome, and a kids' menu and tableware are available.
- Seating: The restaurant has 80 seats, including private rooms for groups of various sizes.
- Smoking: The dining area is non-smoking, but a separate smoking room is available.
- Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but there are paid parking lots nearby.
