Nakauなか卯
The Perfect Gyūdon & Udon Fusion
Family Quality Specialist since 1969
Discover Nakau
Nakau revolutionizes the Japanese fast-food experience by combining two of Japan's most popular dishes: gyūdon and udon.
Founded in 1969 under the name "Nakau Honten", this unique chain developed an innovative concept that distinguishes it from competitors Yoshinoya, Sukiya and Matsuya. Rather than focusing solely on gyūdon, Nakau expanded its menu to include freshly prepared udon, creating a unique positioning in the Japanese fast-food market.
Nakau's philosophy is based on "accessible family quality" - offering dishes that remind you of home cooking while maintaining the speed and efficiency of a fast-food chain. This approach has allowed the brand to build loyalty among diverse customers, from busy salarymen to families looking for a satisfying meal.
Menu & Specialties
Premium Gyūdon
- 親子丼 (Oyako-don) - Chicken and egg, signature specialty
- 牛丼 (Gyū-don) - Simmered beef, home-style
- カツ丼 (Katsu-don) - Breaded pork cutlet
- 天丼 (Ten-don) - Tempura over rice
- 海鮮丼 (Kaisen-don) - Assorted seafood
Udon & Noodles
- かけうどん (Kake udon) - Plain udon in dashi broth
- 肉うどん (Niku udon) - Udon with simmered beef
- 天ぷらうどん (Tempura udon) - With shrimp tempura
- カレーうどん (Curry udon) - Udon in Japanese curry
- そば (Soba) - Buckwheat noodles available
Nakau's Secret
The udon are prepared fresh in each restaurant, unlike most chains that use industrial noodles. The dashi broth is prepared daily with authentic bonito flakes (katsuobushi), creating a superior taste experience.
Ordering Guide
Hybrid Ordering System
🎫 Vending Machine
- • Insert your money
- • Select your main dish
- • Choose size (並/大/特盛)
- • Add side dishes
- • Collect ticket and change
👥 Counter Ordering
- • Some stores accept direct orders
- • Staff generally speak basic English
- • Payment by cash or IC card
- • Take-away option available
Tips to Optimize Your Order
- • "定食 (teishoku)" sets include miso soup and vegetables
- • Ask for "大盛り無料 (ōmori muryō)" for free extra rice (certain dishes)
- • Udon requires 3-5 minutes additional preparation time
- • Green tea water is self-service
The Nakau Experience
Atmosphere & Ambiance
- •Warm design - Light wood interior, soft lighting
- •Family spaces - Tables for 4-6 people available
- •Attentive service - Staff trained in hospitality
- •Relaxed atmosphere - Less rushed than Yoshinoya
Key Differentiators
- •Superior quality - Fresher ingredients
- •Diversified menu - Gyūdon AND udon under one roof
- •Visible preparation - Open kitchen in some stores
- •Continuous innovation - New seasonal products
Practical Information
Price Range
- • Gyūdon 並盛: ¥490-580
- • Oyako-don: ¥650-750
- • Simple Udon: ¥380-480
- • Complete sets: ¥800-1,200
- • Kids menu: ¥480-580
Typical Hours
- • City centers: 24/7 or 6 AM - 2 AM
- • Suburbs: 7 AM - 11 PM generally
- • Highways: Extended hours
- • No closure: New Year only
Dietary Requirements
- • Vegetarian: Udon with vegetable dashi (on request)
- • Pork-free: Many options available
- • Allergies: Information available in English
- • Children: Adapted menu and adjustable portions
Additional Services
- • Free Wi-Fi in most stores
- • Power outlets at counters
- • Take-out ordering optimized
- • Delivery via Uber Eats/demae-can