Sukiya
すき家 | すきや
The gyūdon leader by number of restaurants
The Giant of Diversity
Sukiya is today Japan's largest gyūdon network with 1,942 restaurants across the archipelago. Founded in 1982 by Zensho Holdings, this chain has revolutionized the gyūdon market by prioritizing diversity, convenience and family accessibility.
Unlike Yoshinoya's pure tradition, Sukiya has bet on innovation and adaptation to modern tastes. Its extended menu, drive-through services and family positioning make it the preferred choice of a broader and more diverse clientele.
The Challenger's Rise
1982: Birth of Innovation
Sukiya was created by Zensho Holdings with a clear vision: democratize gyūdon by adapting it to the needs of modern families. From the start, the chain focused on menu diversityand accessibility.
1990-2000: Strategic Expansion
Sukiya developed a dense network of restaurants by prioritizing suburban locations and shopping centers. This strategy allowed it to reach families and offer services like drive-through.
2004: The BSE Crisis Opportunity
While Yoshinoya suspended its sales, Sukiya seized the opportunity by switching to Australian beef. This pragmatic decision allowed it to maintain service and gain considerable market share.
2010+: Leadership by Volume
Sukiya became the market leader through aggressive expansion and adaptability. Today, it's the reference in terms of volume and convenience.
The Diversity Strategy
Extended Menu
Over 50 different dishes: classic gyūdon, curry, seafood bowls, desserts, breakfast. A "family restaurant" approach rather than specialist.
Maximum Convenience
Drive-through, delivery, strategic locations near shopping centers and residential areas. Focus on accessibility.
Family Positioning
Family tables, kids menu, relaxed atmosphere. Targets families rather than rushed office workers.
Continuous Innovation
Regular new products, seasonal collaborations, rapid adaptation to trends. A dynamic marketing approach.
Sukiya Menu
ClassicTraditional Gyūdon
| Dish | Size | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
Gyūdon 牛丼 | ぎゅうどん | Regular (並盛) | ¥400 | 733 kcal |
Gyūdon 牛丼 | ぎゅうどん | Large (大盛) | ¥530 | 953 kcal |
Gyūdon 牛丼 | ぎゅうどん | Mega (メガ) | ¥680 | 1273 kcal |
Mini Gyūdon ミニ牛丼 | Mini | ¥350 | 513 kcal |
SpecialtiesPopular Variations
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
Cheese Gyūdon チーズ牛丼 | Gyūdon with melted cheese on top | ¥500 |
Kimchi Gyūdon キムチ牛丼 | With spicy kimchi for extra flavor | ¥480 |
Ontama Gyūdon おんたま牛丼 | With soft-boiled egg (onsen tamago) | ¥450 |
Seafood Bowl 海鮮丼 | Rice bowl with assorted seafood | ¥650 |
DiversityBeyond Gyūdon
Curry
Japanese curry with different toppings
Breakfast
Special morning menu available until 10AM
Desserts
Soft cream, seasonal desserts
Kids Menu
Child-sized portions with toy included
Popular Options
How to Order at Sukiya
Choose
Dine-in, drive-through or takeout
Order
At counter or via vending machine
Wait
Fast service, usually 3-5 minutes
Enjoy
At table or in your car
Useful Japanese Phrases
Why Sukiya Dominates
Volume and Accessibility
1,942 restaurants, presence in residential areas
Drive-Through Service
Pioneer of drive-through in Japanese fast food
Menu Diversity
Over 50 different dishes, adaptation to family tastes
Competitive Prices
Attractive pricing strategy, regular promotions
Practical Information
Average Prices
Our Review
The practical choice par excellence. Sukiya excels through convenience and diversity. Perfect for families and those seeking varied options at affordable prices. The experience may be less "authentic" than Yoshinoya, but compensates with accessibility.