Nakau Akiba — Restaurant in Tokyo

Nakau is one of Japan’s popular donburi chain restaurants, and I find myself returning regularly whenever I’m in Japan. Their cheese gyudon has become my go-to order - the cheese blends surprisingly well with the traditional beef and rice bowl, creating a comfort food fusion that shouldn’t work but absolutely does. The cheese adds a creamy richness that complements rather than overwhelms the savory beef and onions.

It’s exactly what you’d expect from a Japanese chain - consistent quality, quick service, and affordable prices. While it may not be groundbreaking cuisine, Nakau delivers reliable satisfaction that makes it a dependable choice when you want something familiar yet satisfying. The cheese gyudon has become something of a must-have for me on every Japan trip - it’s that perfect combination of traditional Japanese flavors with a modern twist that keeps me coming...

It’s your basic breakfast set place that comes with rice miso and sides. About 20 seats. 7 am has about five salarymen and locals types. Kiosk ordering with English option. Had a salmon set with additional raw egg for less than $4 in total. Free tea. No complaints for this price point. Place also has meat bowls and Katsudon udon etc. I was just in the mood for raw egg and rice. I would eat here again. I feel it’s a good value and healthier than a greasy breakfast sandwich. And it was convenient for my hotel and the grocery store...

This place was amazing. To all my foreign English speaking friends. You order at a machine near the front and then sit down. The staff immediately recognized that I had no idea what I was doing, and two English speakers came over to assist. I got the spicy udon noodles and they were phenomenal. Even during the crowded lunch rush filled with many Tokyo businessmen wearing suits, I felt welcomed by the staff. 740 yen for noodles and rice, very good price...