“Delicious and Affordable” – The Ultimate Saizeriya Guide: A Popular Wafu-Italian Experience for Visitors to Japan

In recent years, Saizeriya has been gaining more and more attention among travelers visiting Japan. This family restaurant offers authentic Italian dishes at surprisingly low prices, while also incorporating Japanese-style flavors and hospitality into its “Wafu-Italian” approach. The result is a perfectly balanced dining experience that has won the hearts of many international visitors.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to everything you need to know about Saizeriya—from its unique charm and recommended menu items to how to order—so you can enjoy it with confidence, even if it’s your first time.

What Is Saizeriya? Japan’s Beloved Family Restaurant

Unbeatable Value: Why It’s So Popular

Surprisingly Affordable – Most Dishes Start Around ¥300

Saizeriya’s biggest appeal lies in its exceptional cost performance. With many dishes starting from just around ¥300, it’s easy to order multiple items without worrying about your budget—perfect for families or groups dining out.
Behind this affordability is a commitment to efficient cost reduction. From ingredient sourcing to restaurant operations, Saizeriya has streamlined its processes to eliminate waste and deliver high-quality meals at low prices.
In a time when many restaurants are struggling, Saizeriya continues to stand out as the go-to place for “delicious and affordable” dining.

A Wide Variety of Dishes Loved by All Generations

Saizeriya’s menu focuses on casual Italian fare—gratin, pizza, doria, pasta—all carefully adjusted to suit Japanese tastes.
This unique Wafu-Italian (Japanese-style Italian) approach appeals to everyone, from children to seniors.
Takeout options are also well-developed, allowing customers to enjoy their favorite dishes at home.
All locations offer a self-service drink bar, and Saizeriya sets itself apart from other chains by offering more than a dozen types of wine at affordable prices.

A Comfortable Space for Students and Families Alike

Saizeriya is not only affordable—it’s also known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Spacious tables, bright lighting, and cozy interiors make it easy to stay and relax.
Among students, it’s affectionately called “Saize,” and it’s a popular spot for meals with friends, after-school hangouts, and even casual study sessions.
The menu and layout are also family-friendly, making it a reliable choice for parents dining with children.

Italian Meets Japanese: What Is “Wafu-Italian”?

Tarako Spaghetti and Japanese-Style Dressings

At Saizeriya, you’ll find Italian cuisine reimagined with “Japanese taste adaptations” that go beyond traditional recipes.
One of the most iconic examples is Tarako (cod roe) spaghetti—a dish you won’t find in Italy, but one that has become a beloved staple in Japan and on Saizeriya’s menu.
This fusion reflects a uniquely Japanese interpretation of Italian food, making it both familiar and exciting for local diners.

Flavors That Reflect Japanese Taste

Saizeriya’s menu doesn’t simply import Italian cuisine—it adjusts flavors to match Japanese dietary habits and preferences.
For example, dishes may use less garlic or olive oil, and incorporate soy sauce-based seasoning or lightly sweetened sauces that evoke a sense of Japanese comfort food.
This makes the food approachable even for those who normally don’t enjoy Italian cuisine, including children and seniors.
The result is a naturally blended “Wafu-Italian” experience—a unique category of Italian food, crafted for the Japanese palate.

Who Should Try Saizeriya?

A Simple and Accessible Japanese Dining Experience

Saizeriya is the perfect place to experience everyday Japanese dining without stress.
The menu is very affordable, and the ordering process is simple—even for visitors who don’t speak Japanese.
This casual family restaurant is a great option for travelers who just want to “walk in and try something local” without hesitation.
You’ll also enjoy Japan’s signature hospitality and a clean, comfortable atmosphere.
If you’re looking to try “everyday Japan” through food, Saizeriya is a great place to start.

Menus with Photos Make Ordering Easy

For international visitors, the language barrier can be a challenge when dining out—but at Saizeriya, every menu item is accompanied by a photo.
This makes it easy to visualize what you’re ordering and removes the stress from mealtime decisions.
Many locations also offer multilingual menus in English and Chinese, helping guests better understand the ingredients and flavors before they order.

Welcoming for Solo Diners

In Japan, some people may feel uncomfortable dining alone—but Saizeriya is very solo-diner friendly.
Many stores offer counter seating or compact tables for two, and it’s common to see people eating alone without feeling out of place.
The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed, making it ideal for a quick bite between sightseeing stops or a peaceful break from your travels.
With its unpretentious setting and reliable comfort food, Saizeriya is the perfect place to enjoy a casual and satisfying meal—on your own or with others.

Must-Try Menu Items

Saizeriya’s Signature “Doria” Series

Milano-Style Doria

When people think of Saizeriya, the first dish that comes to mind is the Milano-Style Doria.
This long-time bestseller was developed in-house and has been beloved for over 40 years.
It’s simple yet deeply flavorful, making it popular among diners of all ages—from children to seniors.
The dish features a creamy white sauce that highlights the natural taste of milk, layered with a savory meat sauce made from beef and vegetables, all served over turmeric-flavored rice and baked until golden in the oven.
Once you take a bite, the melted cheese and two types of sauces blend perfectly, creating a rich yet never overwhelming flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
At around ¥300, it’s an unbeatable deal and the ultimate “first dish” for anyone new to Saizeriya.

Cheese-Baked Milano-Style Doria

If you’re a cheese lover looking for something richer, the Cheese-Baked Milano-Style Doria is the way to go.
This variation adds an extra layer of cheese on top, which is oven-baked until perfectly browned and crisp, releasing a delicious, toasty aroma.
The melted cheese wraps around the white sauce and meat sauce, delivering a deeper, more indulgent flavor.
It’s a perfect choice for those who want a heartier experience or simply love cheese to the fullest.

Appetizers & Salads

Small Shrimp Salad

A Saizeriya classic, the Small Shrimp Salad features a perfect combination of plump, sweet shrimp and crisp vegetables.
The generous portion of shrimp is topped with Saizeriya’s original Japanese-style dressing, creating a light yet flavorful dish that is loved across all generations.
The natural sweetness of the shrimp pairs beautifully with the refreshing crunch of the salad greens, gently stimulating the appetite.
Enjoying this salad as your first dish enhances the flavors of the pasta or doria to follow. It’s also nutritionally balanced, making it an ideal light option to start your meal.

Spicy Chicken Wings

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, Saizeriya’s Spicy Chicken Wings are one of the most popular side dishes.
Made with tender chicken wings and baked slowly in the store’s oven, they’re packed with flavor and have a distinct texture that keeps fans coming back.
Seasoned with just the right level of heat, they pair perfectly with beer or wine.
Whether you’re dining with family or friends, this is a must-have on the table for a fun and flavorful experience.

Jamon Serrano

Saizeriya offers an authentic taste of Spain with its Jamon Serrano, a dry-cured ham imported directly from Spain.
Thinly sliced, this delicacy delivers a balanced saltiness and deep umami flavor.
It’s an excellent match for wine and brings a touch of elegance to your dining experience.
Enjoy it on its own, with bread, or as a topping on salads for a delightful variation.

Meat Dishes and Wine Pairings

100% Beef Hamburger Steak

Enjoy the rich flavor and meaty texture of lean beef with Saizeriya’s signature 100% beef hamburger steak.
Made from fresh beef processed at Saizeriya’s own factory in Australia, this patty is juicy yet firm, giving you the satisfying feeling of biting into real meat.
It’s topped with a special demi-glace sauce enhanced by the deep richness of veal stock (fond de veau), perfectly complementing the beef’s natural flavor.
This hearty dish is a long-time favorite for all ages, from kids to adults.

Grilled Young Chicken “Diavola Style”

One of the most popular meat dishes at Saizeriya, the Grilled Young Chicken “Diavola Style” features thick cuts of chicken thigh grilled until crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
It’s topped with a generous helping of Saizeriya’s special light vegetable sauce, inspired by Italy’s traditional “diavola” grilling method that uses herbs and spices.
For a Japanese twist, it’s finished with a soy sauce–based “garum sauce”, giving it an aroma and flavor that pairs wonderfully with rice.
It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and surprisingly light—perfect for those who want something flavorful but not heavy.

¥100 Glass Wine

No visit to Saizeriya is complete without their famous ¥100 glass wine.
Despite the low price, Saizeriya imports its wines directly from contracted wineries in Italy, bottled just before shipping and delivered in temperature-controlled containers to preserve their fresh flavor.
Whether red or white, the wine pairs perfectly with meat dishes and appetizers.
It’s an ideal option for beginners who want to enjoy authentic Italian wine in a casual, affordable setting.

How to Order at Saizeriya

From Entry to Seating

Greeting at the Entrance

When you enter Saizeriya, a staff member will greet you and ask how many people are in your party.
It’s common to hear phrases like “How many people?” or “Table for one?”, and simply showing the number with your fingers is enough to communicate.
During busy times, some locations may have a ticket machine or sign-in sheet, but for most branches, no reservation is required.
You can just walk in and be seated—making Saizeriya a convenient choice when you’re suddenly hungry while traveling.

Menus Are Already at the Table

At Saizeriya, you’ll find the menu already placed on your table.
Every item comes with a photo and clearly marked price, so you can easily choose dishes visually, even if you don’t read Japanese.
In many locations, you’ll also find an order sheet and pencil, allowing you to write down the menu item numbers and quantity.
Once filled out, simply hand the sheet to a staff member. This system is simple and foreigner-friendly, even if you don’t speak the language.

Ordering: Tablet or Paper Menu?

Some Locations Offer Touchscreens or Smartphone Ordering

In recent years, some Saizeriya locations have introduced touchscreen ordering systems or QR code menus for smartphone ordering.
By scanning the QR code on the menu with your phone, you can place your order directly—it’s simple and user-friendly.
However, please note that these digital systems are only available in select newer branches, so they may not be available at all locations.

Most Locations Use a Paper Order Sheet

The standard ordering method at Saizeriya is still filling out a paper order sheet.
You’ll find a pencil and order sheet at your table. Just write down the menu item numbers and quantity, then hand the sheet to a staff member—it’s quick, easy, and requires no speaking.
This system is especially foreigner-friendly, as it allows anyone to order with just numbers and pointing.
If you’re unsure, simply point to the item on the menu and say “This, please”—that’s usually enough!

Where to Find Saizeriya: Locations & Access Tips

Great Access in Major Cities

Convenient Locations Near Stations in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto

Saizeriya is a nationwide chain of family restaurants, with many locations concentrated in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
You’ll find stores within walking distance from major train stations such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, Umeda, Namba, and Kyoto-Kawaramachi.
Thanks to their excellent accessibility, Saizeriya restaurants are perfect for a quick and easy meal between sightseeing or shopping.
Most branches are just minutes from the station, making them ideal when you’re on the move.

Also Available Near Tourist Attractions

Saizeriya isn’t limited to downtown areas—it also has branches near popular tourist spots.
You’ll easily find locations around Sensoji Temple (Tokyo), Dotonbori (Osaka), and Kiyomizu-dera (Kyoto).
If you ever feel tired of traditional Japanese food and want a quick, familiar Western-style meal, Saizeriya is a reliable go-to option.

Peace of Mind with Over 1,000 Locations Nationwide

With over 1,000 branches across Japan, Saizeriya is a major player in the restaurant scene.
Even when traveling to regional cities or suburban areas, you’re likely to spot one nearby.
Every store offers the same pricing, menu, and service quality, giving you the peace of mind of knowing what to expect no matter where you are.
When you’re unsure of where to eat while traveling, checking if there’s a Saizeriya nearby is always a smart move.

Note: Store count may vary. Please check the official website for the latest location information.

Busy Hours and Best Times to Visit

Weekday Lunch Is a Great Deal

On weekdays, Saizeriya offers special value lunch sets available from around 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
These sets usually cost around ¥500, making them popular among local office workers and students.
This time slot tends to get busy, but if you visit earlier—around 11:00 AM—you’re more likely to find a seat and enjoy a relaxed meal.
It’s also a fun way to experience Japan’s weekday lunchtime culture.

Dinner Peak Time: 6 PM to 8 PM

In the evening, customer volume increases as people finish work or school, with the busiest hours typically between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
Families and couples often dine during this time, and some locations may have short wait times.
If you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to arrive a bit earlier, around 5:00 PM, or after 8:00 PM for a more relaxed dinner.

Takeout Is Also a Great Option

If you’d rather skip the crowd or eat in your hotel room, takeout is a convenient alternative.
Popular dishes like doria, gratin, and pizza are available on the “takeout menu,” and they taste just as good as when served in-store.
It’s especially handy if you’re short on time or traveling with small children.
Orders are typically ready within a few minutes, making it a quick and flexible meal option during your trip.

Complete Menu Overview

Drinks & Wine

Drink Bar

Enjoy the rich fruit flavors of Minute Maid, a popular choice among customers.
The drink bar includes a variety of options such as 100% apple juice and 100% mixed vegetable & fruit juice.

Fresh Wine

Enjoy Italian wine known for its freshness.
Bottled just before shipment at our contracted wineries and imported via refrigerated containers, it delivers the authentic taste straight from Italy.

Bottled Wine (750ml)

Other Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Appetizer

Vegetables

Wine Appetizers

Salad

Soup

Focaccia

Pizza

Doria & Gratin

Pasta

100% Beef Hamburg Steak

Chicken & Lamb

Side Menu

Dessert

Enjoy Japan’s Everyday Meals at Saizeriya

Saizeriya has over 1,000 locations across Japan, making it a convenient family restaurant you can easily pop into even in tourist areas. With its affordable prices, you get great taste, variety, and peace of mind, leaving you wanting to come back for more. Through thoughtful Japanese touches and Japanese-style twists on Italian dishes, savor the flavors of everyday Japan.