While traveling in Japan, I often see signs outside restaurants proclaiming: ‘Buy a whole head of Kyushu Wagyu or Kagoshima Wagyu!’ Finally, I’ve set foot on Kyushu’s soil, and not indulging in Kyushu Wagyu would be a disservice to my taste buds! The recent ‘Wagyu Olympics,’ held once every five years, witnessed Miyazaki beef securing a three-peat victory. As for the overall champion, it was Kagoshima beef. Truly, Kyushu’s Wagyu is an experience worth trying.
Before departing for Fukuoka, I embarked on a culinary quest and stumbled upon a well-reputed Wagyu restaurant called “Gyusha Nakahara” near my HukuHuku guesthouse. It’s conveniently located just a 5- to 7-minute walk from the hotel to the bustling Tenjin PARCO underground floor. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this beef hamburger joint is a favorite.
From the main entrance of Uniqlo at Hakata Canal City, cross the road diagonally, and within a 3-minute walk, you’ll spot this unmistakable sign—a bold ‘Gyusha’ in large letters.
The exterior resembles a cozy café, and its location at the corner of a bustling main road is unmistakable. When I first checked in, lugging my luggage along, I noticed it—the sign and the name of the place left an impression. On this particular day, I had been exploring Hakata Canal City since morning, and by the time hunger struck, it was already 12:50 PM.
As I stepped inside, I noticed only one group of diners… Wasn’t this supposed to be a popular spot? But then it hit me—we had arrived late! The restaurant’s lunch service starts at 11:00, and in just 10 minutes, they would be closing for their midday break. As I gazed at the expansive teppanyaki counter, disappointment crept across my face.
The hostess kindly inquired about our origin. When we mentioned we were from Taiwan, she nodded and graciously made an exception for us (with a smile!). Finally, we could indulge in the meal!
We were delighted to be seated by the window, adorned with lush green potted plants. The hostess graciously reminded us, in the most polite manner, that we might need to mind our dining time.
Checking the menu, the lunch set prices are indeed reasonable. Even though I had Tully’s Coffee at 10:00 AM, my hunger struck immediately. I swiftly decided to order the first item on the menu—a combination set of half a hamburger steak and half a portion of Wagyu beef steak. It’s priced at ¥1000 per person.
Let’s take a look at what this set meal includes. First up, we have the soup and salad. Now, what makes this salad special is the dressing—it’s a house-made tangy sauce crafted from fresh tomatoes, onions, and a touch of Japanese-style dressing.
The salad ingredients alone are quite abundant! The hostess shared that she personally procures fresh Kyushu vegetables from the market early in the morning. Paired with the restaurant’s special tomato puree and mentaiko sauce, the dressing strikes a delicate balance
Don’t underestimate this bowl of soup. Despite its petite size, it’s an authentic mushroom soup made with pure matsutake mushrooms. With every sip, you can taste the rich, earthy aroma of the fungi.
Now, for the main event! We’ve come here specifically for this combination set: half a hamburger steak and half a portion of Wagyu beef. Although the portions are smaller, the chance to savor both steak and burger in one meal makes it well worth the price. And to top it off, they serve a generous bowl of fragrant, perfectly cooked QQ white rice—I couldn’t wait and took two bites immediately!
Let’s start with a mouthful of the aromatic hamburger steak! Made from premium Wagyu ground beef, this hamburger steak is truly exceptional. The meat is tender, delicate, and practically melts in your mouth. With every bite, the savory juices burst out in my mouth, leaving a delightful aftertaste on my palate.
Next, savor this piece of freshly sourced Kyushu Kagoshima beef steak! The meat boasts a beautiful pink hue. Surprisingly, it’s as tender as a hamburger steak, yet with an added bite and bursting juiciness that lingers on the palate!
After finishing our meal, we were thoroughly satisfied! The restaurant kindly served us two cups of rich, aromatic hot coffee, freshly ground from visible coffee beans in their grinder. As an extra treat, they even offered a few Hershey’s milk chocolates! Seated by the window, we leisurely savored this small cup of high-quality, velvety coffee.
Wow! Even the sugar that comes with the coffee is carefully chosen. They serve both fine granulated white sugar and coarse coffee-flavored brown sugar. A delightful touch!
牛車なかはら, featured in two Kyushu gourmet magazines, serves a delightful combination of Wagyu hamburger steak and half a portion of steak, complete with soup, rice, and coffee—all for just ¥1000! It’s an affordable feast fit for royalty
They offer a cozy dining area perfect for 1 to 2 people, as well as spacious private booths ideal for larger gatherings. In the evenings, their talented chef prepares sizzling teppanyaki-style dishes right at your table. The undisputed crowd favorite? The Chef’s Special Wagyu Beef Teppanyaki Set, of course!
Go Now! 牛車なかはら
