Gyudon
Tokyo, Japan
This comforting fast-food staple consists of thinly sliced beef and tender onions simmered in a sweet and savory dashi, soy sauce, and mirin broth, served over a steaming bowl of rice. It is commonly topped with pickled red ginger, a raw egg, or a soft-boiled egg for extra richness.
Why locals eat it
Developed in Tokyo during the Meiji Restoration as Japan adopted Western beef-eating habits, it evolved from the traditional gyunabe (beef hot pot). It quickly became the ultimate quick, affordable meal for Tokyo's urban workforce.
Local tip
Customize your bowl by asking for "tsuyu-daku" if you prefer extra savory broth poured over your rice.
Typically made with
Beef, Onions, Soy sauce, Mirin, Dashi, Rice. Recipes vary — always check with the vendor if you have allergies.