When you think of sukiyaki, you probably picture thinly sliced beef.
But at Edo Meat Kappo Sasaya in Asakusa, I discovered a completely different kind of beef hot pot.
Instead of thin slices, the star of the dish is large cubes of beef! The presentation is unique, the meat is incredibly satisfying, and even as a Japanese person, I had never experienced anything like it before.
Looking for an English menu? Wondering if it's foreigner-friendly? Or simply hoping to enjoy a unique Japanese dining experience?
1. What is sukiyaki?
Sukiyaki is one of Japan's most iconic hot pot dishes. It is made by simmering beef, vegetables, and tofu in a sweet and savory soy sauce-based broth called warishita. The cooked ingredients are then dipped into beaten raw egg before eating, creating a rich flavor.
The predecessor of sukiyaki is believed to be gyunabe (beef hot pot). First enjoyed during the Meiji era (1868–1912), gyunabe became popular as Japan embraced Western culture and beef consumption. Over time, different regions developed their own cooking styles and seasonings, eventually giving rise to the sukiyaki we know today.
Today, you can still enjoy this historic dish at Edo Meat Kappo Sasaya in Asakusa, where the tradition of gyunabe continues to live on.
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| Large red lanterns and traditional masks decorate the interior, giving the restaurant a distinctly Asakusa atmosphere. |
2. Is It Foreigner-Friendly?
Ordering is simple and convenient. Just scan the QR code at your table to access the digital menu and place your order. The menu is available in multiple languages, so you don't need to worry if you can't read Japanese.
You can also view the English menu on the restaurant's official website before your visit. It's a great way to explore the menu and decide what you'd like to order in advance.
When I visited, I noticed several international guests enjoying their gyunabe, which made the restaurant feel very welcoming to travelers. The staff were also kind and attentive, so even first-time visitors to Japan can relax and enjoy their meal with confidence.
Whether you're looking to try authentic Japanese cuisine or simply want a unique dining experience in Asakusa, Edo Meat Kappo Sasaya is a wonderful choice.
3. What Makes It Different from Regular Sukiyaki?
What sets Edo Meat Kappo Sasaya's gyunabe apart from ordinary sukiyaki is its unique approach to this historic dish.
Instead of the usual thinly sliced beef, the restaurant serves large cubes of premium beef. Each bite is tender, juicy, and packed with rich flavor, offering a completely different texture and dining experience.
Another unique feature is the use of cotton candy in the warishita broth. The staff caramelizes it right at your table, adding a delicate sweetness and a wonderful aroma while creating an entertaining dining experience.
Once the beef is cooked, it's dipped into a fluffy whipped egg mixed with grated Japanese yam instead of a regular beaten egg. The light, airy texture coats the beef beautifully, making each bite even richer and smoother.
More than just an innovative dish, this gyunabe is inspired by the flavors and traditions of the Meiji era. By blending historical inspiration with modern techniques, Edo Meat Kappo Sasaya offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that lets you discover the roots of Japanese beef hot pot in a fresh and memorable way.
My Experience
When the dish arrived, the first thing that caught my eye was the large cubes of Japanese ribeye beef. Unlike the thinly sliced beef used in traditional sukiyaki, the generous cubes made an impressive first impression and immediately got me excited.
One thing I really appreciated was that the staff prepared everything right at the table, so I could simply sit back and enjoy the experience. The beef was grilled in an iron pot with sugar and green onions, then carefully caramelized with sugar. As the beef cooked, the Maillard reaction enhanced its rich aroma and deep umami flavor.
The most memorable moment came when the staff placed a fluffy cloud of cotton candy on top of the gyunabe and poured the warishita over it. The cotton candy melted almost instantly, creating a glossy, slightly thickened broth with a delicate sweetness. It happens in just a few seconds, so don't miss it!
Instead of a regular beaten raw egg, the dipping sauce is a unique blend of whipped egg whites, egg yolk, grated Japanese yam, and dashi. Its light, fluffy texture perfectly complements the rich flavor of the beef. At the end of the meal, I highly recommend pouring the remaining mixture over a bowl of rice for a delicious twist on Japanese egg-over-rice.
The restaurant also offers a wide selection of side dishes and appetizers, making it easy to enjoy more than just gyunabe.
If you're visiting Asakusa and looking for a memorable Japanese dining experience, Edo Meat Kappo Sasaya is a fantastic place to discover the origins of sukiyaki in a truly unique way.
Basic information
🏠 Edo Meat Kappo Sasaya in Asakusa（江戸肉割烹 さゝや 浅草）
📍 1-35-3 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
🕘 11:00 - 22:00
💤 Open daily
🚶 3-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Ginza Line)
💴 Credit cards, e-money, and QR code payments accepted
If you want to see more delicious food in Asakusa, be sure to check out my Instagram too📸✨Just click the icon below!
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