Kura Sushi Major conveyor-belt sushi chain launches first gyudon (beef bowl)

A launch event was held on the 2nd at Ebisu Garden Room in Meguro Ward, Tokyo.

Vice President Shin Tanaka mentioned that since its founding, the company has aimed for a "return to pre-war food values," continuously providing safe and secure menus free from the four major food additives, and noted that the company has also achieved strong performance in recent years.

He also suggested that the expansion of side menu items, such as the "Shari Curry Bread" and "Shari Cola" launched in July, may have contributed to the restaurant chain's achievement of being ranked "Japan's No. 1 in Customer Satisfaction" for the first time in the "2016 JCSI (Japanese Customer Satisfaction Index) First Survey."

This time, the company announced the launch of "Gyudon" to further expand its side menu offerings. The goal is to attract customers who dislike fish and achieve sales of one million servings within three months.

The new product, developed over six years, features its preparation method, seasoning, and meat quality. Crucially, it uses the company's signature "seven types of seafood broth," achieving a "One-of-a-Kind Beef Bowl" that rivals specialty shops.

Taking the stage were talent Yui Okada, daughter of comedian Keisuke Okada, and impersonator Junichi Davidson, known for his portrayal of soccer player Keisuke Honda.

Regarding Kura Sushi, Okada said, "I've been going there often since before my father appeared in commercials. As a student, the affordable prices are a big plus." Junichi commented, "Being from Kansai, it feels very familiar. The side menu is extremely important. Kura Sushi is 'the Nagatomo of the sushi world'," delivering a comment reminiscent of Honda. To this, Okada retorted, "You're the type who takes time to understand things, just like my father," drawing laughter from the audience.

When the new product was unveiled right before their eyes, both looked eager to try it immediately. However, since only one serving was prepared, they competed in an "A-I-U-E-O essay" challenge.

The theme was something important they both shared: "Keisuke." Okada, whose love and feelings for "Keisuke" were stronger, won decisively. However, Junichi was specially allowed to try the sample too.

The two couldn't stop eating while commenting, "The seven types of broth pair perfectly with the beef," and "The collaboration of sea (broth) and land (beef) is the best. Not 'grazie,' but 'umacce'!"

Junichi-san delivered his signature line: "This shows Kura Sushi's potential for growth~" Okada-san added, "I'll definitely be visiting more often. Everyone should try the side menu too."

Official website:
http://www.kura-corpo.co.jp/