Gyukatsu (deep-fried beef cutlet) restaurants have gradually spread across Japan from their origins in Tokyo, and Motomura is perhaps the most popular Tokyo chain. Served rare in the middle with a thin, crunchy layer of breading around it, Motomura's lightly marbled beef is tender and very flavorful. Season it to taste with rock salt, pepper, onion sauce, soy sauce and wasabi; you can even grill it for a minute on the small hibachi at your table or counter.

Prices start at under Y2,000 for a set meal with rice, soup, potato salad, cabbage and pickles. English-language menus are available, along with rather detailed instructions on how to eat your gyukatsu.