What is "B-Grade Gourmet" (B-kyū Gurume)?

"B-grade gourmet" (B-kyū gurume) is a uniquely Japanese culinary category that refers to affordable, casual, and unpretentious foods that are beloved for their delicious taste rather than their refinement or presentation. Commonly known as "cheap eats" or "budget-friendly food," these dishes are both delicious and affordable.
Unlike "A-grade" haute cuisine found in expensive restaurants, B-grade gourmet consists of everyday dishes that:

-Are reasonably priced and accessible to everyone
-Often have humble or regional origins
-Feature bold, satisfying flavors
-Are typically served in casual settings
-Have strong local or historical connections
-Prioritize taste and satisfaction over appearance or luxury ingredients

B-grade gourmet isn't "second-rate" food—quite the opposite. These dishes are celebrated as authentic representations of Japanese food culture and have passionate followings. Examples include regional ramen variations, okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (fried noodles), and various street foods.

In recent decades, B-grade gourmet has become a cultural phenomenon in Japan, with food festivals, competitions, and travel shows dedicated to showcasing these beloved everyday foods. Many Japanese tourists will specifically travel to different regions just to try famous local B-grade specialties.

The term represents a distinctive Japanese appreciation for unpretentious food culture and the recognition that culinary excellence can be found at all price points, not just in fine dining establishments.

Ramen: Japan's National Dish

Japanese ramen offers diverse regional flavors. From Sapporo's miso, Hakata's tonkotsu (pork bone), Tokyo's shoyu (soy sauce), to Kitakata's light broth - there's enough variety to make it a travel destination in itself. Everything varies: soup types, noodle thickness, and toppings.

Curry Rice: The Appeal of Japanese-Style Curry

Japanese curry, influenced by India but evolved independently, has a thick, sweet-savory taste with a nostalgic flavor. Enjoy it easily at curry stands in train stations or specialized chains like "CoCo Ichibanya."

Gyudon: Quick and Filling

"Gyudon" (beef bowl) - thinly sliced beef and onions simmered in sweet-savory sauce - is a staple fast food supporting busy Japanese appetites. National chains like "Yoshinoya," "Sukiya," and "Matsuya" serve it 24 hours a day.

Standing Soba: King of Station Gourmet

Standing soba shops frequently found in Japanese stations offer speed-focused gourmet experiences. They serve soba or udon noodles in minutes, perfect for quick meals during travel. Add toppings like tempura or egg as desired.

Conveyor Belt Sushi: Affordable Sushi Experience

"Kaiten-zushi" (conveyor belt sushi) offers fresh sushi at reasonable prices. Plates cost 100-200 yen, and many shops have touch-panel ordering systems with multiple language support.

Takoyaki: Osaka's Classic Street Food

Takoyaki - crispy outside, gooey inside octopus balls - are a popular snack made by cooking batter with octopus pieces into round shapes. Enjoy them hot with sauce, mayonnaise, seaweed, and bonito flakes. Available throughout Japan, not just in Osaka.

Okonomiyaki: The Joy of Cooking It Yourself

"Okonomiyaki" - a savory pancake mixing cabbage, pork, seafood and other ingredients cooked on an iron griddle - is popular especially in the Kansai area. Many restaurants let you cook it yourself, making it perfect for creating travel memories.

Monjayaki: Tokyo Tsukishima's Specialty

"Monjayaki" - a runny batter mixed with ingredients and cooked on an iron griddle, eaten with small spatulas - is a soul food from downtown Tokyo. Popular ingredients include cheese, spicy cod roe, and mochi. The fun is in scraping it up while eating!

Oden: Winter Classic, Warm Dashi-Soaked Comfort

"Oden" - daikon radish, eggs, konnyaku and other ingredients simmered slowly in dashi broth - is a winter tradition in Japan. It's conveniently available at convenience stores and features regional taste variations. Perfect for cold weather.

Tendon & Tempura: Crispy Freshly-Fried Luxury

"Tendon" (tempura rice bowl) with deep-fried shrimp and vegetables over rice is a casual gourmet meal. Popular at standing restaurants like "Tendon Makino" and as set meals at soba restaurants.

Onigiri: Japan's Soul Food

Onigiri (rice balls) available at convenience stores come with various fillings like pickled plum, salmon, tuna with mayo, or spicy cod roe. Perfect travel companions - simple yet profound gourmet items.

Summary: Enrich Your Travel Memories with Japanese B-Grade Gourmet

Japan offers many affordable, delicious fast foods and B-grade gourmet options that let you experience the culture. Even on short trips, they're easy to try. Through food experiences shared with locals, you'll surely come to love Japan even more.