Shabuyo: Japan’s Delicious All-You-Can-Eat Shabushabu for Just $13!

How a Top Japanese Food YouTuber’s Recommendation Introduced Me to Shabuyo—A Must-Try Spot for Hot Pot Lovers!

Jan 16, 2025

This afternoon, I stumbled upon something that completely caught my attention.

While watching one of my favorite Japanese YouTubers, Ryuji, who’s known for his simple and buzz-worthy recipes, he was visiting a place called Shabuyo, known for offering all-you-can-eat ShabuShabu.

What stood out to me wasn’t just the mouthwatering food or the interactive dining style; it was the unbeatable price. As someone who loves exploring Japanese cuisine, I couldn’t believe how affordable such a high-quality dining experience could be. And, inspired by Ryuji’s video, I knew I had to share everything I learned about Shabuyo with you.

What is Shabushabu?

Maybe some of you have heard of shabushabu, or even tried it, but let me explain. Shabushabu is a type of Japanese hot pot where thinly sliced meat and fresh vegetables are swirled—or “shabu-shabu-ed”—in boiling broth until cooked. You then dip the cooked food (meat and vegetables) into flavorful sauces.

Shabushabu is not only about the flavors; it’s about the experience. The communal aspect of cooking at the table with friends or family makes it more than just a meal—it’s an event. You control how long you cook the meat, what sauces you use, and how you combine ingredients, making every bite uniquely your own.

Now, let’s talk about the price. If you’re in the US, enjoying shabushabu can easily cost you $30 to $60 per person for a basic meal, and most restaurants don’t offer an all-you-can-eat option. And if you want premium meats like wagyu or additional sides, the bill can quickly climb to $80 or more per person. It’s a luxury dining experience, one that many people reserve for special occasions.

Contrast that with Shabuyo in Japan, where the cost is unbelievably affordable. For less than ¥2,000 (less than $15 USD) per person, you can enjoy all-you-can-eat shabushabu with an impressive selection of meat, vegetables, and sauces. This kind of value is unheard of in other countries, making Shabuyo a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Japan.

Shabuyo’s All-You-Can-Eat Pricing and Options

According to Ryuji's video, Shabuyo's pricing is shockingly low for the value it offers. Here’s a breakdown of the key options:

Lunch Pork Belly Course: ¥1,399 (~$10 USD)
Includes pork belly, an extensive vegetable bar, curry, udon, desserts, and more.
Dinner Pork Belly Course: ¥1,799 (~$13 USD)
Adds even more variety while keeping the price affordable.
Children’s Pricing:
- Elementary school students: ¥999 (~$7 USD).
- Children under school age: Free!
Senior Discounts: Guests over 60 enjoy additional savings.

For those who want a more premium experience, there are upgraded options featuring wagyu beef and other delicacies, but even the most basic courses are enough to fill you up with quality and flavor.

Why Shabuyo Stands Out

When I saw the prices at Shabuyo, I was genuinely shocked. Imagine getting unlimited high-quality shabushabu for just a fraction of what it costs in the US or UK! It’s no exaggeration to say that Shabuyo offers one of the best value-for-money dining experiences I’ve ever seen.

But it’s not just about the price—the variety and quality also stand out. Shabuyo doesn’t just offer meat for your hot pot. They also have an extensive vegetables, packed with fresh greens, toppings, and dressings. Whether you’re craving something light or looking to balance your meal, the salad bar has you covered.

Shabuyo also provides a selection of drinks, including beer, sake, and cocktails, which perfectly complement the hot pot experience.

I found a site on "How to Enjoy Shabuyo"—it might give you a better idea of how the restaurant works!!

As someone who’s followed Ryuji’s channel for years, I can tell you this: when Ryuji says something is good, you know it’s going to be amazing. His recipes have always been reliable, and his enthusiasm for food is infectious. That’s why I trust his opinion when he raves about a place like Shabuyo.

Why is Shabuyo So Affordable?

Honestly, I have no idea how Shabuyo can offer such an amazing dining experience at such a low price. But if I had to guess, I’d say it comes down to a few key factors:

Efficient sourcing: Shabuyo likely works with local suppliers to keep costs down. By sourcing ingredients in bulk and focusing on seasonal produce, they can maintain both quality and affordability.
Streamlined operations: The all-you-can-eat model works because it minimizes waste. Customers take what they need, and the restaurant doesn’t have to worry about complicated à la carte menus.
High demand: Shabuyo’s affordability attracts a steady stream of customers, ensuring they operate at full capacity and reduce overhead costs.

Whatever the reason, I’m just grateful that places like Shabuyo exist. It’s proof that great food doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Shabushabu: Tasty and Healthy

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both delicious and healthy, shabushabu is hard to beat. Transitioning into the health benefits, it’s worth noting that healthy diet often emphasize balance, fresh ingredients, and mindful eating. Shabushabu aligns perfectly with these principles.

For starters, the thinly sliced meat used in shabushabu is lower in fat compared to other cooking methods like frying. Boiling the meat and vegetables also preserves their nutrients without adding extra calories. According to a study published in The Journal of Food Science, boiling vegetables helps retain water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C, which can be lost in other cooking methods.

Additionally, the interactive nature of shabushabu encourages you to eat slowly, which has been shown to improve digestion and help with weight management. A study from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that eating at a slower pace can lead to increased satiety and reduced overall calorie intake.

Shabushabu isn’t just a meal—it’s a balanced, nutrient-packed dining experience that nourishes both the body and soul.

A Must-Visit Culinary Experience in Japan

If you’re traveling to Japan, visiting Shabuyo should be at the top of your food bucket list! From its unbeatable prices to the interactive dining experience, Shabuyo offers a unique and delicious way to immerse yourself in Japanese food culture. I’m genuinely excited to visit myself and share my personal review once I’m back in Japan!

While we’re on the topic of things to experience in Japan, let me share a quick tip about another unique opportunity: the Ningen dock. It’s a comprehensive health screening that’s both detailed and efficient, offering insights into your well-being that you can’t easily find elsewhere. If you’re curious about staying healthy while traveling—or want to learn more about how to navigate Japan’s health services—consider exploring this valuable service during your trip.