#Japan #Tochigi #OSAKA Yakiniku #Genki GDC

A New Culinary Chapter: Osaka Yakiniku Umakatsu Opens in Tochigi City

On January 28, 2026, Genki Global Dining Concepts will unveil its latest venture, Osaka Yakiniku Umakatsu, in Tochigi City, Tochigi Prefecture. As a leading player in the restaurant industry, Genki aims to revolutionize the yakiniku dining experience with this exciting new brand. Amid rising living costs and an increasing divide in dining options, Umakatsu seeks to rekindle the essence of everyday yakiniku, featuring a concept aimed at being loved by locals and frequented by families.

The Concept Behind Umakatsu

Umakatsu is inspired by the vibrant food culture of Osaka, known as a haven for delicious yakiniku. The restaurant aims to offer a warm, inviting atmosphere while maintaining affordable pricing. At the heart of their mission is the notion of serving heartfelt dishes that facilitate rich and enjoyable moments for patrons. Their philosophy is simple yet profound: to inject positivity and smiles into the lives of customers through every plate of food.

A Return to Everyday Yakiniku

For many, yakiniku is more than just a meal—it’s a cherished social experience, bringing families and friends together amidst the charm of smoke and aroma. However, recent trends have seen a shift in dining preferences towards high-end, expensive options, making it tough for families to find welcoming, casual yakiniku establishments. With Umakatsu, Genki hopes to revive the simpler, more relatable dining occasions that have historically characterized Japanese food culture.

Menu Highlights

At Umakatsu, the ingredients take center stage. They source fresh cuts of cow tongue and harami, complemented by their signature homemade sauces that enhance the natural flavors of the meat. Below are some standout dishes:

• - Umakatsu Harami (780 yen): This classic cut features a balance of robust flavor from the lean meat with just the right amount of fat, creating a tender and juicy bite. Its mild taste makes it perfect for both newcomers and seasoned yakiniku lovers alike.

• - Cow Tongue Assortment (1,380 yen): Each slice of cow tongue is carefully hand-cut in-house, showcasing the distinct textures and flavors of various cuts including tongue kalbi and upper tongue. A true must-try for tongue enthusiasts, this dish allows guests to savor a range of tastes melded together in one plate.

• - Maruchō (980 yen): Popular for its rich fatty flavor, the small intestine of the cow transforms into a crunchy delicacy when grilled. Served with a side of beer or shochu, it’s a perfect companion for rice too!

• - Fresh Liver (680 yen): Abundant in flavor yet gentle on the palate, this liver is meticulously prepared to minimize its gamey taste, resulting in a soft, rich bite that exemplifies freshness.

Future Expansion Plans

With the inaugural Tochigi location as the starting point, Umakatsu plans to expand into nearby areas including Hokkaido, Tohoku, and North Kanto. The goal is to choose locations that seamlessly integrate into the daily lives of local residents, aiming for a scenario where the phrase, “Let’s go to Umakatsu today!” becomes a favorite family saying.

Inviting Atmosphere

The decor of Umakatsu is inspired by traditional downtown yakiniku restaurants, featuring wooden accents and soft lighting that create a cozy, relaxed environment. The seating arrangement is designed to foster natural conversations, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Restaurant Details

• - Name: Osaka Yakiniku Umakatsu Tochigi
• - Location: 2-16-10 Hirayanagi-cho, Tochigi City, Tochigi Prefecture
• - Access: A 6-minute walk from Shin-Tochigi Station on the Tobu Nikko Line.
• - Phone Number: 0282-25-5493
• - Business Hours: Weekdays 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Last Order at 9:45 PM)

Weekends and Holidays 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Last Order at 9:45 PM)

• - Seats: 48 (10 tables for 4, 8 counters)
• - Payment Options: Cash, credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payment methods are accepted.

Company Overview

Genki Global Dining Concepts, established in 1968 and headquartered in Ueno, Tokyo, is committed to delivering delightful dining experiences while ensuring that every dish is crafted with care and thoughtfulness. They aspire to generate joy and vitality through their culinary offerings. For more details, visit their official website.

With the opening of Umakatsu, eating out in Tochigi is set to become an exciting journey, combining heartfelt meals and unforgettable moments for everyone.