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The Popularity of All-You-Can-Eat Sushi

In a recent survey conducted by Monogatari Corporation, which operates the all-you-can-eat sushi and shabu-shabu restaurant chain "Sushi and Shabu-shabu Yuzuan," a striking 90.2% of respondents expressed interest in all-you-can-eat sushi. This survey targeted men and women aged between 20 and 50 who have previously dined at sushi buffets, underscoring the appeal of this casual dining option.



The survey, held from December 16 to December 19, 2025, involved 1,008 participants. Despite the allure of an abundant sushi feast, results revealed that consumer priorities extend beyond merely eating large quantities. Factors such as the variety of sushi offered, pricing, and the quality of side dishes have become crucial in determining customer satisfaction. A significant trend noticed is the popularity of hybrid buffet concepts that combine sushi with other culinary delights, like shabu-shabu.

Dining Companions Matter

When asked who they would prefer to dine with at a sushi buffet, 71.8% of respondents stated they would choose their family, compared to 36.6% selecting friends and just 13.4% opting for a partner. This highlights sushi buffets as a favored choice for family dining, offering a platform for shared food experiences across generations.

Interestingly, while many are intrigued by the idea of sushi buffets, the actual frequency of dining out suggests another narrative. For those interested, many reported visiting such establishments only once a year, indicating that sushi buffets are often reserved for special occasions rather than routine dining. However, about 13.3% of participants claimed they visit more than once a month, hinting at a divide in dining habits based on lifestyle and preferences.

Average Sushi Consumption

When considering how much sushi individuals anticipate consuming in a single visit, the majority—both men and women—estimated around 16 to 20 pieces. This suggests that diners are not overly ambitious about quantity, opting instead for a moderate dining experience that balances enjoyment with satisfaction. Notably, women tended to prefer lighter portions, with over 24% expecting to eat less than 15 pieces, in contrast to only about 17% of men. This data indicates gender differences in dining preferences, with men often embracing larger quantities than their female counterparts.

Key Factors in Choosing Sushi Buffets

Survey responses indicate that the primary factor influencing the choice of a sushi buffet is the variety of sushi available, with 71.1% ranking it highest, followed closely by pricing (67.9%) and the freshness and quality of ingredients (61.3%). The emphasis on variety suggests that customers are seeking not just to eat but to explore different flavors and options, making the experience more enjoyable.

Additionally, participants expressed a strong preference for side dishes, with 53.0% indicating they would appreciate dessert options, and 43.4% favoring tempura. This desire for a well-rounded meal suggests that customers expect more than just sushi; they seek a complete dining experience that includes a variety of high-quality dishes.

Preference for Meat Over Fish

In exploring food preferences further, the survey revealed a surprising trend: across all age demographics queried (20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s), approximately 70% indicated a preference for meat over fish in their diets. This contradicts the stereotype that older generations gravitate more toward fish. In fact, even among the 50s, meat still favored among respondents. This sentiment extends to the growing interest in buffet plans that combine sushi with shabu-shabu, with nearly 85% of respondents expressing a desire to experience this meat and fish hybrid buffet option.

The Allure of Seasonal Menus

Finally, when questioned about the appeal of seasonal ingredients and limited-time offerings, around 90% of participants acknowledged the attractiveness of such features. This highlights a consumer desire for freshness and novelty even within the all-you-can-eat setting, hinting that restaurants must continually update their menus to attract repeat visitors.

Conclusion: The Evolution of All-You-Can-Eat Sushi

This survey paints a vivid picture of the evolving landscape of sushi buffets, where consumer preferences reflect a desire for diversity, quality, and engaging dining experiences. As the market shifts, establishments must adapt to offer not just abundant sushi but a comprehensive menu that includes seasonal delights and appealing side dishes tailored to family dining. The challenge going forward will be to satisfy diverse customer preferences while maintaining the core offerings that define all-you-can-eat sushi.

To experience this evolving dining phenomenon, the "Sushi and Shabu-shabu Yuzuan" chain, managed by Monogatari Corporation, stands out as a prime destination for sushi lovers seeking enjoyable and varied dining experiences.