NagasakiTravel

Sasebo's Signature Lemon Steak – Hot and Aromatic on an Iron Plate

About this spot

A Western-style restaurant known as a popular spot for Sasebo's signature lemon steak. Lemon steak features thinly sliced beef seared on a scorching iron plate, topped with a soy-based sauce infused with lemon and lemon slices—a local specialty born in Sasebo. In this port city home to a U.S. Navy base, steaks were adapted to suit Japanese palates, and that is said to be how lemon steak originated. The aroma rising from the sizzling hot iron plate is irresistible. After savoring the meat, the traditional finishing touch is to mix the remaining sauce with white rice—your hands won't stop until the last bite.

Tips

Queues often form during lunch hours, so arriving after the peak rush is recommended. The iron plate is extremely hot; if dining with small children, pay attention to seating arrangements. Sauce can splatter, so be cautious if wearing white clothing.