Heading to Matsuya for a Quick Meat Fix!
With its familiar signs spotted all across town, "Matsuya" is an ever-reliable chain famous for gyumeshi (beef bowls) and hearty set meals (teishoku). Their piping-hot, quickly served dishes make it the ultimate go-to spot when you need to recharge your energy.
The 29th of every month is celebrated as "Meat Day" (Niku no Hi) in Japan, and craving a serious meat feast, I headed to my local shop. Matsuya runs a regular Meat Day promotion offering 200 yen off its Double Yakiniku Set Meals—the perfect excuse for anyone looking to indulge. As soon as I arrived at the restaurant, I placed my order via the mobile app as usual.
An Impressive Mountain of Meat: Double Pork Ginger Set Meal with Mini Kalbi
This time, I went with the discounted Meat Day special: the "Double Pork Ginger Set Meal" (1,140 yen including tax). On top of that, I redeemed three store coupons saved from previous visits for a side of "Mini Kalbi" (beef short rib), creating a lavish feast truly worthy of Meat Day.
When the tray was placed before me, I was immediately overwhelmed by its commanding presence. Piled high across a large platter, the pork ginger was more than worthy of the "Double" label. Glazed in savory sauce, the browned pork and caramelized onions glistened under the lights, filling the air with an appetizing aroma of ginger and soy sauce.
Taking my first bite, the juicy savoriness of the pork combined with the sweet and savory sauce spiked with zesty ginger burst across my palate. The tender meat paired with the pleasant crunch of the onions made it impossible not to wolf down spoonful after spoonful of rice.
Halfway through, I squeezed on the packet of mayonnaise provided on the side for a flavor twist. The tangy, creamy richness of the mayo melded with the deep ginger glaze, elevating the dish into an intensely rich flavor profile. Thanks to this delicious switch-up, I kept clearing the generous heap of meat with fresh excitement right to the last bite.
Reaching over to the side dish of Mini Kalbi, the signature charred aroma of grilled beef short ribs and the luscious sweetness of the melting fat stood out immediately. Alternating between the bold punch of the pork ginger and the umami richness of the beef kalbi allowed me to fully appreciate the contrasting textures and flavors.
Summary: A Dependable, Super-Sized Set Meal for Ultimate Meat Cravings
Matsuya's "Double Pork Ginger Set Meal" is the ultimate choice for days when you want a seriously filling meal or just need to satisfy a fierce craving for meat. Taking advantage of the monthly Meat Day discount and stacking it with collected coupons takes the satisfaction level to new heights. Try drizzling on that creamy mayonnaise halfway through and treat yourself to this hearty meat feast!