Takasaki Oisii is a mid-range beef restaurant in the Tenjincho district of Takasaki, Gunma, specialising in Joshu-gyu — the wagyu beef raised in Gunma Prefecture from Tajima-lineage black Wagyu cattle fed on local grain. Gunma produces a smaller volume of wagyu than better-known branded regions such as Kobe or Matsuzaka, but Joshu-gyu has developed a following among regional beef enthusiasts for its balanced marbling and the influence of the prefecture's cold highland climate on the cattle. Takasaki Oisii serves the beef in two main contexts: a lunch set built around sirloin steak or a yakiniku-style grilled beef platter, and an evening course that extends to sukiyaki hot pot and premium sirloin preparations. The beef tongue teishoku — a set meal of grilled tongue slices with rice, miso soup, and pickles — is a popular and affordable lunch option for first-time visitors who want to explore Joshu-gyu without committing to a full steak course. Wagyu beef sukiyaki, cooked at the table in sweet soy broth with tofu, negi, and shirataki noodles, is the most theatrical of the evening preparations. The dining room is a warm, mid-range space with wooden panels, subdued lighting, and a layout that accommodates couples and small groups comfortably. Service is attentive. Lunch sets represent strong value at ¥2,000–3,000 for sirloin and rice; evening courses rise to ¥6,000 for extended wagyu arrangements. Takasaki Station is a 10-minute walk, making Takasaki Oisii a natural dinner stop for travellers passing through on the Shinkansen.
Signature dishes
- Joshu-gyu beef sirloin steak set
- Wagyu beef sukiyaki
- Beef tongue teishoku
Good to know
- Known for
- Joshu-gyu (Gunma wagyu) beef courses, from affordable lunch sets to premium sirloin
- Hours
- 11:30AM–2:30PM; 5:30PM–10:00PM; closed Tuesday
- Reservations
- Recommended for dinner; walk-in at lunch
Location
2-8-1 Tenjincho, Takasaki, Gunma 370-0044
36.3258, 139.0120 View on map
Highlights
- Joshu-gyu wagyu beef — Gunma's regional black-cattle breed, known for balanced marbling
- Affordable beef tongue teishoku (¥2,000 range) as a lighter entry into Joshu-gyu at lunch
- Table-cooked wagyu sukiyaki with local vegetables for an interactive dinner experience
- Mid-range dining room near Takasaki Station — accessible for Shinkansen travellers
- Lunch walk-in; dinner reservations recommended to secure wagyu course availability
Tips for visiting
- The lunch beef tongue teishoku (¥2,000) is the best-value introduction to Joshu-gyu for solo diners
- For the full wagyu experience, order the sirloin steak course at dinner (from ¥4,500)
- Reserve dinner by phone (+81 27-325-7878) at least a day ahead; wagyu stock is limited daily
- The restaurant closes Tuesday — plan around this if visiting Takasaki mid-week
- Photo menus are available, making ordering manageable without Japanese-language ability
When to visit
Dinner provides the widest wagyu selection; visit Tuesday through Saturday to avoid the closure day and secure the premium sirloin course.
Accessibility
The restaurant occupies multiple floors; ground-floor seating is available and accessible. Steps to upper floors may limit access for wheelchair users — call ahead to confirm ground-floor availability.
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Frequently asked questions
How does Joshu-gyu compare with Kobe beef?
Joshu-gyu uses Tajima-lineage black Wagyu cattle raised in Gunma's cooler highland climate. It is typically less intensely marbled than A5 Kobe but is considered more approachable in richness and is considerably less expensive.
Is there a minimum spend at dinner?
There is no formal minimum, but ordering a course (from ¥4,500) is encouraged at dinner to ensure the kitchen's wagyu stock is used appropriately.
Does the restaurant have English menus?
Photo menus are available, allowing visual selection without Japanese-language ability.
Is the restaurant close to Takasaki Station?
The Tenjincho address is approximately a 10-minute walk from JR Takasaki Station's east exit.