US Burger Daimyo: Japan’s Best Burger

Fukuoka is one of Japan’s underrated food capitals. The city offers a diverse variety of cuisines to choose from, including Japanese, Korean, Mexican, Peruvian, French, Italian, and even American. Given how Westernized Japan has become, it’s not hard to find American-style chains such as MOS Burger or Mister Donut. One day, someone recommended US Burger to me, so I invited a friend of mine and tried it with him. It was honestly one of the best burgers I’ve had period.

About US Burger

US Burger opened its doors in 2018, shortly after Jim relocated from Southern California to Fukuoka. Jim will often tell his patrons that a happy wife equals a happy life. Yet the McGayver-esque grill-master didn’t start out flipping decedent patties. Jim enjoyed a long career as an “integrator,” working with audio and visual technology. In fact, he set up the equipment at Chapman University’s Marion Knott Studios, home to Dodge College. What can I say except “Small World.”

Jim uses a blend of ground chuck and brisket, imported from the US. In addition, his burgers are California-style, down to the bun, the toppings, and even the sauce. Jim also prepares a wide variety of burgers, so be sure to try them all!

The Standard Burger

Jim’s standard burger consists of one or two beef patties, tomatoes, lettuce, and his homemade BBQ sauce. You can add slices of American cheese, bacon, or other topping for a few extra yen. Personally, I add bacon to my burgers because Jim prepares delicious, crispy homemade bacon. The double patties fill me up quickly and leave me feeling satisfied, almost as if I’m back in California.

Some of Jim’s Special Burgers

Jim often prepares off-menu burgers depending on what ingredients he has in stock. Some of the burgers I’ve tried include his Medianoche Burger, his “Elvis-style” burger, and his Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Burger. Be sure to follow him on Instagram to find out more.

The Medianoche Burger

The Medianoche is a Cuban-style sandwich often served past midnight in Cuban bars. Jim’s beefy-twist on the sandwich consist of lettuce and smoked, uncooked bacon. I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical about eating a burger with raw bacon, but Jim assured me it was safe. This unique burger quickly became one of my all-time favorites. The bacon was meaty and the textures complemented each other well.

The “Elvis-Style” Burger

Jim served me a burger with Peanut Butter and Bacon. While I was originally going to order a standard burger, I decided to give this concoction a try. To my surprise, the nuttiness of the crunchy peanut butter complemented the saltiness and savor of the bacon. I was in heaven with peanut butter sticking to the roof of my mouth! I would’ve never thought of putting peanut butter on a burger, but that’s what Jim is for!

The “Breakfast” Burger

Recently, Jim served me a burger with crispy bacon, a fried egg, and two slices of American cheese. Jim joked about the Kraft singles as he prepared and served me yet another delicious burger. The burger reminded me of the bacon cheddar panini from Corner Bakery, while satisfying my insatiable hunger for his delicious burgers.

The Experience

Once you step off the elevator onto the 5th floor of an obscure restaurant tower in the Daimyo neighborhood, you step into Americana. Jim’s humble burger shop is a slice of America smack-dab in the middle of Kyushu’s beating heart. The diner-esque restaurant interior is lined with American flags, California license plates, and at some point, t-shirts with the restaurant’s logo. You might notice one license plate that looks like an offensive word. Rest assured it’s leet spelling for “Integrator,” Jim’s former career.

Jim himself is a character. He’s self-sufficient and has an ability to improvise like no other. His attitude is that of an American who does things his way no matter what. I’m sure many Japanese people got their first taste of America by visiting US Burger!

The Cost

Jim’s burgers don’t come cheap. Thanks to imported beef and other ingredients, burgers cost around ¥1650. It’s common for me to spend around ¥2500 to ¥3000 here. But let me tell you: It’s absolutely worth it. I’ve recommended US Burger to my fellow JETs, while plenty more will visit due to their cravings for crispy bacon.

In Summary

America does beef better, and US Burger doesn’t disappoint. Not only are Jim’s burgers the best I’ve had in Japan, they’re among the best I’ve had period. The buns, bacon, and sauces are all homemade, and the drinks include A&W Root Beer, among others. Whether you’re craving a good burger, or are simply homesick, Jim’s got you covered.