Try MOS Burger: Japan’s Homegrown Burger Chain

You might see MOS Burger in parts of Asia, but you won’t find it in the U.S. or Europe.
So while you’re in Japan, why not try a hamburger chain that was born right here?

Overview

MOS Burger was founded in 1972 in Japan. Since then, it has developed unique menu items suited to Japanese tastes—such as soy-sauce-inspired flavors and the famous rice burger, where the bun is made of rice.
Unlike typical fast-food restaurants, MOS Burger prepares each order only after it’s placed, following a “made-to-order” style. Their concept focuses less on speed and more on freshness, safety, and a distinctly Japanese sense of quality.
Thanks to this approach, MOS Burger has remained a beloved brand, now operating 1,314 locations across Japan.

My wife insists that, among all the burger chains, MOS Burger is hands down the best.
It makes sense—after all, their flavors are crafted to match Japanese tastes perfectly.

By the way, the name MOS actually stands for Mountain (as noble as a mountain), Ocean (as deep as the sea), and Sun (as passionate as the sun).

Now, let’s take a look at some of MOS Burger’s most popular menu items!

1. MOS Burger

You can’t visit MOS without trying their signature creation—the classic MOS Burger, still their No.1 best-seller. (Shown here: the Cheese MOS Burger.)
A juicy beef patty, fresh tomato you won’t find at McDonald’s, and MOS’s original meat sauce make this burger unforgettable.
The rich, savory sauce even doubles as a dip for your fries or onion rings. A timeless favorite that never gets old.

2. Teriyaki Burger

A true Japanese-style burger. The patty is coated in MOS’s original teriyaki sauce and paired with crisp lettuce. Add creamy mayonnaise, and it’s a perfect match.
Teriyaki is practically synonymous with Japanese flavors, and this sweet-and-savory sauce will have you hooked instantly.

3. MOS Rice Burger (Yakiniku / Seafood Kakiage)

The rice burger craze started at MOS Burger!
Grilled slices of beef marinated in soy-based sauce or a crispy seafood-and-vegetable fritter seasoned with a special salt sauce are sandwiched between toasted rice “buns.”
If you’re in Japan, this is a must-try item you won’t find anywhere else.

4. Fish Burger

Often overlooked at other chains, MOS’s Fish Burger is a hidden gem.
I usually skip fish burgers elsewhere, but at MOS it’s my go-to choice: a crisp white fish fillet paired perfectly with cheese. Light, flavorful, and underrated.

5. Chili Dog

Yes, MOS also makes great hot dogs! This is my wife’s regular order (along with her burger).
Their juicy sausage is topped with a rich, tomato-based chili sauce with just the right kick of spice. A simple but outstanding combination that proves MOS does more than burgers.

6. Green Burger <Teriyaki>

A plant-based option that avoids animal products and even the “five pungent roots” (garlic, onion, etc.) used in some Asian cooking.
A soy-based patty, fresh green leaf lettuce, and soft vegetable buns are topped with a separate green teriyaki-mayo sauce. A fully satisfying choice for vegetarians and vegans.

7. MOS Chicken

More popular than some of the burgers, MOS Chicken is my wife’s second must-have order.
Crispy on the outside and seasoned with Japanese-style flavors, this juicy chicken breast easily wins over fried chicken fans. Many customers never leave without it.

8. Clam Chowder

Packed with clams, bacon, onions, potatoes, and more, this creamy milk-based soup is hearty and full of texture.
It’s a pleasant surprise to enjoy such a rich, warming chowder at a burger chain!

9. Mix-It-Yourself Matcha Shake

A treat for green tea lovers. This shake blends vanilla ice cream with matcha syrup made from tea grown in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture.
You stir it yourself before drinking—half the fun is in the mixing!

10. Double “Tobikiri” Cheeseburger ~Hokkaido Cheese~

For those with a bigger appetite. Two 100% Japanese beef patties are layered with rich cheese from Hokkaido, delivering a full, meaty flavor in every bite.