"Sawayaka" makes its debut in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City—Bay Dream Shimizu store grand opening. Despite heavy rain the day before, fans lined up, with a record-breaking queue of "about 500 people" before the store opened.

1. What Happened: A Line of "About 500 People" Before Opening

On the morning of November 2, despite the bad weather from the previous day, fans lined up early for the opening of the Bay Dream Shimizu store, forming a line of "about 500 people" before the store opened. This marks the first new store in Shizuoka City in 14 years and the first in Shimizu Ward. Voices from those involved on-site expressed surprise at the large turnout. Shizuoka Life - Shizuoka News & Information Site+2X (formerly Twitter)+2

2. Basic Store Information (Official)

• Store Name: Sumiyaki Restaurant Sawayaka Bay Dream Shimizu Store

• Address: 8-6 Komagoe Kitamachi, Shimizu-ku, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture 424-0906

• Ticketing Start: Normally 10:00 (Opening day starts at 9:30 as announced)

• Business Hours: 10:45–22:00 (Last Order 21:00) *Opens at 10:30 on weekends and holidays / New ticketing may stop during peak times
  (For the latest operations and congestion status, check the official "Store List/Each Store Page") Genkotsu Hamburg Steak Sumiyaki Restaurant Sawayaka+1

3. Why Such Long Lines?—The Rarity of a "Region-Limited Special Experience"

"Sawayaka" is exclusively available in Shizuoka Prefecture, becoming one of the "reasons to visit Shizuoka" for travelers, business visitors, and nearby driving enthusiasts. In recent years, media exposure, mentions by celebrities, and special events have synergized to maintain its constant popularity. Reports indicate that topics raised by Shizuoka-born actress Masami Nagasawa and others have fueled the queues. Shizuoka Shimbun DIGITAL+1

4. The Significance of Shimizu Ward's "First": Convenience Impacting Daily Life

Although there are existing stores in Shizuoka City, for Shimizu Ward residents, this is the "first in the ward." Previously, car travel was necessary, but now residents can use Bay Dream Shimizu for everyday purposes. The shopping mall's ample parking is noted, increasing options for family lunches on weekends and "reward dining" on weekday nights. The queues are expected to continue for some time, but local blogs and experience reports highlight the convenience of having it nearby. Japan's Heart! Regional Blog - Local Information Log for Parenting Moms+1

5. The Appeal of the Famous "Genkotsu Hamburg Steak"—"Charcoal Grilled × Rare"

The style of being cut and finished at the table allows diners to enjoy the aroma of charcoal and the umami of red meat in a rare state. The juiciness and aroma of the sauce create a sensory experience, contributing to its popularity as a "ritual" for first-time visitors. Reviews reveal both affirmations and criticisms of the "reason for the queues," as taste is highly subjective. Tabelog+1

6. Queue Strategy Guide: Tips for First-Time Visitors

(1) Align with Ticketing Start Time
Arrive in time for the official "ticketing start" to reduce waiting time. During peak times, new ticketing may stop early, so morning actions are crucial. Genkotsu Hamburg Steak Sumiyaki Restaurant Sawayaka

(2) Peak Time Distribution
Weekends and holidays during lunch hours have the longest waits. Targeting weekdays and the lull between 14:00 and 17:00 increases your chances. Local reports also predict "considerable congestion" on weekends and during lunch. Japan's Heart! Regional Blog - Local Information Log for Parenting Moms

(3) How to Spend Time Inside the Mall
Since it's attached to a mall, you can make the waiting experience more comfortable by shopping, resting, or using the kids' space after ticketing.

(4) Dress Code & Manners
Wear clothes that can get dirty and bring a handkerchief to protect against oil splashes. Follow staff instructions when sauce is served for peace of mind.

(5) Be Aware of the Cancellation Line
Announcements may stop ticketing. If visiting from afar, consider arriving before opening or substituting with nearby stores (such as Shizuoka Senagawa Store, Shin-Shizuoka Cenova Store). Genkotsu Hamburg Steak Sumiyaki Restaurant Sawayaka+1

7. Tourism Scenario: Touring the Shimizu Area with "Food × Scenery"

• Morning: View Mt. Fuji from Miho no Matsubara → Ticket and shop at Bay Dream Shimizu

• Noon: "Genkotsu" lunch at Sawayaka

• Afternoon: Stroll around S-Pulse Dream Plaza/Clear Water Port → Take the Nihondaira Ropeway for the evening view
  Create a unique Shizuoka day by combining "local-origin, limited experiences" with sea and Mt. Fuji views (incorporating queue waiting into the itinerary is key).

8. Impact on the Local Economy

The entry of a "popular prefectural store" into Shimizu Ward's commercial cluster is expected to have a ripple effect on nearby dining, retail, and leisure. Especially on weekends, wide-area customer attraction will impact parking turnover rates and visitor stay times. The facility must ensure the safety of waiting lines, secure pathways, and manage traffic congestion.

9. The Brand Value Created by "Shizuoka Exclusivity"

By not rushing to open stores outside the prefecture and maintaining consistency in quality and experience, the strategy enhances rarity, amplifying brand enthusiasm through word-of-mouth and media. Reports indicate that during periods of overlapping popular events and exposure, the store remained busy for about a year, demonstrating strong demand resilience. Shizuoka Shimbun DIGITAL

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When is the best time to go to avoid crowds?
A: During the first week to the first month, arriving before the morning ticketing start is a sure bet. Weekdays between 14:00 and 17:00 are also relatively good times. Check the official ticketing start time and reception status on the day. Genkotsu Hamburg Steak Sumiyaki Restaurant Sawayaka

Q2: Is it okay to bring children?
A: Located within a mall, it is family-friendly. Familiarize yourself with how to spend waiting time (nursing rooms, kids' spaces, food courts) in advance for peace of mind.

Q3: How is the steak cooked?
A: It is generally served rare. If you prefer otherwise, consult with the staff. Experience reports often mention "table finishing, aroma, and juiciness," though there are differences in evaluation based on personal taste. Tabelog

Q4: How crowded are other stores?
A: Even existing stores in the city may show long wait times during peak hours. Consider them as alternative options for dispersing congestion. Genkotsu Hamburg Steak Sumiyaki Restaurant Sawayaka