Toriki Higashiguchi Branch

Located just inside Shinagawa City, just across the border from neighboring Meguro, Toriki shines as a go-to destination for all things chicken. The main Hatanodai branch shut its doors earlier in 2024, but regular Toriki goers saw it as no great loss; just three minutes' walk from the original, the Higashiguchi branch — so named for its position near the eastern exit of Hatanodai Station — continues the restaurant's legacy of yakitori greatness. Even before the closure of the main branch, Toriki Higashiguchi has long been celebrated by local salarymen and overseas visitors alike for its delicious and fresh charcoal-grilled chicken skewers, expertly grilled by veteran chefs. Yakitori staples are accompanied by unique offerings like the momo tataki, or seared chicken thigh, still pink on the inside — a daunting challenge for the uninitiated, but an incredibly appealing one for many of Toriki's regulars. Conveniently located near Hatanodai Station, Toriki is easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. It's the quintessential izakaya, inviting for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings in their second-floor banquet hall. Just as seasoned as the chefs (and the yakitori skewers themselves) are the friendly staff, who provide attentive service that doesn't discriminate between locals and overseas guests. Of course, ever-changing menus keep each visit exciting, even for the regulars — so don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from the staff, either.