Unagi Yamanochaya

Established on the grounds of Sanno Hie Shrine, this unagi specialty restaurant has been open since the early 20th century. Slightly on the higher end of the price scale, Unagi Yamanochaya has perfected their unagi craft, resulting in tender and less oily dishes compared to other restaurants. Tranquil ambiance is rare in a city like Tokyo but this restaurant has it in abundance. The course menus start off with the inner parts of the unagi, followed by others including shirayaki (a white eel grilled over charcoal with a dash of salt) and followed by the main dish. Eels from Shizuoka and Kagoshima are broiled without seasoning then steamed slowly. It is then broiled again over bincho charcoal with a type of sweet sauce. The significant climb up the stairs and a few extra pennies spent are worth the premium quality of this unagi. Eel lovers, and those who are curious about the dish, should give Unagi Yamanochaya a shot.