Yakitori Restaurants(57)
COURSE MENUYakitori Sei
Discover a dream turned reality: a Tokyo yakitori restaurant born from a family legacy. Impeccable ingredients, artful techniques, and a personalized dining experience await around an intimate 16-seat counter.
COURSE MENUYakitori Ruike
One of the newer belligerents in Nishi-Shinjuku’s “izakaya battleground”, Yakitori Ruike sets itself apart from other combatants with its sophisticated atmosphere and uncompromising dedication to quality ingredients.
COURSE MENUYakitori Matsuoka
This central Michelin-recognized Osaka yakitori restaurant’s English-speaking chef has amassed a following not just for his amiable demeanor and impeccable Kagoshima poultry skewers, but also his collection of rare Japanese whiskies and sake.
COURSE MENUYakitori Toriya Kokorobito
At this family-run yakitori spot in Akasaka, the father handcrafts each skewer, while the bird is prepared nose-to-tail with care and precision by twin owners.
COURSE MENUSumiyaki Kaminari Main Store
This legendary Hiroshima yakitori restaurant uses a combination of “tohbi” distant-fire charcoal grilling to seal in the flavor, as well as a tashi-tsugi sauce that has been continuously added to for over 40 years of operation.
COURSE MENUYakitori Kita
By sourcing multiple breeds of chicken from farms all over Japan, Chef Yosuke Nakamura is able to prepare traditional yakitori skewers and inventive a la carte dishes that best suit each bird’s specific flavor and texture.
COURSE MENUHigonoya Omotesando
The Uredori chicken is the poultry pride of Ninohe City in Iwate Prefecture, renowned for its umami and texture. It is this chicken that is used in yakitori restaurant Higonoya, grilled to perfection right at the counter.
COURSE MENUFujiyoshi
Active for over 60 years, this Tenjin restaurant offers the winning combination of yakitori and sashimi, the latter made from fish kept alive in tanks right up to the moment of preparation.
COURSE MENUSumiyaki Kaminari Shintenchi
This legendary Hiroshima yakitori restaurant uses a combination of “tohbi” distant-fire charcoal grilling to seal in the flavor, as well as a tashi-tsugi sauce that has been continuously added to for over 40 years of operation.
COURSE MENUSumiyaki Kaminari Tatemachi
This legendary Hiroshima yakitori restaurant uses a combination of “tohbi” distant-fire charcoal grilling to seal in the flavor, as well as a tashi-tsugi sauce that has been continuously added to for over 40 years of operation.
COURSE MENUOoicho Nagoya Nishi
The ever-popular Nagoya-based Ooicho branch makes Nagoya Nishi its second nest, embracing a neck-to-tail philosophy that spotlights premium Kinsodori chicken from Aichi Prefecture in its yakitori creations.
COURSE MENUTaira
Domestic free-range chicken skewers are grilled upon ordering here at this Minami-Aoyama restaurant, but won’t leave guests’ clothes smelling like smoke. Chicken is accompanied by seasonal fare and sake, served with hospitality.
COURSE MENUChicken Kappo Hajime
History and interior design aficionados will be swept up in the Taisho Roman era-inspired interior of Chicken Kappo Hajime, but the sheer juiciness and flavor of its mizutaki and yakitori are the real stars of the show.
COURSE MENUHigonoya Aoyama Main Branch
For over 50 years, Higonoya’s original Aoyama outlet has been delighting locals with its supremely delicious Uredori chicken skewers. Shipped fresh from Ninohe City in Iwate Prefecture, the chicken is renowned for its robust flavor and texture.
COURSE MENUHigonoya Gaienmae
Directly outside the station exit is the Gaienmae branch of vaunted yakitori franchise Higonoya — a popular late-night destination made famous for its use of Uredori chickens from Ninohe in Iwate, which are renowned for their umami and texture.
COURSE MENUYakitori Ginza I
Generous use of seasonal vegetables and inventive twists like foie gras in chicken tsukune set Chef Koichi Inoue’s yakitori restaurant apart. When dining at Yakitori Ginza I, wine pairings from the in-house sommelier are a must.
SEAT RESERVATIONYakitori Sanka
Yakitori Sanka is an endeavor of love: Chef Yamanaka Takamasa’s love for his home prefecture of Kochi. The restaurant uses Tosa-jiro chicken in its skewers, grilled over Tosa binchotan charcoal and finished with traditional Kochi sun-dried salt.
SEAT RESERVATION124. Kagurazaka
Despite being nestled in the already-saturated gourmet hub of Kagurazaka, 124. Kagurazaka stands out with one undeniable trump card: the exceptional Date chicken.
SEAT RESERVATIONYakitori Omino
The charcoal-grilling wizards of this Oshiage eatery are taking yakitori to new heights.
SEAT RESERVATIONYakitori Ichimatsu
Michelin-starred street food served up at the counter: this Osaka yakitori shop is the best place to try this local cooking style.
SEAT RESERVATIONNana Cho Me
Yakitori grilled chicken skewers have never tasted as good as at this sophisticated Michelin-starred eatery.
SEAT RESERVATIONTorisho Ishii
Level up your skewered-meat adventure with a full-course yakitori-only meal!
SEAT RESERVATIONYakitori Takahashi
Yakitori Takahashi in historical Nihonbashi has earned a cult following and one Michelin star for its simple yet delectable yakitori using premium-raised game fowl and chicken carefully grilled and lightly smoked to perfection.
SEAT RESERVATIONAyamuya
A premium yakitori restaurant with a Michelin star (Michelin Guide 2020), where you can enjoy the rich and powerful flavors of Osaka.
SEAT RESERVATIONIshii Jr.
Three local chicken breeds from Kumamoto, Wakayama and Akita are the backbone of the ever-busy grill at Ishii Jr., the laid-back sibling of the Michelin-starred Torisho Ishii in Osaka.
SEAT RESERVATIONOmino Kamiyacho
Yakitori skewers and seasonal Japanese delicacies by the master chef behind Michelin-starred Yakitori Omino.
SEAT RESERVATIONHiiragitei
Father opens the shop, mother handles the service and son helms the yakitori — Kyoto obanzai is carried with honor and tradition in this Michelin-featured shop near Kyoto’s Chionin Temple.
SEAT RESERVATIONSumibiyakitori Ikoka
The hidden skewer joint west of Osaka Castle serves Michelin-approved yakitori grilled over high-quality binchotan charcoal in a sophisticated atmosphere.
Recent Reviews from GuestsDiscover the Authentic Flavors of Yakitori
When it comes to experiencing the rich culinary culture of Japan, Yakitori stands out as a beloved and traditional dish that food lovers must try. Yakitori refers to skewered and grilled chicken, and its popularity extends to casual diners and culinary enthusiasts alike. In the heart of Japan, and now across the globe, Yakitori restaurants offer a feast that is both simple and profound, highlighting the natural flavors of the meat and the skill of the chef. The cozy atmosphere of a Yakitori joint, often accompanied by the delightful sizzle and aroma from the grill, sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. Whether you are a seasoned fan or trying Yakitori for the first time, the authentic flavors and diverse selections will surely captivate your taste buds.
Choose from a Variety of Mouthwatering Selections
At Yakitori restaurants, one of the most appealing aspects is the extensive variety of options available. Traditional Yakitori typically features different cuts of chicken, including thigh, breast, skin, liver, and other organs, grilled to perfection. These skewers can be seasoned with simple salt or tare sauce, a sweet soy-based glaze that adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Apart from chicken, many establishments offer a selection of skewered vegetables, tofu, and other meats like pork and beef, making it a versatile choice for diners with diverse preferences. Vegetarian and vegan options are becoming more common as well, ensuring that everyone can partake in this Japanese culinary tradition.
Experience Yakitori in a Unique Ambiance
What sets Yakitori restaurants apart is not just the food, but also the setting in which it is enjoyed. These establishments often feature an intimate and lively atmosphere where friends and families gather to enjoy good food and conversation. The chef usually grills the Yakitori at a counter in front of the patrons, who can watch their food being expertly prepared over an open flame. This adds an experiential element to the meal, turning dining into a cultural immersion. Whether you are in a bustling city or a quaint neighborhood, Yakitori restaurants offer a slice of Japanese culture and hospitality. With each bite, diners can appreciate the subtlety of flavors and the dedication involved in crafting each skewer.