Ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Tokyo? Then prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey through the world of yakitori, Japan’s beloved grilled chicken skewers. This seemingly simple dish boasts a rich history, a surprising range of flavors, and a charm that has captivated generations of Japanese and international food lovers alike.
From Street Stalls to Michelin Stars
Imagine: the early 1880s, bustling streets filled with the tantalizing aroma of grilled chicken. This is where yakitori’s story began, with humble street vendors transforming inexpensive poultry cuts into a delectable treat. Skewered chicken was expertly grilled over hot charcoal, brushed with a savory tare sauce made with soy sauce, sake, and sugar, and then served up piping hot.
Fast forward to today: yakitori has evolved into a culinary art form, with dedicated restaurants serving up gourmet chicken skewers prepared with meticulous care. Whether you’re seeking a casual izakaya experience or a Michelin-starred feast, yakitori offers a delicious way to celebrate Japan’s rich culinary heritage.
The Legacy of Higonoya: A Yakitori Oasis
Born in 1971, Higonoya embodies the spirit of Japan’s hardworking people. Founded by Ryosuke and Satoe Haseba, this haven offered weary workers a place to unwind and savor high-quality yakitori at accessible prices.
Over the years, Higonoya has blossomed from a humble snack bar into a renowned yakitori haven, while upholding its commitment to the working class. Today, with three branches across Tokyo, Higonoya continues to offer a warm and inviting atmosphere for those seeking a flavorful escape after a long day or a celebratory meal.
Michelin-Starred Yakitori: When Street Food Becomes Haute Cuisine
Think of yakitori as mere street food? Think again! In Tokyo, some of the city’s finest restaurants have elevated this humble dish to Michelin-star status.
Yakitori Omino, for example, offers a set-course menu featuring a symphony of flavors from different chicken parts – tendons, liver, tail meat, cartilage, and heart – all meticulously grilled over charcoal. The open kitchen allows diners to witness the art of yakitori preparation firsthand, marveling at the transformation of simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces.
Nana Cho Me, another Michelin-starred yakitori restaurant, enchants with its elegant interiors and a menu that tantalizes even the most discerning palate. From traditional yakitori skewers to oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowls) and grilled quail eggs, Nana Cho Me offers an extraordinary culinary experience that is sure to impress.
Yakitori Sei: A Chef’s Passion in Every Bite
For Chef Sei Takuma, yakitori is more than just a dish; it’s a lifelong passion. Inspired by his family’s popular yakitori restaurant in Shizuoka, he opened Yakitori Sei in Shinjuku in 2008, fulfilling a childhood dream.
Yakitori Sei’s intimate setting, with just 16 counter seats, allows diners to witness the artistry behind each skewer. Chef Sei’s signature dish, “Sho-Niku,” showcases tender thigh meat, expertly grilled to achieve a perfect balance of flavors.
For a truly immersive experience, try Yakitori Sei’s omakase course, where Chef Sei selects seasonal ingredients to create a personalized culinary adventure. Each course features a unique symphony of flavors, leaving diners with a lasting impression of Japanese culinary artistry.
Iseya: Where Value Meets Tradition
Looking for an affordable yet satisfying yakitori experience? Look no further than Iseya, nestled near Inokashira Park. This traditional yakitori shop has been delighting diners for decades with its authentic flavors and generous portions.
For around ¥2,000-¥3,000, you can indulge in a delicious yakitori feast, enjoying the cozy atmosphere of a classic izakaya under the glow of red lanterns. Iseya reminds us that great yakitori doesn’t have to break the bank.
Gonpachi Nishiazabu: Where Film Meets Flavor
You might recognize Gonpachi Nishiazabu from its starring role in “Kill Bill,” but this restaurant is much more than just a filming location. It’s a vibrant gastropub that celebrates traditional Japanese cuisine, including yakitori, alongside more contemporary innovations like camembert tempura.
With its spacious dining area, mezzanine balcony, and lively atmosphere, Gonpachi Nishiazabu is a truly memorable experience. Whether you’re a fan of the film or simply looking for a great place to enjoy a delicious meal, this izakaya gastropub is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Tokoshima: Freshness, Flavor, and a Sake Pairing Paradise
Tokoshima elevates classic yakitori to new heights, showcasing over 20 varieties of grilled chicken, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. This dedication to quality extends to the sourcing of their poultry, which is sourced directly from a farm in Ibaraki Prefecture, ensuring unique texture and flavor.
Tokoshima also offers over 40 types of sake, meticulously paired with the different chicken varieties. From the tender chicken meat to the aromatic sake, every element of the Tokoshima experience is designed to tantalize your taste buds.
Beyond the Skewer: Exploring Tokyo’s Yakitori Scene
These are just a few of the many fantastic yakitori restaurants Tokyo has to offer. Whether you’re looking for Michelin-starred luxury, a casual izakaya experience, or an affordable yet delicious meal, there’s a yakitori restaurant waiting to delight your palate.
So, what are you waiting for? Explore the world of Tokyo yakitori and discover why this humble dish has become a culinary icon.
