Yakiniku Ueno Taishoen Ueno Station

Restaurant Details

A cut above the rest, the long-established yakiniku brand Yakiniku Ueno Taishoen, founded in 1963, proposes that the Japanese barbecue dining experience should be tied back to its Korean roots. And now, with three locations in Ueno, including its store near the station, and two additional sister branches, the message is stronger than ever.

Led by a head chef with over 20 years of yakiniku expertise, the menu balances approachability and affordability while maintaining the high standards of the kitchen. Year-round, the focus is on premium wagyu cuts, such as the coveted chateaubriand — the ultra-tender part of the cow — and short ribs. Traces of yakiniku's birthplace, in Japan's neighboring country, are reflected in the offering of kimchi and namul.

The course packs the wow factor with its long-winded lineup of meat. You might start with a round of thick-cut, salt-marinated beef tongue, loin, akami (lean meat), and skirt steak, then continue with chicken and a hearty seafood platter for a well-rounded meal.

Eating here is a lot of fun here, too — true to yakiniku tradition, grilling is mostly done at the table. There's a lively energy in the air: friends chatting, staff carrying trays of raw meat while welcoming new diners with an “irrashaimase,” and the constant sizzle of meat cooking on the grill. On weekday evenings, the ekimae ("in front of the station") store hosts happy hours. There’s also a kid’s meal featuring tender cuts of meat. Come in for a casual post-museum date in Ueno, or do a proper sit down at the sunken kotatsu table with family.