Tokyo Yakitori Restaurants(35)
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 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.
SEAT RESERVATIONBird Land Ginza
This famous Ginza grilled chicken restaurant puts Japan’s favorite comfort food at the center of a hearty set menu.
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.
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 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.
SEAT RESERVATIONYakitori Omino
The charcoal-grilling wizards of this Oshiage eatery are taking yakitori to new heights.
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 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 RESERVATIONYakitori Moe Es
What happens when yakitori and French meet in the middle? You’d get Yakitori Moe Es, a Michelin-featured sensation in Roppongi that’s making new waves in the Japanese skewer scene.
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 RESERVATIONNana Cho Me
Yakitori grilled chicken skewers have never tasted as good as at this sophisticated Michelin-starred eatery.
SEAT RESERVATIONOmino Kamiyacho
Yakitori skewers and seasonal Japanese delicacies by the master chef behind Michelin-starred Yakitori Omino.
SEAT RESERVATIONTorisawa 22
Have your fill of premium grilled chicken at this top yakitori shop in Tokyo.
SEAT RESERVATIONToricho
Whether raw or cooked, the chicken here is some of the best in the city!
SEAT RESERVATIONSerata
Head to Minato to indulge in a plethora of meat skewers grilled the Japanese way.
SEAT RESERVATIONToriki (Hatanodai)
Yakitori grilled chicken skewers served up in a local atmosphere beloved by the locals of the area.
SEAT RESERVATIONGonpachi Odaiba
Try a whole range of traditional Japanese dishes in Odaiba while looking out over the waters of Tokyo Bay.
SEAT RESERVATIONBird Land Toranomon
The chicken or the egg? For the famed Michelin-starred yakitori joint, it's both.
SEAT RESERVATIONTorishige
Witness the whole panorama of Japanese grilled delicacies at one of the capital's best traditional grill houses.
SEAT RESERVATIONTorisawa
Put yourself in the safe hands of a top grillmaster to enjoy the finest chicken that east Tokyo has to offer.
SEAT RESERVATIONToritanaka
If you thought grilled skewers could only get so good, you owe it to yourself to try the delicious meat at this Sumida eatery.
SEAT RESERVATIONYakitori Hirako
The next step after mastering the art of grilled chicken? Raise your own fowl of course!
SEAT RESERVATIONKuniyoshi
Dining on the Kanagawa seaside, enjoy the unagi at Kuniyoshi, a treat for first-timers and hundredth-timers alike.
Recent Reviews from GuestsExperience Authentic Yakitori in Tokyo
Tokyo is a haven for food lovers, and among its myriad culinary delights, yakitori stands out as a beloved choice for locals and tourists alike. Yakitori, which translates to "grilled chicken," offers a simple yet irresistible allure. Skewered, seasoned, and grilled over a charcoal fire, each bite provides a savory and juicy experience. When visiting Tokyo, indulging in authentic yakitori is a must to fully appreciate the rich flavors and culinary expertise that this city offers.
From bustling stalls to refined izakayas, Tokyo has a wealth of yakitori establishments that cater to every preference. Whether you are seeking a quick snack in a lively market or a more refined dining experience, these restaurants offer a variety of skewers that highlight different parts of the chicken, as well as other meats and vegetables. What makes the yakitori experience in Tokyo truly unique is the quality of the ingredients and the precision of the grilling techniques that are passed down through generations.
Best Areas to Find Yakitori in Tokyo
Tokyo's neighborhoods each bring their own flair to the culinary table, and when it comes to yakitori, there are certain areas that truly excel. Shinjuku, for instance, is famous for its vibrant streets filled with yakitori shops that offer both traditional and innovative skewers. The energetic atmosphere complements the smoky aromas that waft through the air, inviting any passerby to stop and savor the delights on offer.
Another area not to be missed is Shibuya. Known for its youthful vibe and trendy spots, Shibuya provides an eclectic mix of yakitori joints, where patrons can enjoy a cozy night out or grab a quick, satisfying bite before continuing their exploration of the city. Finally, don't overlook the historic Asakusa district, where you can find yakitori spots that have preserved the art of grilling over many years, ensuring an authentic taste of this classic Japanese dish.
Taste the Diversity of Yakitori Skewers
What sets Tokyo's yakitori apart is its incredible variety. From the more typical options like chicken thighs and wings to adventurous picks such as liver, heart, or gizzard, the assortment ensures there is something for everyone. In addition to chicken, many yakitori eateries in Tokyo offer skewers of pork, beef, or vegetables like shishito peppers and shiitake mushrooms, all grilled to perfection.
For those seeking a comprehensive experience, many yakitori establishments offer set menus or omakase-style dining, where the chef selects a series of skewers to give you a full spectrum of flavors. Pairing these with traditional Japanese sides like edamame, pickled vegetables, or a selection of sake adds depth to your meal, rounding out an exquisite dining experience that’s both satisfying and enlightening.
Whether you're a seasoned yakitori enthusiast or a first-time visitor eager to explore, Tokyo's yakitori restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey. With each bite, you'll savor the dedication to tradition and the passion for flavor that makes Tokyo a top destination for this delightful dish.