When visiting Japan, experiencing the local food culture is just as important as sightseeing and cultural exploration.
Yakitori, in particular, is a dish that epitomizes Japan’s izakaya (pub) culture.
The art of slowly grilling simple chicken over charcoal showcases the deep craftsmanship that goes into Japanese cooking.
In this article, we introduce five yakitori restaurants in the sophisticated neighborhood of Akasaka that you simply must visit.
Through the unique quality and dedication displayed at these restaurants, you’ll experience the depth of Japanese yakitori culture.
Yakitori and Akasaka: The Appeal
Akasaka is located in the heart of Tokyo and known as a bustling business district, as well as for its collection of upscale restaurants.
Many visitors from both Japan and abroad are drawn to the area, and its rich culinary offerings are a major part of the appeal.
Yakitori, which is a dish that highlights the quality of Japanese ingredients, is well-represented here.
Preparing yakitori is an art and many of the restaurants here can be aptly called masters.
Let’s explore the deep flavors of yakitori in Akasaka and connect you to Japan’s rich food culture.
1. Hinai Jidori Sumibiyaki Specialty Akasaka Zanmai
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Just a one-minute walk from Akasaka-Mitsuke Station, “Hinai Jidori Sumibiyaki Specialty Akasaka Zanmai” specializes in Hinai Jidori, a rare breed of chicken from Akita Prefecture.
The yakitori, grilled over Binchotan charcoal, is known for its juicy and firm texture and a must-try for any yakitori lover.
The restaurant also serves fresh seafood shipped directly from Choshi Port, which pairs perfectly with their wide selection of nihonshu (Japanese sake).
The restaurant has private rooms, which are ideal for business meetings or special dinners in a relaxed and refined atmosphere.
Signature dishes like the "Tori Sukiyaki" and "Gokujo Momo Tataki" showcase the chef’s commitment to quality ingredients.
2. Sumibiyaki Toriyama Akasaka
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“Sumibiyaki Toriyama Akasaka” uses premium domestic chicken, freshly prepared each morning and grilled to perfection over Binchotan charcoal.
The restaurant is especially famous for its "White Liver", a rare cut known for having a smooth texture and rich flavor that’s loved by yakitori enthusiasts.
Alongside the yakitori, the menu features seasonal dishes, as well as a fine selection of local sake and wines from across Japan for an exquisite pairing with the food.
The cozy, wooden interior creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for both business meetings and date nights.
At the counter, you can watch the chef expertly grill your yakitori right in front of you, making for an immersive and entertaining dining experience.
3. Kutsurogi Private Dining Seasonal Japanese Cuisine and Sake EISHIN
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“Kutsurogi Private Dining Seasonal Japanese Cuisine and Sake EISHIN”, located in Akasaka, is a hidden-away spot where you can enjoy seasonal ingredients and premium sake.
Signature dishes include Hinai Jidori grilled over charcoal, fresh seafood delivered straight from fishing ports, and even rare Tosa Akaushi steak.
With over 50 varieties of Japanese sake and a wide selection of wines, "Kutsurogi Private Dining Seasonal Japanese Cuisine and Sake EISHIN" provides the perfect pairing for each dish.
The interior has a design exuding a sense of warmth and features vintage items collected from sake breweries.
It’s an inviting space complete with private rooms perfect for business dinners or romantic evenings, and of course, to relax and enjoy a seasonal dining experience.
4. Toritetsu Akasaka
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“Toritetsu Akasaka” is a casual yakitori restaurant featuring rare regional chickens like Oshu Mibiki and Kogarashi Beni Fuji.
Their yakitori, carefully grilled over charcoal, is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Additionally, the "Tori Nabe" (chicken hot pot) and "Tsukune" (chicken meatballs) are particularly popular among customers.
The prices here are quite reasonabble and they also have drink-inclusive course menus, making it perfect for group gatherings or farewell parties.
Inside, you’ll find a mix of horigotatsu (recessed kotatsu), semi-private rooms, and table seating, accommodating parties of up to 30 people.
The casual and cozy atmosphere makes “Toritetsu Akasaka” a great spot for those looking to enjoy delicious yakitori in a relaxed environment.(Smoking is permitted inside.)
5. Private Dining Izakaya Hanamichi Akasaka-Mitsuke
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Just one minute from Akasaka-Mitsuke Station, “Private Dining Izakaya Hanamichi Akasaka-Mitsuke” offers fully private dining rooms in a Japanese-style setting.
Accomodating groups of 2 to 100 people, this restaurant is perfect for any occasion from business meetings and girls' nights out to big banquets.
The menu features dishes made with fresh seafood and Daisen Chicken, with highlights like the "Ceramic Plate Grill" and "Shabu-Shabu".
Their 3-hour all-you-can-drink banquet courses start at a reasonable 4,500 yen, and for special occasions, they offer customized dessert plates to surprise your guests.
The wide selection of sake and shochu will satisfy any liquor lover, ensuring you’ll have a complete dining experience.
Conclusion
So, what did you think of these five excellent yakitori spots in Akasaka?
Each has a unique charm and offers delicious yakitori in an atmosphere where Japanese food culture is on full display.
On your next trip to Tokyo, be sure to visit one (or all!) of these yakitori restaurants in Akasaka for a memorable and delicious experience!