Hello to all the travelers planning a trip to Japan!
Kawasaki, located between Tokyo and Yokohama, is a lively city that blends an energetic urban vibe with the warmth of a local community.
Today, I’m excited to introduce five must-visit yakitori restaurants in this vibrant city.
Yakitori is one of Japan’s signature traditional dishes, and it pairs exceptionally well with a drink. In this article, I’ll recommend some top spots in Kawasaki where you can enjoy delicious yakitori.
Why not explore Japan’s food culture through these amazing yakitori experiences?
The Charm of Yakitori and the Kawasaki Area
Kawasaki is a bustling city where modern cityscapes mix with the nostalgic charm of old neighborhoods.
Especially around Kawasaki Station, you’ll find a motley of modern shopping malls and local eateries that are popular with both tourists and locals.
Yakitori, chicken skewers simply grilled over charcoal, may sound basic, but the true depth of flavor lies in the freshness of the ingredients and the skills of the chef.
In Kawasaki, many restaurants offer expertly prepared yakitori that will leave a lasting impression.
In Japan, it’s common to enjoy yakitori with a drink, such as beer, highballs, or sake.
Savoring freshly grilled skewers alongside a refreshing beverage is a quintessential Japanese experience.
The following five recommended restaurants are perfect places to enjoy this wonderful pairing.
1. Tonari no Go Kawasaki 2nd Branch
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“Tonari no Go Kawasaki 2nd Branch” is an izakaya located just a few minutes’ walk from Kawasaki Station.
This cozy spot is famous for its skewers and fresh chicken sashimi.
The skewers, made with fresh local chicken, are grilled to perfection after you place an order and showcase the chef’s skill.
The “white liver” is especially popular, served medium rare to minimize the usually pungent taste, making it a great choice even for those who aren’t big fans of this part.
Inside, you’ll find counter as well as sunken kotatsu-style seating, accommodating both small and large groups.
From the counter seats, you can watch the chefs prepare your meal, adding a sense of excitement to your dining experience.
With a wide variety of all-you-can-drink party courses, it’s the perfect spot for a get-together with friends, a girls’ night out, or a company party.
2. Kushiyaki Go Kawasaki Main Branch
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“Kushiyaki Go Kawasaki Main Branch” is a yakitori specialty restaurant known for fresh skewers hand-prepared daily and grilled.
The “white liver”, with its unique texture and rich flavor, is a standout dish you won’t find elsewhere.
At the counter, you can watch the skilled chefs in action as they grill the juicy, flavorful skewers, which pair perfectly with the wide range of drinks on offer.
The restaurant has kotatsu-style seating for groups, making it ideal for both small gatherings and larger parties.
Their popular two-hour all-you-can-drink course includes not just yakitori, but also dishes like chicken nanban and premium horumon (offal).
They also boast a “Highball Tower” of crisp, cold, and extra-carbonated highballs, which are perfect for those who’re thirsting for a tall drink.
3. Sumiya Kushibei Keikyu Kawasaki
“Sumiya Kushibei Keikyu Kawasaki” brings a nostalgic, Showa-era vibe to the yakitori dining experience.
This charming old-style house restaurant is known for its fresh “Asaichi-dori” chicken, delivered from Azumino in the Shinshu region every morning.
Skewers are grilled over high-grade binchotan charcoal and priced affordably, with options starting at just 190 yen.
One of the standout dishes is “jumbo chicken shumai” that has a juicy texture thanks to low-temperature cooking.
The restaurant offers over 30 types of carefully selected Japanese sake from across Japan, making it the perfect place to enjoy yakitori and sake pairings.
With private rooms for both small and large groups, it’s a great option for private dinners.
The warm, wood-paneled interior creates a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for an enjoyable meal with friends or family.
4. Torigen Muza Kawasaki
“Torigen Muza Kawasaki” is an elegant, private izakaya located just a two-minute walk from Kawasaki Station’s west exit.
Here, they serve yakitori grilled over binchotan charcoal using premium domestic chickens like Date-dori and Hinai-jidori.
The restaurant’s private rooms can accommodate between 2 to 24 people, making it ideal for business dinners, parties, or gatherings with friends.
Their menu features seasonal ingredients, and the all-you-can-drink courses are particularly popular for group events.
Signature dishes like deep-fried chicken wings and homemade tsukune (meatballs) are must-tries.
Additionally, they offer Hokkaido-grown soba noodles, which pair wonderfully with the yakitori for a satisfying finishing touch to your meal.
5. Sumibi Yakitori Saigo
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“Sumibi Yakitori Saigo”, located in La Cittadella near Kawasaki Station, is a hidden gem for yakitori lovers.
They specialize in skewers made with premium chicken sourced from all over Japan, such as Shingen-dori from Yamanashi, Shamrock from Aomori, and Hinai-jidori from Akita, which are grilled over Tosa-style binchotan charcoal.
The “sasami” skewer, which is served with wasabi, is particularly noteworthy for its sashimi-like texture and exquisite taste.
The restaurant exudes a sophisticated, adult vibe, with jazz music setting the tone.
The main seating area is at the counter, but it can also accommodate private gatherings for up to 18 people. With luxurious yakitori courses, rare Japanese sake, and whiskey-based highballs, it’s the perfect spot for a special evening.
Conclusion
We’ve introduced five unique yakitori restaurants in Kawasaki, each offering a distinct and memorable experience.
Whether you’re in the mood for casual dining or a more refined experience, these restaurants showcase the delicious flavors of Japan’s iconic chicken skewers.
During your visit to Kawasaki, make sure to explore these fantastic yakitori spots and enjoy the warmth of Japanese hospitality and culture.
Each bite is sure to make your trip even more unforgettable!