Hello!
As someone living in Japan and keen to share the country's rich culture and cuisine with the world, I’m thrilled to introduce you to five must-visit yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurants in the Ueno area.
In this article, you’ll discover the finest yakiniku experiences Ueno has to offer and get all the information you need to enjoy a truly special dining experience.
The Area and Culinary Features
Ueno is one of Tokyo's most famous tourist destinations and known for the historic Ueno Park and vibrant Ameya-Yokocho (Ameyoko) market.
An area with a lively atmosphere, Ueno boasts a variety of dining options, with yakiniku restaurants being particularly popular among both locals and tourists.
From restaurants offering premium wagyu beef to specialty establishments serving aged meat and jingisukan (grilled lamb), Ueno is a haven for meat lovers.
Ueno Taishoen Ueno Main Store
(Source:https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131101/13003600/dtlphotolst/?mode=owner&smp=2)
"Ueno Taishoen Ueno Main Store" is a long-standing yakiniku restaurant that first opened its doors in 1963.
With several locations in the Ueno area, it’s known for signature dishes such as "Bucket of Meat" and "Silk Yukhoe".
The restaurant takes pride in serving dishes made with carefully selected A5-grade kuroge wagyu beef.
The elegant and tranquil interior includes private rooms accommodating 2 to 24 guests, making it perfect for business meetings, special occasions, or family gatherings.
The luxurious "Premium Deluxe Course" with an all-you-can-drink option is a customer favorite and there’s also takeout to enjoy authentic yakiniku at home.
Aged Wagyu Yakiniku Aging Beef Nishinippori Main Store
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"Aged Wagyu Yakiniku Aging Beef Nishinippori Main Store" is Japan's first yakiniku restaurant specializing in aged meat and serves wagyu beef aged for about 30 days.
The stylish interior, with its clean white design, includes banquet seating for up to 50 guests.
The deep flavors and tenderness of aged meat are showcased in their popular course menus, with standout dishes such as Chateaubriand and whole cuts of aged meat.
This spot draws an especially large number of women customers and is ideal for dates, anniversaries, and special meals.
Yakiniku Isshin Tansuke Ueno Main Store
(Source:https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131101/13159766/dtlphotolst/?mode=owner&smp=2)
"Yakiniku Isshin Tansuke Ueno Main Store" is a yakiniku restaurant famous for its signature dish: the 20 millimeter-thick "Extra-Thick Beef Tongue".
They offer an all-you-can-eat course focused on beef tongue covering over 10 different types of dishes.
In addition to yakiniku, the menu features beef tongue sashimi, beef sushi, soups, and more, which have all received rave reviews for the exceptional value.
This all-you-can-eat and drink restaurant is perfect for family outings or meals with friends.
Jingisukan Kirishima Okachimachi
(Source:https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131101/13150036/dtlphotolst/?smp=2&sby=D&srt=normal&mode=owner)
"Jingisukan Kirishima Okachimachi" is a jingisukan specialty restaurant opened by former sumo wrestler Kirishima and located just a minute’s walk from Okachimachi Station.
The restaurant is known for "Fresh Lamb" and "Seared Lamb", both of which are prized for their juicy flavors and lack of gaminess.
The spacious seating area makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal with family or friends.
The unique jingisukan grill allows excess fat to drip away, resulting in healthier and perfectly cooked meat, served with plenty of vegetables.
On the 29th of every month, they have a "Meat Day" and offer 1.5 times the usual portion of fresh lamb and lamb tongue, which has been a hit among regulars.
Tokyo Yakiniku Go Main Store
(Source:https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131101/13201243/dtlphotolst/?mode=owner&smp=2)
"Tokyo Yakiniku Go Main Store" is a yakiniku restaurant in the Okachimachi area known for its thick cuts of high-quality meat.
Their signature "Red Cliff" dish features a 200 gram thick-cut slab of meat, grilled right before your eyes in an engaging performance that’s been a hit with customers.
The restaurant also offers premium cuts of kuroge wagyu, such as thick-cut tongue and harami, at reasonable prices.
With a chic and relaxed atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for dates, anniversaries, or family dinners, and they accomodate parties of up to 28 guests.
A well-curated drink menu and various all-you-can-drink courses add to the appeal.
Conclusion
The five yakiniku restaurants featured in this article each offer a unique dining experience that will leave a lasting impression.
If you’re visiting Ueno, be sure to indulge in the finest yakiniku these spots have to offer and enjoy a truly memorable time.