Fukuoka is a city known for its rich culinary culture, and among the many delights is yakitori, a favorite of both locals and tourists.
Made with fresh local ingredients and prepared by skilled chefs, yakitori in Fukuoka is sure to be a unique and memorable dining experience.
In this article, I’ll introduce five highly recommended yakitori spots that you just have to visit in Fukuoka.
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual dinner or a special night out, these restaurants will satisfy your craving for delicious yakitori.
Fukuoka’s Yakitori Culture
Yakitori in Fukuoka is not just limited to the classic salt or tare (sauce) flavors — there’s a truly impressive variety of menu options.
In addition to chicken, many places also serve pork belly, fresh horse sashimi, and even motsu nabe (offal hot pot), showcasing the unique ingredients found in Kyushu.
A particular specialty is “torikawa” (grilled chicken skin), which is a must-try for tourists.
The combination of fresh local ingredients and expert grilling techniques makes yakitori a highlight of any visit to Fukuoka.
Now, let’s dive into five of the best yakitori spots you should check out in Fukuoka.
1. Yakitori Atarayo
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Located in the Haruyoshi area of Fukuoka, “Yakitori Atarayo” is an elegant restaurant where you can enjoy yakitori made with Hakata jidori (local chicken).
The name “Atarayo”, which means “a night so lovely you wish it wouldn’t end”, perfectly captures the ambiance of this place, making it ideal for a relaxing and special evening.
The yakitori is carefully grilled over premium Tosa binchotan charcoal that draws out the full flavor of chicken.
In addition to yakitori, the menu includes bistro-style dishes and unique items like “kin-kan no shoyu-zuke” (soy-marinated chicken ovaries).
Another highlight is their selection of wine and sake, which is carefully curated to complement the food.
With its modern, relaxed interior centered on the counter seats, this restaurant is perfect for date nights or special occasions.
2. Yakitori Yoshikawa
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Just a three-minute walk from Yakuin Station, “Yakitori Yoshikawa” offers top-quality yakitori.
The owner, who trained at a renowned yakitori restaurant in Tokyo, carefully carves whole chickens, skewering each piece by hand and grilling them over charcoal to achieve the perfect balance of flavor.
The menu includes both popular cuts and rare parts of the chicken, and their set courses are a favorite among diners.
Special dishes like “chicken tataki” and “soboro don” (minced chicken bowl) are also available, adding to the unique dining experience.
The traditional Japanese interior, featuring both counter seats and private rooms, allows guests to watch the chef at work and enjoy a memorable meal.
3. Sumibiyakitori Kubo
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Located in Hakata’s Sumiyoshi area, “Sumibiyakitori Kubo” is a yakitori restaurant that uses high-quality, locally-sourced chicken from Kyushu.
Each part of the chicken is carefully prepared with different methods to bring out the best flavor, and the yakitori is grilled to perfection over binchotan charcoal.
Their “marucho” (intestines) with a special miso sauce is particularly popular.
The restaurant has counter seating, semi-private rooms, and table seating, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.
In addition to yakitori, they also serve local specialties like motsu nabe made with domestic beef, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the flavors of Kyushu.
4. Yakitori Ibushi Za
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Located in Akasaka,” Yakitori Ibushi Za” was opened by a chef who trained at the well-known “Yakitori no Hachibei”.
This restaurant specializes in simple, salt-grilled yakitori cooked over binchotan charcoal.
Their signature dish, “charcoal-grilled spare ribs”, is a must-try, with each bite oozing in juiciness and flavor.
Another unique feature of this restaurant is its selection of smoked dishes, including smoked eggs and smoked cheese.
These dishes, paired with their charcoal-grilled yakitori, offer a truly distinctive dining experience.
The cozy, hidden-away atmosphere with counter and table seating makes this spot perfect for a quiet meal with friends or a date.
5. Torikawa-ya Haruyoshi
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In Fukuoka’s Haruyoshi area, “Torikawa-ya Haruyoshi” is a yakitori restaurant famous for its “torikawa” (grilled chicken skin).
The chicken skin is carefully wrapped and grilled multiple times, resulting in a crispy texture and rich flavor.
Served with salt, tare, or soy sauce, the torikawa is an irresistible snack priced at just 180 yen per skewer.
In addition to torikawa, the restaurant also offers locally sourced pork belly from Itoshima and fresh horse sashimi straight from Kumamoto.
With seating for up to 30 people, including cozy, recessed-floor tables, this restaurant is perfect for parties or large gatherings during your trip to Fukuoka.
Conclusion
Fukuoka’s yakitori is a delightful combination of simple seasoning, fresh local ingredients, and the skillful techniques of experienced chefs.
The five restaurants highlighted here each offer a unique take on yakitori to deliver an unforgettable dining experience.
When you visit Fukuoka, make sure to stop by one of these places and indulge in the delicious world of yakitori!