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A Meat Lover's Guide: 5 Must-Visit Yakitori Restaurants Around Shin-Osaka Station

April 01, 2024

The area around Shin-Osaka Station is a bustling hub, serving as both a key business district and a gateway for travelers.

Here, you'll find numerous delicious yakitori restaurants perfect for stopping by during your trip or at the end of a busy day.

Japanese yakitori, though simple, is a deep and flavorful dish, with the standard being fresh chicken grilled to perfection over charcoal.

In this article, we'll introduce five standout yakitori spots around Shin-Osaka Station that are perfect for meat-loving travelers.

Each restaurant offers something unique, allowing you to savor Japan's rich culinary culture through its food.

 

The Appeal of Yakitori and the Shin-Osaka Area

Shin-Osaka is a major hub for both businesspeople and tourists, thanks to its role as a key stop on Japan’s Shinkansen bullet train network.

The area around the station is packed with eateries, many of which are beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Yakitori, a dish enjoyed all over Japan, consists of skewered chicken grilled over charcoal, with salt or tare sauce as the most common seasonings.

Each restaurant brings its own flair to the dish, and the skills of the chefs are showcased in every bite.

Whether you're after a simple classic or a creative twist, the yakitori restaurants around Shin-Osaka offer a wide range of styles for you to explore.
 

Now, let’s dive into the top five yakitori spots around Shin-Osaka Station that you shouldn’t miss.

 

1. Yakitori × Smoked Dishes × Japanese Sake Kmuri-ya

(Source:https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270301/27109721/dtlphotolst/?mode=owner&smp=2)

 

"Yakitori × Smoked Dishes × Japanese Sake Kmuri-ya" is a hidden gem with a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy both yakitori and smoked dishes, paired with a great selection of Japanese sake.

Their yakitori, made from freshly carved Tottori chicken, highlights the freshness and quality of the ingredients.

What sets this place apart is its carefully curated sake menu, featuring rare bottles you won’t find elsewhere.

The smoked dishes, like smoked eggs and meat platters, are also highly popular.

 

With warm wooden interiors, "Yakitori × Smoked Dishes × Japanese Sake Kmuri-ya" offers counter seating perfect for solo diners or dates, and can also accommodate large groups for private parties.

If you’re in the mood for something bold, try one of their courses featuring smoked meats and charcoal-grilled dishes, which are sure to satisfy those hungering for a hearty, flavorful meal.

 

2. Fresh Chicken Specialty Manjuya Nishinakajima Ekimae

(Source:https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270301/27073966/dtlphotolst/?mode=owner&smp=2)

 

“Fresh Chicken Specialty Manjuya Nishinakajima Ekimae” specializes in yakitori made from fresh Tajima chicken.

Their signature dish, “Manju-yaki”, is grilled with a secret sauce that’s been developed and improved over decades, offering a juicy, unforgettable flavor.

The retro Showa-era interior gives the restaurant a nostalgic vibe, making it a charming spot to enjoy your meal.

 

The menu features set courses centered on skewered chicken, and they offer all-you-can-drink plans, making it an ideal place for group gatherings or a casual night out.

If you’re dining solo, there’s counter seating available, and for lunch, they offer affordable set meals that are perfect for a quick yet delicious bite, day or night.

 

3. Sumibi Yakitori Tsuta

(Source:https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270301/27137026/dtlphotolst/?mode=owner&smp=2)

 

Located near Higashi-Mikuni Station, “Sumibi Yakitori Tsuta” is a renowned spot for yakitori lovers.

Using only freshly carved domestic chicken, the expert chefs here grill each skewer slowly over charcoal, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Whether it’s classic tsukune (chicken meatballs), chicken wings, or rarer cuts, each dish is coated with a house-made sauce that enhances the natural umami.

 

The relaxed interior, with counter seating and cozy sofa areas, makes it a versatile place for all occasions from casual dates to large group parties.

Their extensive selection of sake and wine also allows you to perfectly pair your drink with each skewer.

Plus, the restaurant offers sashimi cuts of fresh chicken, such as tenderloin and liver, served with sweet Kyushu soy sauce, a true delicacy.

 

4. Otoko wa Tsurai Shin-Osaka Ekimae

(Source:https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270301/27004738/dtlphotolst/?mode=owner&smp=2)

 

“Otoko wa Tsurai Shin-Osaka Ekimae” is a casual Japanese izakaya near Shin-Osaka Station, known for its affordable, hearty dishes like kushikatsu (fried skewers), yakitori, and hot pot.

 The menu is packed with filling choices, such as their popular chanko-nabe (sumo wrestler hot pot) and tsukune platters.

With kushikatsu starting at just 99 yen and yakitori from 198 yen, it’s a wallet-friendly choice that’s loved by locals and tourists alike.

 

The spacious interior includes private rooms and traditional recessed kotatsu seating, making it perfect for both small groups and larger parties.

The restaurant can accommodate up to 38 guests, so it’s great for company dinners or family gatherings.

Their yakitori, grilled with a rich, aged tare sauce, has a perfect balance of sweetness enhanced by a savory soy sauce, making it an excellent accompaniment to their budget-friendly highballs and shochu.

 

5. Shichirin Yakitori Ichidori Nishinakajima

(Source:https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270301/27102298/dtlphotolst/smp2/)

 

“Shichirin Yakitori Ichidori Nishinakajima” offers a unique experience where you can grill your own yakitori using a traditional shichirin (charcoal grill).

They use only fresh domestic chicken, including premium brands like Ise Akadori and Gaina Chicken, allowing you to fully appreciate the rich, natural flavors of the meat.

In addition to yakitori, the menu features dishes like grilled offal, chicken yukhoe, and fresh liver sashim.

It’s a must-visit for true meat lovers.

 

The lively atmosphere, combined with recessed kotatsu seating and a counter area, makes it a great spot for both small and large gatherings.

They also offer affordable all-you-can-drink courses, so you can enjoy a wide variety of dishes without breaking the bank.

Standout items like their charcoal-grilled chicken wings and chili chicken hot pot are especially popular.

 

Conclusion

The area around Shin-Osaka Station is home to some incredible yakitori spots, perfect for meat lovers.

Each restaurant has its own distinct charm, offering fresh, flavorful chicken skewers along with creative dishes, all perfectly paired with Japanese sake or wine.

Be sure to check out these five yakitori spots and fully immerse yourself in Japan’s yakitori culture.

A delicious yakitori experience around Shin-Osaka will undoubtedly make your trip to Japan even more memorable!