When visiting Japan, savoring local cuisine should be one of the highlights of your trip.
Among the many choices is yakitori, which stands out as a symbol of Japan’s vibrant izakaya culture.
Chicken, carefully grilled over charcoal, is a simple yet deeply flavorful experience that has long enticed Japanese foodies.
In this article, we’ll introduce five hand-picked restaurants in Yokohama’s Minato Mirai area that offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy authentic yakitori while taking in the scenic beauty of this port city.
Minato Mirai and Yakitori Culture
Minato Mirai is a beautiful waterfront district in Yokohama that’s known for its stunning views and modern cityscape, making it a popular destination for tourists.
This area harmoniously blends futuristic buildings with historical landmarks and has a mouth-watering dining scene to boot.
Among the many options, yakitori is a must-try for anyone exploring Japanese food culture.
Grilled over charcoal, yakitori is characterized by its smoky aroma and simplicity, often seasoned with salt or a savory tare sauce.
Each chicken part has a unique texture and flavor, which produce tastes of remarkable depth .
Here are five must-visit yakitori restaurants in the Minato Mirai area.
Yakitori Kankodori
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“Yakitori Kankodori” is a hidden gem located in Sakuragicho and known for aged yakitori made from Hinai chicken, a breed from Akita Prefecture.
The restaurant’s interior is sleek and modern, accented by black and gray color tones, and has the perfect atmosphere for date nights or special dinners.
Each yakitori skewer is grilled to perfection, with the best preparation technique applied to each part of the chicken, which is seasoned with either their house-made sauce or high-quality salt.
What sets this place apart is its focus on the entire dining experience, with a multi-course meal that includes surprises like liver mousse hidden in a stone as part of a fun presentation. Desserts are also served with flair, such as a “treasure chest” from which diners make their selection.
The restaurant’s pairings of food with wine and whiskey carefully curated by a sommelier add another layer to the culinary experience here.
Kajiya Bunzo Minato Mirai Center Building
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“Kajiya Bunzo Minato Mirai Center Building” is a popular izakaya located near Minato Mirai Station.
Known for its relaxed, traditional Japanese atmosphere, the restaurant offers a variety of grilled skewers and hearty dishes like motsu (offal) stew.
Their signature “Bunzo Grilled Bone-in Chicken” is especially popular, with tender chicken marinated in a secret sauce and grilled to juicy perfection.
The restaurant offers seasonal set courses and all-you-can-drink party plans that come with a wide range of drinks including beer, shochu, and hoppy.
With 82 seats, the spacious interior can accommodate both small and large groups, making it a great spot for get-togethers with friends or colleagues.
Yakitori Aburiyaki Odori Yokohama Landmark Store
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“Yakitori Aburiyaki Odori Yokohama Landmark Store” is conveniently located just a few minutes’ walk from Minato Mirai Station and inside Yokohama’s iconic Landmark Tower.
They’re known for carefully grilled yakitori made from high-quality domestic chicken and popular dishes include “Drunken Chicken” and “Odori Assortment”.
With its modern, stylish interior, the restaurant is a great choice for date nights or a girls' night out.
The restaurant’s sleek, ship-themed design creates a bright, open space that can accomodate up to 42 guests for parties or private events.
In addition to the standard all-you-can-drink menu, there are also premium options that include draft beer and special sake.
It’s a family-friendly, smoke-free environment suitable for both business and leisure.
Yokohama Tori Gin Minato Mirai
(Source:https://r.gnavi.co.jp/kudv2uac0000/menu5/)
“Yokohama Tori Gin Minato Mirai” is renowned for its yakitori and kamameshi (rice cooked in an iron pot) and offers stunning views of the Minato Mirai nightscape while you dine.
The yakitori, marinated in a secret sauce passed down for over 40 years, is known for having a rich flavor, and dishes like “Smoked Chicken Wings” and “Chicken Hotpot” add a unique twist to the menu.
The relaxed and refined atmosphere complete with private rooms makes this restaurant ideal for special occasions, business dinners, or romantic dates.
“Yokohama Tori Gin Minato Mirai” also boasts a fine selection of sake, with seasonal varieties and fruity cocktails to complement your meal.
Their kamameshi, slowly cooked for 30 minutes after an order is placed, is a highly recommended dish to finish off your meal.
Sumibi Yakitori Sakaki
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“Sumibi Yakitori Sakaki” is a hidden yakitori spot just a few minutes from Sakuragicho Station.
Specializing in chicken from the famous Date region, they serve yakitori grilled over high-quality binchotan charcoal, with each skewer meticulously prepared.
Their “Grilled Thigh” stands out for being exceptionally fresh and having a perfect balance of char and juiciness.
At the counter, diners can enjoy watching the skilled chefs work their magic in the open kitchen.
“Sumibi Yakitori Sakaki” also offers a wide selection of curated sake from across Japan, making it the perfect spot to pair yakitori with fine drinks.
The relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere is ideal for dates or business meetings.
As it’s a popular establishment, reservations are recommended.
Conclusion
The Minato Mirai area is home to several top-notch yakitori restaurants, each offering its own unique charm, flavor, and ambiance.
These carefully selected venues not only showcase the best of Japanese culinary traditions but also deliver memorable dining experiences for visitors.
On your next visit to Yokohama, be sure to stop by one of these yakitori gems and immerse yourself in the rich food culture of Japan.
Whether you’re enjoying delicious yakitori or the stunning views, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable time.