For foreign tourists interested in visiting Japan, experiencing the country’s rich culinary culture is sure to be one of the highlights of their trip.
There are many iconic dishes to try and among them is yakitori, juicy chicken skewers grilled over charcoal that are a quintessential part of Japan’s izakaya (Japanese pub) culture.
Odaiba, which is a major entertainment hub facing Tokyo Bay, is a popular spot for tourists, offering both fun and great food.
In this article, we introduce five must-visit yakitori restaurants in and around Odaiba.
These spots are perfect for enjoying yakitori while taking a deep dive into Japan’s unique food culture.
Odaiba and Yakitori Culture
Odaiba is a fascinating area, boasting futuristic architecture, large shopping malls, and a scenic waterfront that set it apart even from other major hotspots in Tokyo.
But, beyond its modern appeal, Odaiba is also known for offering visitors a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine.
Yakitori is a simple yet beloved dish in Japan and the best way to have it is grilled over binchotan, a type of high-quality charcoal.
Yakitori has a crispy exterior and juicy interior and is a staple at many Japanese izakayas.
Each restaurant adds its own twist and uses different chicken cuts, grilling techniques, and seasoning to give diners a unique taste experience.
Now, let’s dive into the five yakitori restaurants in Odaiba that you absolutely have to try.
Yakitori Torifuku Shokudo
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First on our list is “Yakitori Torifuku Shokudo”, located on the 6th floor of Aqua City Odaiba.
This izakaya and casual diner specializes in chicken dishes and is a convenient lunch and dinner spot.
The yakitori here is carefully grilled over charcoal, producing a crispy outside and a juicy inside.
Signature dishes include handmade tsukune (chicken meatballs) and “yodare dori” (spicy steamed chicken), alongside a variety of other seasonal fare and set meals.
It’s an ideal spot for families or groups of friends.
The restaurant is in a prime location just a minute's walk from Odaiba Station andoffers drink-inclusive courses starting at between 3,000 and 5,000 yen.
In addition, with space for up to 24 guests, it’s also a great option for larger gatherings.
Funachū Ariake
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“Funachū Ariake” is a long-standing yakitori restaurant directly connected to Tokyo Big Sight Station.
With a history of over 70 years, this restaurant is known for yakitori and Japanese eel dishes made with domestic ingredients.
The yakitori is grilled over binchotan charcoal and seasoned with a special sauce or Okinawan sea salt.
Popular menu items include their homemade tsukune and a variety of skewers, which are beloved by yakitori fans.
The restaurant has semi-private rooms and recessed kotatsu-style seating, with space for up to 50 guests.
It’s a perfect place for business meetings, family dinners, or casual drinks with friends.
They also offer takeout and bento boxes, so you can enjoy their delicious yakitori on the go.
Gonpachi Odaiba
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Next, we have “Gonpachi Odaiba”, a Japanese izakaya with stunning views of Tokyo Bay.
Located on the 4th floor of Aqua City Odaiba, this restaurant is known for its handmade soba noodles and yakitori grilled over binchotan charcoal.
The soba is made using fresh buckwheat flour milled each morning, giving it a wonderfully firm texture and fragrant flavor.
With room for up to 120 guests, this spacious restaurant is ideal for dates, anniversaries, or special occasions.
Dining with a view of landmarks like Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower makes for a truly memorable experience.
They also offer two-hour drink-inclusive plans, perfect for indulging in both Japanese cuisine and sake.
Taishu Sakaba Uchoten
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If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly yakitori experience, “Taishu Sakaba Uchoten” is the place to go.
Located near Tokyo Big Sight and Washington Hotel, this casual izakaya focuses on yakitori and fresh offal dishes.
Their signature “Ōtsukune” is a massive 140 gram chicken meatball simmered in pork bone broth and finished with a homemade sauce.
Another must-try is the hearty “mountain of meat hotpot”, which is packed with vegetables and meat and perfect to share around the table.
The restaurant has a laid-back vibe with 98 seats, catering to both solo diners and large groups.
It’s a great spot to enjoy delicious yakitori without breaking the bank, and their extensive menu includes all the classic izakaya dishes.
KUSHIMON Takumi
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Lastly, we have “KUSHIMON Takumi”, a yakitori spot just a one-minute walk from Toyosu Station.
This upscale izakaya is known for its carefully grilled yakitori and pork skewers.
For its chicken dishes, they only use premium brands.
The expert chefs take pride in grilling each skewer to perfection.
Their menu also features unique dishes like slow-cooked chicken liver and red miso beef tendon stew, which highlight their focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The modern and relaxed atmosphere makes this restaurant a perfect spot for date nights, women’s get-togethers, or unwinding after work.
The restaurant also has a tablet-based ordering system for added convenience and hygiene, and with only 35 seats, it’s an ideal spot for small groups to have an intimate dining experience.
Conclusion
Odaiba is not just a prime sightseeing destination but also a haven for delicious yakitori.
The five restaurants introduced here each have their own unique menus and atmosphere, giving you a diverse taste of Japan’s yakitori culture.
Next time you visit Japan, make sure to stop by one of these yakitori spots in Odaiba and immerse yourself in Japan’s culinary delights.
With stunning views and unforgettable flavors, it’s bound to be a highlight of your trip.