When visiting Japan, enjoying delicious yakitori is an experience you simply can’t miss.
Yoyogi, located in the heart of Tokyo, has a unique atmosphere where cozy izakayas (Japanese pubs) line the streets, despite being so close to the hustle and bustle of the city.
In this article, we’ll introduce five hand-picked yakitori restaurants in Yoyogi that are perfect for lovers of grilled chicken skewers.
Along with a tasty meal, this is a great chance to dive into Japan’s izakaya culture and culinary heritage.
About Yoyogi and Yakitori Culture
Yoyogi is an area with a relaxed vibe, nestled near major urban hubs like Shinjuku and Shibuya.
The area around Yoyogi Station is dotted with a variety of unique izakayas, many of which specialize in yakitori.
Yakitori, a traditional Japanese dish of chicken skewers grilled over charcoal, may seem simple, but is rich in flavor and cultural history.
The charm of yakitori lies in its use of different cuts of chicken, which skilled chefs prepare to draw out the natural flavors.
In Yoyogi, you’ll find numerous yakitori spots where you can savor the best of this classic dish.
Without further ado, here are five recommended yakitori restaurants in Yoyogi that are definitely worth a visit.
Jinke Yoyogi
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Located just a short walk from Yoyogi Station, “Jinke Yoyogi” is an izakaya dedicated to chicken dishes.
A must-try here is their signature torikawa (grilled chicken skin), a specialty from Hakata, Fukuoka.
This dish is meticulously grilled over three days, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior further enhanced with a rich, flavorful sauce.
Other popular menu items include half-fried young chicken and mizutaki (chicken hot pot), which both showcase the pure umami of the meat.
The restaurant’s interior has a retro feel reminiscent of the Showa era, with spacious seating spread across two floors.
There are counter seats on the first floor and tables on the second. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner spot or hosting a large group, “Jinke Yoyogi” has private rooms and will even rent out an entire floor.
Located in the lively Shinjuku Noren-gai district, it’s a serene escape from the the hustle and bustle of the city.
Plus, their all-you-can-drink course is perfect for parties, get-togethers, or after-work meetups.
Sakaba MORI Yoyogi
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“Sakaba MORI Yoyogi” is a cozy, down-to-earth izakaya in a convenient location just a few minutes’ walk from Yoyogi Station.
In addition to their signature yakitori, they offer a wide range of fresh seafood dishes, blending traditional izakaya fare with creative culinary twists concocted by the chef.
Pairing perfectly with the food is their extensive drink menu, which includes sake, shochu, and beer.
With its homey atmosphere, “Sakaba MORI Yoyogi” is an ideal spot for small gatherings, girls' nights out, or even date nights.
The spacious interior can accommodate up to 64 people, making it a great choice for large parties, year-end gatherings, or farewell parties.
Genkiya Yoyogi
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Next up is “Genkiya Yoyogi”, a yakitori-focused izakaya known for its incredibly fresh shirareba (chicken liver skewers), a must-try for offal lovers.
In addition to their fantastic skewers, they serve a range of dishes like Inaniwa udon, a regional specialty from Akita, and homemade satsuma-age (deep-fried fish cakes).
With about 30 seats, “Genkiya Yoyogi” has an intimate and relaxed atmosphere making it perfect for small groups or even solo dining.
The quiet ambience also makes it a great spot for a casual drink after work.
Their drink menu is equally impressive, with a variety of sake and shochu to choose from, and their all-you-can-drink plan is popular with both locals and visitors alike.
Yakitori Yoshikawa
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For those who want to enjoy both yakitori and yakiniku (grilled meat), “Yakitori Yoshikawa” is the place to be.
Known for using premium Oyama chicken and Nagoya Cochin, “Yakitori Yoshikawa”’s yakitori skewers are grilled to perfection over charcoal, imbuing each bite with a smoky aroma that’s hard to resist.
The restaurant has both counter seats and horigotatsu (recessed floor seating), making it suitable for groups of any size, from small gatherings to big parties.
The laid-back and relaxing environment is ideal for dates, casual meals with friends, or even business dinners.
Their extensive drink menu and all-you-can-drink option also ensure full satisfaction for your taste buds.
Torishige
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Last but not least is “Torishige”, an iconic establishment that’s been serving fantastic yakitori in Yoyogi since 1949.
However, unlike the other yakitori spots, “Torishige” specializes in pork offal skewers with a unique twist.
Each morning, they source fresh pork offal to create dishes like rare offal sashimi and grilled skewers from cuts such as gatsu (stomach), kobukuro (uterus), and even brain.
The restaurant’s secret sauce has been carefully passed down since its founding.
It’s made from soy sauce, sugar, and sake, and has a deep, rich flavor that perfectly complements the offal.
“Torishige” is also known for their jo-tan (premium beef tongue) and pickled vegetables, which have been made using the same traditional methods for decades.
Conclusion
Yoyogi is home to a variety of standout yakitori restaurants, each with its own distinct flavor and atmosphere.
Whether you're looking for a traditional experience or something with a modern twist, these five restaurants provide an unforgettable dining experience to fully appreciate the depth of Japan’s food culture.
The next time you visit Japan, be sure to stop by one of Yoyogi’s finest yakitori spots to immerse yourself in this delicious tradition.
It’s guaranteed to be one memorable feast!