Yakitori is one of Japan’s most popular comfort foods. These bite-sized chicken skewers are grilled over binchotan charcoal and seasoned simply with salt or a sweet soy-based tare sauce.
Although yakitori is often associated with casual izakaya, Tokyo is also home to award-winning restaurants that have transformed yakitori into a refined dining experience. Whether you’re looking for an affordable local favorite or an unforgettable omakase dinner, this guide introduces some of the best yakitori restaurants in Tokyo.
What is Yakitori?
Yakitori literally means “grilled chicken,” but you’ll find much more than chicken breast or thigh.
Popular skewers include:
- Thigh (Momo)
- Chicken breast (Sasami)
- Chicken meatballs (Tsukune)
- Chicken skin (Kawa)
- Wings (Tebasaki)
- Heart (Hatsu)
- Liver (Reba)
- Gizzard (Sunagimo)
- Green onions (Negima)
Most restaurants allow you to order individual skewers or enjoy a chef-selected course.
Budget-Friendly Yakitori Restaurants
These restaurants are perfect for enjoying delicious yakitori without spending too much.
Torikizoku
- One fixed price for every skewer and side dish
- English touchscreen ordering at many locations
- Great for groups and first-time visitors
Price Range: Approximately ¥2,000–3,500 per person
Torikizoku is one of Japan’s most popular yakitori chains. Every menu item is offered at the same price, making it easy to order without worrying about the bill.
Along with grilled chicken, you’ll find rice dishes, salads, desserts, and drinks, making it an excellent introduction to yakitori.
Isehiro
- Historic yakitori restaurant
- Traditional charcoal grilling
- Excellent lunch sets
Price Range: Approximately ¥2,000–3,500 per person
Isehiro has been serving yakitori for nearly a century and is known for its classic cooking techniques and consistently high quality. It’s a great place to experience traditional Tokyo-style yakitori. Isehiro
Yakitori Tsukada
- Premium chicken
- Comfortable modern atmosphere
- Popular with both locals and visitors
Price Range: Approximately ¥3,000–5,000 per person
Yakitori Tsukada specializes in carefully grilled premium chicken and seasonal side dishes. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for higher-quality yakitori without moving into fine dining. Yakitori Tsukada Shibuya
Mid-Range Yakitori Restaurants
These restaurants focus on premium ingredients and refined grilling techniques while remaining accessible for most travelers.
Nanbantei
- Premium charcoal-grilled yakitori
- Elegant atmosphere
- Excellent wine and sake selection
Price Range: Approximately ¥4,000–10,000 per person
Nanbantei has long been one of Tokyo’s most respected yakitori restaurants. Every skewer is grilled over binchotan charcoal, producing beautifully balanced smoky flavors. Nanbantei
Yakitori Imai
- Chef’s omakase course
- Seasonal ingredients
- Stylish counter seating
Price Range: Approximately ¥10,000–15,000 per person
Yakitori Imai presents yakitori as a refined multi-course meal, combining beautifully grilled chicken with seasonal vegetables and creative side dishes. Yakitori Imai
Hinotori
- Carefully selected chicken
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Excellent value for quality
Price Range: Approximately ¥3,000–5,000 per person
Hinotori is highly rated for its consistently delicious skewers, friendly service, and excellent value, making it a popular choice among both locals and international visitors. Hinotori
Luxury Yakitori Restaurants
These restaurants represent the highest level of yakitori craftsmanship in Tokyo.
Torishiki
- One of Japan’s most famous yakitori restaurants
- Omakase course
- Reservations extremely difficult to obtain
Price Range: Approximately ¥10,000–18,000 per person
Torishiki is considered by many to be one of the world’s greatest yakitori restaurants. Every skewer is grilled individually over binchotan charcoal and served immediately at the perfect moment. Reservations are extremely competitive. Torishiki
Tori Chataro
- Premium omakase yakitori
- Intimate counter dining
- Seasonal ingredients
Price Range: Approximately ¥10,000–18,000 per person
Tori Chataro offers an elegant yakitori experience featuring premium chicken, seasonal vegetables, and carefully paired beverages. Tori Chataro
Maki Tori Shin Kobe
- Award-winning yakitori
- Creative omakase courses
- One of Tokyo’s highest-rated yakitori restaurants
Price Range: Approximately ¥20,000–30,000 per person
Maki Tori Shin Kobe has earned widespread recognition for its innovative approach to yakitori while maintaining traditional grilling techniques. It’s one of Tokyo’s most sought-after reservations.
Salt or Sauce?
Most yakitori restaurants will ask whether you’d like your skewers seasoned with salt (shio) or tare (sweet soy-based sauce).
Salt highlights the natural flavor of the chicken and is often recommended for premium cuts.
Tare provides a richer, sweeter flavor and pairs especially well with chicken meatballs, liver, and skin.
If you’re unsure, simply ask for the chef’s recommendation.
Don’t order only chicken thigh. One of the joys of yakitori is trying different cuts, each with its own unique texture and flavor. Even if you’re not usually adventurous, consider sampling tsukune (chicken meatballs), negima (chicken with green onion), or kawa (crispy chicken skin).
Many popular yakitori restaurants only have counter seating and limited seats, so reservations are highly recommended. If reservations aren’t available, arriving shortly after opening usually gives you the best chance of getting a table.
