Sumiyaki Toriyoshi Tokyo Shibuya

Sumiyaki Toriyoshi is a popular yakitori restaurant in Tokyo that has garnered a strong reputation for its exceptional grilled chicken and attention to detail in both cooking and ingredients. Known for serving high-quality, perfectly grilled skewers of chicken, Sumiyaki Toriyoshi offers an authentic yakitori experience with a focus on sumiyaki (charcoal grilling) techniques. If you’re a fan of yakitori, this spot is highly recommended for a traditional yet refined dining experience.

1. Overview of Sumiyaki Toriyoshi:

• Sumiyaki Toriyoshi specializes in sumiyaki-style yakitori, which refers to grilling over binchotan charcoal (white charcoal), a high-quality charcoal that produces an even heat and imparts a delicate smokiness to the food. This traditional grilling method is considered one of the best ways to cook yakitori, ensuring the meat remains tender and juicy while adding depth of flavor.
• The restaurant is part of the Toriyoshi brand, which is well-known across Tokyo for its commitment to quality and its mastery of yakitori. The flagship restaurant, Sumiyaki Toriyoshi, continues the tradition of exceptional chicken skewers, providing both locals and visitors with an excellent dining experience in a cozy yet upscale setting.

 

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2. Specialties and Menu:

Sumiyaki Toriyoshi offers a variety of chicken cuts and seasonal ingredients, with a menu centered around different styles of grilled skewers, complemented by a selection of side dishes and drinks.

• Yakitori Skewers: The core of the menu features a range of yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) made from different cuts of chicken, each offering a unique texture and flavor:
  • Momo (Chicken Thigh): Tender, juicy, and flavorful, this is one of the most popular cuts for yakitori.
  • Negima (Chicken Thigh with Scallions): A classic yakitori combination of chicken and green onions, providing a balance of savory and fresh flavors.
  • Reba (Chicken Liver): Rich and slightly creamy, chicken liver is a delicacy for those who enjoy more intense, flavorful cuts.
  • Tori Kawa (Chicken Skin): Grilled to crispy perfection, this fatty cut is a fan favorite for its texture and flavor.
  • Tsukune (Chicken Meatballs): Made with ground chicken, tsukune is often served with tare sauce or salt, and sometimes topped with a raw egg yolk for added richness.
  • Sasami (Chicken Breast): Leaner and slightly firmer than thigh meat, chicken breast is grilled to perfection, offering a lighter option.
  • Nankotsu (Chicken Cartilage): Known for its crunchy texture, nankotsu is a fun and flavorful skewer.
  • Zuri (Chicken Heart): A rich, flavorful part of the chicken that’s beloved for its tender texture and unique taste.
• Seasoning Options: Most yakitori is either seasoned with tare sauce (a soy-based, slightly sweet sauce) or shio (salt). Sumiyaki Toriyoshi is known for its house-made tare sauce, which enhances the natural flavors of the chicken without overpowering it.
• Side Dishes: To accompany the yakitori, you can find various side dishes that complement the main event, such as:
  • Grilled vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like peppers, mushrooms, and asparagus grilled alongside the chicken.
  • Rice: Simple bowls of steamed rice or rice with tare sauce to balance out the savory flavors of the skewers.
  • Pickles: Japanese-style pickles (tsukemono) are often served as a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, smoky flavors of the yakitori.
  • Soup: A light miso soup or other seasonal broths may be available to round out the meal.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Depending on the time of year, Sumiyaki Toriyoshi may feature seasonal offerings, such as fresh vegetables, wild game, or other local specialties that change throughout the year.

 

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3. The Dining Experience:

• Atmosphere: Sumiyaki Toriyoshi maintains a warm, intimate atmosphere with a stylish yet rustic interior that blends traditional Japanese design with modern touches. The restaurant is usually cozy with seating options that can accommodate individuals, couples, or small groups. The counter seating is a great option for those who enjoy watching the chefs at work, grilling skewers right in front of them.
• Grilling Process: One of the highlights of dining at Sumiyaki Toriyoshi is the grilling process. The chefs use binchotan charcoal, a special type of white charcoal that burns at high temperatures and creates minimal smoke. This ensures that the meat retains its juices and flavor while being perfectly seared. Watching the skilled chefs prepare each skewer is an interactive and engaging experience.
• Service: The service is typically attentive and knowledgeable. Staff members are happy to guide diners through the menu and recommend the best combinations of skewers and drinks. Whether you’re new to yakitori or a seasoned fan, the staff will ensure that your dining experience is enjoyable and satisfying.

4. Drinks and Pairings:

• Sake: Sumiyaki Toriyoshi offers a curated selection of sake that pairs well with the grilled meats. Sake is a traditional drink to enjoy with yakitori, and the restaurant’s staff can recommend the best pairings based on the skewers you order.
• Shochu: A popular Japanese spirit made from barley, sweet potatoes, or rice. Shochu is often served neat or on the rocks and pairs well with yakitori.
• Beer: Japan’s famous sapporo, asahi, or kirin beers are a popular choice, and they go wonderfully with the smoky, charred flavors of grilled chicken.
• Whisky: Some yakitori restaurants, including Sumiyaki Toriyoshi, also offer a selection of Japanese whisky. Whisky can be a great pairing with the smokiness of the skewers.
• Soft Drinks: For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, there are usually green teas, soft drinks, and sometimes house-made ginger ale or other beverages available.

 

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5. Popularity and Reservations:

• Reservations: Sumiyaki Toriyoshi is well-loved by locals and tourists alike, so it can get busy, especially during peak hours or on weekends. It’s recommended to make reservations in advance to secure a spot, especially if you want to sit at the counter or during busy dining times.
• Reputation: The restaurant has gained a reputation for its premium-quality chicken skewers and authentic grilling techniques, which have earned it loyal customers who return for its consistently excellent food.

6. Price Range:

• Sumiyaki Toriyoshi is considered a more upscale yakitori experience compared to casual street-style yakitori joints. Expect to pay around ¥4,000 to ¥6,000 per person for a full meal with drinks, depending on how many skewers you order and the types of beverages you choose.
• A typical yakitori meal at Sumiyaki Toriyoshi might include 6-10 skewers, plus rice, a couple of drinks, and possibly a side dish or soup. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, you could opt for additional premium skewers like tsukune with a raw egg yolk or a seasonal special.

 

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7. Location and Accessibility:

• Sumiyaki Toriyoshi is located in the heart of Tokyo, making it convenient for tourists and locals alike. It’s typically found in more upscale neighborhoods with many restaurants, bars, and entertainment options nearby, such as Roppongi or Akasaka.
• The restaurant is easily accessible by train or subway, with several stations nearby, including Roppongi Station (Tokyo Metro) and Nogizaka Station. Depending on where you’re staying in Tokyo, it’s relatively straightforward to reach by public transportation.

8. Customer Reviews and Feedback:

• Positive Feedback: Customers rave about the high quality of the chicken, the flavorful skewers, and the precision of the grilling. The smoky taste from the binchotan charcoal and the perfectly tender texture of the meat are frequent highlights in reviews.
• The interactive dining experience—where you can watch the chefs at work—also adds to the enjoyment. The service is often praised for being friendly, professional, and knowledgeable, with staff members able to make recommendations based on your preferences.
• Customer loyalty: Many diners return to Sumiyaki Toriyoshi for its consistency and high standard of food quality. The restaurant has earned a reputation as one of the top yakitori spots in Tokyo.

 

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9. Conclusion:

Sumiyaki Toriyoshi is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, traditional yakitori experience in Tokyo. With its focus on premium ingredients, skilled grilling, and elegant atmosphere, it offers a refined dining experience that stands out among the many yakitori spots in the city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Tokyo or a seasoned yakitori enthusiast, Sumiyaki Toriyoshi provides an unforgettable meal that showcases the best of sumiyaki and **

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