In my head I am already there. It is my first evening, wandering through the vibrant streets, surround by a group of tipsy new friends. We have found the perfect yakitori restaurant. Our table is laden with hot sake and cold Asahi Super-Dry. As we are toasting “campai”, streaming plates of kushiyaki and yakitori arrive miraculously on the table.
The reality of travel however is that you have to work out how to get there, understand where ‘there’ is, choose a good restaurant, figure out what you want to eat, realise there are no fluent friends, and finally, how on earth do you even order?! In theory ordering Yakitori shouldn’t be too hard, and of course with enough sake it all becomes part of the fun, but here is a simple guide to help you get started even if your Japanese is zero.
Yakitori, is a much loved Japanese cuisine, consisting of skewered and grilled chicken and vegetables, often enjoyed with a drink in the lively atmosphere of an izakaya (Japanese pub) or a dedicated yakitori restaurant. For first-timers, ordering yakitori might seem a little daunting, but with this guide, you’ll navigate the menu like a pro and savour every bite.
Understanding Yakitori
Yakitori literally means “grilled chicken,” and it encompasses various parts of the chicken, from the familiar thigh and breast to the adventurous heart and liver. Typically, the chicken is seasoned with either shio (salt) or tare (a sweet soy-based sauce). Both seasoning options offer distinct flavors and enhance the natural taste of the chicken.
Common Yakitori Items
Before diving into how to order, familiarize yourself with some common yakitori items you’ll find on the menu:
- Momo (もも) – Thigh
- Negima (ねぎま) – Chicken and leek
- Tsukune (つくね) – Chicken meatballs
- Tebasaki (手羽先) – Wings
- Reba (レバー) – Liver
- Kawa (皮) – Chicken skin
- Sunagimo (砂肝) – Gizzard
- Hatsu (ハツ) – Heart
- Nankotsu (なんこつ) – Cartilage
Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering Yakitori
- Choose Your Seating: In many yakitori restaurants, you can choose between a counter seat, where you can watch the chef at work, or a table seat for more privacy. Counter seats often offer a more immersive experience.
- Decide Your Drink: Yakitori pairs excellently with drinks like beer, sake, or shochu. Start by ordering a drink to enjoy with your meal.
- Select Your Seasoning: Most yakitori restaurants will ask if you prefer shio (salt) or tare (sauce). Decide which seasoning you want for your skewers, or mix and match to try both.
- Ordering from the Menu: Look for the yakitori section on the menu. You can either order individual skewers or opt for a mixed platter if you’re unsure what to try first. Use the following phrases to help you order:
“Momo, shio onegaishimasu” (もも、塩お願いします) – Thigh with salt, please.
“Tsukune, tare onegaishimasu” (つくね、タレお願いします) – Chicken meatballs with sauce, please.
“Negima, shio onegaishimasu” (ねぎま、塩お願いします) – Chicken and leek with salt, please. - Ask for Recommendations: If you’re feeling adventurous or unsure what to order, ask the staff for their recommendations. Use the phrase, “Osusume wa nan desu ka?” (おすすめは何ですか？) which means “What do you recommend?”
- Ordering Sides: Many yakitori restaurants offer delicious side dishes like edamame, pickles, or salads. Don’t hesitate to order a few sides to complement your skewers.
- Enjoying Your Yakitori: Once your yakitori arrives, take your time to savour each skewer. Remember that yakitori is best enjoyed fresh off the grill.
Tips for a Great Yakitori Experience
- Respect the Chef’s Craft: Yakitori chefs take great pride in their work. Watching them grill the skewers with precision and care is part of the experience.
- Try Different Cuts: Don’t stick to familiar cuts like thigh or breast. Exploring options like heart, gizzard, and cartilage can be rewarding and delicious.
- Mind Your Manners: If you’re at a busy izakaya, be mindful of the bustling environment. Keep your voice at a reasonable level and respect the space of other guests.
Ordering yakitori in Japan is not just about enjoying delicious grilled chicken; it’s an opportunity to have an authentic experience and immerse yourself in a culinary tradition
Have fun and please share, comment and reply with any questions and experiences you have below
