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Looking for the best yakitori in Kyoto? In this guide, we highlighted where to eat yakitori in the city.
Kyoto's yakitori is characterized by its meticulous preparation and attention to detail. Each skewer features a carefully selected cut of chicken, often from local farms, and is seasoned with a blend of traditional Japanese spices. The chicken is then expertly grilled over charcoal, imparting a smoky, savory flavor that tantalizes the taste buds.
In Kyoto, yakitori is typically served with a variety of dipping sauces, allowing diners to customize their dining experience. The most common sauces are tare, a sweet and salty sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sake; and shio, a simple salt-based sauce. Other popular sauces include yuzu ponzu, a citrus-based sauce with a tangy flavor; and karashi miso, a spicy mustard paste.
Beyond the traditional chicken yakitori, Kyoto offers a variety of innovative and creative yakitori variations. These include skewered pork, beef, and seafood, as well as vegetable options. Some yakitori restaurants also serve unique creations, such as tsukune, a skewered chicken meatball, and kushikatsu, a skewered and deep-fried cut of meat or vegetables.
Yakitori is often enjoyed as part of a larger meal at an izakaya, a traditional Japanese pub. These casual and lively establishments offer a wide selection of yakitori, along with other Japanese dishes, drinks, and a warm and inviting atmosphere.
If you are wondering where to find the best yakitori in Kyoto, here are our top recommendations:
1. Kushikura
This rustic eatery is located inside a traditional 100-year-old townhouse in Kyoto, serving charcoal-grilled yakitori. They also serve other food items, but don’t miss their yakitori for sure!
Price: From 380 yen
Hours: 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM (Lunch) | 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Dinner)
Contact: +81 120-138-488
Address: 584, Hiiragicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan
2. Hitomi
One of the best yakitori in Kyoto is Hitomi. One thing you will notice about their yakitori is their succulent chicken pieces that are perfectly seasoned!
Price: From 450 yen
Hours: 5:30 PM - 11:30 PM (Thursdays to Tuesdays)
Contact: +81 75-771-7818
Address: 96 Okikucho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan
3. Daikichi Horikawa Takatsuji
They might not grill their yakitori on charcoal, but you get the same exact taste. Try the garlic chicken, spicy pork belly, chicken wings, and grilled rice!
Price: From 160 yen
Hours: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Mondays to Saturdays)
Contact: +81 75-351-8000
Address: 335-2 Yoshimizucho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan
ALSO READ: JAPANESE BBQ: 4 BEST YAKINIKU IN KYOTO
4. Torisaki
This is a little bit on the expensive side. But if you are looking for an incredible yakitori experience in Kyoto, this is it! Make a reservation ahead of time as this gets difficult to reserve.
Price: From 500 yen
Hours: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Mondays to Saturdays)
Contact: +81 75-252-6789
Address: 292-1 Takoyakushicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan
5. Yakitori Daikichi
A good authentic yakitori in Kyoto away from the touristy belt of izakayas, this one does not disappoint! Their green onion chicken and the Yuzu chicken were especially enjoyable.
Price: From 140 yen
Hours: 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Fridays to Tuesdays)
Contact: +81 75-771-3126
Address: 18-2, Shichikencho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
ALSO READ: KYOTO SOBA GUIDE: TOP 5 BEST SOBA IN KYOTO
Whether you're a seasoned yakitori enthusiast or a curious first-timer, Kyoto's yakitori scene is sure to delight and satisfy your palate. With its diverse selection of yakitori variations, meticulous preparation, and charming atmosphere, Kyoto offers a truly unforgettable yakitori experience.
Looking for a fun food tour in Kyoto? Come join us at our Nishiki Market Kyoto Food Tour where we bring you around the best food spots at Nishiki Market and feast on various delicious dishes.
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