What Is Yakitori?

Yakitori translates to “grilled chicken” in Japanese. It’s a simple yet tasty dish prepared by skewering different parts of the chicken, grilling them over a charcoal flame, and seasoning them with either salt (shio) or a sweet soy-based sauce (tare).

This street food classic is a favorite at yatai (food stalls), izakayas (Japanese pubs), and festivals. Its smoky aroma, charred edges, and juicy texture make it irresistible.

A Brief History of Yakitori

Yakitori has its roots in the Edo period (1603–1868), but it gained widespread popularity in the Meiji era (1868–1912) as grilling techniques advanced. Traditionally, chicken was grilled whole, but skewering small, manageable pieces allowed for faster cooking and serving—a perfect fit for street food culture.

Today, Yakitori is celebrated as both a casual snack and a refined culinary offering. It’s enjoyed across Japan and has become a global favorite for its versatility and flavour.

Varieties of Yakitori You Must Try

Yakitori isn’t just grilled chicken—it’s an art form that uses every part of the bird. Here are some popular varieties:

1. Negima: Chicken thigh alternated with chunks of green onion.
   
   
2. Tsukune: Juicy chicken meatballs, often served with a sweet tare sauce.
   
   
3. Momo: Tender and tasty chicken thigh pieces.
   
   
4. Kawa: Crispy, golden-brown chicken skin skewers.
   
   
5. Reba: Chicken liver skewers, rich and full of flavour.
   
   
6. Torikawa: Grilled chicken cartilage for a crunchy, unique texture.
   
   
7. Yotsumi: Chicken breast skewers, often seasoned lightly for a leaner option.
   
   
   

Why Yakitori Is the Perfect Street Food

1. Quick and Portable: Served on skewers, it’s easy to eat on the go.
   
   
2. Affordable and Accessible: Found at food stalls, izakayas, and even convenience stores.
   
   
3. Customizable Flavours: Choose between simple salt seasoning or rich tare sauce.
   
   
4. Pairs Perfectly: Enjoy it with a cold beer or a warm cup of sake.
   
   
5. Freshly Made: Cooked to order, ensuring hot, smoky goodness every time.
   
   
   

Where to Find Yakitori

Yakitori is a staple of Japanese street food culture and can be enjoyed in various settings:

• Street Food Markets: Perfect for grabbing a quick snack on the go.
  
  
• Izakayas: Pair Yakitori with drinks for a relaxed dining experience.
  
  
• Festivals: A highlight of matsuri (Japanese festivals), where the smoky aroma fills the air.
  
  
• Yakitori Specialty Shops: Some restaurants focus exclusively on Yakitori, offering premium cuts and creative flavours.
  
  

Why You Should Try Yakitori

Yakitori is more than just grilled chicken—it’s a celebration of simplicity, quality ingredients, and traditional Japanese cooking techniques. Its versatility means there’s a skewer for every taste, whether you prefer tender chicken thigh, crispy skin, or tasty liver.

Whether you’re exploring Japan or enjoying Yakitori at a local Japanese restaurant, this dish offers a unique combination of smoky aroma, juicy texture, and bold flavour that’s hard to beat.

Next time you’re at a street market, festival, or izakaya, grab a skewer of Yakitori and savour this simple yet extraordinary dish. It’s a culinary experience that will leave you coming back for more!