Yakiniku is a popular gourmet dish offered in various formats, from standard to high-end restaurants, and even bar-style venues. One reason for its popularity is that it suits a variety of occasions, from casual gatherings with family and friends to special events like anniversaries and business dinners. We'll introduce you to the different cuts of meat, some you may already know and some you may not, as well as the latest Yakiniku restaurants.
Galbi, meaning rib in Korean, refers to beef belly in Japan. It’s rich in flavor and has fine marbling, which makes the meat feel softer than it actually is. When the meat juices rise to the surface, flip it over, and once it gets a nice sear, it's ready to eat.
Skirt steak is part of the muscle in the diaphragm and is classified as visceral meat, but its appearance and texture resemble red meat. It’s popular due to its soft texture, moderate fat content, and rich flavor, while also being lower in calories than short ribs. For the best taste, cook it thoroughly to bring out its savory aroma.
Horumon refers to internal organs like the stomach, intestines, liver, and heart. These cuts, such as heart (hatsu), tripe (mino), hachinosu, and senmai, are popular for their crunchy and juicy texture. Start grilling from the skin side, flip it over as soon as it browns, and cook it thoroughly until it stops shrinking to bring out its full flavor.
Rare cuts, which are obtained in small quantities from a single cow, are highly sought after. Chateaubriand, a famous high-end steak cut, is lean yet has the tenderness and flavor of marbled meat, and is best enjoyed grilled to medium-rare. Zabuton, known as the "fatty tuna of beef," should be lightly seared to perfection.
The order in which you eat yakiniku is very important. Start with lighter-tasting and less fatty cuts first. If you eat the stronger-flavored cuts first, your palate will adjust to the stronger taste, making it harder to appreciate the delicate flavors of the lighter cuts. It’s also a good idea to start with lean cuts like red meat to prepare your stomach before moving on to the fattier cuts. For a recommended starter, try the lightly seasoned salted tongue. Of course, there are no strict rules, so feel free to find the best order that suits your taste.
Galbi, meaning rib in Korean, refers to beef belly in Japan. It’s rich in flavor and has fine marbling, which makes the meat feel softer than it actually is. When the meat juices rise to the surface, flip it over, and once it gets a nice sear, it's ready to eat.
Skirt steak is part of the muscle in the diaphragm and is classified as visceral meat, but its appearance and texture resemble red meat. It’s popular due to its soft texture, moderate fat content, and rich flavor, while also being lower in calories than short ribs. For the best taste, cook it thoroughly to bring out its savory aroma.
Horumon refers to internal organs like the stomach, intestines, liver, and heart. These cuts, such as heart (hatsu), tripe (mino), hachinosu, and senmai, are popular for their crunchy and juicy texture. Start grilling from the skin side, flip it over as soon as it browns, and cook it thoroughly until it stops shrinking to bring out its full flavor.
Rare cuts, which are obtained in small quantities from a single cow, are highly sought after. Chateaubriand, a famous high-end steak cut, is lean yet has the tenderness and flavor of marbled meat, and is best enjoyed grilled to medium-rare. Zabuton, known as the "fatty tuna of beef," should be lightly seared to perfection.
The order in which you eat yakiniku is very important. Start with lighter-tasting and less fatty cuts first. If you eat the stronger-flavored cuts first, your palate will adjust to the stronger taste, making it harder to appreciate the delicate flavors of the lighter cuts. It’s also a good idea to start with lean cuts like red meat to prepare your stomach before moving on to the fattier cuts. For a recommended starter, try the lightly seasoned salted tongue. Of course, there are no strict rules, so feel free to find the best order that suits your taste.
For special occasions like dates or business dinners, indulge in premium yakiniku. High-end yakiniku restaurants offer the finest meats, including rare cuts like chateaubriand, branded beef such as Kobe beef, Matsusaka beef, and Yonezawa beef, as well as A5 and A4 grade Japanese black beef and popular aged beef, all cooked to perfection. Some famous restaurants allow you to compare various cuts in a course meal, and many have smokeless grills, so you don't have to worry about the smell of smoke lingering on your clothes.
Hiroshima
Enjoy Handpicked A5-Grade Wagyu in a Modern, Elegant Space
Located just a 3-minute walk from JR Fukuyama Station, this stylish yakiniku restaurant specializes in A5-ranked Wagyu beef, carefully selected through the restaurant’s own exclusive sourcing channels. Guests can enjoy exceptionally fresh dishes at reasonable prices, including "Wagyu Aburi Bijin (beauty) Yukhoe”, Seared Yukhoe, and "Wagyu Shinsen Btutsugiri Aburi Liver (Fresh Wagyu Liver Chunks)", lightly grilled for maximum flavor. For special occasions or surprise celebrations, the restaurant offers festive presentations with dry ice effects and sparklers. The interior features a modern design with textured wall panels resembling carved rock surfaces, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. Seating options include counter seats, private rooms, and intimate couple’s seats, making it ideal for everything from casual dining to banquets for both small and large groups.
Hokkaido
A Yakiniku Restaurant Serving Abe Beef and Natural Wine
"Maruyama JIN, Wine and Yakiniku" is a yakiniku restaurant nestled in a quiet residential area of Maruyama, Sapporo, Hokkaido, catering to mature guests. Operating under the concept of "yakiniku and wine-friendly side dishes," the restaurant offers carefully selected Japanese Black beef, including the rare and premium "Abe Beef," as well as the renowned "Shiraoi Beef" from Shiraoi Town, Hokkaido, sourced directly from producers. The menu is complemented by a curated selection of natural French wines, handpicked by "Niban Dori Sake Shop" in Otaru to perfectly accompany the yakiniku. This exquisite pairing of wine and cuisine has earned the restaurant high acclaim among both locals and travellers, making it a popular choice with many repeat visitors.
Tottori
Enjoy the Charm of Local Features and Daisen Black Beef in an Extraordinary Space
A Daisen black beef specialty store located about a 7 - minute walk from JR Fujimicho Station in Yonago City. You can enjoy Wagyu beef, which originated from Tottori's Ketaka, in a variety of dishes, along with carefully selected local ingredients. The cows are raised on a directly - managed farm with careful attention to water and feed, and are delivered directly to the customers without stress. The meat is so soft that it melts in your mouth, and it has a flavor that everyone will fall in love with and want to eat again. Bamboo imported from Kyoto is used throughout the spacious interior, creating a luxurious atmosphere. It can be used for a wide range of purposes, from large gatherings to small dinners.
Miyazaki
Carefully Selected Miyazaki Beef with a Good Balance of Fat and Flavor
Located in the downtown area of Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture, this yakiniku restaurant specializes in "Miyazaki Beef" carefully selected by the owner with a solid eye for food. We are particular about the quality of our meat, purchasing cows that are difficult to find on the market, and only offering meat of A4 rank or higher. You can also enjoy Chateaubriand steak, which is said to be the highest grade of A5 rank fillet, in limited quantities. There is a wide variety of courses that are perfect for banquets, and it is also recommended for business dinners.
Search for Restaurants Where You Can Eat High-Quality Yakiniku by Area
Yakiniku is something you want to enjoy with friends and family in a lively setting. In addition to popular cuts like short ribs, loin, skirt steak, and tongue, you can also enjoy vegetable sets grilled BBQ-style, and side dishes like stone-grilled bibimbap or cold noodles. Set menus or all-you-can-eat plans offer great value for money. Many of these restaurants are casual and family-friendly, so you can comfortably enjoy yakiniku even with children.
Shizuoka
Charcoal-Grilled Yakiniku Restaurant With the Added Appeal of Ramen
It has two faces: a ramen shop during the day and an authentic charcoal-grilled yakiniku restaurant at night. Lunch specialties include the "Jo Tongue Ramen Mankai," which is made to resemble a flower in full bloom, with a generous amount of meat piled on the edge of the bowl, and the "Kiwami Roast Beef Ramen." As they also operate a yakiniku restaurant, the ramen is meat-focused, complemented by a flavorful soup made with beef stock and back fat. In the evening, charcoal-grilled yakiniku is served, featuring high-quality meat selected by professionals at reasonable prices. A course menu is also available, offering both yakiniku and hot pot, with a rich lineup that satisfies even those who want to indulge. Another appealing feature is the relaxed atmosphere, complete with private rooms and sunken kotatsu seating.
Hokkaido
A Yakiniku Restaurant to Savor the Best of Hokkaido Ingredients
"Mizubasho, Yakiniku Shubo" is a yakiniku restaurant located approximately a 2-minute walk from Susukino Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway, offering a diverse menu centered around Hokkaido-produced Wagyu beef. Guests can enjoy the flavors of Hokkaido with dishes such as "Wagyu beef rib roast", "raw lamb roast", and "the original Hokkai Jingisukan (pork Jingisukan)". The "Shiretoko beef" offal, which is procured in whole cows, is also extremely fresh, and many customers visit to enjoy the fresh Wagyu beef liver that arrives every weekend. There are over 10 types of sake on offer, including local Hokkaido sake. The seats are equipped with smokeless roasters, allowing you to enjoy your meal without worrying about the smell.
Shiga
Enjoy Kuroge Wagyu Beef at the U-Shaped Counter Seats
This yakiniku restaurant in Otsu City, Shiga , offers high-quality, fresh Japanese Kuroge Wagyu beef, including professionally selected "Omi beef". Among the popular choices are the tongue and "Omi beef" sirloin. The restaurant is located on the second floor of a building, easily accessible on foot from Kamieimachi Station, Biwakohama-Otsu Station, and Miidera Station on the Keihan Electric Railway, and exudes a cozy, hideaway atmosphere. The chic, calm interior accommodates a wide range of guests, from solo diners to larger groups. The U-shaped counter seating highlights the owner’s commitment to personalized service, where customers receive detailed explanations of the ingredients and thoughtful attention to their preferences.
Fukushima
Yakiniku Restaurant Boasting "Fukushima Beef" and "Fukushima Kirameki Beef"
A popular yakiniku restaurant in Yatsuyamadanishi, Koriyama City, Fukushima Prefecture, is known for its fresh, high-quality "Fukushima Beef" and "Fukushima Kirameki Beef." Praised for their tenderness and rich flavor, the meats are offered in affordable lunch sets such as the "Fukushima Beef Yakiniku Lunch" featuring four cuts of beef. The lunch sets come with unlimited rice refills, soup, salad, and small side dishes. The restaurant also offers a wide variety of side dishes like salads, kimchi, and cold noodles. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it suitable for casual dining and special occasions. With convenient access via car and ample parking near Route 4, this is a must-visit spot.
Search for Restaurants Where You Can Enjoy Classic Yakiniku by Area
Crunchy, chewy, and irresistibly juicy, horumon (offal) offers a unique texture and flavor. You can easily enjoy stamina-boosting cuts such as tongue, liver, heart, mino, and senmai. At a specialty store, the horumon is carefully prepared and served fresh from the day’s purchase, ensuring top-quality freshness, flavor, and texture. The distinctive taste of horumon might even win over those who are not typically fond of it, making it easy to eat and enjoy.
Osaka
Casual Yakiniku Specializing in Kagoshima Wagyu
Opened in September 2024 in Nishinakajima, a fierce battleground for yakiniku in Osaka, this yakiniku restaurant offers casual enjoyment of charcoal-grilled "shichirin yakiniku" (grilled meat over a charcoal grill).By purchasing a whole cow of female Kagoshima black wagyu beef from a producer, the restaurant offers high-quality A5-ranked meat at a reasonable price.The "10 rare cuts of beef" is especially popular.The Kagoshima-style miso sauce has a refreshing taste that goes well with red meat, and the sweet sauce with a hint of garlic gives the meat a thick texture.The casual atmosphere makes it a good place for a girls' night out.
Hokkaido
A Yakiniku Restaurant to Savor the Best of Hokkaido Ingredients
"Mizubasho, Yakiniku Shubo" is a yakiniku restaurant located approximately a 2-minute walk from Susukino Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway, offering a diverse menu centered around Hokkaido-produced Wagyu beef. Guests can enjoy the flavors of Hokkaido with dishes such as "Wagyu beef rib roast", "raw lamb roast", and "the original Hokkai Jingisukan (pork Jingisukan)". The "Shiretoko beef" offal, which is procured in whole cows, is also extremely fresh, and many customers visit to enjoy the fresh Wagyu beef liver that arrives every weekend. There are over 10 types of sake on offer, including local Hokkaido sake. The seats are equipped with smokeless roasters, allowing you to enjoy your meal without worrying about the smell.
Osaka
High Quality and Fresh Hormone by Professional Connoisseurs
"Hormone Yamato Kujo" is located in the bustling town of Kujo, Nishi-ku, Osaka City. The restaurant offers high quality hormone (horumon) grilled over charcoal at reasonable prices. Once fresh hormone is purchased, it is quickly and carefully prepped to remove the tastiness and keep it in a delicious state. The hormone is served with homemade sauce after the customer's order is placed, so that the customers can fully enjoy the texture of the hormone, which is the characteristic flavor of the hormone. The restaurant is also equipped with private rooms for up to five people, which can be used for large gatherings of family and friends.
Osaka
A Yakiniku Restaurant Directly Managed by a Meat Wholesaler That Focuses on Homemade Quality
This yakiniku restaurant is approximately a 2-minute walk from Osaka Metro Shinsaibashi Station.Despite its convenient location near the Nishi-Shinsaibashi district (commonly known as Amerika-mura) in Chuo-ku, Osaka City, the restaurant is directly managed by a meat wholesaler and is popular for its high quality grilled meat at a good cost performance.All of the sauces, soups, kimchi, etc. are homemade.The restaurant uses Japanese binchotan charcoal and grills meat over a traditional shichirin (a charcoal griddle) to bring out the best flavor of the meat.The restaurant's interior is partitioned off with a bamboo screen, allowing diners to dine in a private, semi-private room, making it ideal for date nights or banquets where you want to enjoy grilled meat.
Search for Restaurants Where You Can Eat Hormone Yakiniku by Area
Bar-style yakiniku restaurants have been increasing in recent years. Here, you can enjoy the pairing of wine and other beverages with yakiniku, as well as savor popular aged meats. What stands out is the bright, stylish atmosphere, unlike traditional yakiniku restaurants. Some places also serve Italian, French, Spanish, or creative small plates, adding a unique twist. The casual yet sophisticated setting makes it perfect for dates or girls’ nights out. It’s also a great place to enjoy yakiniku on your own, offering a welcoming environment for solo diners.
Aichi
Enjoying Good Times with Friends in Tokoname
Located approximately a 3-minute walk from Nagoya Railroad Tokoname Station, this steakhouse is easily recognizable by its large parasol, red container, and the bold white letters spelling "STEAKS AND CHOPS" on a black wall. It offers satisfying course meals centered around meat dishes, ideal for a girls' night out or a casual gathering with friends. The extensive menu also includes a wide variety of a la carte options and drinks.The highlights here are the juicy meat dishes, grilled to perfection, and a curated selection of craft beers from across Japan. For those new to craft beer, "3-Glass Tasting Set" offers an easy and fun way to explore different flavors and find your favorite.
Osaka
Casual Yakiniku Specializing in Kagoshima Wagyu
Opened in September 2024 in Nishinakajima, a fierce battleground for yakiniku in Osaka, this yakiniku restaurant offers casual enjoyment of charcoal-grilled "shichirin yakiniku" (grilled meat over a charcoal grill).By purchasing a whole cow of female Kagoshima black wagyu beef from a producer, the restaurant offers high-quality A5-ranked meat at a reasonable price.The "10 rare cuts of beef" is especially popular.The Kagoshima-style miso sauce has a refreshing taste that goes well with red meat, and the sweet sauce with a hint of garlic gives the meat a thick texture.The casual atmosphere makes it a good place for a girls' night out.
Search for Restaurants Where You Can Eat Bar-Style Yakiniku by Area
If you want to enjoy yakiniku in a private setting, a restaurant with private rooms is recommended. You can savor your meal without worrying about your surroundings, making it perfect for dates or celebrations. Some restaurants even offer a dedicated "roast chef" in the private room and serve high-end meat like rare cuts or branded beef, making them ideal for special occasions. Locations with high-floor views or luxurious course meals also enhance the atmosphere, making them great for anniversaries. Since you can enjoy privacy, it's also perfect for moms' gatherings with small children.
Tokyo
A Yakiniku Restaurant Featuring Fine Kuroge Wagyu and Premium Wine
This yakiniku restaurant is conveniently located just a two-minute walk from JR Machida Station. The owner personally visits the market to purchase A5-ranked Japanese Black Beef cows in their entirety, offering large, thick slices of Chateaubriand, the highest quality cut of beef, which is only available in small quantities per cow. Enjoy the high-quality yakiniku with a premium glass of wine that will satisfy even the most discerning wine lover, such as Kenzo Estate, a wine born in Napa Valley, California, the world's mecca for fine wines. Enjoy A5-ranked Japanese Black Beef and fine wine in a stylish private room while listening to quiet jazz music.
Tokyo
Wagyu Dining That Brings Out the Best in the Ingredients
This Wagyu beef dining restaurant is located about a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Shirokane Takanawa Station. They offer carefully selected Wagyu beef from all over Japan and high-quality ingredients sourced from all over the world, cooked in the most optimal way, so you can enjoy different flavors every time you visit.
Kagoshima
Yakiniku Restaurant Specializing in A5 Rank "Kagoshima Kuro Beef" Female Beef
Located in Kagoshima City’s bustling Tenmonkan district, this yakiniku restaurant offers carefully selected A5-grade "Kagoshima Black Wagyu," chosen by chefs with wholesale experience. Meals are prepared over charcoal, with both à la carte and set course options available.
Hokkaido
Discover the Classic Flavours of Kitami-Style Yakiniku
This yakiniku restaurant is conveniently located approximately a 7-minute walk from JR Kitami Station. You can enjoy Kitami's traditional yakiniku style, where the meat is grilled over charcoal without any seasoning, then dipped in a non-heat-treated "raw sauce" made from vegetables and fruits. We also recommend serving it with the salt and pepper blended in the restaurant.
Search for Restaurants Where You Can Eat Yakiniku in a Private Room by Area
