If you’re craving the sizzle of juicy grilled chicken and a side of authentic Tokyo energy, yakitori alleys in Tokyo have you covered. These narrow lanes brim with tiny stalls where charcoal flames kiss skewers of chicken, pork, and even adventurous bites like raw pig’s penis (Migrationology). In this ultimate guide to yakitori alleys tokyo, you’ll uncover the top spots, from retro lanes near Shinjuku station to under-the-tracks gems, plus pro tips on ordering, pairing drinks, and beating the crowds.
Here’s the thing: once you’ve read this, you’ll know exactly where to go, what to order, and how to make the most of every smoky bite.
Explore Memory Lane
Memory Lane, also known as Omoide Yokocho, sits just a stone’s throw from Shinjuku station. Picture red paper lanterns, a dozen closet-sized yakitori pubs, and the buzz of students, salarymen, and locals swapping stories over drinks. This alley is a must in our shinjuku food district guide.
What to expect
- Tiny counters seating 8–10 people, meaning you’ll cozy up next to strangers
- Charcoal grills popping and hissing, filling the air with a smoky aroma
- English menus at many spots, plus simple a la carte or mixed-plate options (Migrationology)
Menu highlights
- Leeks wrapped in bacon, and chicken wings, both available salted or sauce-glazed
- Sauce-glazed skewers often steal the show with a sweet and tangy finish (Migrationology)
- Wild cards like grilled salamander or raw pig’s penis at Izakaya Asadachi for the bold (Migrationology)
Pricing and ordering
Most plates run about ¥750 ($7.37) each, so you can sample multiple skewers without breaking the bank. Order stick by stick, or go for the special mixed plate to get a little bit of everything.
Uncover Yakitori Alley
Tucked under the Shinkansen bullet-train tracks near Hibiya station, Yakitori Alley feels like a delicious secret. Follow the glowing grills and the scent of sizzling meat until you find a cluster of a dozen or so stalls, each vying for your attention.
Getting there
- Nearest subway exits: Hibiya A2 or Ginza C1
- Look for smoke drifting under the tracks and glowing grill coals
You might be here after exploring Tokyo station ramen street or on the hunt for some late night eating tokyo.
Menu and vibe
- Skewers range from chicken and pork to gizzards, liver, heart, intestine, and more (Medium)
- Most skewers cost ¥160–200 ($2–2.50), making it easy to taste several stalls
- Pints of beer go for ¥550–600 ($6–7.50), perfect for washing down grilled goodness
- Outdoor seating on stools and small tables keeps the vibe social and lively
Best time to visit
Weekdays after 7 PM offer a bustling local crowd. Weekends may be quieter on the local front, but seating can be easier to snag (Medium).
Stroll Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho
Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho, also called Drunkard’s Alley, takes you back to post-war Tokyo. It dates to the early 1950s, and some stalls fit just four or five guests at a time (Go Tokyo). It’s a classic addition to izakaya near yamanote line.
Atmosphere and seating
- Ultra-intimate counters where chefs chat with you as they grill
- Dim lighting, narrow aisles, and the hum of conversation
- Expect to share space—and stories—with friendly locals
Must-try skewers
- Succulent chicken thigh glazed in tare sauce for that glossy finish
- Pork belly bites for rich, fatty goodness
- Salted chicken wings if you want the crunch without the sweetness
Visit Sanchoku Yokocho
Known as the Farm to Table Dining Alley, Sanchoku Yokocho in Yurakucho reopened in 2019 with a fresh concept. Eleven bars specialize in regional ingredients, from Hokkaido seafood to Kyushu produce (Go Tokyo). It’s a short walk from many tokyo food walking tours.
Unique features
- Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
- Seasonal menus highlighting local producers
- Communal seating encourages friendly chats
Drink pairings
- Local sake flights to complement each region’s skewers
- Craft beers on tap for a refreshing contrast
- Non-alcoholic yuzu spritzes if you’re driving or going light
Compare top yakitori alleys
Here’s a quick look at how these alleys stack up:
| Alley | Location | Specialties | Price range | Nearest station | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho) | Shinjuku | Sauce-glazed wings, bacon-leeks | ¥750/plate | Shinjuku | Retro, crowded |
| Yakitori Alley | Hibiya/Ginza | Gizzards, liver, heart, pork skewers | ¥160–200/stick | Hibiya, Ginza | Outdoor, casual |
| Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho | Shibuya | Chicken thigh, pork belly | ¥200–500/stick | Shibuya | Intimate, nostalgic |
| Sanchoku Yokocho | Yurakucho | Regional farm-to-table yakitori | ¥300–800/stick | Yurakucho | Modern, communal |
Plan your visit
Beat the crowds
Arrive just before peak dinner time—around 5 PM on weekdays—to grab a prime counter spot. If you must go later, be ready to elbow in or split skewers at the bar.
Ordering tips
- Start with sauce-glazed chicken to warm up your taste buds
- Switch to salted skewers for balance
- Ask for “omakase” (chef’s choice) at spots offering mixed plates
Pair drinks
- Cold beer works any time, but try a local craft brew for extra fun
- Sake goes beautifully with leaner cuts—ask for a dry junmai
- Non-alcoholic options like oolong tea help cleanse your palate
Etiquette pointers
- Say “sumimasen” (excuse me) to get the chef’s attention
- Don’t pass dishes over the counter—slide them along
- Keep conversations at a conversational volume—everyone’s here to relax
Frequently asked questions
1. Which yakitori alley is best for first-timers?
Memory Lane offers English menus and a lively atmosphere, perfect for newbies.
2. Are these stalls cash only?
Most stalls prefer cash. ATMs inside convenience stores nearby can save you a trip.
3. Can I bring children or are these adults-only spots?
Family visits happen, but keep in mind seating is tight and the vibe is very lively.
4. What if I’m vegetarian or vegan?
Ask if they can grill vegetables only—some stalls offer mushroom skewers or grilled peppers.
5. Do I need to know Japanese?
Not really. A few key phrases—like “kore onegaishimasu” (this please)—go a long way.
Enjoy your yakitori adventure in Tokyo, and don’t forget to share your favorite alley finds with fellow food lovers among our local tokyo food spots.
