tomikaai
"Torigenji" is a yakitori izakaya located in Shibuya, Tokyo. They specialize in carefully grilled yakitori and skewers using high-quality chicken. You can enjoy a casual dining experience with a la carte options, course meals, and all-you-can-drink options, making it suitable for everyday dining or a proper drinking party. The restaurant is conveniently located near the station and is a hidden gem that can get fully booked even on weekdays. It is recommended to make a reservation before visiting. "Torigenji" uses the premium chicken brand "Oyama Chicken" from Tottori Prefecture to offer a unique yakitori dining experience. The restaurant is located on the 4th floor of a building across from "Mega Don Quijote" on Dogenzaka, about a 5-minute walk from Shibuya Station. The entrance to the building may seem narrow, so please be careful not to overlook it. The interior of the restaurant features an L-shaped counter with sofas facing the grilling area, table seats by the window, and semi-private rooms, accommodating various group sizes and occasions. With a total of 23 seats, the cozy atmosphere is filled with the sounds of cooking and cheerful conversations among guests. The menu includes a variety of dishes such as grilled Oyama Chicken yakitori, skewers, appetizers, salads, creative dishes, and carb-based dishes for a satisfying meal. The chicken sashimi, known for its freshness, is also a popular choice. In addition to a selection of standard drinks, the restaurant offers an extensive range of wines and whiskies. They also provide a la carte options as well as course meals and courses with all-you-can-drink options based on content and price. I opted for the omakase course priced at 5,500 yen (tax included, plus a separate 550 yen charge) which includes 5 dishes and a 2.5-hour all-you-can-drink service. The course started with a toast of Premium Malt's beer served in a thin glass. The meal included simmered edamame, yam kimchi, and Caesar salad, each served individually, allowing guests to enjoy at their own pace. The course also included 6 skewers such as seseri and chicken breast wrapped in skin, each served hot and fresh. The dishes were seasoned simply with rock salt to bring out the rich flavors of the meat. The tebasaki (chicken wings) were boneless, making them easy to eat while retaining the juiciness and flavor. Among the skewers, the sasami wasabi, tsukune, and maruhatsu stood out for their unique textures and flavors. The oyadori (chicken thigh) was a highlight with its juicy and tender meat. The dishes were served in between yakitori skewers, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of flavors. The course also included dishes like oirin chicken and thick-fried tofu in a tangy and sweet sauce, perfect for pairing with the skewers. The all-you-can-drink service offered a selection of highball, white wine, red wine, allowing guests to enjoy unlimited drinks without worrying about the price. The attentive staff promptly refilled drinks and ensured a pleasant dining experience. The meal ended with a satisfying chicken broth ramen as a finale. The rich and creamy soup paired well with the curly noodles, making it a delightful finish to the meal. "Torigenji" in Shibuya offers a delightful dining experience with carefully crafted dishes that highlight the quality of the ingredients. Despite being relatively quiet during early weekday hours, the restaurant quickly fills up, showcasing its hidden popularity as a must-visit spot near the station!