Otsu Yakitori | A Blissful Evening with Our Chef's Special Course

A Heartwarming Moment with Otsu Yakitori

In Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, a city where old-world charm and modern energy blend, an enticing, savory aroma drifts on the fragrant smoke as evening falls. This is our yakitori restaurant's invitation to a heartwarming moment. For those seeking a special place to spend the evening among countless dining options, we offer a one-of-a-kind experience that lives up to the expectations behind the keywords 'Otsu Yakitori'.

We hope your time with us is not just a meal, but a lasting memory. That's why we make no compromises, from selecting our ingredients to our cooking methods and hospitality. In particular, the course menu, meticulously crafted by our chef, is the culmination of our dedication and passion.

In this article, we will focus on the charms of our restaurant, especially the chef's recommended course menu. We hope that by providing practical and useful information, you will be inspired to visit us. Please look forward to a culinary journey that will brighten your night in Otsu.

When in Doubt, Choose This! The Secret to a Successful Otsu Yakitori Course

Searching for 'Otsu Yakitori' and finding the perfect spot from numerous options can be surprisingly difficult. We understand that some customers, especially first-time visitors, may feel anxious about what to order to ensure the most satisfying experience without regret.

While trying various skewers à la carte is enjoyable, it can sometimes be a hassle to decide what to choose or consider the overall balance of the meal. Moreover, many diners wish to experience the true essence of the restaurant.

To solve these concerns and promise the ultimate 'Otsu Yakitori' experience, our chef proudly presents our course menus. These are not merely a lineup of skewers; they are story-driven meals that embody our culinary philosophy: 'to serve the finest ingredients in their best possible state'.

The Chef's Course: Savoring the True Essence of Otsu Yakitori

Our course menus are designed for you to fully appreciate the depth of 'Otsu Yakitori.' We present a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, a fusion of carefully selected ingredients and the time-honored skills of our artisans, all offered in the form of a set course.

Savoring the Full Charm of Omi Chicken

• Our Commitment to Omi Chicken Yakitori: Shiga Prefecture's prized brand of chicken, 'Omi Chicken,' is perfect for yakitori with its rich flavor and satisfyingly firm texture. We source whole Omi chickens and prepare each part optimally. Every skewer is carefully prepared and grilled to perfection over Binchotan charcoal by our skilled chefs. Please enjoy the succulence and deep flavor unique to Omi Chicken to your heart's content.
• Enjoying the Uniqueness of Each Cut: Our course features not only classic cuts like thigh (momo), neck (seseri), and meatball (tsukune), but also rare cuts depending on the day's availability. By comparing the distinct flavors and textures of each part, you can appreciate the depth of Omi Chicken even more. From the melt-in-your-mouth sweetness of the tail (bonjiri) to the delightful crunch of cartilage (nankotsu), no two skewers taste the same.
• The Tradition and Innovation of Awazu-cho Yakitori: Rooted in the historic town of Awazu-cho, we cherish the local food culture while constantly pursuing new flavors. Our course allows you to enjoy the charm of 'Awazu-cho Yakitori'—a fusion of tradition and innovation, from classic grilling methods that maximize Omi Chicken's flavor to skewers featuring seasonal vegetables and our original seasonings.

The Aromatic Magic of Binchotan Charcoal

• The Magic of Binchotan Yakitori: One of the key elements that defines the taste of yakitori is the charcoal grilling technique. We use the highest quality Kishu Binchotan. Its powerful far-infrared rays quickly sear the surface of the ingredients while cooking the inside gently. This locks in the chicken's umami, resulting in a product that is aromatic on the outside and plump and juicy on the inside. This unique aroma and texture is a magic that only Binchotan can create.
• The Artisan's Skillful Grilling: Mastering the heat of Binchotan charcoal is a true craft. Our chefs expertly control the flame, considering the day's temperature, humidity, and the condition of the chicken, ensuring each skewer is served at its absolute best. Grilled over a perfectly balanced flame—not too strong, not too weak—the skewers release the aroma of charcoal the moment they enter your mouth, followed by an explosion of the chicken's natural flavor. You can experience this delicate art of grilling through our course menu.
• Experience the Essence of Charcoal Grilling with a Course: By serving various types of skewers in sequence, our course allows you to fully enjoy the essence of Binchotan charcoal grilling. For example, we serve richer cuts after lighter ones and intersperse vegetable skewers to refresh the palate, ensuring you can enjoy every bite in its optimal state without fatigue.

A Perfect Finale: Hakata-Style Mizutaki

• The Luxurious Flavor of Hakata-Style Mizutaki: What makes our 'Otsu Yakitori' course even more special is our other pride and joy: 'Hakata-style Mizutaki.' This hot pot, which maximizes the chicken's umami through a different approach than yakitori, is served mid-course to reset your palate and add depth to the meal. The cloudy white broth, simmered slowly and carefully, is a condensation of Omi Chicken's flavor, and its deeply nourishing taste warms both body and soul.
• Harmony with Fresh Vegetables: Our mizutaki features not only chicken but also an abundance of fresh, seasonal vegetables. Crisp cabbage, mushrooms, and tofu absorb the flavorful chicken broth, enhancing the natural sweetness and texture of each ingredient. As the ingredients complement each other to create a deep harmony, you can also enjoy the changing seasons visually.
• The Ultimate Satisfaction with Zosui to Finish: The perfect ending to a course of yakitori and mizutaki is the zosui made with the leftover broth. This rice porridge, made by adding rice and egg to the golden broth rich with the umami of Omi Chicken and vegetables, is simply blissful. We promise ultimate satisfaction down to the very last bite. The warm zosui will gently conclude your day, allowing you to leave feeling completely content.

Steps to Fully Enjoy Your Otsu Yakitori Course

To make your dining experience with us even more enriching, here are a few tips and an overview of the process from reservation to your visit. By following these steps, you can enjoy your 'Otsu Yakitori' evening more smoothly and to the fullest.

Finding the Perfect Course for You

1. Check the Course Details: First, please review the details of each course on our website or in-store menu. We offer various options to suit your preferences, including the number of skewers, the inclusion of mizutaki, and different appetizers and finishing dishes. Be sure to check for seasonal or special occasion courses as well.
2. Discuss Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: If you have any allergies or foods you dislike, please do not hesitate to inform our staff when making a reservation or upon arrival. We will do our best to accommodate your needs, such as proposing alternative dishes, so you can dine with peace of mind.
3. Pairing with Drinks: We have a wide selection of drinks that pair well with yakitori and mizutaki, such as sake, shochu, and wine. Our staff is knowledgeable about which drinks complement each dish, so feel free to ask for recommendations. The right pairing can further enhance the depth of flavor.

From Reservation to Arrival

1. For a Smooth Reservation: We anticipate being very busy, especially on weekends, holidays, and during peak seasons like the year-end holidays. To ensure we have a table ready for you, we recommend making a reservation in advance by phone or online. Just let us know your desired date, time, and number of guests for a seamless booking.
2. Confirmation upon Arrival: When you arrive, please give your reservation name at the entrance. We will welcome you with warm hospitality and guide you to your table. Even if it's your first visit, please feel at ease.
3. Arrangements for Special Occasions: If you are celebrating a special occasion such as a birthday, anniversary, or an important dinner, we can assist with surprise arrangements. We are happy to help make your day unforgettable, from arranging a cake to preparing a message plate. Please feel free to ask.

An Unforgettable Culinary Experience with Otsu Yakitori

Step through the noren curtains of our 'Otsu Yakitori' restaurant, and you will find a special space where you can forget the hustle and bustle of daily life. Our chef's meticulously crafted course menu is a concentration of our dedication, featuring yakitori made with Shiga's prized Omi Chicken, the aromatic magic of high-grade Binchotan charcoal, and a heartwarming Hakata-style mizutaki.

While feeling the warmth of 'Awazu-cho Yakitori,' we hope you will spend a wonderful time with us, whether it's for a conversation with loved ones or to cap off your day. We put our heart into every dish so that each bite brings a smile to your face and leaves you completely satisfied.

We invite you to savor this blissful culinary experience that engages all five senses. We sincerely look forward to your visit. We hope your 'Otsu Yakitori' experience with us becomes a wonderful, deeply cherished memory.