Tabelog ratingEiki (鍈輝) is a counter-only yakitori restaurant in Ebisu that has quickly become one of Tokyo's most sought-after reservations. The chef, who trained at the legendary Torishiki and Torikado and is the son of the master of Toriei, employs a distinctive grilling technique known as kinbi no tsuyobi—grilling over intense heat at very close range. Skewers are cooked about one centimetre from the charcoal, creating a perfectly crisp exterior while sealing in the juices.
The meal is served omakase-style, where the chef continues serving skewers until you ask him to stop. Guests consistently praise the precision of the cooking, especially on signature items like the opening liver (reba), rich tsukune (minced chicken), tender kashiwa (thigh), and fatty bonjiri (tail). The vegetable skewers, particularly the lotus root (renkon) and eggplant (nasu), are also singled out for their excellence, as is the final clam-and-chicken takikomi gohan (seasoned rice). The chef's friendly, talkative presence and the theatre of the live grill add to the experience.
The main challenge at Eiki is securing a seat. New reservations are generally not accepted by phone, with seats going to regulars or via the Shokuoku reservation site. A few reviewers also noted that the lively atmosphere can become noisy, and there was an isolated report of a surprise 20% service surcharge on the bill.
Dinner typically costs between ¥10,000 and ¥14,999. Reviewers recently reported paying around ¥13,000 for a full omakase with drinks, though some bills have reached over ¥20,000. A takeaway yakitori bento box has also been available for around ¥2,500. For the quality and generous portion sizes of the standard omakase, most find Eiki to offer strong value.
- Reservations: Extremely difficult for new customers. The restaurant does not accept new phone reservations; booking is typically via the Shokuoku website, for regulars, or by referral.
- Location: In Ebisu, a short walk from Ebisu Station. It is on the first floor of the ROZIS building.
- Seating: 15 counter seats only. No private rooms are available.
- Payment: Credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Children: The restaurant is family-friendly and welcomes children of all ages.
- Dietary Needs: Staff will ask about allergies and dietary restrictions at the beginning of the meal.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking available.
