Tabelog ratingWatabe (わたべ) is a top-tier unagi restaurant in Koishikawa that has earned its place among Tokyo's best. Its distinction lies in the mastery of two distinct grilling philosophies. Guests can enjoy the delicate, steamed-then-grilled Kanto-style kabayaki, known for its soft texture, alongside the less common 'jiyaki' (地焼き), or direct-grilled method, which yields a firmer, more char-forward finish. For a direct comparison, the signature 'Dai-enma-ju' box presents both styles side-by-side.
Reviewers consistently praise the eel's luxurious, melt-in-the-mouth texture and the balanced, not-too-sweet tare sauce that glazes it. Portions are regarded as generous. Popular orders include the 'Toku-jo unaju' (a large single-eel box), the aforementioned 'Dai-enma-ju', and skewers of eel liver ('kimo-yaki') and fins ('hire-yaki'). The only recurring friction point is access: reservations are essential and fill up weeks or even months in advance, and certain items like skewers can sell out or must be pre-ordered. A few diners also noted the strong, pleasant aroma from the grill can cling to clothing.
While a splurge, Watabe is considered excellent value for the quality and skill on display. Lunch typically costs ¥6,000–¥8,000, with dinner from ¥8,000 to over ¥12,000. Recent reviewers reported paying around ¥5,600 for the 'Toku-jo unaju', ¥10,780 for a 'Jiyaki unaju', and between ¥9,680 and ¥12,000 for the large 'Dai-enma-ju' set. Liver skewers were around ¥600 each.
- Booking: Reservations are essential and should be made via TableCheck weeks or months in advance. Some items, like special cuts or skewers, may need to be requested when booking.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 1-minute walk from Exit A5 of Kasuga Station (Toei Mita and Oedo lines) or a 3-minute walk from Exit 8 of Korakuen Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line).
- Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners) and PayPay are accepted. Other forms of electronic money are not. A cover charge of ¥660 applies in the evening for guests drinking alcohol.
- Seating: 24 seats, with table seating and a Japanese-style room.
- Children: Children are welcome. It is recommended to book by phone when visiting with children to ensure appropriate seating in the Japanese-style room.
- Language: An English menu is available, and some staff speak English.
- Smoking: The restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No dedicated parking, but paid parking is available nearby.
