Tabelog ratingEragon is a top-tier yakitori restaurant in Ashiya, a quiet suburb between Osaka and Kobe. It's celebrated for its unique approach, centered on a proprietary chicken breed, the Oshioka jidori, which the owner developed himself. The entire bird is used across the menu, with each part prepared to maximize its texture and flavour over a binchotan charcoal grill.
The experience is a tightly choreographed course. Diners start by choosing a few small plates before moving to a sequence of seven skewers. Reviewers consistently praise the white liver pâté, the rich tsukune (meatball) with truffle and egg, and the perfectly cooked momo (thigh) with wasabi. The mune (breast) skewer is often highlighted for its crisp skin and juicy interior, a testament to the chef's precise fire control. The meal concludes with a choice of 'shime' (finishing dish), where the chicken paitan ramen and the donabe (clay-pot rice) with chicken and ginger are standout favourites.
While the food receives near-universal acclaim, securing a seat can be challenging, with reservations handled by phone or Instagram DM. The meal is paced deliberately, often lasting over two hours. Reviewers in 2024-2026 reported the main course at around ¥8,800, with a typical final bill of ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 per person including drinks and any extra dishes. Most consider this excellent value for the quality and craftsmanship on display.
- Getting there: A 5-minute walk from Hanshin Ashiya Station or an 8-minute walk from JR Ashiya Station.
- Reservations: Essential and competitive. Book via phone (0797-34-8077) or Instagram DM. Cancellations are sometimes posted on their Instagram account.
- Seating: The restaurant is intimate, with 11 seats at the counter offering a view of the chefs at work, and one small private room for four.
- Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Dress Code: The restaurant requests that guests avoid wearing strong perfumes.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
