Tabelog ratingTori Yoshi (鳥芳) is a small, husband-and-wife yakitori shop in Kobe that treats chicken with a level of care usually reserved for fine dining. The main draw is the exceptional freshness of its poultry, showcased most famously in its chicken sashimi. The raw tsukune (生つくね), a seasoned chicken meatball served uncooked, is a rare specialty that draws diners from across the region.
Guests consistently praise the chicken sashimi platter (鳥刺し盛り合わせ) and the aforementioned raw tsukune. The grilled items are also popular, particularly the classic tsukune, crispy skin (皮), and flavourful neck (せせり). Other favourites include the fried chicken (唐揚げ) and the comforting finishers like chicken and rice porridge (鶏雑炊) or ramen. The clean, calm interior and a thoughtfully curated, rotating sake list add to the experience.
Some visitors note that the service can feel brusque, particularly towards walk-ins without a reservation. A few were disappointed that the kitchen uses an electric grill rather than traditional charcoal. As the space is small, regulars may receive more attentive service, and a two-hour seating limit is often enforced during busy times.
A typical dinner costs between ¥4,000 and ¥4,999 per person. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying around ¥7,000 for a meal for two, and ¥9,200 for three. Most consider it excellent value for the high quality of the ingredients and preparation.
- Getting There: Tori Yoshi is a 5-minute walk south from Konan Yamate Station on the JR Kobe Line.
- Reservations: Booking is strongly recommended and can only be done by phone. Walk-ins are frequently turned away. A 2-hour seating limit applies when busy.
- Payment: Cash and QR code payments (PayPay) are accepted. Credit cards and electronic money are not.
- Seating: The restaurant has 15 seats, with 7 at the counter and 8 at tables. There are no private rooms.
- Dietary Notes: The menu features several raw chicken dishes, which are a house specialty.
- General: The entire restaurant is non-smoking. Children are welcome. Parking is not available, but there are paid lots nearby.
