Yakitori Ukaji: Precision Charcoal-Grilled Chicken

At Yakitori Ukaji (焼鳥うかじ), an eight-seat counter in Yokohama, the focus is on extreme precision. The chef, who trained at the famed Torisho Ishii, demonstrates masterful control over the charcoal fire, teasing extraordinary juiciness and texture from premium Amakusa Dainagon chicken. The experience is structured as an omakase (chef's choice) course, thoughtfully paced with small dishes interspersed between the skewers.

Guests consistently praise the texture and flavour of the grilled items, with particular acclaim for the thigh meat (dakimi), thigh with leek (negima), heart (hatsu), gizzard (sunagimo), and the chicken oyster (soriresu). Beyond the skewers, highlights include a creamy, low-temperature cooked liver, jumbo nameko mushrooms, and a comforting bowl of chicken broth with thin noodles (tori-paitan nyumen) that punctuates the meal. The parent-and-child rice bowl (oyakodon) served at the end is another favourite.

The restaurant's small size means reservations fill up very quickly. Reviewers note that portions in the standard course are modest, and many choose to order additional skewers. A 10% service charge is added to the final bill. These are minor points for most diners, who find the overall experience exceptional.

Reviewers in 2024-2026 reported the omakase course cost around ¥11,000. With extra skewers and drinks, the final bill typically landed between ¥15,500 and ¥16,500 per person. Examples of à la carte additions include soriresu (¥800), chochin (¥800), and sasami (¥600). A glass of beer was around ¥900. Most diners feel the price is very reasonable for the high quality of the cooking and ingredients.

• Reservations: Reservations are mandatory and can only be made online. There are two seatings per night, from 18:00 and 20:45.
• Getting There: The restaurant is in the basement of the Rokumaru Building, a 5-minute walk from Nihon Odori Station or Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minatomirai Line.
• Seating: Seating is at an L-shaped counter with just 8 seats. There are no private rooms.
• Payment: Major credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
• Service Charge: A 10% service charge is added to the bill.
• Language: Non-Japanese guests are welcome, but do not expect a full English menu.