Tabelog ratingAt Hikita (ひき田), an eight-seat counter in Ebisu, chef Hikita puts on a masterclass in the power of fire. Formerly of Makitori Shin-Kobe, the chef has built his tasting menu around a single, compelling idea: demonstrating how different heat sources—薪 (wood fire), 炭 (charcoal), and 熾火 (embers)—can completely change the character of the same high-quality ingredients. This is less a meal than a curated, theatrical exploration of heat and flavour.
The experience is built around contrasts. Reviewers consistently praise the opening dish of Hinaidori chicken thigh grilled over a crackling wood fire, noting its smoky aroma and juicy texture. This is often followed by breast meat from Kisaki chicken, cooked over charcoal for a different kind of char and crispness. Other highlights frequently mentioned include the perfectly cooked liver and gizzards, wood-fired shiitake mushrooms, and a rich chicken rillette served on wood-fired toast. The meal concludes with a choice of three finishing dishes (shime) and a delicate kakigōri shaved ice dessert, often made with Wasanbon sugar.
The tasting course is widely considered excellent value, though it comes at a premium price. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying between ¥22,000 and ¥24,000 for the set menu, with one bill including drinks reaching around ¥28,050. Sample prices for extras included ¥900 for a ginger ale. The only criticisms are practical: securing a reservation is extremely difficult, and the intimate, open-fire setup means the scent of wood smoke will likely cling to your clothes.
- Reservations: Essential and very difficult to secure. New bookings are scarce, so it is best to follow the chef's social media for cancellation announcements.
- Getting There: Located on the 4th floor of the La Reine Ebisu building, a 5-minute walk from Ebisu Station (JR and Tokyo Metro Hibiya lines).
- Seating: The restaurant has just 8 counter seats. Service is in two timed seatings (e.g., 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM).
- Payment: Card payments are accepted (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners, UnionPay). The restaurant is cashless and does not accept electronic money or QR code payments.
- Dress Code: Guests are asked to refrain from wearing strong perfumes or colognes.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking available.
