Tabelog ratingOnigiri Tonjiru Yamataro specialises in two things done exceptionally well: oversized onigiri (rice balls) and hearty tonjiru (pork and vegetable miso soup). The onigiri are made in the Bongo style, meaning they are hand-formed to be airy and light, allowing the high-quality rice to shine, while being packed with generous fillings. This isn't a delicate snack; one is often a satisfying meal, and two will challenge a large appetite.
Guests consistently praise the fluffy texture of the rice and the bold, inventive fillings. Popular choices include rich sukiyaki, savoury meat soboro with egg yolk, spicy garlic shrimp, and a decadent combination of unagi (eel) with cream cheese. The classic tuna mayo is also a favourite. The tonjiru is considered a co-star, a deeply flavourful soup that perfectly complements the rice balls. Diners enjoy watching the owner prepare the onigiri at the counter, and the staff are noted for being friendly and helpful to international visitors.
The main criticisms are practical ones. The shop is small and seating is limited, leading to queues, especially during lunch. The loosely packed rice, a hallmark of the style, can sometimes fall apart. While most fillings are loved, a few reviewers have found some, like roe, to be overly salty. Reviewers recently paid around ¥480 for a sukiyaki onigiri and ¥380 for tuna mayo. A weekday 'mampuku' set with two onigiri and tonjiru was about ¥1,050. Typical lunch spend is ¥1,000–¥1,999, while dinner, which operates as an izakaya, is around ¥4,000–¥4,999. The value is widely considered excellent for the quality and portion size.
- Location: The restaurant is in Zoshigaya, a 2-minute walk from Zoshigaya Station (Fukutoshin Line) or a 1-minute walk from Kishimojin Station (Tokyo Sakura Tram).
- Booking: Walk-ins are standard for the onigiri lunch service; expect to queue. Reservations are accepted for the evening izakaya service only, which has a different menu focused on hand rolls and drinks.
- Seating: The dine-in space is very small, with just 8 seats, mostly at the counter. A separate counter nearby handles takeout orders.
- Payment: Cash and PayPay (QR code) are accepted. Credit cards and other electronic money are not.
- Service: An English menu is available, and staff are accustomed to assisting non-Japanese guests.
- Children: Children of all ages are welcome.