Tabelog ratingSORA (焼鳥空) is a yakitori counter in Minamiaoyama with a single-minded focus: serving purebred Nagoya Cochin chicken, a rare breed prized for its flavour and texture. The birds are reared for over 150 days, resulting in meat that is both rich and satisfyingly chewy. The chef serves it as boldly cut, generously sized skewers, demonstrating a mastery of fire control that consistently impresses diners.
Guests almost universally praise the quality of the chicken, from classic cuts like momo (thigh) and hatsu (heart) to rarer parts and the house tsukune (meatball). The meal traditionally concludes with a multi-stage finish, including an egg soup followed by an outstanding oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowl) or kamameshi (kettle rice). A surprisingly refined tiramisu is often singled out as a memorable dessert.
The experience is not without its challenges. Securing a seat is extremely difficult, with reservations often filling up months to a year in advance. Some diners have also noted that the service can occasionally be uneven or inexperienced, and a few have reported a strict cancellation policy. Prices are at the high end for yakitori, with the omakase course recently costing between ¥18,000 and ¥22,800. Reviewers' final bills, including drinks, typically land in the ¥23,000 to ¥30,000 range per person. Additional skewers cost around ¥1,000 each.
For those whose priority is a top-tier, ingredient-forward yakitori experience, most agree that SORA's quality and generous portions justify the premium.
- Booking: Reservation is mandatory and must be made far in advance, often months to a year. Reviewers report a strict cancellation policy, so confirm the terms when booking.
- Getting There: Located on the 2nd floor of the HT Minami-Aoyama Building, about a 10-minute walk from Hiroo Station.
- Seating: There are just 8 seats at the counter.
- Payment: VISA, Mastercard, AMEX, and Diners cards are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking is available.
