Japanese food is always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, thanks to its mastery of flavours and ingredients. Of the lot, yakitori is one of the most popular for obvious reasons. Using only the freshest of produce, these Japanese skewers are each masterfully marinated, assembled, and grilled to perfection. We promise there’s more to the dish than Tori-Q. If you’re craving yakitori the next time you’re in KL and Selangor, here are the best restaurants to book.
What is yakitori?
Who would have guessed that such a simple delicacy of skewered meat and vegetables would be such a fulfilling dish. While its name literally means ‘grilled chicken’, there is so much more complexity and cultural value than those two words. These skewers of grilled chicken is popular to many Japanese as a snack after a long day of work or even as the choice of grub for friends to hang out late into the night over a beer at an izakaya.
The best yakitori is usually served at specialty restaurants, known as yakitori-ya, but you’ll also find the dish at restaurants such as izakayas, as well as festival food stands and food carts along busy areas.
At most places, yakitori compromises of several cuts of chicken; some spots offer exotic bits like chicken hearts, livers, or gizzard that’s skewered with vegetables. These are then brushed with tare – a mixture of soy sauce and rice wine – or sprinkled with salt, and then grilled over charcoal for that extra kick of flavour. While chicken is essential, several eateries have started plating different meat variants, such as pork, beef and even seafood.
Choose to have it as an appetiser or even a couple more as a full meal, but we recommend washing it down with beer or sake for the authentic Japanese experience.
(Hero and featured image credit: Nara by Sticks N Maki/Facebook)
10 best yakitori spots in KL and Selangor today
Jump To / Table of Contents
Yakitori Dining Fukuda
Chef Yasonori Doi grills every yakitori on charcoal with the utmost care and perfection as it is the chef’s speciality. The kitchen also goes beyond skewered chicken and plates up pretty decent Japanese soul-food creations like the Boiled Chicken Skin with ponzu sauce and the House-made Bacon is something worth trying.
Operating hours: 5 PM – 11 PM
(Image credit: Yakitori Dining Fukuda/Facebook)
Additional Information
Toritama Yakitori
Nestled in Publika in KL, Toritama is one of the best places for yakitori enthusiasts, offering an extensive menu of every conceivable part of the chicken. From liver to skin, kidney to heart, aorta to neck, and even calf muscle to thigh, every bite is a testament to the art of Japanese grilling. Among its star attractions is the Chouchin, a delicate skewer featuring unripe eggs paired with thigh and liver, delivering a symphony of mild and creamy flavours.
But the culinary adventure doesn’t end with chicken. Toritama’s menu also boasts an array of delights such as beef tongue, premium A5 Wagyu, tender pork neck, and even ginkgo nuts. To elevate your dining experience, pair your skewers with a selection of rice bowls and sides, including the Dashimaki Tamago (Japanese omelette), Baked Potato Salad, and the crispy Yaki-onigiri (grilled rice balls).
For those who relish the element of surprise, the omakase course is a must-try. Featuring 12 meticulously crafted skewers, this chef’s selection promises a journey through the most exquisite flavors, ensuring you leave with your taste buds dancing and your heart full.
Operating hours: 12.30 PM – 3 PM, 5.30 PM – 10 PM (except Tuesdays), 12.30 PM – 3 PM, 5.30 PM – 10.30 PM (Tuesdays)
(Image credit: Toritama Malaysia/Facebook)
Additional Information
Itsumo Japanese Yakitori
Located in Desa Sri Hartamas, Itsumo, formerly known as Toridoki, specialises in yakitori and also offers kushikatsu, Osaka-style skewers that are breaded and deep-fried. The restaurant focuses exclusively on chicken, excelling in every part of the bird. For those not in the mood for skewers, other delicious options like Sukiyaki and Oyakodon are available. Additionally, free valet parking is provided.
Operating hours: 5.30 PM – 11.30 PM (weekdays), 12 PM – 3 PM, 5.30 PM – 11.30 PM (weekends)
(Image credit: @epicureancyndi/Instagram)
Additional Information
Part of the Hamasho family of Japanese eateries, Hamasho Yakitori, stands as a shrine to skewered delights on the first floor of a quaint shop lot in Desa Sri Hartamas. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by an eclectic decor of vibrant posters, nostalgic menu pages, and whimsical polaroids of loyal patrons, all contributing to its undeniable charm.
Embodying the true spirit of an izakaya, Hamasho Yakitori serves up an array of mouth-watering rice bowls, perfectly grilled dishes, and thirst-quenching highballs. The yakitori here is nothing short of spectacular, with must-try offerings like the succulent Bonjiri, crispy Chicken Wings, flavourful Tsukune, and Chicken Skin. The adventure doesn’t stop there; their kushiyaki menu boasts tantalising treats such as moky duck, Miso-infused Pork Belly, and Shishamo (smelt). It’s a culinary journey that promises to leave your taste buds singing.
Operating hours: 5pm – 12am (closed on Sundays)
(Image credit: Instagram/ @ericsonc82)
Additional Information
Butaya Izakaya
Nestled in the heart of Sri Hartamas is another beloved local gem that beautifully mirrors the charm of a traditional Japanese izakaya. Butaya Izakaya, with its enchanting wall decor and inviting ambiance, this cosy spot is perfect for an evening of culinary delight. Beyond its impressive array of skewered meats and thirst-quenching drinks, it tempts with a variety of Japanese classics like crispy Tonkatsu and fluffy Tamagoyaki. While it may not hone in on one specialty, its eclectic menu and warm, neighbourhood spirit create an irresistible allure that beckons you to return time and again.
Operating hours: 4.30 PM – 11.30 PM
(Image credit: @cravingnoms/Instagram)
Additional Information
Nara by Sticks N Maki
For an exquisite fusion of skewers and maki, Nara by Sticks N Maki in TTDI is your go-to destination. Imagine a night out with friends in a laid-back yet sophisticated setting, where exceptional drinks, delectable food, and top-notch service await. The minimalist design adds a touch of elegance, while the chic upstairs lounge invites you for a perfect nightcap after savouring the tantalising yakitori and maki.
Operating hours: 11.30 AM – 3 PM, 5.30 PM – 12 AM (closed on Sundays)
(Image credit: Instagram/ @narabysticksnmaki)
Additional Information
Nomi Tomo Sake House
Nomi Tomo Sake House in Bukit Damansara in Kuala Lumpur is one of the best spots for those who appreciate the pairing of yakitori and sake. Known as KL’s first sake specialty bar, it offers a relaxing atmosphere perfect for unwinding after work. The menu features a variety of kushiyaki sticks, including chicken gizzard, garlic and butter sirloin, pork belly, and the ever-popular chicken skin. Additionally, the bar caters to all preferences with options like rice bowls and bar snacks. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a chilled carafe of sake while savouring the delicious, charred flavours of expertly grilled yakitori.
Operating hours: 5 PM – 2 AM (closed on Sundays)
(Image credit: @nomitomokl/Instagram)
Additional Information
Kingu Kongu
Situated in the vibrant Chow Kit neighborhood, Kingu Kongu is renowned for its exceptional grilled meats, and its skewers are no exception. This Muslim-friendly (pork and alcohol-free) establishment captures the essence of a traditional Tokyo izakaya with its wooden walls and retro decor.
The skewers at Kingu Kongu are served with a distinctive sweet and salty kushiyaki sauce, making them a table favourite. Notable menu items include the special Chicken Tsukune, Black Angus Beef Teriyaki, and Beef Tongue Shioyaki. For those who find it hard to choose, the KK Special Yaki Moriawase offers a delightful assortment of their best skewers.
Operating hours: 12 PM – 2.30 PM, 5 PM – 9.30 PM (Tuesdays to Thursdays, closed on Mondays), 12 PM – 2.30 PM, 5 PM – 10.30 PM (Fridays), 1 PM – 10.30 PM (weekends)
(Image credit: Instagram/ @kingukongu.my)
Additional Information
Tucked away in a tranquil nook of Bangsar, Last Project is a hidden gem that masterfully blends the art of hand rolls and yakitori. This intimate bar offers a charming ambiance with both bar and table seating, and for those craving a bit more privacy, a cosy private room awaits at the back.
Though it’s well-known for its inventive hand rolls and delectable small plates, Last Project truly shines with its succulent skewers. Be sure to indulge in the Wagyu with a hint of Sichuan spice, the tender Spanish octopus, and the Grilled Chicken Wing.
Operating hours: 5.30 PM – 11 PM (weekdays, closed on Mondays), 1 PM – 4 PM, 5.30 PM – 11 PM (weekends)
(Image credit: @lastproject_bangsar/Instagram)
Additional Information
Palillos Yakitori Bar
Palillos Yakitori Bar features a fusion of Spanish and Japanese culinary artistry, creating a chic and contemporary dining haven. Imagine sinking your teeth into yakitori skewers with a Spanish flair—think succulent Grilled Iberico Pork Collar paired with smoky Shishito Peppers, or tender Argentinian Angus Beef Short Ribs that melt in your mouth.
The culinary delights don’t stop there. they serve up an array of irresistible options, from juicy Chicken Meatballs and zesty Spanish Chistorra Chorizo to delicate Spanish Octopus Legs and decadent prawns enveloped in Spanish Serrano Ham and kissed with truffle oil.
But why stop at skewers? The tapas selection is equally enticing, featuring dishes like Patatas Bravas drizzled with a creamy Mentaiko sauce and refreshing Salmon Ceviche bathed in a tangy Lemon Yuzu dressing. To round off your meal, a diverse drink menu awaits with an impressive selection of sakes, invigorating highballs, and crisp beers, ensuring every bite and sip is an adventure in flavour.
Operating hours: 5 PM – 11.30 PM (closed on Sundays)
(Image credit: Instagram/ @palilloskl)
Additional Information
Tags
Written by
Melissa Foong
Senior Digital Writer, Entertainment and Dining
Born and raised in the beautiful city of Kuala Lumpur, Melissa loves writing all things entertainment, music and dining-related. She has written for BURO 24/7 and Augustman, and when she's not busy chasing deadlines, you can find her tucked in a blanket rereading her favourite series of fantasy novels, Harry Potter.
Most Popular
