Torihiko

Picking up freshly grilled skewers on the way home makes an easy addition to an evening dinner or drinks, and Torihiko in Itabashi's Oyanagi-kitacho fills that role comfortably. The selection spans traditional yakitori cuts like chicken hearts, negima, and skin, alongside pork skewers (yakiton). Diners can order their picks seasoned with either salt or tare sauce, whose savory-sweet aroma complements both a cold drink and a bowl of rice.

One of the standouts on the grill is the pork tongue base (tanshita), skewered with whole cloves of garlic tucked between the meat. The combination delivers a punchy savory bite that has earned it a steady following. If a particular skewer is not visible in the display case, a quick word with the staff is usually enough to have it cooked fresh to order.

Dine-in visits are also welcomed, with counter seating providing a relaxed space to enjoy hot skewers alongside a beer. Stopping by at dusk for a few skewers to take home or slipping onto a stool for a quick bite right off the grill both fit the low-key, everyday character of the shop.