A Tour of Izakaya Around Shin-Okubo Station! 20 Recommended Spots, from Yakitori to Seafood

Photograph:やま@yama_gourmet23

This izakaya is about a 10-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station and focuses on Japanese sake, along with fresh seafood shipped directly from Toyosu Market and regional dishes from around Japan.

The interior is a Japanese-style space based on dark brown tones, and the decor is striking, with Japanese sake maekake (traditional shop aprons) displayed like tapestries.

Photograph:chocosara

The Japanese sake specially selected by the owner, whose family runs a liquor store, features brands from all 47 prefectures across Japan. They also offer courses with about 100 kinds available as All you can drink, as well as tasting comparison plans, making this an irresistible spot for Japanese sake lovers.

The rows of sake bottles lined up in the showcase are said to be a stunning sight.

Photograph:にゃんちゅ72

The popular item seems to be the "Yumeshu☆Sengyo Hosekibako☆," a lavish assortment of premium seafood such as uni (sea urchin) and madai (Sea Bream).

The sashimi appears from billowing dry ice smoke in a presentation that feels like a tamatebako (legendary treasure box) from a Japanese folktale. It is said to be popular for the fun surprise element.

Photograph:e0bb08

About a 12-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, this izakaya is tucked away one alley off Kabukicho Ichibangai, a busy entertainment street, and is also popular for its hideaway feel.

With a “modern chashitsu (tea room)” concept, the space is said to feature touches of traditional Japanese beauty, including an entrance modeled after a nijiriguchi (small tea room entrance).

Photograph:少し食が細くなってきた人

They serve ochazuke (rice with tea or broth) made with their carefully crafted dashi (soup stock) as the main dish, along with a la carte dishes that bring out the rich flavor of the dashi.

The drink lineup is also diverse, as you would expect from a bar, with everything from original cocktails and beer to rare Japanese sake shipped directly from the brewery.

Photograph:d1282c

Ochazuke made with a blend of Special Domestic branded white rice and brown rice is well liked. The dashi, made by combining flying fish broth, kombu kelp, and katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes), is said to have a gentle, comforting taste.

People often order it not only as a meal, but also as a great way to finish after drinking.

Photograph:むっくり30769

A Korean izakaya specializing in makgeolli and chijimi (Korean savory pancake), located about a 5-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station and across from Nishi-Okubo Park.

The exterior, full of Korean charm, is bright and eye-catching, and the decorations change with the seasons. At night, lanterns and neon lights glow, creating a photogenic atmosphere that makes you want to take pictures.

Photograph:木村 隆一

In addition to standard menu items like Korean pancakes, Chige, and cheese dak-galbi, this spot is known for offering more than 100 kinds of authentic Korean dishes, including Hot Pot dishes and noodles.

The drink selection is also extensive, with more than 70 options including makgeolli (Korean rice wine) and soju. Even while in Japan, you can feel a bit like you are on a trip to Korea.

Photograph:くい_しんぼう

The signature chijimi (Korean savory pancake) is said to be crisp, fragrant, packed with ingredients, and excellent. In the "chijimi assortment" shown in the photo, you can enjoy small portions of 8 flavors, including goma no ha (sesame leaves), mushrooms, tofu, and zucchini.

It is also perfect for sharing with a large group or when you want to compare different kinds.

Photograph:すみログちゃんねる

An 11-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, this yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) izakaya sits along Hanamichi-dori. In the open kitchen, which features a stone grilling station, you can enjoy the charcoal flames and the chefs' skill up close.

There are also zashiki (tatami seating) seats where you can relax after taking off your shoes, and enjoy authentic yakitori in a calm atmosphere.

Photograph:モエの。

The skewers use Date-dori (brand jidori chicken). The yakitori, grilled over binchotan (high-grade charcoal), is said to be fragrant and juicy.

Popular choices include the "kashiwa" and "negima," as well as the rare cut "chochin." It is also recommended to enjoy pairings with Japanese sake, shochu, and wine to match the food.

Photograph:あっこ870805

The special oden (Japanese hot pot stew) made with a blend of chicken stock and bonito stock is also a must try dish. It is also said to be perfect as a palate cleanser between bites of yakitori (grilled chicken skewers).

The flavor of the stock soaks into ingredients such as slowly simmered daikon radish, making for a comforting taste that warms you right to the core.

Photograph:ワクワクアロハ

A 13-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, this yakitori restaurant stands on a side street lined with mixed-use buildings. Open the door, and the aroma of the grill and charcoal fire fills the air, creating a lively atmosphere.

The single-slab wood counter seats are popular because you can enjoy your meal while watching the chefs cook over the charcoal fire.

Photograph:YS 1980

They say you can enjoy yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) cooked with expert skill and just the right heat to bring out the chicken’s flavor to the fullest.

The menu also features carefully made dishes such as seasonal grilled vegetables and Homemade desserts. The popular "Tori Dashi Ramen" to finish the meal has a gentle flavor and is said to have many repeat customers.

Photograph:まるきんくん

The yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), cooked over the strong heat of binchotan (high-grade Japanese charcoal), is said to be fragrant on the outside and juicy inside.

Among them, the signature Aorta, negima (chicken and scallion skewer), and liver are must-tries. They are served with special sauce and yakumi (condiments) matched to each cut to bring out its flavor.

Photograph:ann_s522

A 15-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, this yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) izakaya is located on the basement level of a multi-tenant building. At the counter, you can watch the skewers grill right in front of you and enjoy the chefs’ skilled work.

There are also table seats where you can relax in a calm atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a high-quality and Special kind of time.

Photograph:expectation

The skewers use Miyazaki Prefecture brand chicken. They carefully grill fresh chicken processed that morning over charcoal, and it is said to overflow with juices the more you bite into it.

They offer more than 100 kinds of drinks, including Japanese sake from around Japan and original cocktails served in Edo Kiriko (cut glass) glasses.

Photograph:サブライド小隊長

The only option is the "Omakase course," which lets you enjoy 8 kushiyaki (grilled skewers), a seasonal a la carte dish, and dessert. The skewers are said to be cooked with different heat levels for each cut, and every one is finished beautifully.

To end the meal, the popular oyako-don (chicken and egg rice bowl) features rich egg and plump chicken that melt together. The soft cooked egg and chicken are a perfect match and are said to taste great.

Photograph:めしまるpow

A 14-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, this Japanese-style diner is easy to spot by the "ki" character on its exterior. The inside is a stylish, moody space that seems to make you forget the noise of the city.

Spacious seating is arranged throughout, making it perfect for relaxed conversation, and some reviews also say it is so comfortable that you can unwind there for hours.

Photograph:yu.0.00

They pay close attention to every ingredient, including meat, vegetables, and seafood, and they Specially select high quality options, especially for the meat, such as brand name wagyu beef (Japanese premium beef) and brand name chicken.

They also offer a wide range of drinks, including Japanese sake and whiskey sourced from around Japan. It is also recommended to enjoy pairing them with the food.

Photograph:たかしだよ全員集合

Among the meat dishes, the lineup includes standout items like yukhoe (Korean-style raw beef) finished with low-temperature cooking and charcoal grilling, each bringing out the full flavor of the ingredients.

The especially popular roast beef is said to let you fully enjoy the rich lean meat flavor unique to round. It is also known as a luxurious plate that pairs perfectly with drinks.

Photograph:こまい

This izakaya (Japanese pub) has a calm Japanese style. It also has fully private rooms, so you can relax and enjoy your meal based on the size of your group. It is a great fit for times when you want to spend private time in a quiet atmosphere.

The location is a 13-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, on the basement level of a building along Kabukicho Ichibangai.

They are known for yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) cooked to a fragrant finish, shabu-shabu made with Wagyu and kurobuta (Berkshire pork) that brings out the rich flavor of the dashi broth, and sushi carefully shaped by skilled chefs.

All of these are available in All you can eat courses, which are popular for letting you enjoy plenty of high quality dishes.

Photograph:食いしん坊ワイワイ

Among the most popular options is the "Sushi All you can eat" course. You can order as much sushi as you like, made with fresh, seasonal toppings.

They use a touch panel ordering system, which is another plus since you can enjoy your meal at your own pace without feeling rushed.

Photograph:かねごん52486

This izakaya, about a 15-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, features a space inspired by Kyoto. The colorful wagasa (traditional Japanese umbrellas) hanging across the entire ceiling make quite an impression and are said to be so beautiful that you will want to take a photo.

In the ozashiki (tatami seating) area, you can take off your shoes and relax while enjoying the food around a chabudai (low dining table).

Photograph:新宿の千葉さん

The dishes make generous use of ingredients shipped directly from Kyoto. They have an elegant taste that brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients, letting you enjoy the delicacy of Kyo-ryori (Kyoto cuisine).

The "Ponto-yaki" in the photo is a special okonomi takoyaki topped with plenty of Kujo-negi (Kyoto green onions). Its crispy outside and soft, creamy center are what make it so popular.

Photograph:usausabucho

The signature Kyo-fu (Kyoto-style) fluffy egg sandwich is a rich dish with a whole dashimaki tamago (Japanese rolled omelet with dashi) tucked inside. People say the omelet-like fluffy egg and the perfect balance of karashi mayonnaise make it addictive.

It is said to taste just like something you would get at a yoshokuya (Japanese-style Western restaurant) in Kyoto.

Photograph:サケカスさん

About a 14-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, this restaurant is on the 5th floor of a building just off Kabukicho Central Road. Its appeal is the private space with fully private rooms at every seat, so you can enjoy your meal without worrying about the people around you.

Creative dishes made with Domestic A5-grade Kuroge Wagyu (Japanese Black beef) are popular, and they also offer a wide selection of fine sake brought in from all over Japan.

Kuroge Wagyu (Japanese Black beef) is known for its fine, tender texture and rich marbled fat that melts in your mouth.

Among the best ways to enjoy it, the must-try dishes are sukiyaki and shabu-shabu, which bring out the meat's great flavor. The vegetables served with the Hot Pot are all Special seasonal picks gathered from production regions around Japan.

Photograph:なつモグ★

The photo shows the popular “Niku-zushi (meat sushi) 3-kind assortment,” which lets you compare different kinds of meat sushi. Niku-zushi is sushi made with raw or cooked meat placed on top of shari (vinegared rice), and you can enjoy the rich umami of the fat that melts in your mouth the moment you take a bite.

With its gorgeous look, this photogenic plate is beautiful as well.

A 12-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, this seafood specialist izakaya (Japanese pub) sits tucked away on a back alley. It is known for its bold dishes made with fresh seafood shipped direct from fishermen.

At the counter seats, you can enjoy your meal while watching the chefs cook right in front of you. It offers a lively experience you can enjoy with all five senses.

Photograph:タツノオトシゴ15

The signature menu item, "Sashimi Honki-mori (serious sashimi assortment)," is a luxurious plate where you can enjoy 10 kinds of seafood. It is arranged as brightly as a jewel box, showing the chef's delicate handiwork.

You can enjoy it in different ways to suit your taste, with wasabi soy sauce, salt, and sumiso (vinegared miso), among others.

Photograph:DX35742

The photo shows “kai-buro (shellfish hotpot),” made by boldly simmering several kinds of shellfish together. This piping hot dish is fragrant with shellfish broth, and the soup, packed with rich umami, is said to be so full-bodied that you will want to drink every last drop.

It is recommended to add somen noodles to the remaining soup and finish it vongole-style.

Photograph:bloom288

This izakaya is popular for yakiton (grilled pork skewers), the pork version of yakitori. It is about a 14-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, just steps from the Kabukicho Ichibangai gate, on the first basement floor of a building.

The lively and open interior has a Showa retro feel, and people say it is a great place to enjoy the atmosphere of a classic Japanese taishu sakaba (casual pub).

Photograph:ゆーふーど

(Each) table has a tap that lets you pour shochu (Japanese distilled spirit) directly, a unique setup that lets you adjust your drink to your preferred strength.

With the All you can drink plan, you can enjoy more than 30 mixers like Hoppy, Baisu, and ramune (Japanese soda) at no extra charge.

Photograph:hiroy mountain

The yakiton uses branded pork shipped directly from producers in Kagoshima. The generously cut pork is juicy and said to be excellent.

The "nikusashi (lightly cooked meat sashimi)" finished with low-temperature cooking is also popular. With each bite, the meat's rich flavor spreads across your mouth, making it a dish that naturally goes well with drinks.

Photograph:モービー

Shinjuku Kappa is popular as a place where you can enjoy drinks and food without any fuss. The Showa retro-style interior feels a bit nostalgic yet full of energy, making it a comfortable izakaya (Japanese pub).

It is located a 14-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, on the basement first floor of a building along Kabukicho Central Road.

Photograph:つまみ食い星人

The menu has a wide lineup, from snacks that pair perfectly with drinks to hearty a la carte dishes. You can find all the izakaya staples here, including yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), simmered beef tendon, and chicken Kara-age.

One of the house specialties is said to be the "tonpei-yaki (savory cabbage omelet)," made by wrapping plenty of cabbage in egg.

Photograph:たくまる7

The "Margherita" in the photo is a must try pizza baked in the restaurant's dedicated oven. It is hearty and also perfect for sharing.

The chewy crust pairs perfectly with the tomato sauce and cheese, making for an authentic taste.

Photograph:penpen0511

About a 14-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, this izakaya is known for its Japanese-modern space with fully private rooms at every seat, where you can relax and enjoy private time without worrying about the people around you.

It also has Private rooms that can accommodate anything from small to large groups, which is another nice point and makes it easy to use for all kinds of occasions.

Photograph:0d3e15

The menu has a wide range of dishes that let you enjoy authentic Kyushu cuisine. The specialty is kushiyaki (grilled skewers), carefully prepared every day.

The popular "yasai-maki (vegetable rolls)" is a great dish made by wrapping fresh vegetables in pork belly and slowly grilling them over charcoal. The crisp texture of the vegetables and the juicy flavor of the meat are said to be a perfect match.

Photograph:550d4f

The "Wagyu no Yogan-yaki (Wagyu lava stone grill)" in the photo is a must try dish, grilling finely marbled Wagyu on natural lava stone.

It is said to come out nicely browned on the outside and plump and tender inside. It offers a rich taste that brings out the natural umami of the Wagyu and the sweetness of its fat.

Photograph:LiSA17

About a 13-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, this izakaya (Japanese pub) is popular for its calm Japanese modern atmosphere that makes you forget the bustle of Shinjuku, making it perfect when you want to relax and enjoy food and drinks.

Inside, in addition to table seating that is perfect for a Banquet, there are also fully private rooms.

Photograph:ryoka44

You can enjoy dishes made with carefully selected ingredients such as nama uni (fresh sea urchin), natural honmaguro (Pacific bluefin tuna), and Kyushu jidori (local chicken). The robatayaki (charcoal hearth-grilled dishes), with seafood and brand pork grilled over binchotan (high-grade white charcoal), is said to be a must-try.

They Special select more than 30 kinds of Japanese sake, including rare famous labels such as "Juyondai" and "Jikon." It also sounds like a great place to enjoy pairings with the food.

Photograph:はらぺこちゃん1227

The house specialty, "Hitokuchi no Shiawase Gyuniku Uni," is a luxurious dish of kuroge Wagyu (Japanese Black beef) topped with plenty of fresh uni (sea urchin). The moment it hits your mouth, the rich flavor of the beef and the sweetness of the uni melt together and spread into a blissful taste.

It is not only delicious, but also well reviewed for its beautiful, photo worthy presentation.

Photograph:ななちゃんグルメ

This izakaya is about a 14-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, along Kabukicho Ichibangai, and focuses on Horumon and motsu dishes.

Another draw is that you can enjoy your meal at a relaxed pace, surrounded by calm lighting and the warmth of wood.

Photograph:きたろー

The menu offers a wide range of items, including their signature motsu-nabe (offal Hot Pot), kushiyaki (grilled skewers), and niku-sashi (meat sashimi). The Horumon uses exceptionally fresh cuts delivered straight from the slaughterhouse.

You can order the kushiyaki from just 1 skewer, which is a nice plus since it lets you try a variety of kinds little by little.

Photograph:shanks0814

The “toro reba-sashi (low-temperature cooked rich liver sashimi)” is made by finishing fatty liver with low-temperature cooking, and it is said to be a popular menu item with many fans.

It is known for its plump texture and refined taste with no off notes, and when eaten with sesame oil or grated garlic, the richness and aroma are said to open up even more.

Photograph:environs

This yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) izakaya has a calm atmosphere with the warmth of wood. It also offers fully private rooms where you can relax.

It is located on the second basement floor of a building along Kabukicho Ichibangai, a 13-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station.

Photograph:YKSMK

They mainly serve yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and vegetable wrapped skewers, enjoyed with their secret sauce or Special salt. They also offer a full range of à la carte dishes, including super fresh sashimi and Wagyu steak.

Among them, the sushi and sashimi made with fresh fish brought in every morning are beautifully presented and look great in photos.

Photograph:Syuu77Zz

The recommendation is a plan that combines All you can eat yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and yasai-maki (vegetable wrapped skewers) with All you can drink. The skewers, grilled over charcoal, are said to be fragrant and juicy.

Since you can order from just 1 skewer, another nice point is being able to enjoy a variety of cuts. As a highly satisfying course, it has also received high praise in reviews.

Photograph:ukii.316

This izakaya serves Kyushu (southwestern Japan) and Hakata (Fukuoka’s old merchant district) specialties, along with dishes made with ingredients from Kyushu. The spacious interior has a striking wa-modern (Japanese-modern) design, making it a great place to enjoy a lively meal.

The restaurant is about a 14-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, on the third floor of a building just off Kabukicho Central Road, and also very close to the sightseeing spot Godzilla Head.

Photograph:森宮さん

There is a course that comes with All you can eat yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and oden (Japanese one-pot dish), plus All you can drink. The yakitori, slowly grilled over charcoal, is said to stand out for its smoky aroma and juicy bite.

The menu includes classics like negima (chicken and scallion skewer) and liver, and the tsukune (chicken meatball skewer) in particular is said to have a light texture and a sweet-savory sauce that pairs perfectly.

The oden is said to have a home-style taste, with a gently sweet broth that really warms you from the inside. In addition to daikon radish and beef tendon, they offer a wide variety of items such as mochi-kinchaku (fried tofu pouch with rice cake) and tsukune (chicken meatball).

The most popular item is the daikon radish, which is said to be thoroughly soaked with broth all the way to the center and has a melt-in-your-mouth softness.

Photograph:www.doom.now.cc

This taishu izakaya is a 14-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, along Kabukicho Ichibangai. The space has a warm wood feel with a Japanese modern style, and they are said to pay special attention to the lighting so guests can enjoy their meal in a relaxed setting.

The menu centers on yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and seafood dishes, with a wide selection of classic izakaya items as well.

Photograph:わんぱくグルメ(食べログ)

Reviews say that no matter what dish you order, it is always delicious. The otoshi (small appetizer) also offers a unique experience where you can grill dried fish yourself and enjoy it.

They also offer an All you can drink course that includes draft beer, so you can fully enjoy pairing the food with drinks.

Photograph:hebigao

They serve dishes made with plenty of seasonal ingredients.

Among them, the charcoal grilled kushiyaki (grilled skewers) and fresh sashimi are especially popular. The sashimi, made with fresh fish delivered directly each morning from all over Japan, comes in a beautiful assortment that makes you want to take a photo of the plate.

Photograph:kkgk1218

This izakaya is a 10-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, along Otakibashi-dori (Otakibashi Street). The wood-toned interior and soft lighting create a cozy feel, with touches of traditional Japanese design throughout.

It also has Private room options for everyone from small groups to larger parties, which adds to its appeal by letting guests enjoy their meal without feeling self-conscious.

Photograph:mika8409

The restaurant mainly serves yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and seafood dishes. The yakitori, carefully grilled over binchotan (high-grade white charcoal) by skilled chefs, is fragrant and has a plump, juicy texture.

The dishes made with fresh seafood delivered every morning from Toyosu Market are also well regarded, and sashimi and grilled fish are said to let you fully enjoy the natural flavor of the ingredients.

Photograph:どすこいユートピア

The course with All you can eat yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) is popular. In addition to standard items like negima (chicken and scallion skewer) and liver, they also serve creative skewers. It is also nice that you can choose tare (sweet soy based sauce) or salt to suit your taste.

They also have a full lineup of à la carte dishes such as fresh fish carpaccio and chirashi-zushi (scattered sushi), and reviews say the portions are very filling.