Top 15 Must-Try Yakiniku in Ameya Yokochō
Overwhelmed by the Yakiniku choices in Tokyo’s bustling Ameya Yokochō? We’ve selected the 15 best-rated restaurants for you.
These spots offer everything from premium Wagyu and tender pork to fresh seafood. Known for excellent service and a relaxing ambiance, they are perfect for any occasion with family, friends, or a partner.
Book your table now for an unforgettable dining experience.
Gourmet List
1.Kinhouen
2.Yakiniku no Fujikichi
3.Keijouen
4.Motsuyaki Daitouryou – Branch
5.Motsuyaki Otonba – Ueno Branch
6.Taishouen – Ueno Station Front Branch
7.Yakiniku Yousandou – Ueno Station Front Branch
8.Tokyoen
9.E no Aru Machi – Ueno Branch
10.Hanmonten
11.Seoul
12.Ameyoko Horumon 611
13.Gyu Star – Ueno Branch
14.Noyaki – Ueno Branch
15.Wagyu Yakiniku Tokori
Ueno Yakiniku Map
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Kinpouen: A Must-Try Yakiniku Spot in Ueno’s Ameyoko
A local favorite in Tokyo’s bustling Ameyoko district, Kinpouen is a top-rated yakiniku restaurant famed for its long lines. Reservations are essential.
The classic trio—salt-grilled tongue (Tan Shio), short ribs (Karubi), and skirt steak (Harami)—is a must-order. The meat is exceptionally tender; grill it lightly to enjoy its juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Also, don’t miss their unique grilled squid, a tender and sweet specialty.
With efficient service and a cozy atmosphere, Kinpouen offers outstanding value. For an authentic and delicious yakiniku feast in a competitive dining area, be sure to book your table in advance.
- Budget: Dinner ¥6,000 – ¥7,999
- Cuisine: Yakiniku, Korean
- Phone: 03-3831-8338
- Reservations: Accepted
- Payment: Cash only (No cards, e-money, or QR codes)
- Smoking: Prohibited
- Address: 6-8-4 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access: Approx. 3-minute walk from JR Okachimachi Station
Yakiniku no Fujikichi: Ueno’s Hidden Barbecue Gem
For true yakiniku fans, missing Yakiniku no Fujikichi in Ueno’s Korea Town is a big mistake. This unassuming spot is a paradise for meat lovers.
Its specialty is a unique fusion of sashimi and barbecue. Don’t miss the offal sashimi like beef tripe (Mino-sashi) and uterus (Kobukuro-sashi), offered in either a light or savory marinade. For the grill, the tender skirt steak (Sagari) and premium loin (Jo-rosu) are top choices, enhanced by a secret sauce.
Excellent side dishes like green onion kimchi and mixed namul cut through the richness perfectly. Offering superb value for its quality, this popular restaurant requires advance booking. Add this culinary adventure to your Ueno checklist now!
- Budget: Dinner ¥5,000 – ¥5,999
- Cuisine: Yakiniku, Korean, Cold Noodles
- Phone: 03-3839-4129
- Reservations: Accepted
- Hours: Mon – Sat & Holidays 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Closed Sundays)
- Children: Welcome
- Payment: Accepts Credit Cards (VISA, Master), E-money (Suica, etc.), and QR Code Payments (PayPay, etc.)
- Smoking: Designated smoking areas available
- Website: http://www.guidenet.jp/shop/144g/
- Address: 2-15-7 Higashiueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access: A 4 to 7-minute walk from various stations including Ueno Station (Hibiya & JR lines) and Okachimachi Station (JR & Toei lines).
Keijoen: An Authentic Old-School Yakiniku Haven in Ueno
Tucked away in Ueno, Keijoen is a hidden sanctuary for yakiniku purists. Its old-school, smoky interior immediately signals that you’ve found an authentic, high-quality barbecue spot.
The premium skirt steak (Tokujo Harami) is a must-try, incredibly tender and juicy. The premium tongue (Tokujo Tan) and short ribs (Jo Karubi) are equally superb over the charcoal grill. For something different, the savory salt-grilled abomasum (Giara) is a fantastic choice. Beyond grilling, Keijoen surprises with incredibly fresh omasum sashimi (Senmai Sashi) and seared liver (Aburi Liver).
With its nostalgic Showa-era vibe and great value, it’s a local favorite. If you don’t mind leaving smelling of delicious barbecue, book a table in advance for an unforgettable feast.
- Budget: Dinner ¥6,000 – ¥7,999
- Cuisine: Yakiniku
- Phone: 03-3831-0654
- Reservations: Accepted
- Hours: Weekdays 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Weekends & Holidays 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Children: Welcome
- Payment: Cash, Credit Cards (VISA, Master, Amex)
- Smoking: Permitted
- Address: 2-15-7 Higashiueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access: A 4 to 7-minute walk from various stations including Ueno Station (Hibiya & JR lines) and Okachimachi Station (JR & Toei lines).
Daitoryo: The Landmark Izakaya of Ueno’s Ameyoko
Follow the smoke and lively chatter in Ueno’s Ameyoko market to Motsuyaki Daitoryo, a landmark izakaya with a nostalgic Showa-era soul. This is the place for classic Japanese pub fare.
Its signature dish is the “Nikomi,” a rich and savory stew of horse offal, tofu, and konjac for only ¥420. The assorted 5-skewer set is another must-try, featuring perfectly grilled items from liver (reba) to heart (hatsu). For an extra kick, add the spicy Korean sauce from your table. Pair your food with a classic Hoppy set for the perfect combination.
The lively, no-frills atmosphere is ideal for solo diners and groups alike. Note that this popular spot is cash-only and does not take reservations. To experience a true Ueno institution, just show up and get ready to raise a glass!
- Budget: Lunch under ¥1,000; Dinner under ¥3,000
- Cuisine: Izakaya, Motsuyaki (Grilled Offal)
- Phone: 03-3834-2655
- Reservations: Not accepted
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM, Daily (Open 365 days)
- Address: 6-13-2 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access: Approx. 5-minute walk from JR Ueno Station
- Children: Welcome
- Payment: Cash only
- Smoking: Non-smoking
Motsuyaki Otonba: An Offal Lover’s Paradise in Ueno
Dive into the smoky, lively world of Motsuyaki Otonba, a paradise for offal lovers in Ueno. Famous for super-fresh motsu (offal) delivered daily from Shibaura Market, this is where you get the real deal.
Their must-try dishes include a rich offal stew (Motsunikomi) and charcoal-grilled skewers starting at an unbelievable ¥90 each. For the adventurous, the “Cream-yaki Nouten” (grilled brain) has a surprisingly dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The boisterous, friendly Shitamachi (old downtown) vibe is perfect for enjoying a cold beer and great conversation.
Located just minutes from Keisei-Ueno station, it’s a prime spot for a cheap and cheerful feast. Be prepared: it’s cash-only, no reservations, and smoking is permitted. Don’t miss this authentic Ueno experience!
- Budget: Lunch under ¥1,000; Dinner ¥1,000 – ¥1,999
- Cuisine: Izakaya, Motsuyaki/Horumon (Grilled Offal)
- Phone: Not available
- Reservations: Not accepted
- Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM Daily (L.O. food 9:00 PM, drinks 9:30 PM)
- Closed: Open year-round
- Address: 6-7-13 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access: Approx. 3-minute walk from Keisei-Ueno Station
- Payment: Cash only
- Smoking: Smoking permitted
Tokyo Popular Tickets, Compare Prices to Get the Best Deal
Taishoen: A Classic Yakiniku Destination in Ueno Since 1963
A true Ueno institution since 1963, Taishoen offers a classic yakiniku experience blending Korean culinary traditions with Japanese tastes.
For lunch, their Yakiniku Set Bento is a fantastic deal. For dinner, try the melt-in-your-mouth “Silk Yukke” (lightly seared raw beef) or timeless favorites like the premium short ribs (Tokusen Karubi) and salt-grilled tongue (Tan Shio). Refreshing side dishes like kimchi and seaweed soup perfectly complement the rich, savory meat.
With attentive service and a comfortable, non-smoking atmosphere, it’s ideal for both families and solo diners. Located just a minute’s walk from Ueno Station, this highly-regarded spot is a must-visit for a quality yakiniku feast. Reservations are recommended.
- Budget: Lunch ¥1,000-¥1,999; Dinner ¥5,000-¥5,999
- Cuisine: Yakiniku, Korean, Izakaya
- Phone: 03-3832-5324
- Reservations: Accepted
- Hours: Weekdays 11 AM-10 PM; Fri/Sat/Pre-holiday 11 AM-11 PM
- Closed: Year-end & New Year holidays
- Address: Forum Aji Bldg. 2F/3F, 6-13-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access: 1-3 min walk from Ueno & Okachimachi stations (all lines).
- Payment: Accepts most credit cards, e-money (Suica, etc.), and mobile pay.
- Smoking: Non-smoking
- Website: https://taishoen.co.jp/ekimae/
Yosando BBQ Ueno Station Branch
焼肉陽山道 上野駅前店
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Yansando: Premium A5 Wagyu Yakiniku in Ueno
A Ueno institution for over 50 years, Yakiniku Yansando is a must-visit for its premium A5 Kuroge Wagyu and fresh offal.
Signature dishes include the “Tsubozuke Karubi” (jar-marinated short rib) and the visually impressive “Dragon Karubi”—both are exceptionally tender and flavorful, especially when paired with a raw egg yolk. For classic cuts, the premium tongue and skirt steak are top-tier choices. Yansando also excels with a luxurious Wagyu stew set for lunch and balanced Korean sides like cold noodles.
The spacious, non-smoking environment is perfect for groups. With no service or private room charges, it offers incredible value for its quality. For a high-end Wagyu experience in Ueno that won’t break the bank with hidden fees, Yansando is a top contender.
- Budget: Lunch ¥1,000-¥1,999; Dinner ¥8,000-¥9,999
- Cuisine: Yakiniku, Horumon (Offal), Korean
- Phone: 03-3837-0710
- Reservations: Accepted
- Hours: Daily 11:30 AM–11:00 PM (Lunch ends 2:30 PM weekdays, 3:00 PM weekends/holidays)
- Address: 6-8-16 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access: Approx. 5-min walk from JR Okachimachi & Metro Ueno Stations.
- Payment: Accepts most credit cards, e-money, and mobile pay.
- Smoking: Non-smoking (designated smoking area available).
- Website: Yakiniku Yansando Ueno Official Website
Tokyoen: Ueno’s Hidden Gem for Legendary Yakiniku
Tokyoen is an understated powerhouse in Ueno, famed for its legendary “Shio Harami” (salt-grilled skirt steak)—a cut so tender and flavorful, many say it’s worth a special trip. Another must-try is the premium liver, so fresh it resembles sashimi, perfect with garlic soy sauce. For comfort, the melt-in-your-mouth beef tendon soup is a heartwarming delight.
The retro, smoky atmosphere from the gas grills adds to the authentic charm. This spot is a local secret that turns first-time visitors into regulars. Be aware: it is cash-only and smoking is permitted. Give it a try to experience a true “yakiniku miracle.”
- Budget: Lunch under ¥2,000; Dinner under ¥6,000
- Cuisine: Yakiniku, Korean, Offal
- Phone: 03-3835-0488
- Reservations: Accepted
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 11:30 PM, Daily (No fixed holidays)
- Address: 2-15-7 Higashiueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access: 4-7 min walk from Ueno & Okachimachi stations.
- Payment: Cash only (credit cards not accepted).
- Smoking: Smoking permitted throughout.
Street of Paintings Ueno Branch
絵のある街 上野店
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E no aru machi: From Budget Feasts to Premium Wagyu in Ueno
“E no aru machi” in Ueno uniquely caters to every budget and craving. Here, you can indulge in luxurious A5 Matsusaka beef—one of Japan’s top three Wagyu—with premium cuts like Karubi and beef tongue. Alternatively, you can opt for the incredible all-you-can-eat lunch set, starting at just ¥990.
The restaurant features a comfortable atmosphere with semi-private booths and authentic charcoal grills that bring out the best flavor in the meat. For an amazing deal, visit on a Tuesday for their half-price event. Whether you’re craving a high-end Wagyu experience or an unbeatable value feast, this is your spot.
- Budget: Lunch under ¥1,000; Dinner under ¥5,000
- Cuisine: Charcoal Yakiniku, Korean
- Phone: 050-5485-3892
- Reservations: Accepted
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM (L.O. 10:30 PM), Daily
- Address: Shintono Den Bldg. 5F, 6-13-9 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access: Approx. 2-min walk from JR Ueno Station (Hirokoji Exit)
- Payment: Accepts major credit cards and PayPay.
- Smoking: Non-smoking inside (designated smoking area outside).
Ameyoko Horumon 611: A Local Favorite for Grilled Offal
A beloved local spot in Ueno, Ameyoko Horumon 611 (named directly after its address) specializes in fresh grilled offal (horumon). The must-try “Mix Horumon” comes in two styles: “Aka (Red)” features various pork offal in a rich soy-based sauce, while “Shiro (White)” offers meatier cuts like tongue and skirt steak with a refreshing lemon-salt sauce.
Don’t miss the popular “Horumon Yakisoba”—savory fried noodles packed with offal. The atmosphere is a lively, classic Japanese izakaya, perfect for an authentic local experience. Note that this spot is cash-only, does not take reservations, and smoking is permitted.
Budget: Lunch ~¥2,000; Dinner ~¥7,000
Cuisine: Yakiniku
Phone: 03-3831-2867
Reservations: Accepted
Hours: Tue-Fri 5 PM-11 PM; Sat 11 AM-11 PM; Sun & Holidays 11:30 AM-10 PM
Closed: Mondays
Address: 2-15-5 Higashiueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: 4-6 min walk from Ueno & Okachimachi stations.
Payment: Credit cards accepted.
Smoking: Non-smoking.
Ameyoko Horumon 611: A Local Favorite for Grilled Offal
A beloved local spot in Ueno, Ameyoko Horumon 611 (named directly after its address) specializes in fresh grilled offal (horumon). The must-try “Mix Horumon” comes in two styles: “Aka (Red)” features various pork offal in a rich soy-based sauce, while “Shiro (White)” offers meatier cuts like tongue and skirt steak with a refreshing lemon-salt sauce.
Don’t miss the popular “Horumon Yakisoba”—savory fried noodles packed with offal. The atmosphere is a lively, classic Japanese izakaya, perfect for an authentic local experience. Note that this spot is cash-only, does not take reservations, and smoking is permitted.
Budget: Lunch ¥1,000-¥1,999; Dinner ¥3,000-¥3,999
Cuisine: Korean, Yakiniku, Izakaya
Phone: 03-3835-4203
Reservations: Accepted
Hours: Tue-Sun, 11:30 AM–3:00 PM & 5:00 PM–11:00 PM
Closed: Mondays
Address: 2-15-2 Higashiueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: Approx. 5-6 min walk from Ueno & Okachimachi stations.
Payment: Accepts major credit cards and mobile pay (PayPay, etc.).
Smoking: Non-smoking.
Ameyoko Horumon 611: A Local Favorite for Grilled Offal
A beloved local spot in Ueno, Ameyoko Horumon 611 (named directly after its address) specializes in fresh grilled offal (horumon). The must-try “Mix Horumon” comes in two styles: “Aka (Red)” features various pork offal in a rich soy-based sauce, while “Shiro (White)” offers meatier cuts like tongue and skirt steak with a refreshing lemon-salt sauce.
Don’t miss the popular “Horumon Yakisoba”—savory fried noodles packed with offal. The atmosphere is a lively, classic Japanese izakaya, perfect for an authentic local experience. Note that this spot is cash-only, does not take reservations, and smoking is permitted.
Budget: Dinner ¥2,000–¥2,999
Cuisine: Horumon (Grilled Offal), Izakaya
Phone: 03-5846-8945
Reservations: Not accepted
Hours: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Daily
Address: 6-11-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: Approx. 184m from Keisei-Ueno Station
Payment: Cash only
Smoking: Permitted
Children: Policy not specified
Gyu Star: A Hidden Yakiniku Superstar in Ueno
A true hidden gem in Ueno, Gyu Star wins fans with pure quality rather than flash. The star of the show is its impressive 13cm-diameter beef tongue (Gyu Tan), which is perfectly thick and incredibly juicy. The short rib set (Karubi Teishoku) is another favorite, featuring tender, well-marbled beef.
For more variety, add pork to your set and spice it up with their special gochujang. With excellent side dishes and lunch sets starting at just ¥1,500, it offers fantastic value. The clean, smokeless-grill environment is comfortable for both solo diners and groups. Gyu Star proves you don’t need a fancy stage to be a superstar.
Budget: Lunch ¥1,000–¥1,999; Dinner ¥3,000–¥3,999
Cuisine: Yakiniku, Horumon, Izakaya
Phone: 03-3834-2215
Reservations: Accepted
Hours: Lunch 11:00 AM–3:00 PM; Dinner 5:00 PM–11:00 PM
Closed: Open year-round
Address: 2-15-6 Higashiueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: 3-5 min walk from Ueno & Okachimachi stations.
Payment: Accepts VISA & Mastercard.
Smoking: Smoking permitted.
Website: gyu-star.owst.jp
Noyaki: Authentic Under-the-Tracks Grilling in Ueno
Located directly under the train tracks near Ueno Station, Noyaki offers a classic, down-to-earth izakaya experience. It’s famed for charcoal-grilled skewers, like crispy pork head (Kashira) and chicken skin (Kawa). The absolute must-order dish is the “Jo Liver Negi Mamire”—premium liver smothered in fragrant green onions and sesame oil.
Hearty sides like offal miso stew (Motsu Nikomi) and garlic fried rice with chicken hearts are also popular. The lively atmosphere, filled with the sounds of passing trains, makes it a great spot to soak in the local culture. For an authentic and affordable grill feast, Noyaki is a top Ueno choice.
- Budget: Lunch ¥1,000–¥1,999; Dinner ¥2,000–¥2,999
- Cuisine: Izakaya, Yakitori/Yakiniku, Horumon
- Note: Entry restricted to guests 20 and over.
- Phone: 03-5812-4046
- Reservations: Accepted
- Hours: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Daily (Irregular holidays)
- Address: 6-12-5 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access: 1-2 min walk from JR, Keisei, and Metro Ueno stations.
- Payment: Accepts most credit cards, e-money, and mobile pay.
- Smoking: Permitted.
Tokori: The Art of Premium Wagyu Yakiniku in Ueno
At Wagyu Yakiniku Tokori, grilling is elevated to an art form. The restaurant specializes in high-quality Wagyu from uncalved female cattle, ensuring exceptional tenderness. Their signature “Yakiniku Sukiyaki”—where you sear marbled beef and dip it in a rich egg sauce—is a must-try experience. The extra-thick beef tongue (Goku-atsu Gyu Tan) is another standout, praised for its juicy, satisfying texture.
Excellent side dishes, from refreshing cold noodles to a rich almond tofu dessert, complete the meal. The quiet, stylish interior offers a comfortable and refined dining experience. For a top-tier Wagyu feast that offers great value for its quality, Tokori is an unbeatable choice in Ueno.
Budget: Lunch ¥1,000–¥1,999; Dinner ¥5,000–¥5,999
Cuisine: Yakiniku, Korean
Phone: 050-5872-4304
Reservations: Accepted
Hours: Weekdays 11:30 AM–2:30 PM & 5:30 PM–10:00 PM; Weekends & Holidays 11:30 AM–10:00 PM
Closed: Irregularly (contact store to confirm)
Address: Bamboo Garden 3F, 1-52 Ueno Koen, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: Approx. 1-min walk from JR Ueno Station (Yamashita Exit).
Payment: Credit cards accepted.
Smoking: Non-smoking.
