Tokyo Yakiniku: Kinju Hanare | Non-Beef Options & Japanese Audio

Companions who do not eat beef can start from the ‘Pork/Chicken’ section. The pork jowl (tontoro) has a distinct layer of fat; when grilled until the edges are slightly charred, the fat melts while the meat remains tender, offering a sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with lettuce or kimchi. The Daisen chicken thigh (Daisen-dori momo) is a Japanese-raised chicken; the meat is firm yet not dry, and after grilling, the surface becomes aromatic while the inside remains juicy, offering more depth than standard chicken. Chicken cartilage (yagen nankotsu) is a choice for those who enjoy texture—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—making it a great companion for beer or shochu. Pork ribs (buta-karubi) are also available; once grilled, the fat and sauce meld together, providing a familiar and comforting choice for those accustomed to pork. These items are relatively affordable, and the portions are sufficient for grilling and chatting, ensuring those who don’t eat beef don’t feel like they are just tagging along.

Of course, the restaurant’s signature remains its beef. The specially selected fresh beef tongue (tokusen nama-tan shio) is a must-order for many; the slices are thick, and after being grilled over charcoal, the exterior is slightly charred while the interior remains soft and juicy, free from any overpowering gamey odors, delivering a direct, salty, and savory punch. The skirt steak (harami) and shoulder cut (misuji) are also frequently mentioned; the former offers chewiness and juices, while the latter is even more tender. The offal section is another highlight: fresh offal platters, salted offal, spicy red offal, as well as premium liver, first stomach (upper mino), and small intestine (marucho) are all cleaned thoroughly, with almost no noticeable odor. Some diners start with heart sashimi (hatsu-sashi) or first stomach sashimi to experience the freshness of raw ingredients before moving on to grilled items. These offal dishes are intriguing for those who enjoy challenging their palate, but for those who are not accustomed to them, the restaurant provides clear alternatives with premium cuts, pork, and chicken.