Toritaka became hard to book after it was featured on the TV documentary Jōnetsu Tairiku. These days I keep coming back by reserving my next visit while I’m still there.
Rather than a yakitori spot, it feels more fitting to call it a restaurant devoted to chicken cuisine.
There are grilled skewers too, but the real highlight is the range of seasonal dishes served in varied styles. Each comes in a small portion, so you can sample many kinds.
It’s a counter-centered restaurant where the owner and staff strike up friendly conversation, so you can dine in a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
There’s a wide selection of drinks as well — I always leave satisfied.
Seating runs in two rounds. The first starts at 17:00 and takes no additional orders, so I recommend the second round.
It’s one of my very favorite restaurants in the Karuizawa area.
