Inakaya Restaurants in Tokyo - Lonely Planet Travel Information

Address
5-3-4 Roppongi, Minato-ku
Show map Close map

Phone
3408 5040

Transport

underground rail: Hibiya or Toei Ōedo Lines to Roppongi (exit 3)

Let us know if these details are incorrect

Lonely Planet review

Once you're bombarded with greetings at the door, the action doesn't stop at this old-guard robatayaki (a place that grills food that goes beautifully with booze). It's a party, it's joyous, it's boisterous - and that goes for the profusion of toothsome dishes as well as the attitude one must have when the bill arrives. Live large!

Tokyo overview Restaurants (137)

Member reviews

Write a review

Member reviews

Things to do

Member reviews (1)

Write a review

Showing 1-1 of 1 results

Obliging a friends' recommendation, my dad and I arrived at the entrance of Inakaya. To the street, Inakaya is nothing but a pair of traditional fabric hanging curtains with Japanese writing and a small lantern. Having no idea what to expect was only part of the fun! As soon as we walked through the door, we both "wowed" to ourselves. In front of us was an amazing array of fresh ingredients laid before us- fish, teriyaki skewers, seafood, plates of vegetables- everything you could think of. With patrons seated at a U-shaped bench around the food, the two chefs were the centre of attention in the middle, preparing food on cue on small grills - in true robatayaki style. While we were still taking in the amazing setting, about five staff were shouting a happy and welcoming greeting. We had no idea what they were saying but they definitely made us feel welcome! With only a visual menu, we were instructed to pick and choose from the selection of food. When ordering, our order was repeated back to us, by not only by the waiter but the rest of the staff in the room. The chefs then prepared the dishes in front of us. To serve, they used a 2m long paddle to reach over the vast selection of food sitting before us. To everyone's amusement, even beers were served this way! The food itself was an absolute delight with every mouthful delicious and every dish worth a photo. The staff were fabulous- fun, friendly, attentive and they all seemed particularly proud of their photo album filled with musicians and movie stars who are regular visitors to this hidden gem. Without the menu we had no idea how much we were spending but my dad and I had already agreed- whatever the cost, it would be worth every cent. Inakaya was without a doubt more than just a meal, but a unique and unforgettable experience. At the end of the night, we were disappointed that it was over. Back through the traditional curtained entry, we were left with amazing memories as well as very happy bellies.