SD Yakitori Hits & Misses, Go Straight to Taisho Without Thinking! 🍢

Hey everyone! 👋 As a UCSD graduate, I know exactly which Japanese restaurants in SD are worth it! Today, let's dive into the ultimate showdown of Japanese yakitori! 🔥 The spotlight is on two popular spots: Yakitori Taisho VS Yokohama Yakitori Koubou. My verdict: Taisho is legendary, while Yokohama is just... average. 😐 👍 LEGENDARY STATUS: Yakitori Taisho If there's one restaurant in SD that makes me never want to leave, it's Taisho! 🥇 From the very first bite, I felt like I was transported straight to Japan! 🎌 Even compared to the greater LA area, this place is absolutely top-tier! 🌟 🥇 Must-Try Masterpiece: Wasabi Beef Skewers I'm honestly speechless—these are out of this world! 🤯 The rich aroma of beef combined with the kick of fresh-ground wasabi is so good, you'll be slapping your knee in delight! 👏 🍗 Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken) The fried chicken is also incredibly delicious—super crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside! 😋 ❗️ Only Drawback: The place is super tiny! You absolutely MUST make a reservation in advance, or you might be waiting forever! ⏳ 🤔 Overhyped: Yokohama Yakitori Koubou Yokohama has a big reputation and always has a long line during peak hours. But honestly, the flavor is pretty average. 😐 Compared to Taisho, their skewers are just okay—nothing mind-blowing or authentically smoky. 🍢 💡 When Should You Go? The upside is the space is bigger, and they're open late. If you're craving a midnight snack or really can't get into Taisho, this could be your backup. 🌙 🤫 Secret Tip: There's a pretty good Japanese BBQ spot next door (forgot the name 😅). If the wait at Yokohama is too long, head next door and give it a try! 🥩 📝 Final Takeaway: If you're a foodie chasing ultimate flavor and authentic vibes, rush to Taisho without a second thought (just remember to book ahead! 📅). If you just want a late-night spot with more space, Yokohama will do. 👍 📍 Restaurant Info: Yakitori Taisho (Highly Recommended!) 🏠 5185 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92117 🅿️ Located in a plaza—plenty of parking! 🚗 Yokohama Yakitori Koubou (Backup Option) 🏠 3904 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111 🅿️ Also in a plaza—easy parking! 🚙 📌 Ad Disclosure: ❌ This account does NOT do paid restaurant promotions! ✔️ Every review is personally tested—whether it's good or bad, we give our honest opinion! 🌰 #SanDiego #SDFood #UCSD #SDYakitori #SanDiegoJapanese #Yakitori #Izakaya #EatLikeALocal #FoodieReview