Iseya Sohonten — Restaurant in Tokyo

During a leisurely stroll to Inokashira Natural Cultural Park from Kichijoji JR station, the tantalizing aroma of barbecue caught my attention, leading me to discover Iseya, a distinctive barbecue restaurant enveloped in enticing white smoke. Known for its skewers, Iseya offers an array of selections, many of which intriguingly consist of viscera, providing a unique dive into less conventional but equally delectable cuts.

What makes Iseya stand out is not just the affordability of its offerings but the authentic experience of watching your food being expertly prepared over smoky charcoal, infusing each skewer with a rich, unified flavor profile. While the food was generally enjoyable, marked by the distinct smokiness and preparation method, the intense smoke did have a noticeable impact, leaving my daughter's eyes red long after our visit.

An additional highlight was the exceptional way take-away food is packaged, ensuring flavors and freshness are impeccably preserved. If the food cools down, simply placing the sealed bag in the microwave reheats the meal without losing its essence, making the at-home dining experience remarkably similar to eating at the restaurant. This thoughtful touch greatly enhances the convenience and enjoyment of their offerings.

Iseya is not your typical family restaurant but rather a haven for adults seeking a cozy atmosphere to enjoy a cold beer paired with delicious skewers. It embodies the essence of a traditional Japanese izakaya, making it an ideal spot for an evening out with friends. Although the smoky ambiance adds to its charm, it's something to consider when planning who to visit with.

I'm definitely planning a return to Iseya on my next trip to Tokyo, preferably with friends to fully embrace the lively, adult-friendly atmosphere that this unique barbecue spot...

This ancient little shop in Kichijoji is one of my recent favorite places to visit. Here, you can truly immerse yourself in the essence of everyday life. Everything here is so unpretentious, with affordable prices and a rustic charm that exudes deliciousness.

Don't expect fancy cuisine here because it's not a high-end restaurant, but it's precisely this simplicity and authenticity that form an integral part of the lifestyle of the common people. After a long day's work, I always come here, order a cold beer, and indulge in mouthwatering meats. This experience is unparalleled and truly allows you to become a part of this community.

Lastly, a word of caution: even though the barbecue chef here is incredibly skilled, don't attempt to take his picture, as he can be a bit temperamental. However, this is also a part of the unique charm of this place because here, you can feel the genuine, natural ambiance of life, as if you've escaped the hustle and bustle of the city for a...

This place is a time capsule: one of those izakayas that feels like it’s been marinating in smoke, laughter & charcoal since the Shōwa era. The grill action here is real: skewers sizzling over open charcoal, staff working fast, cool as ice & a room so smoky you’ll think you’ve been dry-aged by the time you leave.

The yakitori? Solid, nothing revolutionary, but hits the spot after a day wandering Kichijoji. Drinks are cold, cheap & come quick. The vibe is buzzy & unapologetic...this is not a polished, Instagrammable izakaya, it’s the real deal.

A couple things to note: it’s cash only, so bring yen, not excuses. And prepare to shower afterward unless you want to smell like a grilled skewer on the Chūō Line home.

Would I go again? Yeah, with the right crew. Iseya isn’t about perfection...it’s about atmosphere. And in that smoky chaos,...