What is Yakitori? Japanese Grilled Chicken Skewers in Singapore

Yakitori (焼き鳥) means "grilled bird" in Japanese. It refers to bite-size pieces of chicken threaded onto skewers and grilled, usually over charcoal. In Singapore, you will find yakitori at izakayas (Japanese pubs), dedicated yakitori bars and some casual Japanese restaurants.

What goes on the skewer

Yakitori covers almost every part of the chicken, not just breast and thigh. Common orders include:

• Momo: thigh meat, juicy and a safe first pick.
• Negima: thigh alternating with spring onion.
• Tsukune: minced chicken meatball.
• Kawa: crispy chicken skin.
• Tebasaki: wing.
• Sunagimo: gizzard, which is chewy.
• Rebā and hatsu: liver and heart.
• Vegetables and extras: shishito peppers, shiitake, asparagus wrapped in pork, and similar.

Shio or tare

Yakitori is usually seasoned in one of two ways. Shio means salt, which lets the flavour of the chicken come through. Tare is a sweet-savoury soy-based glaze, brushed on while grilling. Many places let you choose. If you're unsure, try both on the same cut.

How it is cooked

Skewers are grilled over high heat, ideally on binchotan or another charcoal, which gives the smoky char. Cooks turn them often so the meat stays juicy inside while the outside colours. Some places also serve skewers omakase, or set course style, so the chef decides the sequence.

Ordering tips

• Order in rounds: skewers are small, so order a few at a time and add more as you go.
• Check the price: menus can list prices per skewer or per set, and some places add service charge and GST. Check the current menu rather than relying on old figures.
• Halal: most yakitori places in Singapore are not halal-certified, so ask or check certification if it matters to you.
• Offal and skin: if you are not sure about liver or gizzards, start with thigh, wing and tsukune.
• Drinks: yakitori is traditionally paired with beer, sake or highballs, and with tea.

Finding yakitori in Singapore

Yakitori restaurants and izakayas open and close frequently, and menus change. Check recent reviews, opening hours and whether you need to book before you go. Lookup's directory lists Japanese restaurants by area, which is a good place to find ones near you.