Dinner at torila (焼き鳥 とりら)

Dinner at torila (焼き鳥 とりら)

at torila (焼き鳥 とりら) on 7 August 2026
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The restaurant is located on the second floor, accessible via an outdoor staircase. The interior has a stylish vibe typical of a yakitori restaurant, and due to the limited seating, it feels quite different from the bustling yakitori spots in the city. During my visit, there were several regulars, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere.The average cost per person is relatively high for a yakitori restaurant, but observing the drinks ordered by others, it seems that the average spending could easily increase by about JPY 10,000 per person. While they offer a variety of drinks, the selection is somewhat limited outside of wine, which seems to dominate the menu. The wines available are priced between JPY 20,000 and JPY 30,000, and I noticed many patrons ordering them. Since the restaurant only accepts cash, those planning to drink might want to bring extra cash.The dishes are served only as part of a course, and while the yakitori itself remains consistent throughout the seasons, the appetizers reflect seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is primarily run by a couple, and it appears that the husband prepares everything from the skewered chicken to the small side dishes, which must be quite a task on a daily basis. They take pride in the salt and soy sauce they use, and you can truly taste the difference in the flavors.The taste is on the richer side, but each skewer is expertly prepared to enhance the ingredients, with just the right amount of seasoning and cooking. A small portion of rice is served early in the course, which I appreciated as it helps prevent overindulgence.Overall, this yakitori restaurant has many thoughtful touches, and if you disregard the cost, I believe you will be satisfied. However, considering the price, many might find the quality to be just average. Additionally, I would add that the dishes have a somewhat generic feel. While they are delicious, they seem to combine flavors from various places without offering much originality or surprise (though it is certainly different from typical yakitori spots).The portion sizes are ample, and I believe even men will leave feeling full. On the day of my visit, there were mostly male customers, and from the conversations around me, it seemed the clientele consisted of individuals with a relatively comfortable financial situation.I left feeling very satisfied with my curiosity, but overall, what stood out to me more than the quality of the food was the owner's keen sense of business. Everything seemed to align perfectly: the location in Hirao, which attracts a clientele with disposable income, the limited seating that fills up quickly with reservations, the pricing structure, and the consistently satisfying dishes.It felt like a "casual izakaya for adults with financial flexibility." I think this would be a great place for those who resonate with that concept.

7 / 10