If you're talking about yakitori in Sendai, one place that I can't overlook is this one.Even though it had been a few years since my last visit, the quality exceeded my previous experiences, and I was reminded once again of its role in leading the yakitori culture in Tohoku.This time, I visited Sumiyaki Okagesan, which I personally consider the "sacred place for yakitori in Tohoku." Known as the only yakitori restaurant in the region that serves Takasaka chicken, it has been recognized in Tabelog Awards and as one of the top 100 restaurants.With a focus on Takasaka chicken and Kishu Binchotan charcoal, their yakitori captivates many fans.Upon entering the restaurant, the aroma of charcoal immediately raised my expectations. The counter seats surrounding the grill are filled with a lively atmosphere, and you can feel the serious dedication in every action of the chef. The reservation-only omakase course style enhances the unique experience of this restaurant.The yakitori I had that day was truly impressive. The first thing that surprised me was the precision of the cooking. The surface was perfectly grilled while retaining just the right amount of moisture in the center, maximizing the unique flavor of Takasaka chicken. With every bite, the rich umami of the chicken spread in my mouth, leaving a long-lasting aftertaste. It was a reminder of the depth of this dish.Additionally, the balance of saltiness was remarkable. It was neither too strong nor too weak, perfectly enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. The salt never overshadowed the star of the show, which was the Takasaka chicken. This allowed the distinct characteristics of each part to shine through, providing a different sensation with each skewer.What particularly stood out was the texture of the meat and the beauty of the fat. The elegant fat unique to Takasaka chicken slowly melted in my mouth, layering the aroma and flavor. The deep taste brought out by aging was also impressive, making me involuntarily exclaim with every skewer I ate. It's understandable why this is the only place in Kanto and northward where you can enjoy Takasaka chicken.Not only the yakitori but also the side dishes and vegetable skewers were excellent, with a well-thought-out flow throughout the course that kept me engaged until the end. It transcended the typical yakitori restaurant experience, presenting a complete course meal.Personally, I was delighted by the free-flow drink style. Being able to enjoy various drinks that pair well with the yakitori greatly enhanced my satisfaction. The freedom to enjoy pairings with the dishes is a significant attraction.In recent years, the level of yakitori has risen nationwide, but this place undoubtedly ranks among the top. It had been a few years since my last visit, but I was amazed that it surpassed the emotions I felt before. The commitment to continuous evolution without settling for the status quo was evident in every skewer.For anyone who loves yakitori and visits Sendai, this is a must-visit restaurant. In fact, it’s not an exaggeration to say that it’s worth traveling to Sendai just for this place.For me, it remains the "sacred place for yakitori in Tohoku." After my return visit, that sentiment has only grown stronger. The pinnacle of Takasaka chicken, perfect cooking, and exquisite use of salt—all combined for an unforgettable yakitori experience.It was a great meal!
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