Japanese Yakiniku (焼肉) is a style of dining involving grilling bite-sized meat, often beef, pork, and chicken, on a charcoal or gas grill.
Japanese yakiniku is the art of grilling bite-sized meat like beef and pork at the table, translating to "grilled meat." The tradition involves diners cooking their own meat, often Wagyu beef, with dipping sauces and side dishes. Originating from Korean barbecue, yakiniku became popular post-WWII in Japan due to American influences and the arrival of Korean immigrants. Yakiniku restaurants offer a range of experiences from casual to upscale, with a focus on high-quality cuts like Wagyu beef. The dining style involves communal grilling, and the meat is often marinated before cooking. While yakiniku closely resembles Japanese BBQ, they differ in ingredient range and cultural influences. Besides popular cuts like ox tongue and skirt steak, yakiniku is enjoyed with various dipping sauces like Tare, Sesame, and Ponzu. Jojoen is a top yakiniku restaurant in Tokyo, offering a scenic view and quality Wagyu beef. The immersive yakiniku experience celebrates the rich tradition of grilling meats, fostering connections and enjoyable dining moments. The article also mentions other Japanese dishes like yakiniku shabu and yakisoba for those looking to explore more Japanese cuisine.