When friends, family members, or business guests visit Japan from abroad, many people want to offer them an authentic Japanese dining experience.
While sushi and tempura are well known around the world, one Japanese delicacy that often leaves a lasting impression on international visitors is unagi (freshwater eel).
Today, I’d like to introduce Unagi Kitashirakawa, a renowned eel restaurant located in Nagatacho, Tokyo. Conveniently situated just a one-minute walk from Nagatacho Station, this restaurant offers expertly prepared eel dishes in a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere. One of its most distinctive features is the opportunity to enjoy Kansai-style grilled eel, a rarity in Tokyo.
The Unique Kansai-Style Grilling Method
In the Kanto region, eel is traditionally steamed before being grilled. At Kitashirakawa, however, the chefs use a Kansai-style technique known as jiyaki (direct grilling), combined with a special preparation process called konashi.
Because the eel is grilled without steaming, the skin develops a wonderfully crisp texture while the meat remains tender and juicy. The contrast between the fragrant, lightly crispy skin and the rich, delicate flesh creates an unforgettable dining experience.
Why International Visitors Love Unagi
Many foreign travelers have already tried sushi, ramen, and other well-known Japanese dishes. However, relatively few have visited a dedicated eel restaurant.
When guests learn that unagi is often considered a special meal enjoyed by Japanese people on celebratory occasions or as a personal treat, they become even more interested in experiencing it themselves.
Unagi also has a long history in Japanese food culture. Rich in nutrients, it is traditionally enjoyed during the summer as a nourishing dish believed to help people maintain their energy in the heat.
伝えたい日本文化
A Glimpse into Japanese Craftsmanship
At an eel restaurant, dishes may take a little time to arrive. This is because each eel is carefully prepared and grilled by skilled chefs. Rather than being an inconvenience, the wait itself offers an opportunity to appreciate Japan’s tradition of craftsmanship, where patience, precision, and attention to detail are highly valued.
The restaurant features a spacious interior and private dining rooms, making it suitable for a variety of occasions, including business dinners, family gatherings, and special celebrations. Its location in Nagatacho, the political heart of Japan, also adds an interesting dimension to the experience. Guests can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine just steps away from the country’s center of government, making the meal feel even more memorable.
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Unagi Kitashirakawa
1F Gojinsha Tokyo Nagatacho Building
1-11-28 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
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