Myoko, Niigata, Japan｜備長炭火やきとり 麻顔 -Yakitori Asagao-

The photo is how many skewers we went through but does not include the squid tempura and the assorted grilled free range chicken that literally came from a few kilometers away nor the incredible mushrooms we inhaled. I do not want this place to blow up because it is our favorite spot. (We ate here five nights out of eight.) but they deserve a stellar review because every time was incredible. Do not expect white-glove waiters and a snooty maitre d. This is legit mountain town Japanese cuisine, and the chef and the crew are chill but they work their a**es off and the cuisine is DIVINE Remember to respect Japanese culture and by all means visit yakitori asagao and … ENJOY

This is a very popular yakitori dinner option among the quaint skiing/snowboarding crowd staying around the Akakura Onsen slope esp around 6-8.30pm (sort of the apre ski eating spot), so it's best to ask your hotel to help you make a reservation if you intend to eat during that period. They are a non-pretentious cosy bunch making yakitori. We started with a pale ale that the owner's friend brewed, as well as a umeshu (plum wine) w hot water that the owner made herself. Both were delish and a great way to start while they grill your orders. We ordered the combo chicken plater which has various parts, in both the sauce and shio (salt). Both were nice, but i personally preferred the one seasoned just w simple salt cause their chicken alone was juicy enough. Would also like to highlight their fried chicken cartilage which had a special batter that was amazing. Kinda milk powder-ish. Their spicy fried rice was also super yummy, and the chilli sauce their use comes with a hint of citrusy tang. Love that place, and super nice to recharge w their bohemian vibes and freshly cooked food after a day of snowboarding!

Very good yakitori and great service. Make sure you book ahead of time though to get a table!