What is robatayaki?

Robatayaki is a traditional Japanese cooking method where food, usually skewered on bamboo sticks, is slow-grilled over hot charcoal. The name "robatayaki" translates to "fireside-cooking" in Japanese. This cooking technique is often used to prepare various types of meat, seafood, and vegetables.

In a robatayaki restaurant, diners sit around a large open charcoal grill called a robata, while the chef cooks the food in front of them. The chef will use simple seasonings like salt, soy sauce, or a sweet sauce known as tare to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Robatayaki is known for its simplicity and focus on high-quality ingredients. It is a popular dining experience in Japan and can be found in many restaurants around the world. The interactive and communal aspect of robatayaki dining makes it a unique and enjoyable culinary experience.