Enjoy a heartwarming bowl of oyakodon at Okiraku

Other than sushi, sashimi and ramen, a popular dish that the Japanese love and consider to be soul food is oyakodon.

In this feature, we write about Okiraku (お㐂樂), a restaurant that focuses on chicken dishes. The popular thing to try here is yakitori, or grilled chicken skewers, but the restaurant is also proud of its oyakodon—a dish with chicken, egg, sliced scallion, and other ingredients simmered together in a sauce and then served on top of a large bowl of rice.

The restaurant looks classy and elegant. Many might assume that it's expensive. However, it is surprisingly reasonable for lunch when dishes are in the 1000-2000 yen range. Dinner prices vary.

You can choose between a yakitori-don or an oyakodon. Looking at the image, it is safe to assume that no matter what you choose, it'll be delicious.

The interior of the restaurant has a modern, minimalist Japanese feel. There are counter seats, perfect if you are visiting on your own.

This time, we chose the oyakodon. As you can see, the bowl is quite big.

Lift the lid and you'll find a bowl topped to the brim with kyobeni chicken (breed from Kyoto), which has been carefully selected by the chefs. The yolk of an egg sits like a jewel on top.

The chicken and egg is cooked perfectly in a mild sauce and when mixed with the rice, the dish tastes slightly sweet. The chicken is tender and delicious. When paired with the raw egg yolk, it adds another delicate touch in terms of flavor.

This oyakodon also has tsukune (minced chicken meatballs), an interesting addition which is usually used for yakitori or hot pots.

Chicken thigh and breast is the main meat used which are extremely juicy. Feel free to add some powdered spices available on the table.

Within walking distance from Jimbocho station or Ogawamachi Station, the restaurant is in a great area where you can enjoy shopping for secondhand books or outdoor equipment.

Yakitori Okiraku (やきとりお㐂樂)

Business hours are subject to change due to the pandemic. Google Map

Download the Ikidane Nippon App: iOS / Android Let us know if there is something that needs to be fixed: Feedback Form