Boston · Yakitori · a la carte
Tori Jiro
Yakitori izakayaYakitoriRamenJapanese whiskyJapanese-ownedArsenal Yards
The first U.S. outpost of Tokyo's beloved Sanctuary Inc. chain brings charcoal-grilled yakitori, chicken-based ramen, and an exceptional Japanese whisky bar to Watertown. Led by Fukuoka-born chef Rina Nakano, it is the region's most authentic izakaya experience.
- Price
- ¥¥
- Area
- Arsenal Yards, Watertown
- Since
- 2021
- Chef
- Rina Nakano
- Owner
- Yuki Watanabe
Plate № 59
About
Founded by Tokyo entrepreneur Yuki Watanabe through Sanctuary Inc. — a company with 60-plus locations across Japan, Hong Kong, the Philippines, and Italy — Tori Jiro opened its first U.S. restaurant at Arsenal Yards in 2021. The kitchen is led by Rina Nakano, a chef from Fukuoka who brings the precision of traditional yakitori craft to every skewer. Diners can pair the charcoal-grilled bites with selections from New England's largest Japanese whisky bar, featuring more than 30 labels. The menu also spotlights chicken-based ramen, a first for the Boston area.
Neighborhood & visiting
Tori Jiro sits in Arsenal Yards, Watertown, one of Boston's neighborhoods where authentic Japanese kitchens have taken root. The house does not publish an online booking link; call ahead to secure a seat, especially on weekends. Check the posted hours before you go — traditional yakitori restaurants often close between service periods.
Why it's on Washoku Guide
- Boston's only authentic izakaya headed by a Japanese-born chef from Fukuoka
- Over 30 Japanese whiskies — the largest selection in New England
- Charcoal-grilled yakitori following a Tokyo pedigree with 60+ Japan locations
- New England's first chicken-based (tori) ramen by a Japanese culinary group
Other authentic cuisines in Boston
See all →
Authentic yakitori in other cities
See all →
Frequently asked
About Tori Jiro
- Is Tori Jiro an authentic yakitori izakaya restaurant in Boston?
- Yes — Tori Jiro is featured in Washoku Guide because it meets our authenticity standard for yakitori izakaya in Boston: a kitchen grounded in Japanese technique, ingredients and preparation consistent with Japanese practice, and a focused yakitori format.
- Where is Tori Jiro located?
- Tori Jiro is located at 98 Arsenal Yards Blvd, Watertown, MA 02472, Boston, USA in the Arsenal Yards, Watertown neighborhood.
- Do I need a reservation at Tori Jiro?
- Tori Jiro does not publish an online reservation link. Walk-ins may be possible, but for popular yakitori restaurants in Boston we recommend calling ahead.
- What is the price range at Tori Jiro?
- Tori Jiro sits in the ¥¥ price range — typical for yakitori izakaya of this format in Boston.
Keep exploring