Authentic Yakitori, Crafted for Connection
Taisho Yakitori brings together the best of a lively bar and a welcoming restaurant, offering a warm izakaya-style setting where great drinks meet high-quality Japanese tapas.
Since opening in 2009, Taisho Yakitori has been dedicated to perfecting the art of authentic grilled skewers. Each dish is prepared using traditional Binchotan charcoal, enhancing the natural flavours of carefully selected meats and fresh vegetables.
From classic chicken yakitori to a variety of expertly grilled options, every skewer is served fresh off the grill—creating a relaxed, flavourful experience worth sharing.
Chef TAKA brings a lifetime of Japanese culinary tradition to Auckland. Growing up in the kitchen of his parents' restaurant in Hiroshima, he was trained in the art of seafood and traditional seasoning from a young age.
With a background in Business Art and over 20 years of experience living and working in New Zealand, Takashi opened TAISHO to provide a truly genuine Japanese dining experience. As part of a family of chefs—including his brother and parents who still run the celebrated Mamefuku in Japan—he maintains a constant exchange of culinary innovation and wisdom. At TAISHO, you aren’t just tasting food; you are experiencing the evolution of a family craft spanning decades.
The Story of Chef TAKA
The Art of Yakitori
Yakitori is a traditional Japanese style of skewered grilling, most commonly featuring bite-sized cuts of chicken threaded onto bamboo skewers and cooked over high-quality Binchotan charcoal. Each skewer is prepared to order and served immediately from the grill, highlighting the natural flavours and textures of the ingredients, including a variety of premium cuts and offal.
Although the term “yakitori” directly translates to “grilled chicken,” the cuisine also encompasses a broader selection of skewers, incorporating other meats and fresh vegetables. This diversity reflects the depth and versatility of this time-honoured Japanese culinary tradition.
Binchotan Charcoal
Binchotan charcoal is a fundamental element of traditional Japanese grilling. Crafted from high-quality oak, this refined charcoal is prized for its clean, consistent heat and exceptional performance.
Its relatively low, steady burn—combined with the absence of smoke and unwanted odours—creates ideal conditions for preparing yakitori. This allows the natural flavours of the ingredients to shine, resulting in a pure and authentic grilling experience.
