Japanese grills, also known as robata-yaki, have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their unique and flavorful cooking style. Robata-yaki, which translates to "fireside cooking," is a traditional Japanese grilling technique that involves cooking food over hot charcoal. The result is food that is cooked evenly and has a distinctive smoky flavor.One of the most popular dishes cooked on a Japanese grill is yakitori, which consists of skewers of grilled chicken. The chicken is typically marinated in a soy sauce-based sauce before being grilled, giving it a rich and savory flavor. Other popular meats cooked on a Japanese grill include beef, pork, and seafood. Vegetables such as mushrooms, peppers, and zucchini are also commonly grilled.One of the key elements of a Japanese grill is the use of high-quality charcoal. Binchotan charcoal is a type of white charcoal made from Japanese oak that burns at a very high temperature and produces little smoke. This type of charcoal is prized for its ability to cook food quickly and evenly while imparting a clean, smoky flavor.In addition to the delicious food cooked on a Japanese grill, the cooking process itself is also a form of entertainment. Many Japanese grill restaurants have an open kitchen where diners can watch the chefs at work, skewering and grilling the food right in front of them. This adds an element of excitement and anticipation to the dining experience, as guests can see their food being cooked to perfection.Japanese grills can be found in traditional izakayas, as well as in more modern, upscale restaurants. Some restaurants offer a variety of small plates grilled on the robata, allowing diners to sample a variety of different dishes. Other restaurants focus on a single protein, such as chicken or beef, grilled to perfection.Overall, Japanese grills offer a unique and flavorful dining experience that combines delicious food with entertainment. Whether you're a fan of grilled meats or simply looking to try something new, a meal cooked on a Japanese grill is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
