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Yakiniku Toraji
Master Critic Review
Yakiniku Toraji
8.3
A Tokyo-born yakiniku specialist bringing Japanese-style tabletop grilling to Midtown East, Yakiniku Toraji focuses on well-marbled cuts, precise marinades, and shareable sets built for lingering meals. Diners come for wagyu kalbi, tongue, and bento-style lunch combos in a polished room a short walk from Grand Central.
Must-Try Dishes:
Diamond Cut Kalbi (thick-cut boneless short rib), Harami and Kalbi Bento Box, Ox Tail Rice Soup
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Tokyo-born yakiniku house where you grill high-quality cuts yourself in a sleek Midtown room.
Who should go: BBQ lovers craving Japanese-style grilling near Grand Central.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or unhurried weekend evenings for full experience.
What to order: Diamond Cut Kalbi, beef tongue, ox tail rice soup.
Insider tip: Ask for staff guidance on grill timing for thicker wagyu cuts to hit perfect doneness.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited; rely on nearby paid garages around Grand Central (usually $25–$45). No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual; polished but relaxed. Jeans are fine if paired with a neat top.
Noise level: Moderate—tableside grilling adds energy, but normal conversation is manageable.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially 6:30–8:00pm.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; quick seating for solo diners and small groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some vegetable plates, salads, and rice dishes.
Vegan options: Very limited—grilled vegetables and rice options only, no dedicated vegan preparations.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—several cuts of meat are naturally gluten-free, but marinades may contain soy; request salt-only seasoning.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—interactive grilling creates a fun, shared experience in a polished setting, though expect a bit of grill smoke and close table spacing.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly for early dinners or late evenings; prime hours near Grand Central fill quickly. Solo diners have the best walk-in success at the counter or smaller tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids or teens who can safely handle tableside grills. Not ideal for toddlers due to hot surfaces and limited kid-focused menu items.
Best For
Better for: High-quality marinated cuts, premium wagyu, and an upscale yakiniku experience with attentive staff guidance.
Skip if: You want American-style BBQ, smoke-heavy meats, or wide vegetarian/vegan options; or if you prefer a quieter, non-interactive meal.