03/16/09

Racism on a Monday.

by MattJ

Please don't read this review as someone who doesn't get it. I lived in Japan for a decade, I speak the language very well, and visit Japan with my spouse at least once a year. I know the difference between good and poor experiences in a Japanese restaurant.

As I entered on a Monday at 6PM, I was told several times that they have NO SUSHI. I never asked for any, nor did I imply that I was there for sushi. I knew that it was a yakitori-ya, and that's why I went. I actually bring my own charcoal from Japan to make my own yakitori during the warmer months.

Next I was seated in what was easily the worst seat in the restaurant, right near the kitchen - now I wouldn't have complained, except at this time there were no other customers in the restaurant. I could also understand if there were reservations that would be honored.

It took about an hour and forty-five minutes for my meal - which was fair (Tory's has this beat, and the set menu is kind of dumb, against what yakitori is in in Japan)... the thing is during this time only two other customers came in, tow Japanese expats who were sat at the best seats, and invited to drink with the rest of the staff.

I was hurried through out my meal, and a waitress actually lifted the soy sauce to pour on my yakitori (WTF?) at one point. I over heard the conversations around me, and was disgusted by my treatment in this restaurant.

I do have several friends in the Japanse expat community, and I intend to let them know of my experience as well. Shameful. I will bring my business to Tory's and Totto, and even the burnt food at the places on St. Marks leave a better taste in my mouth than did Tory Shin.

• Pros: it's yakitori.
• Cons: not friendly to non Japanese, pushy staff

08/30/08

A True Gem

by brainsfmri

This is an outstanding place. There is nothing like it in Manhattan. It is authentic, fresh and unusual to most who are familiar with the standard Japanese fare. The service is outstanding. The Ginko nuts are amazing. The grilled vegetables are simple and perfectly grilled. Each skewer while only chicken, was different and delicious. This place is a delicious example of simple food done perfectly. If you like Japanese food, you should try this.

• Pros: The food is perfectly done
• Cons: I honestly can't think of any

01/24/08

BEST yakitori in NYC

by fulhal

I am Japanese. Have lived in NY for 7 years; ate at all yakitori places in Manhattan. This is THE BEST available here even in Tokyo standard. Each skewers are carefully grilled to perfection, with excellent sake pairing. Please give it a try and you won't regret it.

• Pros: food
• Cons: can only order a la carte after ordering course menu

09/27/07

Just go and see

by davimathe

Not only an excellent food but also a good service! A young waiter is the key. He is very attentive and tries to make you happy! Grab a seat at the bar counter and find him! But one thing you have to know is that here is bit expensive...

09/27/07

Just go!

by kaakkakaa

Not only an excellent food but also a great service! A young waiter is the key to enjoy this restaurant. He is very attentive and knows how to make you happy! At least he tries to make it! Grab a seat at the counter and find him! ..One thing you have to know is that here is little expensive..

This sleek Japanese uptowner offers an authentic yakitori experience, where the specialty is grilled, bamboo-skewered chicken.

by Contributor

In Short
Tori Shin's subdued room, all muted greys and beige, appears to be an upscale sushi bar, but those are yakitori, not fish, behind the glass. Every part of the chicken is charcoal-grilled to order--breast, wing and thigh--but the crowd of ex-pat businessmen and families also samples smoke-kissed heart, gizzard, neck meat and crispy skin. Other small dishes include chawan mushi (a savory egg custard), oshinko (pickles) and the shiso leaf granita that finishes each meal.