01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
For diners looking to compare different textures over the charcoal grill, rare cuts of beef are the natural place to begin. Situated on the 2nd floor of a building near Akasaka-mitsuke Station, Kenari presents an array of prized portions, including zabuton with its fine, melting marbling, deeply savoury lean misuji, and cuts like tomosankaku and makura, prized for their balance of springy bite and gentle sweetness. Grilling these assorted cuts piece by piece offers a direct appreciation of each cut's distinct fat profile and grain.
The staple tan-shio (salted tongue) is seasoned only after an order is placed, with staff coating each slice evenly in a scallion-salt marinade ready to be finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon. Slices of sirloin cut into manageable bites, known as Tokutoku Loin, deliver concentrated beef flavour and rich juices that pair naturally with steamed white rice. Dishes that vary with the heat, such as yukhoe meant for quick grilling at the table or fresh top-grade liver given a light sear and dipped in sesame salt, add variety to the spread.
Finishing with Rice Bowls and Noodles
Carbohydrates are just as central to a meal here. Delivered in a sizzling stone bowl, the Ishiyaki Yukhoe Bibimbap allows diners to fold seasoned vegetables, egg yolk, and beef tartare together with house-blended gochujang, creating crunchy patches of scorched rice along the hot bowl. Noodle options include yukgaejang noodles, featuring rich, cloudy ox-bone broth sparked with sweet-spicy seasoning, and Morioka-style cold noodles made with fresh noodles shipped straight from the source.
At lunchtime, approachable sets such as kalbi or loin platters, packed bibimbap bowls, and soup meals make Kenari a practical stop for everyday dining. In the evening, multi-course menus can be paired with all-you-can-drink plans encompassing draft beer, highballs, wine, and Korean spirits. The interior retains a calm tone, complete with private dining rooms suited to casual meals with friends as well as smaller celebrations or business dinners.
