Yakitori Totto

- 251 W 55th St 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10019

For those in search of an authentic and high-quality Japanese dining experience in the heart of New York City, Yakitori Totto is a destination worth considering. Specializing in yakitori, or grilled skewers, this restaurant offers a focused and expertly prepared menu that has earned a reputation for its flavorful and juicy food. Situated on the second floor of a building in Midtown, Yakitori Totto provides a cozy and intimate atmosphere that allows guests to watch the chefs at work, grilling each skewer to perfection. While the food is often described as being on the higher end price-wise for yakitori, many patrons agree that the quality and taste make it well worth the cost. The menu is thoughtfully curated to showcase a variety of chicken parts, along with other meats and vegetables, all grilled with a meticulous touch. It's a place where you can find both classic favorites and unique options, providing a true taste of traditional Japanese izakaya culture.

The experience at Yakitori Totto is a blend of culinary excellence and fast, attentive service. The staff is often praised for being polite and quick, ensuring that your water glass is never empty and your food comes out promptly. This efficiency is a highlight, especially for those who appreciate not having to wait long for their meal. However, it's worth noting that the restaurant's popularity can lead to a rushed experience during peak hours, as some customers have reported feeling pressured to leave after their meal, even if they were still eating. This aspect of the service can be a point of disappointment, especially for those celebrating a special occasion. Despite this, the quality of the food remains a strong point. Dishes like the agedashi tofu, chicken liver, and chicken neck skewers are consistently rated as excellent, showcasing the kitchen's skill and the high quality of the ingredients. The intimate space, while small, allows for a unique dining experience where you can observe the artistry of the chefs as they work the grill.

Overall, Yakitori Totto is a place that food lovers should consider for its exceptional yakitori. While the service can sometimes feel rushed, the delicious and well-prepared skewers are the main draw. It's a fantastic spot for a solo dinner or a small group outing, where the focus is squarely on the food. The authentic taste and high-quality ingredients are a testament to the restaurant's dedication to its craft. For those who prioritize food quality and flavor above all else, Yakitori Totto offers a satisfying and memorable culinary experience that stands out in New York City's diverse Japanese dining scene. The ability to make a reservation is also a key feature, helping to manage expectations and secure a spot in this popular eatery.

### Location and Accessibility

Yakitori Totto is located at 251 W 55th St 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10019. Its position on the second floor of a building in Midtown places it right in the heart of the city's bustling Theater District. This central location makes it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike. The restaurant is within a short walking distance of major subway stations, making it a convenient stop for a meal before or after a Broadway show or a day of sightseeing. For those who prefer to drive, public parking garages and paid street parking are available in the vicinity, though finding a spot can be difficult in this busy part of Manhattan. Its central location ensures that it is a popular choice for both a planned dinner and a spontaneous meal.

Information on accessibility for the second-floor location is not explicitly provided in public data, but it is a consideration for guests with mobility needs. As it is situated on the second floor, visitors should be aware of this and plan accordingly. The cozy and somewhat small space, as noted by a customer review, means that it can get crowded, so making a reservation is highly recommended, especially during peak dining hours. The intimate setting, however, offers a great view of the chefs at work, which is a unique feature of the dining experience. The restaurant's design focuses on providing a genuine izakaya atmosphere, bringing a slice of Japan to New York City.

### Services Offered

Yakitori Totto focuses on providing a specialized and authentic dining experience. While the list of services may be more limited compared to larger, multi-purpose restaurants, they are tailored to provide a high-quality yakitori meal. Here is a breakdown of the services available:

• Dine-in: The primary service offered is the in-person dining experience, where guests can enjoy freshly grilled skewers and other Japanese dishes in a cozy and intimate setting.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which is highly recommended due to the small space and high demand. Making a reservation can help ensure you get a seat during busy times.
• Seating: The seating is designed to be intimate, with some spots offering a view of the chefs grilling the skewers, providing a unique and engaging experience for patrons.
• Takeout: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided data, many restaurants in this category offer takeout. It is best to call ahead to inquire about this service.
• Table service: The staff provides attentive and polite table service, ensuring a pleasant and efficient dining experience.

### Features and Highlights

Yakitori Totto is celebrated for several key features that contribute to its reputation as a top-tier Japanese restaurant in New York City. These highlights are what make it a destination for those who appreciate high-quality yakitori. Here are some of its most notable features:

• High-Quality Yakitori: The primary highlight is the food itself. The yakitori skewers are known for being juicy, well-seasoned, and "super-sized." Dishes like chicken liver, chicken neck, and the combo of scallop and oyster mushroom are particularly praised.
• Authentic Japanese Experience: The restaurant provides a genuine izakaya experience, with a focus on fresh, grilled skewers and a cozy, intimate atmosphere that is reminiscent of traditional Japanese eateries.
• Fast and Attentive Service: The staff is known for being quick and polite. Customers appreciate the fast service, which ensures that food comes out promptly and that drinks are refilled without delay.
• Chef Interaction: The small space allows diners to watch the chefs grill the skewers, adding a layer of authenticity and entertainment to the dining experience.
• Specialty Dishes: Beyond the skewers, the restaurant is known for excellent dishes like the Agedashi tofu, which is particularly good and a must-try for any tofu lover.

### Contact Information

For more information, to make a reservation, or to inquire about services, you can contact Yakitori Totto at the following address and phone number:

• Address: 251 W 55th St 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10019, USA
• Phone: (212) 245-4555

### What is worth choosing?

When dining at Yakitori Totto, the focus should be on the skewers, as they are the star of the show. Many customers agree that a visit would be incomplete without trying some of the most popular and well-prepared options. The **chicken thigh** is a staple and a great starting point, known for being tender and juicy. The **chicken liver** and **chicken neck** skewers are also highly recommended, with one review noting the neck was deboned and "just really tender." For something different, the combo of **scallop and oyster mushroom** is praised for being very well cooked. Another standout dish that is not a skewer is the **Agedashi tofu**, which is described as particularly good and a must-order. It provides a clean, comforting counterpoint to the richer grilled meats.

While some dishes like the chicken heart and chicken skin may not be for everyone's taste, the core offerings of yakitori are consistently of high quality. For a full meal, a good strategy is to order a mix of skewers and one or two appetizers. The zaru tofu, while simple, is noted for its extremely nice quality. A mix of these dishes ensures a varied and satisfying meal. The high-quality ingredients and expert grilling techniques make everything from the classic chicken skewers to the more adventurous options a worthwhile choice, providing an authentic and delicious Japanese culinary experience right in the heart of New York City.

Yakitori Totto

251 W 55th St 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10019, USA