Horaien

Listening to cuts of kalbi and loin sizzle on the grill as excess fat drips away, then dipping each slice into a savory sauce that highlights the beef's flavor, is the quintessential yakiniku experience. Situated in the Shitaya district of Taito Ward, Horai-en offers a robust meat menu featuring kalbi, loin, prime skirt steak, salted tongue, and ribeye. Diners can set their own rhythm, wrapping grilled bites in crisp sanchu lettuce for a refreshing contrast or resetting the palate with a tofu salad between rounds.

While waiting for the grill to heat up, the bar serves draft beer in frosted steins, highballs, and makgeolli. Side dishes such as assorted kimchi, spicy seasoned cod entrails (chanja), and namul vegetables provide ideal companions between grilled courses.

The finishing dishes are just as varied. Bibimbap arrives in piping-hot stone bowls to develop a crunchy layer of scorched rice, available with toppings such as yukhoe-style beef, seasoned ground meat, or mixed seafood. The kitchen also prepares tofu jjigae, beef tendon jjigae, cold noodles, and yukgaejang noodles, offering comforting warmth for an evening meal.

Seating consists primarily of tables, with service running from dinner well into the late-night hours. Whether you are gathering with family or sharing a relaxed meal with friends, reserving a table in advance is recommended.