
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
Kyō Grill is Friedrichshain's go-to spot for serious kushiyaki, where the charcoal-grilled skewers are the real stars. Tucked away on Krossener Straße, this intimate spot draws a local crowd that knows the quality here rivals Tokyo standards. Skip the tourist traps and come for the perfectly charred chicken, tender offal, and a sake list that actually makes sense.
Authentic Kushiyaki in Friedrichshain
Kyō Grill is one of Berlin's best-kept secrets for authentic Japanese yakitori. Located on Krossener Straße in Friedrichshain, this intimate restaurant focuses entirely on kushiyaki—skewers grilled over binchotan charcoal. The result is meat with a perfect char and smoky depth that you simply can't replicate with gas grills.
The menu is straightforward but executed flawlessly. The chicken skewers are particularly impressive, from the tender thigh to the crispy skin and even the offal, which is handled with care and skill. The sake list is well-curated, offering both familiar labels and interesting selections that pair beautifully with the smoky flavors.
What really sets Kyō Grill apart is the atmosphere. It's small, no-frills, and feels genuinely local. You won't find English menus or tourist traps here—just honest, high-quality food. Go early on a weekday to avoid the wait, and be prepared to order a few skewers per person. This is the kind of place that makes you forget you're in Berlin and feel like you're in a tiny izakaya in Tokyo.