After work or on the way home from an outing, there may be days when you think, “I just don’t have the energy to cook today.”
At times like that, it would be nice to have a go-to place that comes to mind where you can enjoy delicious, piping-hot side dishes at home.
“Yakitori Natchan,” a takeout-only yakitori shop in Mizushima, Kurashiki City, is a place that makes everyday life “a little easier.”
Here, we introduce what makes Yakitori Natchan special and the warm-hearted thoughts of its owner, Natsuyama Katsunori.
The information provided was current when this article was published in May 2025. Please note that it may differ from current information.
About Yakitori Natchan
Yakitori Natchan is a takeout yakitori shop that owner Natsuyama Katsunori started as a mobile vendor in 2010.
The current shop in Mizushima, Kurashiki City, was originally used as a preparation area, but it began operating as a full-fledged shop around 2017. Today, it is a popular takeout-only yakitori shop beloved by the local community in Mizushima.
Enjoy freshly grilled, piping-hot yakitori
With the owner’s wish for customers to enjoy freshly made yakitori, Yakitori Natchan makes it a rule to grill each order after it is placed.
I often buy from the shop myself, and I find it especially delicious freshly grilled. They sometimes grill some in advance to accommodate customers in a hurry.
They also want people outside the prefecture to enjoy their yakitori, so they immediately vacuum-pack it fresh, freeze it, and ship it nationwide. Customers who get in touch to say, “It was delicious,” have made it very popular.
Natchan, the cheerful and humorous owner
“Natchan,” which is also part of the shop’s name, is Natsuyama’s nickname.
Customers call him “Natchan” too, and it’s clear that he is loved by everyone.
Popular yakitori menu items
Yakitori at Yakitori Natchan is seasoned with salt only. It reflects Natsuyama’s commitment to letting customers enjoy the natural flavor of the meat. Finished with just salt and pepper, each skewer is simple yet luxurious.
The yakitori sold at Yakitori Natchan are as follows.
Other yakitori items, such as hearts and kokoro no kori, may be added depending on what is available. Although the shop is open until 7 p.m., it may close early once all the items prepared that day have sold out.
Chicken cartilage is very popular, and as of May 2025, it is available by reservation only, with a wait of more than six months.
Yakitori Natchan uses mostly domestically raised chicken and pays particular attention to freshness.
Let’s take a look at some of the recommended yakitori.
The owner’s recommendation: hinedori
The hinedori recommended by owner Natsuyama is meat from a mature chicken, so it is firm and springy. The more you chew, the more flavor comes out, and the sweetness of the meat fills your mouth.
The onion skewered alongside it adds a nice accent and seems to bring out the flavor even more.
“Chicken wings” you can eat one after another
Chicken wings are generally thought of as difficult to eat because they have bones.
But the bones come right out of the wings at Yakitori Natchan, so you can easily eat one after another. The crispy skin and tender meat combine to create an exquisite flavor.
Shiso rolls with a refreshing aroma that whets the appetite
This is one item I always order when I go to buy yakitori. The refreshing aroma of shiso pairs perfectly with the meat, making me want to eat it again and again. It is also a satisfying side dish for dinner.
“Gizzards,” perfect as a snack with drinks
They have a clean flavor and a satisfyingly crunchy texture, making them perfect as a snack with drinks.
Their savory flavor gradually spreads with every bite, and you can’t help reaching for another. The simple seasoning lets the quality of the ingredients shine.
“Hearts,” a rare cut
Hearts are the chicken’s heart.
I had been a little hesitant to try them just from hearing the name, but after tasting them once, I was completely hooked. Their springy texture and rich savory flavor are addictive. They are apparently not often available, so you’re in luck when they’re on the menu.
As soon as the shop opens, orders come in one after another, and Natsuyama grills the yakitori with practiced efficiency. You can tell from the scene just how popular the shop is. We spoke with Natsuyama, who is loved by so many customers.
Yakitori Natchan details
Takeout only
Dine-in is not available
| Name | Yakitori Natchan |
|---|---|
| Address | 12-20 Mizushima Nishiyayoi-cho, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 090-6434-6851 |
| Parking | None |
| Hours | 3:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. ※The shop is closed when attending events |
| Closed | Monday, Tuesday |
| Payment methods |
|
| Reservations | Accepted |
| Restroom | No restroom |
| Website | Yakitori Natchan Instagram |
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