Yakiniku

Overview

If you find yourself strolling through the charming streets of Gemmayze, near the police station in Beirut, there’s a gem of a spot you won’t want to miss-Yakiniku. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant district, this diner brings a slice of Japan to the bustling streets of Lebanon, offering an unforgettable dining experience that’s both flavorful and comforting.

At Yakiniku, the focus is on a time-honored tradition that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine-grilled meat, which is where the name "Yakiniku" comes into play. For those unfamiliar with the term, Yakiniku refers to a style of cooking bite-sized meat, typically beef, that’s grilled over a charcoal flame. But what sets this place apart is the unique way they bring this culinary art to life. The meats are prepared with attention to detail, ensuring every cut is tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. Whether you’re a fan of wagyu, lamb, or chicken, each bite is a delightful experience, infused with smoky goodness and savory flavors.

One of the highlights of dining at Yakiniku is the interactive cooking experience. Guests have the opportunity to cook their own meats right at the table, using the restaurant's built-in grills. It’s an engaging process, where you can control the level of doneness to your exact preference, making it an ideal spot for both food lovers and those seeking a fun, hands-on meal.

The atmosphere at Yakiniku perfectly complements the culinary experience. With its cozy interior, modern yet warm decor, and welcoming staff, it’s easy to feel at home. Whether you’re dining with family, friends, or on a casual date night, the vibe is relaxed and inviting. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a hearty meal without feeling rushed, allowing you to savor the flavors and good company.

As for the menu, it’s well-curated with a variety of options that go beyond just grilled meats. You’ll find a range of appetizers, such as crispy tempura, savory miso soups, and fresh salads, providing the perfect balance to the rich grilled flavors. Additionally, the selection of sauces and dipping options adds another layer of excitement to the meal, allowing diners to experiment with different flavors and spice levels.

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, the restaurant offers a variety of sides, including rice, pickles, and seasonal vegetables, that beautifully complement the main dishes. There’s something for everyone on the menu, making it an excellent choice for both meat enthusiasts and those with dietary preferences.

Yakiniku also does a fantastic job of embracing the local Lebanese flair while staying true to its Japanese roots. You might find a surprising twist on a classic dish or a fusion of flavors that adds an exciting spin to traditional Yakiniku offerings. This seamless blending of cultures creates a unique dining experience that can’t be replicated elsewhere in the city.

A visit to Yakiniku is more than just a meal-it’s an experience. The combination of great food, a warm atmosphere, and a little bit of interactive fun makes this restaurant stand out in Gemmayze. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, you’ll always find something new to enjoy, from the rotating specials to the consistently high-quality service.

For those living in or visiting Beirut, Yakiniku provides an exceptional opportunity to enjoy authentic grilled meat in a welcoming, dynamic setting. Located on Gouraud Street, this spot is a local favorite for both residents and tourists alike. The easy-to-find location, near the police station, ensures that you won’t have any trouble making your way there, whether by foot or car.

In terms of value, Yakiniku offers a satisfying dining experience without breaking the bank. It’s a great place to indulge in delicious, high-quality food while staying within a reasonable budget. And considering the quality of both the food and the service, it’s clear that this is a place where you’ll get great value for your money.

So, if you’re ever in the Gemmayze area, do yourself a favor and check out Yakiniku. It’s a place where you can indulge in flavorful grilled meat, enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, and experience the charm of Lebanese-Japanese fusion. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Yakiniku is the perfect spot for a memorable meal in Beirut.

Good to know

Service options

âś“ Dine-in

Popular for

âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo dining

Accessibility

âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Offerings

âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Small plates âś“ Spirits âś“ Wine

Dining options

âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Dessert âś“ Table service

Amenities

âś“ Toilet

Atmosphere

âś“ Casual âś“ Cosy âś“ Romantic âś“ Trendy âś“ Upmarket

Crowd

âś“ Groups âś“ Tourists

Planning

âś“ Reservations required âś“ Accepts reservations

Payments

âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards

Parking

âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Parking

Photos

Location

Reviews

- No ratings yet 151 reviews
Amazing 100
Great 30
Okay 14
Not Great 1
Terrible 8
WenMaken

We recently enjoyed a VIP experience at this restaurant, and it truly delivered. The food was excellent, with a variety that keeps every visit exciting. Everything we tried was flavorful and beautifully presented, and the whole experience was captured perfectly in the photos we took. The ambiance overall was great, though we do wish the music had been a bit more suitable for the restaurant’s concept. It’s a small detail, but adjusting it would elevate the entire atmosphere. Still, the service, the food, and the overall vibe made it a memorable visit. Definitely worth trying!

TonY NouH

A Unique Dining Experience at Yakiniku This was my first time visiting Yakiniku, and it was truly a memorable experience. What makes this restaurant stand out is its interactive dining concept. Each table is equipped with a built-in grill, allowing you to cook your own meat and vegetables exactly the way you like them. It adds a fun, social element to the meal, whether you’re with friends or family. The service was excellent—the staff were attentive, helpful, and always ready to assist, especially for first-timers unfamiliar with this style of dining. They took the time to explain the menu and even provided grilling tips to ensure everything was cooked to perfection. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a modern Japanese-inspired décor that complements the overall experience. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and a relaxed ambiance make it a great place to unwind. For those who enjoy a drink with their meal, the restaurant offers a selection of alcoholic beverages, including sake, beer, and cocktails, which pair well with the grilled dishes. Considering the quality of the food and the interactive experience, the prices are quite reasonable, making it accessible for both casual outings and special occasions. Overall, Yakiniku is a great spot for anyone looking to enjoy fresh ingredients, hands-on cooking, and a cozy dining environment. I’ll definitely be coming back!

Dana Ajouz

I love this place! The food and service were amazing :) Special thanks our waiter that night, unfortunately I didn’t get his name. Also the house wine was a huuuge plus! It was a 4-year old wine and it was quite tasty! The meat is also good quality, I’d love to go there again. Thank you!

Nour Chkeir

Such an amazing place for a romantic dinner or a nice gathering! My fiancé surprised me with a dinner here, and it was truly unforgettable — they’ve worked on every detail, the service is amazing, the live cooking adds a special touch, and the Japanese food is absolutely delicious!

Doumit AbiSaleh

Nice tasty, affordable Japanese grill in the heart of Gemayzeh. Excellent service staff. Warm welcome. Nicely decorated. Private and cosy.

Elionore Amine

A beautiful, cozy place where you can cook your own meat. The food is tasty, and the service is friendly.

Joe Turk

Yakiniku is a wonderful Japanese restaurant with great vibes and excellent service. The food is delicious, and the interactive concept adds a unique touch—you get to cook your own food on the grill in the middle of the table. It’s a really enjoyable and engaging dining experience. Overall, a fantastic place to visit!

Wissam Khoury

A lovely Japanese restaurant with delicious food, calm atmosphere, and excellent service.

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