First off, Yakitori means "a Japanese dish of chicken pieces grilled on a skewer." [Wikipedia] Fortunately, A Restaurant has welcomed everybody to a Yakitori Haven here in Cebu. Yakitori Binchotan has opened its first restaurant located along Lightsite Parc AS Fortuna Street in Mandaue City

"We want to transport our guests to Sapporo and bring them as close as possible to the true Yakitori experience," said Francis Villaluz, Sr. Marketing Manager of Gerry's Group of Restaurants.

Gerry's Group has partnered with the original owners of Yakitori Binchotan - Chefs Yoshi Ishise, Tomio Hakada and Nori Suzuki for Yakitori Binchotan.

Chicken Teriyaki Salad

Tiger Roll

Chicken Shio and Tare

They are also responsible behind the success of noodle haven Ramen Sora, which is located beside Yakitori and Gerry's.

Yakitori Binchotan's recipes were passed on to Chef Nori by his grandfather who used to prepare them for his family during special occasions.

Chef Nori opened Yakitori Binchotan in Hokkaido, where he grew up, serving dishes using his grandfather's secret sauce, and grilled using Binchotan, a special kind of charcoal found only in Japan that brings out the taste of the skewered delight, usually Chicken.

Tsukune with Poached egg

Shiitake Mushroom with Ground Pork

Teba

"Binchotan packs so much heat and does not emit smoke, which allows the full flavor of the food to come out. The high heat from Binchotan helps to properly sear the meat keeping it juicy on the inside," says Villaluz.

Yakitori isn't as simple as putting meat or vegetable on a stick and grilling them. "There is so much discipline required in preparing this dish. The smell, the aroma of skewered dishes, and ultimately the taste makes all the difference," adds Chef Nori.

With its maiden branch Yakitori Binchotan is set to bring life to diners' tables with original dishes enjoyed in Hokkaido, the heart of Japan's culinary center.