Amadoi

Almost no bar in Shinjuku Golden Gai serves real yakitori — Amadoi on Akarui Hanazono 5th Street is one of the rare exceptions. According to reviews, the owner trained at the respected Torikado restaurant in Meguro, and while the Golden Gai setting means charcoal is off the table (gas is used instead for fire safety), the skewers are still praised for their careful seasoning and precise cook. You choose from a simple course of 3, 5, or 7 skewers — light enough for a first stop on a Golden Gai bar-hop, or satisfying enough to linger over. At a tiny counter of around 6 seats, the smell of grilling chicken mingles with highballs and shochu poured in front of you. Ideal for solo drinkers or anyone hunting for a rare place to actually eat well amid Golden Gai's 300-odd bars. Note: Tabelog briefly listed the restaurant as "on hold" (unconfirmed status), so checking current availability before visiting is strongly advised.