Kabuto at Omoide Yokocho Memory Lane

Tiny Omoide Yokocho bar serving only grilled eel skewers, a post-war Shinjuku institution.

Kabuto is a small bar in Omoide Yokocho, beside Shinjuku Station's west exit at 1 Chome-2-11 Nishishinjuku, that serves only grilled eel. The shop is a distinctive presence in the post-war alley, focusing on unagi skewers made from different parts of the eel, grilled over charcoal. It sits among the around 60 tiny bars and restaurants that make up the nostalgic lane known as Memory Lane.

The bar offers a focused menu of eel skewers, with the experience centred on watching the grill and enjoying the simple, smoky result. Its Omoide Yokocho setting places it a short walk from the west exit, close to yakitori and offal specialists. It suits adventurous eaters wanting a singular, authentic bite in a historic Shinjuku setting.

Pull up a stool at Kabuto and order a skewer of charcoal-grilled eel. It is a unique stop for anyone exploring Omoide Yokocho.