[Ho Chi Minh City] The Deep Flavor and Refinement of Charcoal-Grilled Chicken & Beef Skewers: A Detailed Real Visit Review of [Hắc Tajima - Gà & Bò Xiên Nướng 黒但馬 - 焼き鳥 & 牛肉の串焼き Yakitori]
I recently had the pleasure of visiting "[Hắc Tajima - Gà & Bò Xiên Nướng 黒但馬 - 焼き鳥 & 牛肉の串焼き Yakitori]" in Ho Chi Minh City, a restaurant renowned for its exceptional charcoal-grilled skewers, and I was completely captivated by its charm. From the moment I stepped inside, the subtle aroma of charcoal grilling heightened my expectations as a food enthusiast. The diverse skewer dishes I savored in the cozy and refined atmosphere, along with the attentive service, offered a gastronomic experience that transcended a simple meal. Now, I will delve deeper into the hidden charms of "[Hắc Tajima]" with the photos I personally captured.
2. A Space Imbued with Delicacy, an Ambiance Where Comfort and Vivacity Coexist
The interior of the restaurant blends warm wood textures with soft lighting, creating an atmosphere that is both comfortable and sophisticated. The long bar table allows diners to directly observe the chef meticulously grilling skewers over the charcoal, while the regular table seating is perfect for enjoying a meal with family or friends while engaging in conversation. The clean and elegant personal tableware set at each seat reflects the thoughtful consideration for the guests.
Inside the entrance, a well-organized showcase displays fresh chicken and a colorful array of skewer ingredients. These vibrant and pristine ingredients, shining like jewels, enhance "[Hắc Tajima]'s" pride in their food and build trust with the customers. Whimsical and cute Japanese-style drawings and various Japanese sake-related posters adorning the walls are charming elements that add to the restaurant's lively ambiance. In particular, the large lettering of "うちの店" (Our Place) imparts a warm feeling, as if being invited to a close friend's home.
3. The Depth of Aging, the Art of Binchotan Aroma
What makes "[Hắc Tajima]'s" skewer dishes special is their use of dry-aged chicken and Binchotan charcoal, known as the highest grade charcoal. The dry-aging process gives the chicken a much deeper and richer flavor compared to regular chicken, and Binchotan charcoal, with its subtle yet powerful heat, grills the chicken to a crispy exterior and a succulent interior, providing the best possible texture. The subtle fragrance emanating from the skewers being grilled over the charcoal is a delight to the sense of smell.
Looking at the menu, you'll find skewers made with various parts of the chicken (neck, shoulder, breast, thigh, wing, etc.), as well as special and high-quality dishes such as freshly aged sea bream sashimi and top-grade Japanese Wagyu beef steak. This shows that "[Hắc Tajima]" is not just a simple skewer restaurant but a place that offers high-quality Japanese cuisine. The extensive list of sake, Japanese shochu, and beer promises a fantastic pairing with the skewer dishes.
4. A Symphony of Diverse Tastes and Aromas, a Skewer Extravaganza Satisfying All Five Senses
To experience the signature dishes of "[Hắc Tajima]," we ordered the assorted aged chicken skewers, tender Wagyu beef flower rib skewers, and Tsukune (chicken meatball) skewers with their delightful popping texture. The chicken skin skewer had a perfect texture, crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, and its savory and rich flavor was the perfect accompaniment to beer. The moist and tender chicken thigh skewer was impressive with its abundant umami that filled the mouth. In particular, the chicken skewer with perilla leaves and fresh vegetables added a refreshing aroma and crispness, further enhancing the chicken's flavor.
The Tsukune skewer, generously coated in a sweet and savory sauce, offered a wonderful harmony of the soft chicken meatballs and the pleasantly chewy cartilage, with a subtle charcoal aroma adding depth. The side dishes provided were also excellent. The fresh corn, thinly sliced cucumber, and cherry tomatoes cleansed the palate and refreshed the mouth after the skewers. Additionally, the savory and nutty stir-fried peanuts and small dried sardines made for excellent appetizers to enjoy with drinks.
5. Service Exuding Kindness and Professionalism, a Comfortable Dining Experience
The staff at "[Hắc Tajima]" greet guests with bright and friendly smiles, providing detailed explanations of the dishes ordered, which contributed to a more satisfying meal. The skillful way the chef grilled the skewers over the charcoal exuded the aura of a master. Overall, the experience at "[Hắc Tajima]," with its comfortable and lively atmosphere and the superb skewer dishes, was more than just a dinner; it was a delightful culinary journey.
6. Visit Information
Address: Hắc Tajima - Gà & Bò Xiên Nướng 黒但馬 - 焼き鳥 & 牛肉の串焼き Yakitori
Google map: Hắc Tajima
7. Overall Impression
If you want to experience the true taste of charcoal-grilled skewers in Ho Chi Minh City, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to "[Hắc Tajima - Gà & Bò Xiên Nướng 黒但馬 - 焼き鳥 & 牛肉の串焼き Yakitori]." The fantastic harmony of flavors created by the aged chicken and Binchotan charcoal, the refined and cozy ambiance, and the kind and attentive service will provide a completely satisfying experience in every aspect. On my next visit, I definitely want to try the other skewer dishes along with their diverse selection of sake.
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