Recommended Menu
Asakusa Hitsumabushi
Asakusa Hitsumabushi
Tokyo’s first “Edo-style” hitsumabushi, developed here in Asakusa.
Shio Hitsumabushi (Salt Hitsumabushi)
Shio Hitsumabushi (Salt Hitsumabushi)
A one-of-a-kind hitsumabushi available only at Asakusa Unatetsu.
5 Grilled-Skewer Set
5 Grilled-Skewer Set
A rare assortment featuring Kabuto (head), Kimo (guts), Hire (fins), Tanjaku (short cut), and Reba (liver)—each highlighting a different texture and flavor of the eel.
Our Philosophy — “Eel brings stamina, and stamina means eel.”
Our mission is for people to eat eel and become healthy in both body and mind. Asakusa Unatetsu, located in Asakusa where the atmosphere of Edo culture remains, proudly serves you the traditional Japanese dish “unagi”.
Asakusa Unatetsu's Commitment
Eels Eels
◆Eels
In the eel business, there’s a saying:
“Three years to master skewering, five years to master cleaning, a lifetime to master grilling.”
Each eel has its own character, requiring subtle adjustments to flame strength, grilling time, and sauce timing. Using premium binchotan charcoal, our chefs create a mellow yet powerful flavor—one that defines the Unatetsu taste.
Grilling
◆Grilling
In the eel business, there’s a saying:
“Three years to master skewering, five years to master cleaning, a lifetime to master grilling.”
Each eel has its own character, requiring subtle adjustments to flame strength, grilling time, and sauce timing. Using premium binchotan charcoal, our chefs create a mellow yet powerful flavor—one that defines the Unatetsu taste.
Grilling
Flavor Flavor
◆Flavor
Since opening, we have perfected the secret sauce recipe—a carefully balanced blend of mirin and soy sauce simmered over a controlled flame, with any scum skimmed off.
This meticulous process results in a deep, rich flavor that matures over time.
Eels
◆Eels
In the eel business, there’s a saying:
“Three years to master skewering, five years to master cleaning, a lifetime to master grilling.”
Each eel has its own character, requiring subtle adjustments to flame strength, grilling time, and sauce timing. Using premium binchotan charcoal, our chefs create a mellow yet powerful flavor—one that defines the Unatetsu taste.
Grilling
◆Grilling
In the eel business, there’s a saying:
“Three years to master skewering, five years to master cleaning, a lifetime to master grilling.”
Each eel has its own character, requiring subtle adjustments to flame strength, grilling time, and sauce timing. Using premium binchotan charcoal, our chefs create a mellow yet powerful flavor—one that defines the Unatetsu taste.
Flavor
◆Flavor
Since opening, we have perfected the secret sauce recipe—a carefully balanced blend of mirin and soy sauce simmered over a controlled flame, with any scum skimmed off.
This meticulous process results in a deep, rich flavor that matures over time.
Store Information & Access
Asakusa Station Main Store
A spacious restaurant welcoming groups, with a view of the Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree.
Asakusa Station Main Store1F Table Seating
Asakusa Station Main StoreCounter (watch the chefs grill)
Asakusa Station Main Store2F Table Seating
Asakusa Station Main Store2F Table Seating (Skytree view)

Address
1-2-11 Hanakawado, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0033
Tel/Fax
03-5830-3302
Business Hours
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Last Order 8:30 PM)
Closed
Once a month (Please check the business calendar)
Seating Capacity
Approx. 70 seats
Nearest Stations
・Tobu Asakusa Station: Approx. 5 min walk from Central Exit
・Ginza Line Asakusa Station: Approx. 1 min walk from Exit 5
・Asakusa Line Asakusa Station: Approx. 2 min walk from Exit A3

Kokusai-dori Store
Experience the downtown atmosphere inside the restaurant, featuring a wide variety of unique skewers!
A relaxed atmosphere where solo diners feel welcome.
Kokusai-dori StoreThe interior offers a casual, laid-back vibe
Kokusai-dori Store1F features counter and table seating
Kokusai-dori Store2F is entirely table seating
Kokusai-dori StorePlease enjoy your meal to your heart's content.

Address
1-43-7 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
Tel/Fax
03-3841-1360
Business Hours
11:30 AM - 10:00 PM (Last Order 9:00 PM)
Closed
Tuesdays
Seating Capacity
Approx. 35 seats
Nearest Stations
・Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station: Next Door
・Ginza Line Tawaramachi Station: Approx. 5 min walk
・Asakusa Line Asakusa Station: Approx. 7 min walk
・Tobu Asakusa Station: Approx. 7 min walk




Menu
Meals
Eel Dishes & A La Carte
Grilled Skewers - Artisan Handcrafted and Grilled
Course Menu
Drinks
Eel Craftsmen Weaving Tradition
From Construction Sites to the World of Eel
Kei FUJINO
(Born in 1982, aged 43)
Assistant Store Manager
sixth year of service


My previous job was in a completely different field—construction. After graduating from high school, I spent years climbing scaffolding on job sites and working with blueprints in the office, helping bring architectural designs to life. It was tough, both physically and mentally, but I gained valuable experience and discovered the joy of craftsmanship. However, as time went on, I found myself drawn to the idea of creating something directly with my own hands.
Choosing the path of an eel chef might seem like a leap into an entirely different world from construction. But for me, it felt like a natural extension of the same journey—pursuing a life as a craftsman. Whether in architecture or in the culinary world, both require a deep commitment to detail, constant effort to hone your skills, and the desire to bring joy to others through your work. As I searched for a profession that truly interested me, I spoke with many people, reflected deeply, and ultimately made a firm decision: “This is the path I want to follow.” That’s when I took the leap into the world of unagi.


Training Days: Confronting Slithering Life in my hands
One of the most vivid memories from my training is the sight of dozens of live eels wriggling and slithering inside a wooden barrel.The very first time I stood in front of them, I was honestly overwhelmed. It was a sobering moment—confronting the raw vitality of a living ingredient. I couldn’t help but wonder: Can I really do this?
But over time, that fear turned into determination. The words of my mentors—“Never stop learning”—became a guiding principle. When I could finally grip live eels with bare hands, without using ice to put them to sleep, I felt like I had crossed a milestone. The moment I served a customer an eel that I had filleted, skewered, and grilled all by myself, I truly felt that I had taken my first real step as a craftsman.


A Deep-Dive Personality That Fuels Craftsmanship
I tend to dive deep into anything I’m interested in. Once something captures my interest, I can’t help but pursue it to the fullest. This trait has become one of my greatest strengths in the world of unagi. There’s no finish line when it comes to technical skills—no two eels are ever the same. Every step of the preparation process is challenging and full of nuance. And that’s precisely why I feel compelled to master each and every task, one by one.
One thing I always remind myself of is to embrace pressure in a positive way. That tension helps me stay focused, and ensures I approach each eel with the same care as if it were the most important one of the day.


When a Guest’s Words Become Fuel
I’ve had many memorable encounters with customers, but one story still stands out. A guest from overseas once flew into Japan on the very first flight of the morning—just to eat our unagi at Asakusa Unatetsu. After finishing their meal, they boarded a return flight the very same day. I was astonished by their passion, but more than that, deeply moved. It made me realize that our work can bring joy to people across borders, and that thought truly warmed my heart.
We also have local regulars who visit almost daily for our Takeju eel rice box. Every time they smile and say, “That was delicious,” “Thank you,” or “I’ll be back soon,” it reminds me that all the hard work is truly worth it.


The Craftsman I Aspire to Be
I aim to be a craftsman who never stops growing. Perfection doesn’t exist, which is why I want to keep improving—day by day, step by step.
There’s only one thing I truly want to keep challenging myself to do: grow every single day. To my junior chefs, I want to say this: The world of unagi runs deep. That’s exactly why I hope you’ll immerse yourself in every single step of the craft. Mastery comes through steady, consistent effort.


The Proud Moment I Knew Being an Eel Craftsman Was the Right Choice
There are fewer and fewer restaurants these days where chefs handle live eels from start to finish—filleting, skewering, and grilling them by hand before serving them to customers. That’s why, when I see someone smile after eating a skewer I personally prepared and hear them say, “That was delicious,” I feel, from the bottom of my heart, that I truly chose the right path.

Final Thoughts
At Asakusa Unatetsu, we carefully prepare live eels from early in the morning, ensuring they are served as fresh as possible. From filleting and skewering to grilling, every step is carried out with heartfelt dedication to bring out the very best flavor. We invite you to taste the eel we are truly proud to serve.
My Path as an Eel Craftsman
Mizuki SATO
(Born in 1983, aged 42)
Store Manager
14th year of service


My previous career was in web operations and data management—completely unrelated to food. However, watching my father devote himself to the food business since I was a child naturally instilled in me the value of 'living through one's craft.' Seeing his back as a working professional in the culinary world was my closest inspiration, and there is no doubt that my father’s dedication is where my own journey begins."
Working part-time at a restaurant during my student years, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment whenever I saw a guest’s face light up with a smile. From that moment on, I had almost no hesitation about dedicating my life to the culinary world."


The Beginning of Training
When I started training, the biggest hurdle was learning how to fillet live eels. I understood the technique in theory, but when I tried it myself, I realized just how difficult it was. I spent day after day with one phrase in mind: “Work cleanly. Stay humble.”—words from my master and seniors that still guide me today.
Taking full charge of the grill for the first time marked a milestone moment. Standing before the flames, I felt the gravity of my role in perfecting every single eel with full responsibility.


Values that Shape My Craft
"If I were to describe my personality in one word, it would be 'humility.' The teaching of 'Always stay humble' that I received from the previous owner remains a guiding principle that I cherish in my daily work even now."
My biggest strength is my smile. No matter how busy the day gets, or how challenging the job may be, I always greet customers with a warm smile—that’s my promise.
In the world of eel, every stage—filleting, skewering, grilling—is incredibly profound. The longer I work, the more challenges I find. Yet, instead of being held back by regret when I make a mistake, I focus on reflecting and applying those lessons to the next task. This mindset is what allows me to keep moving forward.


Sustained by My Guests' Words
The most rewarding moment in this job is hearing a simple “That was delicious” from a guest. Those words carry the weight of all the time and effort I have put into each dish.
One memory that stays with me is when a guest from overseas returned to Asakusa Unatetsu after several years, saying, “I had to come back for that taste.” It’s deeply moving to know someone traveled all the way just to eat here.


The Craftsman I Aspire to Be
I aspire to be a craftsman who never settles, constantly refining their skills. Since the road to mastery has no end, I believe that my dedication to constant improvement is exactly what gives my cooking its profound depth.
To my juniors and young craftsmen, I want to convey that cooking eel is a profession filled with joy and fulfillment. If you dive into this world, you will face hardships, but the rewards and joy you find will be more than double those challenges.


The Proud Moment I Knew Being an Eel Craftsman Was the Right Choice
Looking back, I feel a deep sense of pride in being part of the Japanese food culture as a Japanese person and dedicating myself to sharing its charm. Above all, when a guest says, 'That was delicious,' those words reassure me that the path I chose was truly the right one."

Final Thoughts
There is a saying 'Three years to master skewering, eight years for filleting, and a lifetime for grilling.' True to these words, the art of eel is not something that can be mastered overnight. Even after 14 years in this workplace, I find new discoveries and lessons every single day, and I am constantly amazed by the sheer depth of this craft.
Nevertheless, I can say with my head held high that choosing this path was truly the right decision. I will continue to pour my heart and soul into every single eel, striving to deliver a taste that brings joy to everyone who visits.
At Age 30 Deciding My Path as an Eel Craftsman
Osamu KURAMOCHI
(Born in 1979, aged 46)
General Manager
16th year of service


My career began in neither the world of eel nor craftsmanship. After high school, I joined Toraya, a renowned, long-established Japanese confectionery shop. My role centered on store operations and sales, where I learned the fundamentals of professional life while immersing myself in traditional Japanese culture. Although my time at Toraya was stimulating—especially since I had admired the world of Japanese cuisine since childhood—I was not yet in a position to hone my skills as a craftsman.
In my mid-twenties, I left my job and spent some time as a freelancer, reflecting on my future. The desire to become a craftsman was always in the back of my mind, but I wasn’t sure how to move forward. As I approached the milestone of 30, I knew it was time to act. I decided to follow my long-held dream and took the plunge into Asakusa Unatetsu to become a craftsman.


Intense Days of Training
One of the most memorable experiences was a two-week intensive filleting training at an eel wholesaler. Although it was a short period, the training was incredibly intensive, and surely laid the foundation of my current skills. Every eel is different, and the task of discerning those differences while filleting required immense focus and precision. As I trained, I could feel my hands becoming more skilled—and I knew I was progressing as a craftsman.
Furthermore, the lesson I learned from my seniors—"Thoroughly maintain order, cleanliness, and hygiene"—stuck with me even more deeply than the technical skills themselves. It taught me the importance of correcting my attitude as a chef before being a craftsman.


Precision and Self-Discipline
By nature, I’m the kind of person who—put positively—is meticulous, though some might say I can be a little too detail-oriented. I tend to fixate on small things, but in the world of eel preparation—where precision is everything—this trait is an advantage. The process of handling eel involves a series of delicate steps: filleting, skewering, and especially grilling. The grilling process, in particular, leaves no room for compromise. I pay close attention to how the heat penetrates, how the skin reacts, and how the aroma develops. Small adjustments can lead to huge differences, so I never allow myself to cut corners. I’m always striving for a result I can truly be satisfied with.
One more key factor in this profession is health management. I’ve come to realize that my physical condition directly impacts the quality of my prep and grilling. I believe that maintaining your condition every day is just as important as mastering your skills.


The Proud Moment I Knew Being an Eel Craftsman Was the Right Choice
The most rewarding moment for me as a craftsman is when a customer says, “Your grilled eel was the best I’ve ever had.” Knowing that my hands-on work has brought genuine joy to someone—that simple fact gives me the strength to keep going and reminds me that all my efforts have been worthwhile.
One unforgettable experience was when a customer, deeply moved by the eel I had grilled, brought gifts for every member of our staff to show their appreciation. It was a powerful reminder that food can truly reach people’s hearts.


The Craftsman I Aspire to Be
The craftsman I aspire to be is someone who never compromises in their grilling. Since the road to mastery has no end, I want to be an artisan who constantly pursues a higher standard.
Looking ahead, I hope to be involved in new store openings, sharing the taste of my grilled eel with more people. To my junior colleagues, I always say: “There’s no need to rush. If you keep building your skills step by step, you’ll get there.” As a craftsman, I truly believe that persistence is the greatest strength.


Final Thoughts
At our restaurant, we fillet live eels on-site and grill them with meticulous care. Every day, I dedicate myself to the craft, infusing each dish with sincerity in the hope that it brings true joy to our guests. I invite you to experience the flavor of our finest eel.

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