Our Story
Where Fire Meets Flavor
Skewered was born from a simple idea: bring the warmth and tradition of Japanese izakaya culture to the heart of Nebraska.
A Passion Born in Tokyo
It started on a narrow alley in Tokyo's Yurakucho district. Smoke rising from tiny grills, the sound of laughter, and the intoxicating aroma of perfectly grilled chicken. That's where we discovered yakitori—not just as food, but as a way of bringing people together.
We spent years learning the craft, studying under masters who had been perfecting their technique for decades. We learned that yakitori isn't about complicated recipes—it's about respecting ingredients, mastering fire, and creating moments of connection.
When we returned to Lincoln, we knew we had to share this experience. Not a fancy, formal restaurant, but a welcoming neighborhood spot where everyone—from first-timers to Japanese cuisine enthusiasts—could discover the joy of gathering around the grill.
What is Yakitori?
焼き鳥 literally translates to “grilled bird”—but the art of yakitori encompasses so much more.
The Technique
Authentic yakitori requires precision timing—each skewer grilled at the perfect temperature to achieve caramelization on the outside while keeping the interior succulent.
Each skewer is seasoned with either shio (salt) to highlight the ingredient's natural flavor, or tare—a sweet-savory glaze made from soy, mirin, and sake, brushed on layer by layer.
The Culture
In Japan, yakitori shops are social hubs—places where colleagues unwind after work, where friends catch up, where strangers become neighbors over shared plates.
Counter seating is traditional, putting you face-to-face with the grill master. It's interactive, communal, and intimate—nothing like a typical restaurant experience.
Popular Cuts
ねぎま
Negima
Chicken thigh alternated with green onion
つくね
Tsukune
Hand-formed chicken meatballs
もも
Momo
Juicy chicken thigh with salt
皮
Kawa
Crispy grilled chicken skin
ハツ
Hatsu
Tender chicken hearts
手羽先
Tebasaki
Whole glazed chicken wings
What We Believe
Four principles guide everything we do at Skewered.
Authentic Craft
Every skewer is grilled using authentic Japanese techniques—the same care and precision found in Tokyo's finest yakitori-ya.
Grill Together
Our counter seating puts you front and center at the action. Watch, learn, and connect over the shared experience of the grill.
Made with Care
From sourcing local ingredients to the final brush of tare, every detail matters. We treat every guest like family.
Approachable Excellence
Japanese cuisine shouldn't feel intimidating. We're here to guide you through the menu and make every visit memorable.
Ready to Grill Together?
Pull up a seat at the counter and experience yakitori the way it was meant to be enjoyed—fresh, communal, and full of warmth.
Call (402) 555-1234 to Reserve