01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Sizzling over the iron griddle, the signature usuyaki—a thin savory pancake—is the customary place to begin an evening at Takadanobaba's Taketonbo. House-seasoned mince, cabbage, a soft egg, and chewy noodles are layered between thin, springy sheets of batter and grilled together, concentrating savory richness within a surprisingly light bite. Variations like usuyaki garlic cheese and usuyaki mentai cheese add melted decadence alongside sharp, aromatic garlic or salted pollock roe, making them natural companions for a round of drinks.
The batter-based menu expands well beyond usuyaki to encompass dashi-flavored monjayaki, classic okonomiyaki, and noodle-packed modanyaki. Choices range from robustly seasoned pork kimchi and stamina monja to the substantial "Gekiuma! Take-don Special," which merges usuyaki with Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, giving diners plenty to consider around the tabletop hot plate. Because the staff cook each order and deliver it hot to the table, diners can enjoy every specialty cooked to an exact turn.
To accompany the griddled pancakes, the teppanyaki selection includes tender domestic mixed beef horumon dripping with rich flavor, pork harami, and skewers. Poured alongside draft beer, freshly squeezed lemon sours, or dry sake, these savory plates encourage a relaxed, lingering pace over the heat of the iron. Located downstairs in an unassuming basement, the venue provides a comfortable, unpretentious setting well suited to friendly gatherings or an easy dinner focused on teppan fare.
