Robatagrill (or “robatayaki“) is a Japanese cooking method. The word “robata” in Japanese means “slow cooking over an open flame.” In this method, food is slowly grilled using charcoal, with ingredients like meat, fish, and vegetables cooked directly over the fire. Typically, the grilling is done near the dining area, creating a visually appealing and flavorful experience.

In robatayaki restaurants, chefs stand behind the grill and cook the food ordered by customers over charcoal. This method originates from rural Japan, where fishermen traditionally used it to cook seafood, but it has since become popular in modern restaurants as well.