Shinjidai at Go Akihabara

Izakaya famous for its patented Den-kushi fried chicken skin skewers, just steps from Akihabara Station.

Shinjidai is an izakaya that turned a humble scrap of chicken into a national sensation. Its signature Den-kushi - a deep-fried chicken skin skewer recognised as one of a kind by the Japanese Patent Office - has sold over 200 million pieces since the chain was founded by former Brazilian professional footballer Naofumi Sano. The Electric Town Exit branch sits a mere ten seconds walk from Akihabara Station, making it one of the most convenient spots in the district for an evening pint and a plate of crisp, collagen-rich skewers. Beyond the legendary Den-kushi, the menu leans into yakitori and other chicken dishes, all built around the brand motto of Deliciousness and Health. Draft beer starts at a startling 209 yen, highballs from 165 yen, and many drinks can be upgraded to a one-litre mega-jug for double the price, so the table never runs dry. Cards and electronic money (Suica, PASMO, iD and more) are all accepted, with an average evening budget of 2,001 to 3,000 yen. For anyone craving a noisy, convivial izakaya right in the heart of Electric Town, this branch of Shinjidai is hard to beat. Grab a skewer, raise a mega-highball, and see why this chicken skin fever has spread from Shimbashi to Sapporo.