Buns, Big Bites, and a Bit of Side-Eye: Hunting Down Shibuya’s Hidden Hot Dog Truck
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Time of visit: August 2025
A Sunday Night Hot Dog Hunt in Shibuya
It was a Sunday night in Shibuya, Tokyo, and the neon lights were buzzing. We’d come with a mission: to finally try Kajuru Kenny Hot Dog. We’d read about this hot dog truck online, and the rave reviews had us curious.
We found him parked on Road 305, right in front of HYSTERIC GLAMOUR Shibuya. The smell of grilling sausages filled the air. Inside the small truck, Kenny worked the grill, flipping sausages over sizzling heat. His setup was bare-bones — just a truck, a grill, and a short menu — but sometimes, that’s all you need for greatness.
This wasn’t your typical Japanese street food. It had a bold, American edge, promising big flavors and hearty bites. And we were ready to see if it lived up to the hype.
A Hot Dog Worth Crossing the Street For
The moment the hot dogs were in our hands, we knew they were special. The sausages were big, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The bun was warm and soft, with just enough chew to hold it all together. Underneath the sausage, sweet and crunchy onions added a perfect balance.
The regular hot dog was priced at 700 yen, and the cheese hot dog at 800 yen. Sure, it’s a bit more than a convenience store snack, but this was no ordinary hot dog. Honestly, it might be the best hot dog I’ve ever had. I’ve never eaten an authentic New York hot dog before, so I can’t compare — but if this is close, then maybe I need a trip to NYC.
Service with a Side of… Well, Not Much
Here’s the thing: Kenny’s hot dogs are full of flavor, but his customer service is… minimal. He didn’t say much, didn’t seem eager to chat, and wasn’t exactly brimming with smiles.
In the driver’s seat area, you could see some clutter — the kind of everyday mess you might expect from a busy street vendor who’s constantly on the move. It didn’t seem unsanitary, but it did make me wonder how much time is left for tidying up between shifts.
That said, this is clearly a no-nonsense, grab-and-go operation. Kenny also takes his truck to Kabukicho in Shinjuku, so you might spot him there too. If you can overlook the lack of warmth in service, the food more than makes up for it. For one of the juiciest, most satisfying hot dogs in Tokyo, track down Kajuru Kenny Hot Dog. It’s street food with attitude — and flavor worth the detour.
Kajuru Kenny Hot Dog – Review
Summary
We tracked down Kajuru Kenny Hot Dog in Shibuya after reading rave reviews online, and it did not disappoint. The sausages were huge, juicy, and packed with flavor, with warm buns and sweet onions sealing the deal. While the service was minimal, the hot dogs are among the best in Tokyo and worth seeking out — even in Kabukicho.
Details of the Restaurant
Kajuru Kenny Hot Dog
https://maps.app.goo.gl/dsMPjD8L2Rqoeg256
https://www.instagram.com/mr_hotdog_harajuku?igsh=MTdsdGNqZTJrNnp1Mg==
6 Chome-17-11 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001
Tokyo-based Japanese home cook and food writer, sharing easy, low-carb recipes featuring Japanese staples like shio koji. I also explore the city’s dining scene through honest restaurant reviews and food adventures. Learn more at sakurayubi.com/about/
