Street Food with a Soul: Where the Bread’s Fresh and the Cooking’s from Scratch
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Time of visit: June 2025
During our walk, we came across Ali’s Kebab in Yotsuya (Shinjuku), Tokyo, a small street-side restaurant with two tables set up outside. The casual atmosphere was instantly inviting, so we grabbed a seat and decided to try a few things from their menu.
We ordered a pita lamb sandwich, falafels (chickpea croquettes)—which turned out to be served as a pita falafel sandwich, not just the croquettes we had expected, and a lamb doner cheese roll. To add to the surprise, there was a small mix-up: the staff mistakenly brought us a chicken doner cheese roll instead of the lamb one. But before we even had to point it out, they noticed the error, apologized sincerely, and let us keep the chicken roll for free.
So, between the mix-up and the falafel surprise, we unintentionally ended up with four generously sized carb-based dishes—far more than we had planned for. Thankfully, it was all tasty and satisfying.
One of the highlights was the freshly made bread, which they prepared to order. The cheese in the doner roll was perfectly melted and stringy, and the lamb—likely ground and sliced—was soft, juicy, and flavorful. While a touch more salt would have helped round things out, everything tasted clean and homemade, without the artificial flavor that often comes with fast food.
We also enjoyed the sauces served on the side. The food tasted better with them. I liked the standard one in the middle the most. The red one was very spicy.
Another thoughtful touch: the menu included English names for each dish, which made ordering straightforward for non-Japanese speakers.
The total for two came to 3,498 yen, which felt like great value for a hearty, made-from-scratch meal served with genuine kindness.
If you’re in the area and in the mood for unfussy, homemade street food with friendly service, Ali’s Kebab is absolutely worth a stop.
Ali’s Kebab Yotsuya / アリーズケバブ 四谷店 – Review
Summary
A cozy street-side spot serving fresh, homemade dishes with warm, friendly service. The bread is made to order, the lamb is juicy, and the sauces add a flavorful kick. A satisfying, affordable meal that feels both comforting and made with care.
Details of the Restaurant
Ali’s Kebab Yotsuya / アリーズケバブ 四谷店
https://maps.app.goo.gl/XEj3JxbfYhAbT9c99
https://alis-kebab.com/toukyo/
Samoncho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0017
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/
