Saitamaya: The Master of Grilled Meat 

Once again, no exaggeration in Simon and Martina's description of this place. We went to Japan with an itinerary heavily guided by your videos, and Saitamaya hands down was the best experience out of the whole trip. So much so, that we decided to change a whole day's itinerary just so we can go back here again within the 9 days that we were in Japan. We were in first in line, and were quickly greeted by a woman that later on was introduced to us as one of the chef's wives. She was lovely and gave us seats, and after about 30 minutes, we were in. My friend and I stuck out like a sore thumb, as we were fairly young college kids wearing hoodies and sweatpants as compared to everyone else - mostly business people that were atleast all 2 decades older than us. Despite the language barrier, the chef (older one at the grill) and his son that helped him out and made the drinks, gave us full attention the entire night. They conversed with us, introduced us to the other patrons and locals, and would tell them, "These two are from Los Angeles!" He also brought out every single type of meat and showed us first, and at one point, the grill master himself left his grill station just to personally very carefully season our skewered meat with togarashi which was so lovely. I also do not even eat liver at all, but the liver here I could eat for the rest of my days. The guy making the drinks was also super funny and joked with us a lot, and coincidentally my friend, me, and him all had DW matching watches that made us all laugh for a good moment. Because the experience was so good, and the meal was fairly priced, we went again 2 days after, and they welcomed us so excitedly, like they were genuinely happy we were back. We were sat next to this incredibly hospitable Japanese lady who bought us more meat that was different from the skewered course, and also Japanese sake. Then the grill master went inside the kitchen, and brought out 2 ladies, and introduced them personally to us and I believe it was his wife and his daughter-in-law. As the night went on, we got drunker, and the entire time I knew cameras were not allowed due to this video, but I guess we got the courage somewhere because we ended up asking them if we can take a picture and they gladly said yes! So we did, and it's a memory I will forever hold very dearly. Thank you, Simon and Martina, truly, for highlighting amazing places such as this. TLDR: Just a gem of a place. Please come here. It's been over 6 months and I still think of this place on the daily.

OMG you guys have improved soo much in your videos over the past few years....this was documentary level, for sure!!!!

Im glad they allowed you guys to film, I don't think anyone else could have made a better video than this

I want someone to love me the way Simon loves food.

This may be the best video you've ever produced!?!

Easily one of the best meals of my life. When the chef heard I was Italian he made me a little extra of super thinly sliced raw wagyu soaked in extra virgin olive oil and salt, was the best carpaccio I’ve ever had. I also came out of that place completely pissed drunk at 4pm and basically wasted the rest of the day. Worth it

wow what an amazing experience to have and a privilege to be able to film there! i love that they have a no phone rule i think people are more concerned now to photograph their food instead of enjoy it and understand it! thanks for this brilliant view into their lives ...gotta admit the small peek and i was intrigued to know more about the family lol

Me before video: *eats Subway smiling* Me after video: *eats Subway with tears*

The owner is so wonderful for letting you film there. His place doesn’t need the advertising, I’m guessing he wants to show off his work, which looks great.

Also thank you to +Ukikaiko for the German subtitles, +Keetande for the Swedish subtitles, +Mariela De Lucas and +Valeria Merced for the Spanish subtitles, and +SilkeCl@ysboots for the Danish subtitles! We really appreciate the help, everyone. Thank you!

Thank you so much to +Kuping Gepeng for the Indonesian subtitles! The owner will be thrilled to see them when we show him this video :D

saitama : the master of punching saitamaya : the master of grilled meat

THANK YOU for the respect you have for the culture, the food and the people you have the chance to meet in each country and thank yoiu for sharing this way of travelling to your viewers

This dude knows what's up!! I love his philosophy towards food, experimentation, and eating. Awesome video!

You can really feel the soul in his restaurant, a true chef without just thinking about profits. I doubt he cares about making money from his restaurant, just wants everyone to enjoy his food. I bet people with depression would be a little better after trying his cooking. A True Cook thumbs up!

wow, I can't explain why but after watching countless videos of you guys eating such amazing food, This one almost made me shed tears. The feels were so on point, it's as if i was sitting there sharing the experience with everyone there. I could go on on about everything that makes this video great but I'm sure everyone knows this already :) Thank you so much Martina and Simon!!! Like most of your fans we can't thank you enough for sharing the joys and happiness of life through your shoes. I send my love and hope you continue making videos for many more years to come.

Fantastic video and a great honor to be able to film him. I'm hoping though that any potential visitors, listen to her at the end of the video saying to please respect the rules and not to take pictures or videos. All it takes is one bad apple...

My partner and I went here after he watched your video two years ago. It was one of the best meals we had in Japan. Atmosphere was great, food was delicious and the chef was sweet and welcoming. We had such a great time we went a second time before we headed back home. The chef and his son recognised us, and that was about 20 days gap from the first time (great memory)! This time there was only one seating session instead of two, so we stayed back and he gave us extra yakitons and we took photos amd drank with him and the other guests. He asked for our number in case he ever visited Melbourne, Australia, we could give him a food tour :) hopefully we can visit him again after all this is over. Thank you for the recommendation guys!

I'll be honest, everyone: shooting videos like this is a dream for us. If we could travel around Japan and go to places like this and make videos like this, we'd be in seventh heaven. This video really means a lot to us :D

But let me explain the rules here cuz they didn't cover everything. 1. If you come here drunk, you won't be allowed in. 2. If you can't drink just order one drink (beer or lemon sour) have a sip and leave it there. They don't have any soft drinks. 2. They give you 9 sticks of grilled meat, nothing more nothing less. You have to eat all and if you can't don't even think of coming. 3. No photos, phones, video. 4. No smoking. 5. Adults only meaning 20 yrs above since drinking age in Japan is 20. 6. Cash only. here are what I saw at tablelog. Thank you for the information!

Hi Simon and Martina. I went there 2 days ago and it was the best food and moment I had in Tokyo. Doesn’t took a single picture of the food, but ended up took a picture with the chef Saitamaya. He greeted all customer there and got a free wagyu at the end of the meal. Nothing gonna beat this experience. Best Yakiton ever. Thank you Simon and Martina.

I'm loving these more documentary yet casual style videos you guys are putting out, I have to come here one day.

This old man is taking care of his grill business. Respect.

I think the reason they allowed you to film and photograph because they want true foodies and people who love and respect culture and food to remember and share the good and experience. Big television opportunities may disrespect or expand the content for just media consumption. You provide love and respect, not business. For him and for your Nasties!!

This was so cinematically beautiful in a down-to-earth way. You guys really gave the chef and his food the respect it deserved and showcased it deliciously. I'm so glad he allowed you guys to document your experience and share it with us!

I feel like I just watched something really special. Bucket list worthy for sure.

Thank you so much for posting this video. If it weren't for you guys we would not have had the amazing experience we had today at Saitamaya! Him and his family were so welcoming and kind to us, explaining everything on English and just showcasing how much he takes pride in his food! Food was also SO good!!

I have worked and traveled to Japan many many times. I got to eat here once brought by a local friend. I have been lucky to have had MANY super high-end meals in Japan and also have eaten at great yakitori places around the world. This place never left my memory. Was so excited when I saw you were going here. To be honest I had forgotten the name. The only negative I remember is it ended too fast and you can't just say okay give me another set of sticks because you just don't want to leave. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING THIS!

omgg I loved everything about this video. Editing, music, those close up food shots. I'm starving now. Another place to add to my never-ending list of "places to visit"

Thank you so much for introducing this place! I just went there last week during my trip to Tokyo, and it was so good that I had to go there again for a second time before my trip ends. The food is really something special, its the kind of meal that can put a smile on your face. And I think that not being able to use phone / camera is actually a good thing. Everyone is just drinking, interacting with each other / the chef, watching the food being prepared and enjoying the whole experience. Even though I don't understand or speak Japanese, the whole atmosphere still felt very warming and welcoming. The location is probably not the most accessible by Tokyo standards, but it is totally worth the trip and the queue. I am definitely going there again the next time I am in Tokyo.

Now I'm going to ask you a tough one. You've done so many Fapfap's already and it's clear that you've had the chance to try some of the most amazing foods ever. But would you ever be able to make a video of your top 5 favorite food experiences alltogether? I'm actually quite curious to find out what your ultimate favorites are.

Thank you for introducing Japanese cuisine so beautifully.

Thank you for this awesome video and showing how beautiful the Japanese culture and food is. I felt so happy watching this video for some reason and will definitely make this place a priority when I go to Japan one day lol. You've just gained another subscriber!!!!

That was a beautifully shot video. The food looked amazing and the people so friendly!

2:38 Sounds like Simon is saying "I love this dick". LOL

omg your videos are getting much much better in quality, in stories. love you guys

seriously i have been a fan of your's since like 2011-2012 .. and have watched pretty much all your videos since. I never really commented on any of your videos but i wanted to take the time to say this one, is one of the best you every made. It's just incredibly well produced and beautiful! cheers from Montréal :)

I have to say, mad props to your quality cinematography because it's pretty damn good. I've watched your videos for so long now and I've noticed how much you guys improved in your videos. It's nice to know how much time and effort you all put into these videos for us viewers!

We just ate here today. LOVE LOVE LOVE! The food was amazing, service was amazing, chef and staff were very friendly! I finished 2 lemon sour. Even as a foreigner, they will make you feel right at home! This experience was one of the highlights of our Japan trip. We got lucky and we have a photo with Hideo-San! We will definitely come back here on our next japan trip ❤️

+Simon and Martina When they showed his family, I got teary eyed cause it shows just how much people really do love and trust Simon and Martina in their passions and in their lives.

one of your best videos! felt like a shortfall or documentary you'd find on netflix :D

I went here less than a week ago, and All I can do is thank you both endlessly for helping me find this amazing experience.

This was a pure delight to watch. Great editing! Big thanks to the master for allowing us to view his establishment!

I really love this own flavour of documentaries you guys do, it's the right mix between your content and style with this contemplative touch to it, the visuals, the soundtrack, the information and interview, it's all on point! Congrats!

The chef gives off such good/comfy vibes that I can't explain. I'd love to try the place out!!

that was a beautiful ending! I love how you can just tell how proud he is of his work, and the fact that you were able to chat with his family and have a small meal with them is amazing!

Im saving this video for sure as this one is the most exclusive video ever recorded.

Amazing recommendation. The owner was awesome and friendly and the people that were there were very nice to tourists. So glad you made this video!

i cant have been the only person who misread the title as Saitama

I can't emphasize enough how much I love this place!

Hi Simon and Martina. I just came back from a Tokyo food adventure with my fiance. Saitamaya was amazing, food, lemon sours, atmosphere, and how the owner interacted with all of us. There were customers that hadn't been there in 20 years. We also went to Creamia, Tokyo Tonteki, Camden's Blue Donuts, and tried the Cherry Pie Frappucino. Thank you so much for the recommendations in the name of science. =)

Next level video. Great experience to share.

Thank you to +narpup and +Kimberly Harding for the English subtitles! You rock!

holy shit, this made me actually tear up. your respect for the food, history & culture behind it is incredible.

amazing job on the videos, your editing and filming have improved leaps and bounds 😊

I don't even eat meat lol but I loved this video, so well filmed and produced! It was gorgeous to watch

You guys are awesome. What a great honor. Keep posting more videos!

Thank you as well to +Female Beatzz for the Dutch subtitles! We really appreciate it. Thank you so much!

Congrats on filming there. I feel more like we feel honored to being able to watch this video of this restaurant. 😇

Any kind of big news station wouldn't have done this place justice... you guys were definitely the only ones who would have done this incredible and authentic of a job. The calm intrigue of this makes me really want to check it out, I seriously hope I get the chance one day! The owner seems like a cool guy, he made a good choice in film crew.

As a long time viewer you guys (Simon, Martina and Dan and anyone else who was involved in the production of this video) really out-did yourself in doing this small place justice in the magnitude of how amazing it is. I really loved the editing style used, it's better than the style used in a really good documentary called "Jiro Dreams of Sushi" and the personal Simon and Martina touch of giving a reaction to the food really entices me to want to reach out into the screen and join you. You all really out-did yourself. I can't wait to see more remarkable videos! I'm a big fan, giving you major props on this one.

Why do I keep watching your videos when I know I will get hungry 😢

Whoever did the subtitles: you are the best! THANK YOU!

getting your notifications makes me so happy :)

Annnnnnnnd I subbed. Great, fantastic, well presented, great editing, lucid on-the-fly commentary, not over-the-top, caring, intentional and REALLY evident that you two love food. Thanks for making me content of such high quality!

I just love the expression on their faces when they are eating :) pure bliss. I have been lucky to have been to Japan maybe about 4 times...I have never had a bad meal there. Seriously amazing

i just want to say, Simon, you're fashion is ALWAYS on point. thank you for that!

wow you guys this is some legit high quality content like this seriously looked like a documentary!!! btw you guys should go to the Philippines and try their food its AMAZING!!!

I love it when places you visit have a story like this one behind them. I'm sure the food tastes better just because of the story!

Also, NOTIFICATION SQUAD! Is it cold where you are? Because I just woke up and I'm pretty chilly over here in Japan!

Perhaps the owner allowed you to film a video about the restaurant to open it up to a wider foreign audience? He did talk a bit about the fusion of his food! That'd be my best guess. Also definitely going to have to drive an hour away to buy shochu to make that drink 😍🍻

Being there recently with my friends as my guides for my very first vacation. Holy crap was the trip there worth it. The 6+ years wait since I saw this video and insisting my friend help me plan this into our travel plans was worth it. The vibes, the food, that lemon sour drink, everything you see is just a fraction of how great it was to be physically there and enjoying it. Got my friend to help translate and tell the boss and his family that I've been waiting for so long to go eat at his place, that he even offered to take a photo together. We now keep thinking about his food and the experience we had there, and come back to this video, and it's not even a month since we concluded our trip to Tokyo. 😅 Thank you so much for making this video about his food guys. Truly loved every bit of experience there, and being able to revisit this video to remember the experience by when we missed his food.

All the music in this video, the food, the owner himself and his passion for food and making others happy.....I think I might have cried a little. I can't wait until I grow up and become legal and go there (fingers crossed that it will still be open).

I might have a theory on why he let you shoot, you obviously don't want to shoot it to make the place a freak show or to show his secrets. You have an appreciation for food and culture which is something these kind of people can sense. Generally we can see how someone is only interested by money and someone is actually sharing an experience rather than the usual "and now, the Chef adds his special blend of spices made of nutmeg, cinnamon and cardamon" Congratulations on being able to film there

The restaurant like this is the real master of what they are doing. I have been to this kind of foods and can not forget the experience. It is and art of the food.

Thank you as well to +Alice Mustang for the Turkish subtitles! Woohoo!

Very nicely done video, that food looks so good it made my mouth water.

Your videos show a real appreciation and understanding of the depth of Japanese food, and at least partially show how on a completely different level it is compared to the rest of the world.

I love your videos so much greetings from Austria 😊😜😘

Eating Biryani (props to you if you know what that is) but still salivating over all this food!!!!!!!

この人のシリーズ こだわり へのリスペクトが感じられて 好き

ONE GRILLLLLLLHH!!

Am I the only who shed (happy) tears? Like, seriously whenever the interview with the owner showed I had so much respect for him! Honest and good food, with a great homey ambient that it seems like you can even feel it in the meal... seriously beautiful! Last few minutes I balled.. x'D Will definitely visit if I ever go to Japan!!! Awesome video! =D

I love the way Martina chews here food. Very cute. Makes the food that much more appetizing.

When simon and martina are more famous than CNN lol

You could see his passion in what he cooks. Such a positive atmosphere in there. A proper night out. We all got to see one of the secret wonders of the foodie world, thanks to you both and your friend. Are you going to continue to visit there regularly? If so, can I come? ( May need a plane ticket )

I have to say this was hands down the best meal in my entire holiday. I typically eat simple fare when I'm in Japan, and Saitamaya was the one and only "exquisite" meal of the trip, and they did not disappoint! Mr Hideo really serves not just food, but a darn good experience with conversation and humour. I couldn't tell it all from the video, but sitting down and watching things happen was a real blessing. They say that "Japan Meat" was a thing, and Saitamaya proved to me it is true - they make a non-offal eater like me happily stomach it all without an inch of revulsion. At the end of the day, when I was done with our meal course, I explained to Mr Hideo how I found my way to Saitamaya all thanks to your video, and he offered me a gift that defied my expectation - a photo with him.

Two of the most respectful travelers with an amazing talent for videography. I love your channel and have been watching it for years now. You both have great personalities. I originally came to learn more about your experiences with living in Korea, but stayed just to learn more about your experiences in general. Thank you for making my transition into grad school easier. It's been really tough living on my own for the first time but watching you guys have taught me that you can always make a wonderful home out of a new place. Much love

What an experience. What a privilege. Thanks for sharing :)

Another place up in my bucket list! It’s amazing how he allowed you to film - your friend and the owner must have a really tight bond.

Must.. resist... bad.. PUN... ONE.. PUNCH.... M-MEATT

......that was such a beautifully made video.....This is a very random request that doesn't revolve around Japan buuuuut I was wondering if you guys could do a video talking about your editing process. I've adored your quirky video style for years and I'm just really curious to hear your reasoning behind it. Love you guys, keep on doing what your doing......bloody sick lads 🤘🤘

Thanks for celebrating what is good, better, and best about this place and others. Brilliantly done!

I can't be the only one who read "Saitama" instead of "Saitamaya". Right?

I have watched this video so many times, one day I will be there.

You two are the best foodie couple ever.

I love how you guys are so passionate about food! The fact that y'all are up for anything amazes me. Sadly I can't say the same for myself. So I just was wondering if y'all could help me out. I'll be going on a summer exchange to Tokyo next year for 2 months but there's a slight problem for me: I hate seafood. And every time I look up Japanese must try foods online, most of it is seafood. My "friend" says she feels like I shouldn't go on the trip anymore since I won't be getting the full of Japanese culture. So my question is, is there as many meat options in Japan as there is seafood options?

The experience felt, I don't know, so unearthly. There's like this little shop at the corner of the street, but they serve the holiest looking meat! I felt like my unworthy eyes didn't deserve to see this lol S&M, thanks y'all for the amazing video

一見、頑固そうな大将だけどかなり柔軟で温和な人なんだなぁと思いました。 進化しつづなければならないという信念があるので、当然味も進化していくのだろう。 その時代時代にあった味を提供しているので、繁栄してほしいです。

The meat looks sooo delicious! I wish I could go there! That guy is a culinary God!