Pilar Akaneya

This restaurant deserves it's fame. You are welcome in the hall and explained the why's (why the restaurant, the founder, the food) You are accompanied till your table where the staff shouts 'welcome' in Japanese (like in Japan itself) And of course, the menú. We tried the simplest one, but delicious. To be honest, even though the restaurant is mainly focused in the meat part, we loved the appetizers more. Our favs were udones and prawns, + the most typical dessert in Japan (flavored ice, really special) The drinks were also 5/5 Recommended!

Pilar Akaneya is a slice of Japan tucked away in a quiet Madrid neighborhood, across from a supermarket and MO de Movimiento (yes, that pizza place from Somebody Feed Phil). Don’t let the unassuming location fool you—this place is an unforgettable culinary experience. The Atmosphere From the moment you step inside, you’re transported to a traditional Japanese home, complete with wooden walls, fabric partitions, and a minimalist aesthetic that feels both cozy and authentic. Before heading to your table, the hostess gives you a quick intro to the restaurant’s concept and its history—a nice touch that sets the tone for the evening. The Menu There are three menus to choose from: • €80 • €120 • €390 requiring five days’ advance notice. Each menu is a multi-course event, with the standout being the Kobe beef—imported straight from Japan and cooked right at your table over high-temperature charcoal. The beef is sliced for you, and you’re in charge of grilling it to perfection. Spoiler: it’s incredible. Tender, flavorful, and so good you’ll start wondering if you can justify the €390 menu next time. Dessert Just when you think the meal couldn’t get better, dessert arrives, featuring an assortment of sweets crowned by the crown melon. If you’ve never heard of it, don’t worry—the staff will explain (or Google it, but honestly, just wait for the surprise). It’s the epitome of fresh, juicy sweetness and the perfect way to end the meal. The Service The staff here are as exceptional as the food—attentive, friendly, and true experts in guiding you through the experience. They’ll explain every dish and show you how to cook your beef, but let’s be real: I retained none of it because I was too busy devouring everything in sight. They’re also incredibly accommodating. I don’t eat seafood, and they worked with the kitchen to provide delicious alternatives without compromising the quality of the meal. Overall Pilar Akaneya is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a Kobe beef aficionado, a crown melon enthusiast (soon-to-be, anyway), or just someone looking for a special night out, this place delivers in spades. Bring your appetite—and maybe start planning for that €390 splurge.

Spectacular service, super kind and helpful staff. They explained the history of the restaurant and each dish served. Top quality ingredients, broths and sauces were delicious. Meat was excellent. Desserts really nice as well. Central location, near major transport hubs. Nice Japanese ambience.

One of the best restaurants I've been in Madrid. Service incredible. Context is given to their business, meals and methods. More than happy to answer question. Above all the food is simply incredible, I was expecting less quantity as well but I left completely full. Can't give enough praise and I will come back for sure!

An Authentic Slice of Japan! Stepping into the sliding door of Pilar Akaneya was like being transported directly to Japan. The experience was truly unreal, immersing us in Japanese culture from the moment we entered. The quality of service was impeccable. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and embodied the essence of Japanese hospitality. Their attention to detail and courteous demeanor enhanced our dining experience significantly. The star of the show was undoubtedly the meat (A5). we took the 2nd menu (120pp). Its quality was outstanding – tender, flavorful, and prepared to perfection. Each bite was a testament to the chef's skill and the restaurant's commitment to using only the finest ingredients. What truly set this place apart were the detailed explanations and descriptions provided for each dish. The staff took the time to explain the origins, preparation methods, and cultural significance of our meals. This added depth to our dining experience, making us feel like we were on a culinary journey through Japan. The combination of exceptional food, stellar service, and educational component made for an incredible evening. It wasn't just a meal; it was an experience that engaged all our senses and left us with a deeper appreciation for Japanese cuisine and culture. Without a doubt, we will be returning to this gem of a restaurant. For anyone seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience without leaving Madrid, this place is an absolute must-visit.

One surprising aspect of the Spanish capital is that there are some remarkably good Japanese restaurants here - after all, both Spanish and Japanese gastronomic culture place great emphasis on cultivating and creating great product. Here is one example of superb product taking centre stage, both Spanish and Japanese, in a relaxed and elegant setting. The focus is on the charcoal grill, set into each table, with a choice of three menus which increase in complexity and rarity of ingredient as they do price. The entry level menu highlights A5 Kobe beef, the second Ito Ranch de Matsusaka A5 BMS12 wagyu beef with the famed crown melon muskmelon for dessert, and a third menu allows you to select all the elements you wish for a more personalised touch. We enjoyed a range of starters including gyoza, udon, katsu and nabe hotpots before our selection of wagyu beef emerged for us to grill to our liking, the highlight of our meal and true decadence. Sadly, the muskmelon was not available on the day we dined so it might be good idea to call beforehand if you are set on this. Either way, another reason to visit, another time. Extra points for the Japanese toilets. Ichiban!

Amazing experience. Super nice place and the menu was delicious. A lot of great dishes, the highlight was the desert😍 Super friendly staff. Can highly recommend it.

Pilar Akaneya offers a truly authentic yakiniku experience, distinguishing itself not only as the first Japanese barbecue in Spain but also as the second of its kind globally. This unique dining spot brings the rich flavors and meticulous art of Japanese cuisine right to your table with a grilling experience. The warm hospitality sets the tone for an exquisite meal. The menu is a parade of premium dishes, each telling a story of flavor and tradition. Highlights include: • Kamo namban • Kobe Beef™ gyozas • Wagyu ichibo Dining at Pilar Akaneya isn’t just about food; it’s an all-encompassing experience of culture, hospitality, and culinary excellence. The ambiance, detailed menu offerings, and the engaging preparation style make it a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Japanese barbecue experience.