If you visit Japan, one experience you can’t miss is going to an izakaya — Japan’s unique version of a casual pub.
It’s not quite a restaurant, not quite a bar — but something in between, and so much more fun!
🍻 What Exactly Is an Izakaya?
An izakaya (居酒屋) is where Japanese people go to unwind after work, catch up with friends, or even go on group dates (called gōkon).
They’re often lively and noisy, filled with laughter, conversation, and the sound of clinking glasses. Sometimes it’s so loud you can barely hear your friend — but that’s all part of the charm!
People go to izakaya to drink, eat, and enjoy human connection.
Some chat with coworkers, some strike up conversations with strangers, and others sit quietly at the counter enjoying a solo meal.
Every style is welcome — izakaya are places where everyone belongs.
🍢 The Food: A Little Bit of Everything
One of the best things about izakaya is the variety of dishes.
Unless it’s a specialty place (like a yakitori bar), you can try a bit of everything — from grilled meat to sushi to salads.
Here are some popular dishes you’re likely to find 👇
🐓 Yakitori (Grilled Chicken Skewers)
Tender pieces of chicken grilled over charcoal and brushed with a sweet soy sauce or sprinkled with salt.
Crispy on the outside, juicy inside — perfect with a cold beer.
🍳 Dashimaki Tamago (Japanese Rolled Omelet)
Soft, fluffy omelet flavored with dashi (Japanese soup stock).
Slightly sweet and full of umami — like a warm hug in egg form.
🍤 Tempura
Shrimp, vegetables, and mushrooms coated in a light, crisp batter and fried to perfection.
It’s crunchy but never greasy — just pure golden goodness.
🥔 Potato Salad
Japanese-style potato salad is creamier and smoother than the Western version.
It’s mixed with mayonnaise, a touch of dashi, and finely chopped veggies — simple yet addictively tasty.
🐙 Tako Wasabi (Octopus with Wasabi Sauce)
Small pieces of raw octopus marinated in wasabi sauce.
It’s spicy, salty, and a little chewy — the perfect snack for sake lovers.
🍙 Onigiri (Rice Balls)
The perfect comfort food to end your meal.
Seasoned rice shaped by hand and filled with salmon, pickled plum, or other savory goodies.
Warm, simple, and satisfying.
🏮 So Many Styles, So Many Vibes
Izakaya come in all shapes and sizes — from sleek, modern spots with creative cocktails to small, old-school places with smoky air and handwritten menus.
Trendy izakaya attract young professionals and couples, while tiny neighborhood ones draw regulars and locals.
Either way, you’ll feel the warmth of Japan’s social culture.
🥤 Don’t Drink? No Problem!
You don’t have to drink alcohol to enjoy an izakaya.
Most offer plenty of soft drinks and mocktails, so you can still enjoy the food and atmosphere without the buzz.
💬 How to Order
These days, many chain izakaya use tablets for ordering, and the menus often have English options.
At smaller, family-run places, staff will take your order directly — so having a translation app can be helpful.
And one more important thing:
👉 No tips needed!
In Japan, service charges are included in the price — just pay your bill and say “Arigatou!” (Thank you!)
💡 Related: Why Japan Has No Tipping Culture
✨ Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit an Izakaya
An izakaya isn’t just a place to eat and drink — it’s a window into Japanese culture.
The laughter, the clinking glasses, the sizzling food, and the friendly chatter create a vibe you won’t find anywhere else.
So next time you’re in Japan, grab a seat, raise a glass, and dive into the world of izakaya.
Cheers — or as we say in Japan, “Kanpai!” 🍶🇯🇵