Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Japan or a long-time fan of its food and drink culture, spending an evening at an izakaya (居酒屋) is one of the best ways to experience Japanese nightlife. These informal pubs are where locals go to unwind after work, catch up with friends, and enjoy a wide variety of drinks and shareable dishes.
What Is an Izakaya?
An izakaya (居酒屋) is a casual Japanese bar that serves alcohol and a wide range of small plates. Think of it as a blend between a pub, tapas bar, and restaurant. The atmosphere is typically relaxed and lively, with groups of coworkers, friends, or couples enjoying conversation over food and drinks.
Unlike Western-style restaurants, where each person typically orders their own meal, food at an izakaya is meant to be shared. You’ll usually be seated at a low table, on tatami mats or at a counter, and most places bring a small appetizer (otoshi, お通し) automatically — and charge a small fee for it.
Famous Izakaya Chains to Try
While Japan is home to countless unique local izakaya, several well-known chains offer a great introduction for beginners:
- Torikizoku (鳥貴族): Known for its delicious yakitori (grilled chicken skewers, 焼き鳥) and affordable prices — almost everything on the menu is just ¥350.
- Izakaya Watami (居酒屋 和民): A large chain with extensive food and drink menus and convenient locations across Japan.
- Uotami (魚民): Seafood lovers will enjoy this chain’s fresh sashimi (刺身), grilled fish (焼き魚), and izakaya classics.
- Shirokiya (白木屋): A cozy chain offering a nostalgic Showa-era interior and all the classics from karaage (Japanese fried chicken, 唐揚げ) to sake.
- Tsubohachi (つぼ八): Originating in Hokkaido, this chain has hearty regional dishes and a warm, casual vibe.
Popular Izakaya Dishes
Izakaya menus are full of tasty options to accompany your drink. Here are a few must-tries:
- Yakitori (焼き鳥): Skewered grilled chicken, often seasoned with salt (shio, 塩) or a sweet soy sauce glaze (tare, タレ).
- Karaage (唐揚げ): Japanese-style fried chicken, crispy and juicy, usually served with a wedge of lemon or mayonnaise.
- Edamame (枝豆): Lightly salted boiled soybeans, the perfect finger food to start your night.
- Agedashi Tofu (揚げ出し豆腐): Deep-fried tofu in a warm soy-based broth.
- Sashimi (刺身): Thin slices of raw fish — a fresher option if you’re not in the mood for something fried.
- Tamagoyaki (卵焼き): Sweet rolled omelet, often made with dashi stock.
- Takoyaki (たこ焼き): Octopus-filled batter balls, topped with mayo, sauce, and bonito flakes.
What to Drink
The drink menu is just as important as the food!
- Beer (ビール): Draft beer (nama biiru, 生ビール) is the go-to choice at most izakaya.
- Sake (日本酒): Japanese rice wine, served hot or cold.
- Shochu (焼酎): A distilled spirit, lighter than sake, often mixed with water, soda, or juice.
- Highball (ハイボール): A refreshing mix of whiskey and soda, especially popular in the summer.
- Chuhai (チューハイ): Short for “shochu highball”, flavored with lemon, lime, or other fruit juices.
- Umeshu (梅酒): A staff favourite at Discover-With, it’s a sweet plum wine, often served on the rocks or with soda—popular among those who prefer sweeter drinks.
Famous Izakaya Districts in Japan
If you want to explore a truly atmospheric izakaya neighborhood, consider these famous districts:
- Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho (新宿思い出横丁, Tokyo) – Tiny bars and izakaya packed into narrow alleys with a nostalgic postwar feel.
- Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho (渋谷のんべい横丁, Tokyo) – “Drunkard’s Alley” is a favorite for intimate, local-style izakaya.
- Ura Namba (裏なんば, Osaka) – A trendy and lively area with lots of stylish, independent izakaya.
- Sakae (栄, Nagoya) – Home to a wide range of izakaya, from traditional to modern.
- Susukino (すすきの, Sapporo) – Japan’s northern nightlife capital, with izakaya serving Hokkaido specialties.
Tips for Foreign Visitors
- Reservations: Many izakaya take walk-ins, but popular ones or large groups should reserve.
- Smoking: Some places still allow smoking indoors — check in advance if that’s an issue.
- Language: English menus are often available at chains. At smaller places, pointing at the menu or using translation apps helps.
- Payment: Many places still prefer cash, so have yen ready.
After-Izakaya Tip: Grab a Late-Night Ice Cream at 21時にアイス
No night out in Japan is complete without a sweet treat — and that’s where our partner brand 21時にアイス comes in. Translating to “Ice Cream at 9 p.m.,” this unique dessert concept was born out of Japan’s yopafe (夜パフェ) trend of enjoying sweets after dinner or drinks.
Perfectly timed for your post-izakaya cravings, 21時にアイス offers carefully crafted parfait-style soft serve desserts using seasonal ingredients and Japanese flavors. Whether you’re craving a classic vanilla or a more adventurous combination with matcha, mochi, and red bean paste, it’s the ideal way to end your night.
These shops are open late into the evening — typically from 5:00 p.m. until midnight or later — and are designed to be a welcoming, cozy stop for groups of friends or solo visitors. No reservations are needed, just drop in after your izakaya adventure.
Chek out their full menu here!
Izakaya culture is about more than just food and drinks — it’s about relaxing, laughing, and sharing good times. Whether you opt for a well-known chain or stumble upon a tiny local gem, you’ll leave with a full stomach, a happy heart, and maybe a newfound love for Japanese nightlife.