If you’re visiting Japan, you’ll hear the word izakaya (居酒屋) everywhere. It’s often translated as “Japanese pub,” but an izakaya is really its own unique experience: casual food, shared plates, and a relaxed social vibe.
This guide explains how izakaya work, what to order, common rules (including the famous otoshi), and simple etiquette tips so you can enjoy your night with confidence.
What Is an Izakaya?
An izakaya is a casual place where people go to:
- drink (beer, highballs, sake, shochu)
- eat small dishes (yakitori, edamame, fried foods, grilled fish)
- talk and relax with friends or coworkers
Think of it as a mix of:
- tapas-style dining
- a casual bar
- a social “after work” hangout
You don’t have to drink alcohol—many people do, but food-only is fine, especially in tourist areas.
Why Izakaya Are So Popular in Japan
1) It’s social and relaxed
People talk, laugh, and take their time.
2) Small dishes are great for sharing
You can try many things in one night.
3) It fits Japanese work culture
After work, coworkers often go for nomikai (drinking gatherings) at izakaya.
What to Expect When You Enter
✅ Seating and menus
You’ll be seated at:
- a table
- a counter
- or a private room (popular for groups)
Menus may be:
- printed
- handwritten boards
- tablets (common)
- or QR code ordering
✅ “Otoshi” (お通し) — the surprise appetizer
Many izakaya serve a small starter called otoshi.
It is not a free snack—it’s basically a small cover charge in food form.
Important: Otoshi is normal in Japan. Most locals accept it as part of the experience.
How Ordering Works (Simple Version)
- You order drinks first (often expected)
- You order several dishes to share
- Food arrives gradually
- You keep ordering as you go
Popular ordering style:
- Start with fast items: edamame, salad, cold tofu
- Then grilled/fried: yakitori, karaage
- End with something filling: rice ball, ramen, ochazuke
Must-Try Izakaya Foods
Here are beginner-friendly classics you’ll see everywhere:
🍢 Yakitori (焼き鳥) — grilled chicken skewers
- momo (thigh)
- negima (chicken + green onion)
- tsukune (chicken meatball)
Flavor choice:
- shio (salt)
- tare (sweet soy glaze)
🥟 Gyoza (餃子)
Crispy dumplings—great with beer.
🍗 Karaage (唐揚げ)
Japanese fried chicken. Usually juicy and addictive.
🫛 Edamame (枝豆)
Easy starter, perfect for sharing.
🥢 Agedashi tofu (揚げ出し豆腐)
Fried tofu in dashi sauce—warm, soft, comforting.
🐟 Grilled fish / sashimi
Many izakaya have excellent seafood.
Drinks You’ll Commonly See
- Nama biru (生ビール) — draft beer
- Highball (ハイボール) — whisky + soda (super common)
- Sour / Chu-hi (サワー / チューハイ) — citrus or fruit drinks
- Umeshu (梅酒) — plum wine
- Sake (日本酒) — rice wine
- Shochu (焼酎) — distilled spirit (often with water/tea)
Nomihodai (飲み放題) — “All-you-can-drink”
Many places offer nomihodai, typically 60–120 minutes.
Tip: Great value, but pace yourself. Japan pours are easy to underestimate.
Etiquette Tips (Dos and Don’ts)
✅ Do
- Say “Kanpai!” (乾杯) when everyone has a drink
- Share dishes and let others take food first
- Use serving chopsticks if provided
- Speak at a moderate volume (izakaya can be lively, but don’t shout)
❌ Don’t
- Pour your own drink in formal settings (with coworkers)
- Friends are relaxed, but in business situations it matters
- Stick chopsticks upright in rice (funeral association)
- Forget the last train (Tokyo/Osaka can be far from your hotel!)
Useful Japanese Phrases for Izakaya
Ordering
- これをください。
Kore o kudasai. — This, please. - おすすめは何ですか？
Osusume wa nan desu ka? — What do you recommend?
Drinks
- 生ビールをください。
Nama bīru o kudasai. — Draft beer, please. - ハイボールをください。
Haibōru o kudasai. — Highball, please.
Dietary / help
- これは何が入っていますか？
Kore wa nani ga haitte imasu ka? — What’s in this? - すみません！
Sumimasen! — Excuse me!
Paying
- お会計お願いします。
Okaikei onegaishimasu. — The bill, please.
How Much Does an Izakaya Cost?
It depends on city and style, but a typical range:
- ¥2,000–¥5,000 per person for casual izakaya
- more for premium seafood or private rooms
Nomihodai can raise the bill, but it can also be good value.
Final Thoughts
Izakaya are one of the best ways to experience Japan beyond sightseeing. The food is shareable, the atmosphere is friendly, and you’ll get a real taste of everyday social culture.
You don’t need perfect Japanese—just a few phrases and a respectful attitude are enough to have a great night.