Izakaya
居酒屋
Dive into the Japanese lifestyle: izakaya are much more than bars, they are places of conviviality where yakitori, beer and friendship blend in an authentic atmosphere.
The Soul of Japan
Izakaya are the heart of Japanese socialization after work. These "bar-restaurants" offer a unique experience combining casual cuisine and drinks in a warm atmosphere.
More than just a meal, it's an authentic moment of relaxation where Japanese people meet to unwind and build connections.
Izakaya Culture: Codes and Traditions
Nomihōdai
All-you-can-drink system, very popular
2 hours of unlimited drinks for ¥1500-3000
💡 Tip: Great for groups, reservation recommended
Otōshi
Small appetizer served automatically
¥200-500 per person, non-negotiable
💡 Tip: Part of the culture, like a cover charge
Kanpai
Mandatory toast before drinking
Wait until everyone is served
💡 Tip: Say 'Kanpai!' while raising your glass
Sharing
Sharing dishes at the center of the table
Order several small dishes for everyone
💡 Tip: Use the serving chopsticks
Nijikai
Second bar after the main izakaya
Tradition of continuing the evening elsewhere
💡 Tip: Karaoke or smaller bar typical
Enkai
Company banquet or group event
Group reservations with fixed menu
💡 Tip: Important social events in Japan
Izakaya Drinks Guide
Beer
ビール
Most popular drink, served very cold
Varieties:
Highball
ハイボール
Japanese whisky with soda, very refreshing
Varieties:
Sake
日本酒
Traditional rice wine, hot or cold
Varieties:
Shochu
焼酎
Distilled alcohol, cheaper than sake
Varieties:
Chu-Hi
チューハイ
Pre-mixed fruity and light cocktail
Varieties:
Classic Izakaya Dishes
Yakitori
焼き鳥
Grilled chicken skewers, the emblematic dish of izakaya
Edamame
枝豆
Boiled and salted soybeans, classic accompaniment
Karaage
から揚げ
Japanese fried chicken, crispy and juicy
Sashimi
刺身
Thinly sliced raw fish, guaranteed freshness
Takoyaki
たこ焼き
Osaka octopus balls, street food specialty
Gyoza
餃子
Grilled dumplings, perfect to accompany drinks
Major Izakaya Chains
Isomaru Suisan
磯丸水産
All ages, groups
Revolutionary izakaya recreating a 'sea house' atmosphere in the city. Grill ultra-fresh seafood yourself at your table.
Specialties:
Hamayaki, Kani Miso Kōra Yaki, Hotate, Kaisendon
Unique features:
Table grilling, Live seafood, 24/7 opening
Torikizoku
鳥貴族
Young adults
Izakaya chain specializing in yakitori with a unique pricing system: all dishes at ¥328.
Specialties:
Yakitori, Tebasaki, Chicken Nanban, Tori Kawa
Unique features:
Single price ¥328, Chicken specialist, Festive atmosphere
Kushikatsu Tanaka
串カツ田中
All ages
Osaka kushikatsu specialist since 1929. Breaded and fried skewers with the famous secret sauce in popular Osaka atmosphere.
Specialties:
Kushikatsu, Premium Kushikatsu, Secret Sauce, Beer
Unique features:
Osaka tradition, NO double dipping, Legendary sauce
Shirokiya
白木屋
Adults, office workers
Traditional izakaya offering a wide range of dishes and drinks in a typical atmosphere.
Specialties:
Sashimi, Karaage, Edamame, Grilled Fish
Unique features:
Varied menu, Authentic atmosphere, Drink options
Watami
和民
Families, all ages
Large family izakaya chain with varied menu and healthy options, popular with families.
Specialties:
Robatayaki, Salads, Grilled Vegetables, Family Sets
Unique features:
Healthy options, Families welcome, Touch tablets
Etiquette and Good Manners in Izakaya
1. Kanpai!
- • Wait until everyone is served
- • Raise your glass
- • Say "Kanpai!" together
2. Sharing
- • Order for the group
- • Use serving chopsticks
- • Share everything
3. Otōshi
- • Accept the automatic dish
- • It's included in the service
- • ¥200-500 per person
4. Service
- • Pour for others
- • Never serve yourself
- • Reciprocity is important
Essential Phrases
Kanpai! 乾杯！
Cheers! (mandatory toast)
Yakitori kudasai 焼き鳥ください
Yakitori, please
Bīru onegaishimasu ビールお願いします
A beer, please
Otsukare-sama お疲れ様
Good work (evening greeting)
Tips for Enjoying Izakaya
Peak Hours
Izakaya are packed after 6 PM on weekdays (office workers) and on weekends. Arrive early or make reservations for groups.
Budget Planning
Budget ¥2000-4000 per person for a complete evening with drinks. Nomihōdai can be economical for groups.
Group Experience
Izakaya are made for groups. Come with 2-6 people for an authentic and convivial experience.
Nomihōdai Strategy
The all-you-can-drink system (nomihōdai) is profitable if you drink more than 3-4 glasses. Usually limited to 2-3 hours.
Smoking Areas
Many izakaya still allow smoking. Check non-smoking sections if you are sensitive.
Cultural Immersion
This is your chance to experience authentic Japanese socialization. Observe, participate and have fun!