Spending an Evening in an Izakaya: Guide, Rules, and Recommendations

Izakayas, those quintessential Japanese bar-restaurants, are an integral part of Japan's social culture. Often compared to Western pubs, izakayas are friendly gathering places where friends and colleagues meet after a long day at work. Whether you're a curious visitor or a resident wanting to immerse yourself in local culture, spending an evening in an izakaya is an unmissable experience. However, before stepping into one of these unique establishments, it's essential to understand their rules, peculiarities, and know a few good locations to make the most of the experience.

What is an Izakaya?

The term "izakaya" literally translates to "a place where you stay to drink," which perfectly captures the essence of these venues. They are places where you can drink while enjoying a variety of small dishes, ranging from grilled chicken skewers (yakitori) to fresh fish sashimi. Izakayas have a relaxed atmosphere and serve as an essential social space for Japanese people, especially in large cities like Tokyo and Osaka. After work, it is common to see groups of colleagues or friends gathering there to share a pleasant moment.

Unlike formal restaurants, izakayas are more flexible in terms of service and menu. Dishes are often served gradually, and the idea is to order several small plates to share. It is also an ideal place to taste a wide variety of Japanese dishes while sipping beer, sake, or shochu (a distilled Japanese liquor).

Rules to Follow in an Izakaya

Although the atmosphere in an izakaya is relaxed, there are some etiquette rules that visitors should follow to avoid making any social missteps.

Upon sitting down in an izakaya, you will often be served a small dish called otoshi. This is a kind of appetizer that is automatically charged (usually between 200 and 500 yen), even if you did not order it. This practice may surprise first-time visitors, but it is a standard custom in Japan. The otoshi is essentially a cover charge and part of the izakaya experience.

To start, it is customary to order drinks first before moving on to food. The most common drink to kick off the evening is Japanese draft beer (nama biru). Once the drinks are served, it is customary to make a toast by saying "kanpai" before taking the first sip.

After the toast, you can begin ordering food. Don't hesitate to ask the server for recommendations if you're unsure about the menu. Orders are typically placed in small portions and meant to be shared among the group.

Speaking of sharing, in an izakaya, dishes are almost always meant to be shared. It’s essential to be courteous to others by taking a small portion for yourself without monopolizing the whole dish. If you're dining with Japanese colleagues or friends, it's customary to let older individuals or those of higher status serve themselves first.

Unlike in a traditional restaurant where you place all your orders at the beginning, in an izakaya, you can continue ordering food and drinks throughout the evening. It is common to spend several hours at an izakaya, snacking and drinking. Many guests order multiple small plates to try a wide variety of dishes.

In Japan, tipping is not customary, and in some cases, it may even be considered rude. In izakayas, as in most Japanese establishments, service is included in the price of the dishes. If you are satisfied with the service, a simple "thank you" (arigatou gozaimasu) will suffice.

It goes without saying, but izakayas are not all-night bars. Most close around midnight, or even earlier in certain regions. Be sure to check the establishment's hours to avoid extending your evening beyond the reasonable time limit.

Typical Dishes to Try in an Izakaya

An izakaya typically offers a very diverse menu, catering to all tastes.

• Yakitori – Delicious grilled chicken skewers, often seasoned with soy sauce or salt. You can choose from different parts of the chicken: wings, thighs, liver, etc.

• Sashimi – For raw fish lovers, sashimi is a must-try. These thin slices of fresh fish are usually served with soy sauce and wasabi—a delight for the taste buds.

• Tempura – Lightly battered and fried vegetables or seafood. Crispy and delicious, tempura is a perfect accompaniment to alcoholic drinks.

• Karaage – Japanese-style fried chicken. Marinated, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside, it's an excellent choice to pair with beer or sake.

• Edamame – Boiled soybeans, often served as a light snack to accompany the first drink. Simple yet delicious, they are an ideal way to start the evening.

• Takoyaki – These small dough balls filled with octopus are another popular dish in izakayas, especially in Osaka. Usually served with a sweet sauce and mayonnaise, they are soft and flavorful.

• Gyoza – Dumplings stuffed with meat and vegetables, often lightly grilled and served with a soy-vinegar sauce.

Recommended Izakayas in Tokyo

To fully enjoy the izakaya experience, here are a few recommended places in Tokyo:

• Torikizoku – A popular izakaya chain originating from Osaka, well-known for its affordable yakitori dishes. It’s an excellent choice for beginners who want to experience an izakaya without breaking the bank.

• Shin Hinomoto (Andy's Izakaya) – Located in Ginza, this small izakaya is popular among locals and foreigners alike for its fresh seafood and friendly atmosphere. The owner, Andy, speaks English, which can be helpful for non-Japanese speakers.

• Izakaya Masaka – In Asakusa, this izakaya offers a more traditional ambiance, with rustic decor and a wide selection of sake. It's an ideal place to discover authentic dishes in a cozy setting.

Conclusion

An evening in an izakaya is much more than just a meal—it’s an immersion into Japanese culture, where friendship and sharing take center stage. Whether you’re toasting with friends, discovering new flavors, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, izakayas blend tradition and modernity in a unique way. Following etiquette rules, ordering wisely, and sharing dishes are all part of this exceptional experience. So, on your next trip to Japan, don’t miss the chance to spend an evening in an izakaya for an unforgettable moment.