Izakaya 2025: Japanese Pub Culture, Must-Try Dishes, and How to Order

Izakaya (居酒屋) is a Japanese pub—the go-to place for office workers to destress after work.

1. WHAT IS AN IZAKAYA?

Key Features:

• Red Lanterns (赤提灯 - Aka-chouchin) outside.
• Noisy, energetic atmosphere.
• Focuses on both FOOD and alcoholic drinks.
• Generally affordable and meant for sharing.

Vs. Western Bars:

• Izakayas emphasize SMALL PLATES of food just as much as drinks.

2. THE ORDERING PROCESS

Steps:

1. Otoshi (お通し): A small automatic appetizer (300-500 yen). It’s a compulsory cover charge.
2. Drinks First: Order your first drink immediately ("Toriaezu Beer" - Beer for now).
3. Food: Order several small dishes for everyone to share.

Calling the Staff:

• Raise your hand and say "Sumimasen!" (Excuse me).
• Or press the call button on the table (if available).

3. MUST-TRY IZAKAYA DISHES

Yakitori (焼き鳥 - Grilled Chicken Skewers):

• Price: 100 - 300 yen per skewer.
• Types: Momo (thigh), Negima (thigh/leek), Tsukune (chicken ball).
• Seasoning: Salt (Shio) or Sweet Sauce (Tare).

Edamame (枝豆 - Boiled Soybeans):

• Price: 300 - 500 yen.
• Fact: The most popular appetizer in Japan.

Karaage (唐揚げ - Fried Chicken):

• Price: 500 - 800 yen.
• Fact: Crispy, juicy, and perfect with lemon.

Takoyaki (たこ焼き - Octopus Balls):

• Price: 400 - 600 yen.

Sashimi (刺身):

• Price: 800 - 1,500 yen.

Nabe (鍋 - Hot Pot):

• Price: 1,500 - 3,000 yen (Shared).

4. POPULAR DRINKS

Beer (ビール):

• Brands: Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo.
• Price: 500 - 800 yen per glass.

Highball (ハイボール):

• Content: Whisky + soda.
• Price: 400 - 600 yen.

Sake (日本酒):

• Style: Hot (Atsukan) or Cold (Reishu).

Chu-hai (酎ハイ):

• Content: Shochu + soda + fruit syrup (Lemon, Peach, etc.).

5. POPULAR IZAKAYA CHAINS

Torikizoku (鳥貴族):

• Unique Feature: Every single item is around 350 yen (fixed price).
• Must-try: Large Yakitori skewers.

Watami (和民):

• Unique Feature: Large chain with a massive, diverse menu.
• Cost: 2,000 - 4,000 yen per person.

6. DRINKING ETIQUETTE

• Kampai! (乾杯): Toast before anyone drinks.
• Pour for others: Never pour your own drink; pour for your companions, and they will reciprocate.

7. TYPICAL COST

• Average: 3,000 - 5,000 yen per person for 2-3 hours.
• All-you-can-drink (Nomihoudai): Often available for an extra 1,500 - 2,000 yen.

CONCLUSION

An Izakaya is the best place to experience authentic Japanese social culture. Try it at least once!