Izakaya 101: Your Complete Guide to Japan's Beloved Drinking and Dining Spots

When it comes to drinking establishments around the world, bars and pubs are often the first that come to mind. However, Japan offers a unique drinking experience through its izakayas. These versatile establishments have captivated locals and tourists alike, never failing to entertain due to their incredible diversity. From budget-friendly spots where you can enjoy drinks and food at affordable prices to upscale venues that focus on exquisite food and drink pairings, izakayas cater to all tastes and preferences. Some izakayas charm patrons with their distinctive furniture and interior design, creating a unique atmosphere, while others emphasize entertainment, offering activities like board games, darts, or karaoke. This variety ensures that there's an izakaya for every mood and occasion, making them an integral part of Japan's vibrant nightlife and social scene.

 

Izakaya Drink Menus and Standard Dishes

At the core of every izakaya experience are its drinks and dishes. These establishments offer a wide array of alcoholic beverages and a diverse menu of small plates designed for sharing. Let's explore the most common types of drinks and the staple dishes that form the foundation of izakaya cuisine.

Drink Menus

Three Essential Drinks on Every Japanese Izakaya Menu

1.Beer

Beer, a universally enjoyed beverage, is also popular in Japan. However, in Japanese izakayas, draft beer reigns supreme. Many establishments don't even offer bottled beer. Instead, they serve ice-cold draft beer with a generous head of foam. A common phrase among Japanese patrons is "Toriaezu, nama de" (まずは生で), meaning "Let's start with a draft beer." This reflects the custom of ordering a beer as soon as one is seated, even before looking at the menu. Connoisseurs refer to it simply as "nama" (生) rather than "beer." If you visit a Japanese izakaya, try ordering your beer by saying "nama"!

 

2.Highball

Japanese people love whisky and soda so much that they've given this mixture its own name: highball. It's so ingrained in the culture that some younger people might not even realize it's made with whisky! The most familiar highball for Japanese people is made with Suntory's Kakubin whisky. Variations like oolong-hai (oolong tea highball) and ryokucha-hai (green tea highball) are also very popular.

 

3.Sour (Sawā)

A "sour" or "sawā" in Japanese izakayas is a cocktail made with shochu (a Japanese distilled spirit) mixed with juice or tea. There are many varieties, and different izakayas might have their own unique names for these drinks. However, the lemon sour (remons sawā) is particularly popular, with some izakayas even famous for their signature lemon sour. These drinks often have a sweet or refreshing taste, making them very easy to drink. However, be careful not to overindulge, as the shochu base can lead to a nasty hangover if you're not cautious!

 

Standard Dishes

 Four Standard Dishes Found in Every Japanese Izakaya

1.Edamame

These young soybeans are the perfect accompaniment to beer and can be found in every izakaya. With their light and pleasant flavor, edamame make for an ideal snack. They're not too filling, so you can keep nibbling on them throughout your drinking session.

2.Potato Salad (Potesara)

Often referred to as "potesara," potato salad is a dish where the quality can vary greatly between izakayas. Some places may even let you mix the potatoes, eggs, and mayonnaise yourself. The creamy texture and mild flavor make it a beloved staple.

3.French Fries (Potato Fry)

When you're looking to fill up your stomach with something a bit indulgent, french fries are the perfect choice. Their addictive taste keeps you coming back for more. Many izakayas offer a variety of flavors, such as mentaiko (spicy cod roe) or slightly spicy versions.

 

4.Ume Kyuri (Pickled Plum and Cucumber)

This refreshing dish is uniquely Japanese. The sour taste of the pickled plum (ume) might be an acquired taste for foreigners, but it's a classic palate cleanser in izakayas.

 

Popular Izakaya Chain Restaurants

There are several popular chain restaurants that offer great value for money due to their scale of operations. Here are three well-known izakaya chains:

1.Torikizoku

 This yakitori (grilled chicken skewer) chain is famous for its affordability, with all menu items priced at 328 yen (360 yen including tax). This pricing strategy has helped Torikizoku attract a wide range of customers, from office workers to students and seniors. No other izakaya chain of this scale offers such low prices across their entire menu.

 

2.Doma Doma

 The name "Doma Doma" comes from the word "doma," which refers to an earthen floor in traditional Japanese houses where families would gather. This izakaya chain aims to recreate that warm, communal atmosphere. They invite customers to enjoy delicious food and drinks with good friends in a relaxed environment.

 

3.Isomaru Suisan

This seafood-focused izakaya chain boasts round-the-clock operations, catering to various customer demographics at all hours. They offer incredibly cheap draft beer at lunchtime for just 300 yen, and their popular seafood rice bowls come in 20 different varieties. Isomaru Suisan stands out for its prime locations, low prices, high-quality offerings, and 24-hour service, making it a quadruple threat in the izakaya market.

 

The Charm of Independently Owned Izakayas

While chain izakayas offer consistency and affordability, independently owned establishments bring their own unique charm to the table. These local gems often stand out for their distinctive interiors and mouth-watering dishes. Let's explore what makes these independent izakayas so special, focusing on their captivating atmospheres and culinary delights.

 

Captivating Interiors of Independent Izakayas

Some independent izakayas beautifully blend traditional Japanese elements with modern aesthetics. In this image, we see an izakaya adorned with paper lanterns and featuring horigotatsu (low tables with recessed floors for legs), creating an authentic yet stylish Japanese atmosphere.

 

Other izakayas opt for a more eclectic and lively ambiance. This image showcases an izakaya with a disco ball, creating a fun and energetic environment.

 

A hallmark of many independent izakayas is their attention to detail, extending even to the restrooms. This image reveals a restroom area decorated with movie posters, music memorabilia, and quirky decorations, demonstrating the owner's personality and dedication to creating a memorable experience throughout the entire establishment.

 

Delectable Dishes

At independent izakayas, the culinary experience often surpasses expectations. Japan's rich food culture is beautifully represented in these establishments, offering a diverse array of dishes. Let's explore some mouthwatering offerings our staff encountered during their izakaya visits:

Jingisukan, a famous dish from Hokkaido, is a healthy and flavorful lamb barbecue. The image shows a sizzling grill of vegetables and meat, accompanied by a refreshing beer. This combination is not only delicious but also perfectly embodies the izakaya dining experience.

 

Kushikatsu, a specialty from Osaka, features skewered and deep-fried meat and vegetables. The image displays a variety of golden, crispy kushikatsu alongside dipping sauces and a cold beer. Some izakayas offer unique ingredients as kushikatsu, adding an element of surprise to your dining adventure.

 

The omelette pictured here is a prime example of home-style cooking often found in independent izakayas. Topped with bonito flakes and served with a side of grated radish, this dish captures the essence of Japanese comfort food.

 

French fries are a staple in many izakayas. The image shows a generous portion of crispy fries served in a traditional bamboo basket, accompanied by ketchup. It's a familiar yet satisfying side dish that pairs well with beer and other izakaya favorites.

HOW WAS IT?

We hope this journey through the world of izakayas has piqued your interest and expanded your knowledge of this quintessential Japanese dining experience. From the vibrant atmosphere of chain establishments to the unique charm of independent izakayas, there's truly something for everyone.

Did you find an izakaya that caught your eye? Perhaps you're intrigued by the traditional ambiance of places like Torikizoku, or maybe the eclectic decor and personalized touch of independent establishments have captured your imagination. Whether you're craving the savory delight of jingisukan, the crispy indulgence of kushikatsu, or simply looking forward to saying "Toriaezu, nama!" as you order your first draft beer, the izakaya world awaits your exploration.

Remember, izakayas are more than just places to eat and drink – they're a window into Japanese culture, social life, and culinary artistry. So, the next time you find yourself in Japan, step into an izakaya and immerse yourself in this unique dining experience. Kanpai!