What is a Japanese "Izakaya"? How to Enjoy it and Recommended Izakaya Areas in Tokyo
A Japanese "Izakaya" is not just an ordinary dining establishment; it’s a special place where you can connect with locals and experience Japanese culture up close. From fresh sashimi and yakitori to light snacks and fried dishes, izakayas offer a wide variety of menu items, all showcasing the unique flavours of Japan. Another part of their charm lies in their lively atmosphere and the distinct, characterful spaces that differ from one venue to another.
Here, we will introduce some must-try popular dishes at Japanese izakayas, which set them apart from bars and restaurants overseas, as well as how to access areas in Tokyo with a high concentration of izakayas. With its casual conversations and relaxed atmosphere, visiting an izakaya can become an unforgettable highlight of your trip to Japan.
Table of Contents
■ What Exactly is an Izakaya?
■ What Makes an Izakaya Different from a Restaurant?
■ How to Enjoy an Izakaya: Essential Rules
・ From Seating to the “Otoshi” (Appetizer)
・ Placing Your Order
・ Enjoying Food and Drinks
・ Settling the Bill
■ Types of Izakayas in Tokyo
・ "Tachinomiya" (Standing Bars)
・ "Kakuuchi" (Drink and Shop Combo)
・ "Taishu Sakaba" (Traditional Local Taverns)
・ Dining Bars
■ Must-Try Dishes at Japanese Izakayas in Tokyo
・ Edamame
・ Morokyu (Cucumber with Miso Dip)
・ Takowasa (Octopus with Wasabi)
・ Hiyayakko (Chilled Tofu)
・ Potato Salad
■ Recommended Tokyo Areas for Izakaya Exploration
・ Shinjuku – One of Japan’s Bustling Entertainment Hubs!
・ Shibuya – A Trendsetting Hotspot!
・ Yurakucho – Discover Hidden Gems for Adults!
・ Asakusa – Enjoy Drinks at Historic Local Establishments!
・ Ueno – Plenty of Daytime Drinking Options!
■ Convenient Ways to Get Around Tokyo for an Izakaya Tour
■ Where to Experience an Izakaya Vibe in the UK
・ MUGEN
■ What Exactly is an Izakaya?
Izakayas are traditional Japanese establishments where you can enjoy a relaxed and casual atmosphere while savouring a variety of dishes alongside alcoholic beverages. The word 居酒屋 (izakaya) is composed of three kanji characters: 居 (i) meaning "stay," 酒 (saka) meaning "sake" or alcohol, and 屋 (ya) meaning "shop." This hints at the concept—a place where people linger to drink and eat. It’s a setting where friends or colleagues can gather to chat over delicious Japanese sake, beer, yakitori, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes in an informal setting.
The roots of izakayas date back to the Edo period (1603–1868), a time when Japan’s drinking culture began to thrive. A popular saying, “Kyoto for fashion, Osaka for food, and Edo (Tokyo) for drinking,” reflects this cultural shift. The term izakaya also originated during this era, establishing the concept of staying to drink rather than just buying alcohol to take away.
Modern izakayas offer a wide range of atmospheres and menus. Some specialise in seafood or focus on yakitori, while others reflect diverse styles—traditional lively izakayas with a bustling vibe, quiet and refined izakayas, or even daytime drinking establishments (hirunomi). Each izakaya brings its own unique charm, catering to various preferences.
For foreign visitors, izakayas are especially appealing because they offer an opportunity to enjoy Japan's distinctive ingredients and drinks simultaneously. Moreover, the lively and friendly atmosphere provides a wonderful chance to immerse oneself in Japan's social culture, creating memorable and enjoyable experiences.
■ What Makes an Izakaya Different from a Restaurant?
While both izakayas and restaurants serve as places to enjoy meals with close friends or family, izakayas offer a more casual and relaxed environment where food and drinks are enjoyed together. It’s common for people to gather with friends or colleagues after work for a laid-back evening of extended eating and drinking at an izakaya.
Restaurants, on the other hand, primarily focus on the meal itself, often specialising in specific cuisines or providing a more structured dining experience. Particularly outside Japan, there is often a clear distinction: you go to a restaurant for food and to a bar for drinks. In contrast, izakayas blend the best of both worlds, allowing patrons to enjoy both food and alcohol in one convenient and sociable setting.
In restaurants outside Japan, it’s common to choose a fixed course in advance—starting with appetisers, followed by soup, fish, and meat dishes. In contrast, izakayas allow for a more flexible and spontaneous dining experience. You can order drinks and dishes as you go, based on your mood at the time.
Portions at izakayas are typically smaller and more affordable, making it easy to try a variety of flavours without committing to large servings. This approach not only enhances the dining experience but also helps you discover your favourite dishes along the way.
■ How to Enjoy an Izakaya: Essential Rules
There are various styles of izakayas, but here are the basic steps and manners for enjoying an izakaya experience from entry to payment:
【The Flow from Entry to Bill】
- Seating and Receiving the "Otoshi" (Appetizer)
- Placing Your Order
- Enjoying Food and Drinks
- Settling the Bill
・ Seating and Receiving the "Otoshi" (Appetizer)
In Japanese izakayas, after you arrive and sit down, it is common to receive a small dish called an "otoshi" before placing your order. The otoshi is a unique Japanese service, typically a light dish offered by the restaurant as a way to enjoy something while you wait for your main orders. This small appetizer often reflects the seasonal ingredients or the restaurant's unique character.
It's important to note that the otoshi is not a free service. A charge, usually a few hundred yen, is added to your bill as part of the seat charge. For those visiting for the first time, this might come as a surprise, but it’s worth understanding that Japan does not have a tipping system, so the otoshi can be thought of as a kind of "tip" or service charge built into the dining experience.
・ Placing Your Order
The typical ordering process at an izakaya is to first sit down, order a drink, and then follow with food. It's common to say something simple like "Namabīru onegaishimasu" (a beer, please) or "Uroncha wo hitotsu" (one oolong tea, please). Depending on the izakaya, you may order directly from the staff, press a call button at your table, or use a tablet to place your order.
Many izakayas offer daily specials or chef’s recommendations, so it’s a good idea to ask the staff about what’s on offer.
Since izakayas typically serve food in small portions, it’s common to share dishes among the group and enjoy a variety of flavours. In Japanese izakayas, the last dish you order is called "shime" (〆), usually a carbohydrate-based dish such as rice or noodles. This practice is thought to help replenish the sugars used up in the body while consuming alcohol. So, after enjoying drinks and snacks, it's a nice touch to finish with a rice or noodle dish to complete your izakaya experience.
・ Enjoying Food and Drinks
At an izakaya, you can order additional dishes at any time, so it’s common to place orders gradually throughout the evening. However, during busy times or peak hours, there may be a time limit imposed on your stay. For example, there might be a 90-minute or 120-minute limit, and you’ll typically hear a "last order" announcement from the staff before the time is up. You’ll need to place your final order before this point.
This time limit is a unique aspect of Japan's hospitality culture, designed to allow more customers to experience the izakaya atmosphere. By implementing these limits, izakayas can manage the flow of customers, easing congestion and ensuring that everyone has a comfortable experience.
Understanding these rules will help you enjoy your time at the izakaya smoothly and comfortably.
・ Settling the Bill
The typical method for paying at an izakaya involves receiving a bill at your table and paying at the till. The bill may be left on your table throughout your visit or brought to you by the staff when it's time to settle up. Many izakayas now accept both cash and credit card payments, but it’s always a good idea to confirm the accepted payment methods beforehand for peace of mind.
In addition to the food and drinks, charges for the otoshi (appetizer) and service fees may be included in the final bill. These are generally added to the total amount at the time of payment. During busy times, the till may get crowded, so it’s advisable to allow some extra time when settling the bill.
■ Types of Izakayas in Tokyo
There are various types of izakayas, each offering a unique experience.
- "Tachinomiya" (Standing Bars)
- "Kakuuchi" (Drink and Shop Combo)
- "Taishu Sakaba" (Traditional Local Taverns)
- Dining Bars
While they may appear similar at first glance, understanding the distinctive features and charm of each type will help you find the izakaya that best suits your preferences.
・ "Tachinomiya" (Standing Bars)
A tachinomiya (standing bar) is a type of izakaya where you drink while standing, offering a uniquely casual and friendly atmosphere. Since there are no seats, it’s perfect for a quick stop to enjoy a drink in a short amount of time. It’s a popular spot for Japanese workers to unwind after a long day, providing a great opportunity to experience a part of Japan’s working culture.
At a tachinomiya, you’ll often find yourself drinking alongside locals, which can lead to spontaneous conversations and interactions. For tourists, this provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local vibe and experience Japan’s social culture up close.
・ "Kakuuchi" (Drink and Shop Combo)
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Kakuuchi is a unique style of izakaya found within liquor stores, where you can enjoy drinks right on-site.
In these establishments, you can purchase alcohol from the shop and then drink it in a designated standing area or within the store itself. The charm of kakuuchi lies in the ability to taste local specialties, such as sake or shochu, right where they are sold.
This style of izakaya offers a welcoming, homely atmosphere, often fostering interaction with locals. For tourists, kakuuchi presents a special opportunity to experience Japan's traditional drinking culture. It’s a great way to casually drop by, soak in the local atmosphere, and enjoy unique drinks and snacks while connecting with the culture.
・ "Taishu Sakaba" (Traditional Local Taverns)
Image source:【東京・大衆酒場の名店】渋谷に復活!「立呑 富士屋本店」のカウンターで伝説の立ち飲みを楽しむ噺 - 酒噺│もっとお酒が楽しくなる情報サイト (It will redirect you to an external site.)
A taishu sakaba (traditional local tavern) is an izakaya style that is characterized by its affordability and casual, down-to-earth atmosphere.
It’s a popular choice for gathering with friends or colleagues, offering a relaxed environment where you can enjoy food and drinks without breaking the bank. The menu typically features a wide variety of traditional Japanese dishes, such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), sashimi, fried foods, and simmered dishes.
Another key appeal of a taishu sakaba is its lively atmosphere. The sounds of chatter, laughter, and the clinking of glasses fill the air, creating a vibrant setting where you can bond with locals while enjoying your meal. It’s an ideal spot to experience the energy of Japanese social life while savouring delicious food.
・ Dining Bars
A dining bar is a type of dining establishment that bridges the gap between an izakaya and a restaurant, offering a more sophisticated atmosphere where you can enjoy both drinks and food. With stylish interiors and soft lighting, it creates a casual yet special environment, ideal for a relaxed yet refined experience.
At a dining bar, you’ll find a wide selection of beverages, including beer, sake, and wine, and the menu often includes not only traditional Japanese cuisine but also Western dishes and creative fusion options.
The appeal of a dining bar lies in its versatility. Whether you’re on a date, gathering with friends, or celebrating a special occasion, it’s a place where you can tailor your experience to suit the occasion. The relaxed ambiance makes it perfect for enjoying conversation, allowing you to savor a leisurely time that’s unique to this type of establishment.
■ Must-Try Dishes at Japanese Izakayas in Tokyo
Japanese izakayas offer a unique experience where delicious food and a lively atmosphere come together to create something truly special. When visiting an izakaya in Japan, there are certain popular and classic dishes that you absolutely must try. Here are some of the must-try menu items:
- Edamame
- Morokyu (Cucumber with Miso Dip)
- Takowasa (Octopus with Wasabi)
- Hiyayakko (Chilled Tofu)
- Potato Salad
These dishes are often considered "speed menus" at izakayas, meaning they are typically served quickly after ordering. Since the portions are usually small, you can try a variety of different dishes, making it easy to discover your favorite izakaya foods. This is one of the joys of dining at an izakaya during your trip to Japan – sampling various flavours and enjoying the casual, relaxed atmosphere while doing so.
・ Edamame
Edamame is undoubtedly a classic item on any izakaya menu and is almost always ordered. The balance of saltiness is perfect, and the light, refreshing taste pairs wonderfully with beer and other alcoholic drinks. It's an ideal snack to enjoy casually and is also a healthy choice. Interestingly, edamame is said to have the effect of preventing intoxication and hangovers, so having some at the start of your drinking session might help you enjoy the rest of your trip without the downsides of overindulgence.
For those who want to enjoy delicious edamame at home, you can easily find it on our online shop. Fresh and perfect for snacking, edamame can be prepared at home by cutting about 5mm from each side of the pods, then boiling them in salted water. This will allow the flavor to fully penetrate, giving you a taste of Japan's izakayas in the comfort of your own home!
Edamame pairs particularly well with beer or sake, especially Junmai sake.
・ Morokyu (Cucumber with Miso Dip)
Morokyu is a simple yet delightful izakaya dish made with fresh cucumber served with moromi miso. The name "morokyu" comes from the combination of the first syllables of moro (moromi) and kyu (cucumber). The crisp texture of the cucumber pairs perfectly with the rich, salty taste of the fermented moromi miso, creating an exquisite contrast.
Moromi refers to the softened, solidified residue formed during the fermentation process of ingredients like sake, soy sauce, or miso. It has a subtle sweetness and a unique grainy texture. Light and healthy, morokyu is often enjoyed as a refreshing snack between heavier dishes.
Morokyu pairs exceptionally well with sake, making it an ideal choice when ordering this dish. If you're looking for good sake, it can easily be found at our online shop. The moromi miso also has a long shelf life, making it a perfect souvenir. Why not bring a piece of Japan's izakaya culture into your home and enjoy it with some sake?
Morokyu pairs wonderfully not only with traditional sake but also with more unique varieties, such as namagenshu (unpasteurized sake) and sparkling sake.
・ Takowasa (Octopus with Wasabi)
Takowasa is a popular izakaya dish made from freshly chopped octopus mixed with wasabi, creating a sharp and spicy flavour. The firm texture of the octopus and the heat of the wasabi complement each other perfectly, making it an ideal pairing with alcohol, especially sake. Its refreshing texture and light taste make it a great palate cleanser, easily enjoyed alongside other dishes, which is why it's a favourite among many snack options. Takowasa offers a simple yet impactful flavour, providing a truly authentic adult snack experience unique to Japan.
Wasabi is a uniquely Japanese condiment that is used with various ingredients. It’s not only a common feature in izakaya menus, but in Japan, you might even come across wasabi-flavoured ice cream. If you find it, be sure to give it a try.
Wasabi-flavoured foods pair well with alcohol, and they are sure to bring back memories of your time in Japan. On the following page, we offer wasabi-flavoured beans, perfect for a light snack and an easy way to enjoy the wasabi flavour.
・ Hiyayakko (Chilled Tofu)
Hiyayakko (chilled tofu) is a simple and healthy dish made by serving cold tofu topped with condiments and soy sauce. Common toppings include spring onions, ginger, and bonito flakes (katsuobushi), each adding its own fragrance and flavour to complement the delicate taste of the tofu. It is low in calories and has a refreshing, light flavour, making it a popular dish at izakayas, especially as a palate cleanser between heavier dishes like deep-fried foods.
Particularly in summer, its cool, smooth texture is refreshing, and it pairs well with alcohol, making it a dish loved by many throughout the year. For a light and simple hiyayakko, it is recommended to pair it with a light-bodied sake, such as regular sake or a mild Honjozo with low acidity.
The following page offers tofu that is perfect for chilled tofu (hiyayakko). You can easily enjoy an izakaya-style dish at home without any preparation. In the colder winter months, you can also warm it up in hot water to make a delicious hot tofu dish (yudofu).
In addition, we offer a variety of other tofu products, so be sure to check them out.
・ Potato Salad
Potato salad is a creamy, comforting dish made with boiled and mashed potatoes, mayonnaise, and mixed vegetables or ham. Ingredients like onions, cucumbers, and carrots add texture and create a simple yet satisfying dish. Thanks to its mild flavour and ease of eating, potato salad is a staple in izakayas.
While izakayas often serve rich, strongly flavoured snacks, potato salad offers a soothing, mellow taste that pairs well with drinks, making it an easy and enjoyable choice.
Potato salad goes well with a wide range of alcoholic beverages, making it a perfect accompaniment to your drinks. It’s also made from ingredients that are readily available abroad, so it’s easy to prepare at home. Why not recreate the izakaya experience by pairing potato salad with some Japanese alcohol?
On the following page, we offer authentic shochu that pairs excellently with potato salad. Sweet potato shochu, made from sweet potatoes, is an ideal match for this dish.
We also offer sweet potato shochu in convenient, single-serving sizes with low alcohol content, perfect for enjoying without the need for mixing.
■ Recommended Tokyo Areas for Izakaya Exploration
According to a survey, Japan has over 300,000 izakayas. In particular, Tokyo is home to several areas densely packed with izakayas, so if you take a stroll, you're likely to come across a fascinating izakaya that catches your interest.
Area | Access |
Shinjuku | Take the Keikyu Airport Line Express bound for Keisei-Takasago from Haneda Airport Terminal 1・2 Station. At Shinagawa Station, transfer to the JR Yamanote Line towards Shibuya and Shinjuku, and get off at Shinjuku Station. The total journey time is approximately 1 hour. |
Shibuya | Take the Keikyu Airport Line Express bound for Keisei-Takasago from Haneda Airport Terminal 1・2 Station. At Shinagawa Station, transfer to the JR Yamanote Line (outer loop) towards Shibuya, and get off at Shibuya Station. The total journey time is approximately 45 minutes. |
Yurakucho | Take the Tokyo Monorail bound for Hamamatsucho from Haneda Airport Terminal 1・2 Station. At Hamamatsucho Station, transfer to the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line (heading towards Omiya) and get off at Yurakucho Station. The total journey time is approximately 40 minutes. |
Asakusa | Take the Keikyu Airport Line Express bound for Inba-Nihon-Idai from Haneda Airport Terminal 1・2 Station. Get off at Asakusa Station. The total journey time is approximately 1 hour. |
Ueno | Take the Tokyo Monorail bound for Hamamatsucho from Haneda Airport Terminal 1・2 Station. At Hamamatsucho Station, transfer to the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line or Negishi Line bound for Omiya. Get off at Ueno Station. The total journey time is approximately 50 minutes. |
There are direct flights from Heathrow Airport to Haneda Airport. Since all areas are within an hour's reach from Haneda, why not take the opportunity to explore further?
・ Shinjuku – One of Japan’s Bustling Entertainment Hubs!
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo's premier nightlife districts, bustling with a diverse range of izakaya. Particularly notable is ‘Shinjuku Golden Gai’, where clusters of traditional, small-scale izakaya create a nostalgic atmosphere, offering a deep dive into Japan’s unique drinking culture.
Another popular spot is ‘Omoide Yokocho’ near Shinjuku West Exit, a casual area lined with food stall-style izakaya, perfect for a quick and relaxed drink. Shinjuku offers a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity, making it an unforgettable experience for many international visitors.
・ Shibuya – A Trendsetting Hotspot!
Shibuya, known as a hub of youth culture, is characterised by its trendy and stylish izakayas. In areas such as ‘Center-gai’ and ‘Shibuya Yokocho’, you'll find dining bars and chic izakayas catering to young crowds, offering a sophisticated atmosphere and a variety of international cuisines. Additionally, the area around Shibuya's famous Scramble Crossing is home to bustling izakaya streets, where casual conversations and lively music fill the air, creating a vibrant night-time scene. Shibuya's modern and creative izakaya culture is truly captivating.
・ Yurakucho – Discover Hidden Gems for Adults!
Yurakucho is known as a district for office workers, making it a popular izakaya spot for businesspeople unwinding after work. The izakayas under the railway tracks are often casual standing bars or traditional pubs, creating a relaxed atmosphere typical of a business area. Many of these establishments are both sophisticated and approachable, offering tourists a unique opportunity to mingle with Japan's working community and immerse themselves in the local drinking culture.
・ Asakusa – Enjoy Drinks at Historic Local Establishments!
Asakusa is a district rich in history and culture, home to numerous traditional izakayas. The old-fashioned establishments around Senso-ji Temple, with their Japanese-style interiors, preserve the izakaya culture that dates back to the Edo period. Some venues even offer unique local delicacies, such as motsuyaki (grilled offal) and dojo (loach) dishes, iconic to Asakusa. With its historical scenery, Asakusa offers visitors an experience that feels like stepping back in time, creating unforgettable memories for foreign tourists.
・ Ueno – Plenty of Daytime Drinking Options!
Ueno is an area where culture and nature blend seamlessly, with casual taverns lining the streets around Ueno Station. Its appeal lies in the ease of dropping by after visiting Ueno Park or the nearby museums. At ‘Ameya-Yokocho (Ameyoko)’, the vibrant market atmosphere is complemented by rows of izakayas, where you can enjoy affordable and delicious food and drinks. Retaining a nostalgic, old-fashioned charm, Ueno offers visitors a chance to relax after sightseeing and immerse themselves in the warm, down-to-earth izakaya culture.
■ Convenient Ways to Get Around Tokyo for an Izakaya Tour
Tokyo offers a variety of transportation options, making it incredibly convenient to navigate the city. With a well-developed transit network, there is rarely any need to rely on rental cars or taxis. Below, we introduce the main modes of transportation in Tokyo, so you can choose the most suitable option to reach your destination.
Mode of Transport | Overview |
JR Yamanote Line | A circular train line connecting Tokyo's major areas, including Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ueno. Highly recommended for first-time visitors to Tokyo, as it covers many key tourist destinations. |
Tokyo Metro | An extensive subway network crisscrossing the city, offering access to areas not served by the Yamanote Line. Ideal for efficiently reaching even the smaller corners of popular tourist spots. |
Toei Lines | Subway lines operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, extending to areas slightly outside the reach of the Metro. Useful for visiting both tourist attractions and business districts. |
Toei Bus | Perfect for accessing areas without train service or for reaching specific spots in more detail. Recommended for exploring places far from train stations or for sightseeing tours. |
During weekday rush hours (commonly around 9 AM for start times and 5 PM for end times in most Japanese companies), trains can become so crowded that boarding might be nearly impossible. If you've seen videos of Japan's packed trains on social media, you’ll understand why this time is not ideal for first-time visitors.
Japanese trains and subways are remarkably punctual, with announcements of apology even for delays of just 1-2 minutes. If you miss a train, there’s no need to worry, as another will usually arrive within a few minutes. Take the opportunity to appreciate the precision and cleanliness of Japan’s transport system as you explore the city.
■ Where to Experience an Izakaya Vibe in the UK
There are restaurants in the UK where you can experience the flavours and hospitality of a Japanese izakaya. Here, we introduce recommended restaurants where you can enjoy the authentic atmosphere of a Japanese izakaya and classic izakaya dishes.
Restaurant Name | Access |
MUGEN | 9-15 Leather Lane, London EC1N 7ST |
・MUGEN
Image source:https://www.mugen.london/ (It will redirect you to an external site.)
MUGEN is a family-run Japanese restaurant located in the heart of Holborn, London. Here, you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine and izakaya-style dishes while experiencing traditional Japanese hospitality.
At MUGEN, you can savour classic izakaya favourites featured in this article, such as edamame, potato salad, and tako-wasa. In addition, they offer Japanese delicacies like agedashi tofu and dashimaki tamago, showcasing the rich and umami flavours of traditional Japanese dashi.
Recommended Dishes at MUGEN (Examples):
・Edamame(£4.80)
・Potato salad(£6.80)
・Cucumber marinated in vinegar, soy and chilli(£6.20)
・Octopus in wasabi leaves(£10.80)
・Japanese omelette(£6.90)
・Agedashi crispy tofu in light dashi sauce(£8.20)
・Seared beef in yuzu ponzu(£18.80)
・Yakitori chicken(£3.90)
・Hot soba/udon noodle(£4.80)
・Japanese rice balls(£3.50)
・Green tea poured over rice(£5.80)
In Japanese izakaya culture, it is common to enjoy ochazuke (rice with tea or broth) as a final dish to close a night of drinking. At MUGEN, you can also savour regional specialties from across Japan, such as Kansai-style kushi-katsu (deep-fried skewers), Osaka’s famous tonpeiyaki (pork and egg pancake), Miyazaki-originated chicken nanban (fried chicken with tartar sauce), and Okinawa’s iconic goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry).
In addition to classic izakaya dishes, MUGEN offers a wide selection of traditional Japanese cuisine, including sushi and shabu-shabu (hot pot), making it an ideal restaurant for celebratory occasions. True to its name, MUGEN invites you to experience the beginning of a dreamlike time. Enjoy authentic Japanese food culture and warm hospitality.
Essential Information about MUGEN: