Izakaya Food Restaurants(67)
Eitaroya
In this kappo izakaya, savor Kyoto-style drinking snacks and traditional sake under the convivial service of the owner.
Nihonshuzammai Utsutsuyo
Beer might be the first order of business for a customary toast, but at one of the best bars in Osaka, sake is the name of the game — and what you should order next.
Izakaya Tokitame
Close to Fukushima Station, this low-key izakaya might no longer be a secret address, but the couple who run it still serves homespun dishes and pub grubs with an international flair.
Sanbongi Shoten
Preservation of the old ways is a surprising theme at this Michelin Bib Gourmand eatery, which prides itself on rustic grilled game meat and organic wines.
Okinawa Paradise
Escape to the sunny isles of Okinawa at this Shinjuku restaurant specializing in the comfort food of the islands.
Taketomijima
This Tokyo izakaya presents the best alcohol and food that Okinawa has to offer, and holds the same chilled-out atmosphere inside.
Warayakiya Shinjuku
Get a taste of Kochi Prefecture at an izakaya which uses a historic straw grilling technique to lock in the umami flavor of their dishes.
Dachibin
An Okinawan izakaya gastropub with authentic ingredients, excellent regional alcohol, and an unmistakably Okinawan atmosphere.
Umaya
Enjoy a higher class of izakaya drinking and dining, at a gastropub owned by a famous name in kabuki.
Unjami
An izakaya which channels the laid-back spirit of Okinawa through fantastic authentic dishes and the islands’ favorite alcohols.
Ginza Nominokoji Yamagishi
Operated by a venerable Kyoto kappo venue, this upscale Izakaya in Ginza serves a Michelin-selected menu in an elegant setting late into the night.
Suigyo Murabayashi
In a dining landscape seemingly obsessed with going above and beyond, the owner-chef strikes an unusual chord among food critics with his admiration for fish at its most pared back.
Bang Bang
One of Niseko Hirafu ski resorts’ first Japanese izakaya, Bang Bang offers yakitori and fresh and seasonal Hokkaido seafood and vegetables in an intimate, mountain hut-style venue at the bottom of the slopes.

Tatemichiya
A punk izakaya with a subculture theme, relaxed vibes, and delicious dishes cooked up by a long-time rocker chef.

Nagahori Izakaya
Handpicked ingredients cooked with the finest technique, all explained to you by the master chef himself.

Asadachi
A Japanese “stamina” restaurant in Shinjuku which serves unconventional dishes claimed to give vitality to diners.
Torikichi Uokichi
Wallet-friendly, high-quality izakaya dining showing off the best Kyushu has to offer, from land and sea. Enjoy living it up with local sake, local horse meat, and 5-hour stewed chicken, all served in private rooms.

Rokkaku
Forget the chain izakayas — this Azabujuban gastropub offers Michelin-starred dining and premium bottles of sake.
Shunzentamusake Soan
An izakaya with a relaxed but dignified atmosphere, where you can really get to grips with the intricacies of sake and traditional Japanese food.

Kannomiho
Osaka locals linger longer over a cup of warmed sake and retro post-war pop tunes in this old-timey izakaya, where the staff knows their drinks like the back of their hands.
Ahbon
Feast your eyes on the colorful array of ingredients on display here, transformed into delicious fried skewers you’ll be craving for weeks.

Kotaro
A classic Japanese pub in Shibuya which raises the bar on casual after-work dining and drinks.
Sanchokuya Taka
Judge for yourself the master chef's technique and approach to fresh seafood and shellfish with every bite.
Shuhai
A restaurant with excellent sake, where dishes are prepared to bring out the best in its bottles.

Muromachi Kaji
Muromachi Kaji has a winning way with Kyoto-style kaiseki, which pairs well with its impressive selection of sake

Esaki
An oden specialty restaurant in Tokyo, serving soul-warming Japanese comfort food.
MASU‐KAME
A local izakaya in Shinagawa with some outstanding all-you-can eat and free flow drink deals — eat and drink til you drop!

Ryomakaido Shinagawa
Get a taste of Shikoku (along with more than a few tastes of sake) at this Shinagawa izakaya which is perfect for big parties.

Discover the Rich Tastes of Izakaya Food
If you're seeking a genuine taste of Japan, Izakaya food is where it’s at. Izakayas are Japanese-style pubs known for their relaxed ambiance and a menu bursting with delicious small plates designed to complement a good drink. Whether you're new to Japanese cuisine or a seasoned sushi fan, Izakaya food offers a delightful array of flavors that will keep you coming back for more. From savory skewers to mouthwatering seafood, there's something on the menu for everyone.
Authentic Izakaya Experience
Izakaya restaurants are perfect for social gatherings, offering a cozy atmosphere that invites diners to relax and enjoy good company alongside good food. The menu typically features an assortment of small dishes, akin to tapas, that make for easy sharing. Try a variety of items like crispy, chargrilled yakitori, tender sashimi, hearty ramen, and tempura. Pair these with sake or a refreshing Japanese beer for the ultimate Izakaya dining experience. Don’t miss trying the regional specialties that many Izakayas offer, giving you insights into local culinary secrets.
Finding the Perfect Izakaya Restaurant
Selecting the right Izakaya restaurant can enhance your dining experience. Look for places that maintain an authentic style with traditional tatami mats or modern Izakayas with sleek décor that still echo the charm of these beloved Japanese pubs. Consider the restaurant's menu variety, quality of ingredients, and beverage offerings. Some Izakayas offer open kitchens so you can watch as the chefs expertly prepare your dishes, adding another layer to the experience. Whether you’re on a local outing or an adventurous trip, finding an ideal Izakaya is integral to unlocking the full culinary potential of Japanese culture.
Now, dive into the world of Izakaya food and enjoy a genuine taste of Japan's vibrant dining scene. Finding the perfect restaurant will bring you closer to understanding the rich, cultural vibes that these unique eateries offer.