In Japan, people regularly eat out, mainly for practical, professional, and/or social reasons. One of the most typical options? Izakaya (居酒屋), whose three kanji characters mean "to stay," "alcohol," and "roof." As you might have guessed, it's a place where you sit down to have a drink.
The izakaya (居酒屋), 100% social
Izakaya (居酒屋) are first and foremost convivial dining spaces, somewhere between a brasserie and a pub. Of course, you can go alone, but… that would be strange! They are truly designed for small groups. People go there to spend time with friends or to socialize with colleagues over drinks, often alcoholic (non-alcoholic drinks are also served!).
Izakaya (居酒屋) menu and prices
Let's be honest, the quality of the food served isn't remarkable—it's not a restaurant, after all. The simple, easy-to-prepare dishes pair perfectly with the drinks. The selection is vast, ranging from traditional karaage (fried chicken) to (less traditional) pizza, as well as sashimi, skewers, and salads. Dishes are generally served in small or individual portions. There's no need to order everything at once; you can add to your order when you refill your drinks.
In terms of drinks, you'll have a choice of beer, sake, shochu, whisky, and wine. Popular mixes include whisky and soda and "sour drinks" (shochu with soda and fruit flavorings).
The prices are very attractive, which explains why izakaya (居酒屋) are so popular. For example, drinks cost on average between €1.50 and €4, and the food is also very affordable. Furthermore, these establishments offer all-you-can-eat options.
– 食べ放題 (tabehodai) for food
– 飲み放題 (nomihodai) for drinks
Some tips
You will be greeted with an otoshi (お通し), a small dish that informs the customer that an "entrance fee" will be charged at the end of the meal for each person. The contents vary from izakaya (居酒屋) to the restaurant: be curious and don't hesitate to try!
Please note: most establishments are not suitable for vegetarians/vegans. Check the menu or ask the staff to make sure the salad you just ordered isn't topped with cheese or bacon!
Most izakaya (居酒屋) are smoking establishments. While non-smoking areas exist, smoking is traditionally permitted inside. Rest assured, ventilation is quite efficient in modern izakaya (居酒屋).
When the bill arrives, if you want to do as the Japanese do, make an X by crossing your index fingers and the bill will be brought to you. It's customary to split the bill equally. Using the electronic tablet for ordering food, you'll have an option to divide the total price by the number of people to make things easier.
Some addresses
The best yokocho (横丁, narrow streets lined with red lanterns signaling bars and izakaya) in Tokyo are located within walking distance of stations in business districts and major city districts, such as Shinjuku (including the Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai alleys), Shibuya, Ebisu (Ebisu Yokocho), Shimbashi and Ueno (Ameyoko).
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