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1. What is an Izakaya?
An izakaya is a type of casual Japanese bar where people gather to enjoy drinks and a wide variety of small, shareable dishes. Often compared to pubs or tapas bars, izakayas are a cornerstone of Japanese social life, offering a relaxed atmosphere where coworkers, friends, and families can unwind after a long day.
The word “izakaya” is a combination of “i” (to stay) and “sakaya” (sake shop), reflecting the origins of these establishments as liquor stores where customers could sit and drink on the premises. Today, izakayas can range from cozy neighborhood joints to modern, stylish venues in busy urban areas.
Unlike formal dining in traditional Japanese restaurants, izakaya dining is informal and lively. Patrons usually order several small plates over the course of an evening, sharing dishes and trying a variety of flavors. Popular offerings include grilled skewers (yakitori), sashimi, fried items like karaage (Japanese fried chicken), and seasonal specialties.
Prices are generally reasonable, with many dishes costing between ¥300–¥800 (approximately $2–$6 USD), making it easy to sample a wide array without breaking the bank. Drinks are also a major part of the izakaya experience, with choices like beer, sake, shochu, and highballs readily available and often served in generous pours.
Visiting an izakaya is not just about eating and drinking—it’s about experiencing a unique part of Japanese culture. Whether you’re traveling in Japan or exploring a Japanese neighborhood abroad, stepping into an izakaya offers an authentic and memorable taste of local life.
2. Why Small Plates are Perfect for Izakaya Dining
One of the defining features of izakaya dining is the emphasis on small plates, known as “kozara” in Japanese. These dishes are crafted for sharing, making them ideal for social gatherings and allowing everyone at the table to try a variety of flavors and textures. This format encourages a communal style of eating that reflects the warm and casual spirit of an izakaya.
Small plates also allow diners to explore a wide spectrum of Japanese cuisine without committing to a full meal of a single dish. From savory bites like edamame and gyoza to richer options like karaage (fried chicken) or butabara (pork belly skewers), the variety is endless. Because each plate typically costs between ¥300 to ¥700 (roughly $2 to $5 USD), guests can sample multiple dishes without spending too much.
This variety is particularly appealing when paired with alcoholic beverages, which are central to the izakaya experience. Different small plates complement different drinks: a salty tsukemono (pickled vegetable) goes well with sake, while a rich grilled skewer enhances the flavor of a cold draft beer. Small plates make it easy to build the perfect pairing for your drink of choice.
Additionally, the small plate format allows the kitchen to showcase seasonal ingredients and regional specialties in creative, manageable portions. This keeps the menu fresh and exciting, even for regular visitors. It also reduces food waste, as guests are less likely to leave unfinished dishes behind.
Overall, small plates perfectly match the casual, dynamic nature of izakaya dining. They encourage conversation, experimentation, and shared enjoyment—three essential ingredients for a memorable night out in Japan.
3. Top 10 Must-Try Izakaya Small Plates
When dining at an izakaya, the abundance of small plates can feel overwhelming—but some dishes stand out as timeless favorites that you simply shouldn’t miss. Here are ten must-try izakaya small plates that offer a delicious introduction to Japan’s rich and flavorful bar food culture.
- Edamame – These boiled and lightly salted young soybeans are the perfect appetizer. Simple yet satisfying, a plate costs around ¥300 ($2 USD).
- Yakitori – Skewered and grilled chicken, often seasoned with salt or tare (a sweet soy-based sauce). Popular variations include negima (chicken and scallion) and tsukune (chicken meatballs). Priced at around ¥150–¥250 ($1–$2 USD) per skewer.
- Agedashi Tofu – Deep-fried tofu served in a savory dashi-based broth. The crispy exterior and soft inside create a perfect balance. Expect to pay ¥400–¥600 ($3–$4.50 USD).
- Gyoza – Pan-fried dumplings filled with minced pork and vegetables. Usually served with soy-vinegar dipping sauce. A plate of 5–6 pieces costs ¥400–¥500 ($3–$4 USD).
- Karaage – Japanese-style fried chicken, marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then deep-fried to golden perfection. One of the most beloved izakaya dishes. Price ranges from ¥500–¥700 ($3.50–$5 USD).
- Nasu Dengaku – Grilled eggplant topped with sweet miso paste. A flavorful vegetarian option, typically ¥450–¥600 ($3–$4.50 USD).
- Tamagoyaki – A sweet and savory rolled omelet made with dashi. Served sliced and often garnished with grated daikon. Usually costs around ¥350–¥500 ($2.50–$4 USD).
- Butabara Skewers – Grilled pork belly skewers, rich and juicy, often served with mustard or yuzu pepper. Expect to pay ¥200–¥300 ($1.50–$2.50 USD) per skewer.
- Takoyaki – Batter-fried octopus balls topped with sauce, mayo, bonito flakes, and seaweed. Crispy outside, gooey inside. A small plate is about ¥500–¥700 ($3.50–$5 USD).
- Tsukemono – A selection of Japanese pickled vegetables, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes. Often served for around ¥300–¥400 ($2–$3 USD).
These small plates reflect the heart of izakaya dining—diverse, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re new to Japanese cuisine or a seasoned fan, trying these ten dishes will deepen your appreciation for this unique and beloved dining style.
4. Tips for Ordering Like a Local
Ordering at an izakaya can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you know how to navigate the menu like a local. Here are some essential tips to help you order with confidence and make the most of your izakaya visit.
1. Start with a Drink – In Japan, it’s customary to begin the evening with a drink. Many locals start with a cold draft beer (nama bīru) or a highball (whiskey and soda). You might hear people say “Toriaezu beeru” – meaning “Let’s start with beer.”
2. Order Slowly and Share – Izakaya dining is all about sharing small plates. Don’t feel the need to order everything at once. Locals often order a few dishes at a time, then add more as the meal progresses. This keeps the food fresh and allows you to adapt based on what everyone enjoys.
3. Try the Omakase or Daily Specials – Many izakayas offer an “omakase” (chef’s selection) or daily recommendations written on boards or special menus. These options often highlight seasonal ingredients and provide an authentic taste of local flavors. Prices for these dishes typically range from ¥500 to ¥1000 ($3.50–$7 USD).
4. Don’t Skip the Otōshi – When you sit down, you’ll usually receive a small appetizer called otōshi. This dish is automatically served and charged (usually around ¥300–¥500 or $2–$4 USD), similar to a cover charge. It’s a traditional part of the izakaya experience, so embrace it as a cultural introduction to your meal.
5. Use Simple Japanese Phrases – While many izakayas have picture menus or English translations, a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way:
- “Sumimasen” (Excuse me) – to get a server’s attention
- “Osusume wa nan desu ka?” (What do you recommend?)
- “Kore o kudasai” (I’ll have this, please)
6. Watch for Drink-and-Food Sets – Some izakayas offer value sets that combine a drink and a few dishes for a fixed price, such as ¥1000–¥1500 ($7–$11 USD). These sets are a great way to try new dishes affordably.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your izakaya experience like a seasoned local—sampling delicious small plates, discovering new flavors, and connecting with the unique social atmosphere that makes izakayas a cherished part of Japanese dining culture.
5. Pairing Drinks with Small Plates
One of the most enjoyable aspects of izakaya dining is the art of pairing drinks with small plates. Since izakayas offer a variety of alcoholic beverages—from beer and sake to shochu and cocktails—finding the right drink to complement each dish enhances both the flavor and overall experience.
Beer (ビール – Bīru) is the most popular drink in izakayas, especially with hearty, fried, or grilled dishes. Crispy karaage (Japanese fried chicken, ¥500–¥700 or $3.50–$5 USD) or savory gyoza (¥400–¥500 or $3–$4 USD) go particularly well with the refreshing bitterness of a cold draft beer. It’s a classic, crowd-pleasing pairing that rarely goes wrong.
Sake (日本酒 – Nihonshu) is more nuanced and works well with delicate or umami-rich dishes. Try a warm sake with agedashi tofu (¥400–¥600 or $3–$4.50 USD) or a chilled one with fresh sashimi if available. The subtle sweetness and acidity of sake balance flavors without overwhelming the food.
Shochu (焼酎), a distilled spirit typically made from barley, sweet potato, or rice, is lower in calories and has a clean, dry finish. It’s great with fatty or grilled items like butabara skewers (¥200–¥300 or $1.50–$2.50 USD). Shochu can be served on the rocks, with water, or mixed with oolong tea, offering flexibility depending on the dish.
Highballs (ハイボール)—whiskey mixed with soda water—are a light and crisp option that complements richer foods. Their effervescence and low sweetness pair well with grilled items like yakitori (¥150–¥250 or $1–$2 USD per skewer) or fried options like takoyaki (¥500–¥700 or $3.50–$5 USD).
Umeshu (梅酒 – Plum Wine) is a sweet and fruity liqueur made from Japanese plums. Its flavor pairs nicely with lighter dishes like tamagoyaki (¥350–¥500 or $2.50–$4 USD) or tsukemono pickles (¥300–¥400 or $2–$3 USD). It’s also a good choice for those who prefer sweeter alcoholic drinks.
Finally, non-alcoholic options like oolong tea or yuzu soda are refreshing alternatives that still pair well with most izakaya dishes, especially for those looking to enjoy the flavors without the alcohol.
Whether you’re sipping a bold sake or enjoying a fizzy highball, the key to a great pairing is balance. Consider the flavor intensity, texture, and richness of your dish, and choose a drink that complements rather than competes. This thoughtful approach to drink pairing will elevate your izakaya night from good to unforgettable.
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