How to Enjoy a Japanese “Izakaya”: The Ultimate Guide to Pub Culture

Traditional Japanese Izakaya exterior with red lanterns and text overlay reading IZAKAYA GUIDE. Dining
The ultimate guide to enjoying Japanese Izakaya culture for first-time visitors.
January 3, 2026

If you want to experience the real Japan, skip the fancy sushi restaurants and head to an Izakaya. These casual “gastropubs” are where locals go to unwind, drink, and share small plates of food. It can be intimidating at first, but with this guide, you will be ordering like a pro.

What is an Izakaya?

Lively atmosphere inside a Japanese Izakaya with salarymen drinking and small plates of food on the table.
The best way to start the night is with a loud “Kanpai!” (Cheers) surrounded by delicious local food.

An Izakaya is not just a bar. It is a place where food and drink are equally important. Unlike Western dining where you order one main dish, at an Izakaya, you order many small dishes to share with everyone at the table (Tapas style).

Important Systems You Must Know

1. The “Otoshi” (Table Charge)

A small appetizer bowl of Otoshi served as a table charge at a Japanese Izakaya
An example of “Otoshi”. This small appetizer is served automatically and acts as your table charge.

When you sit down, you will be served a small appetizer you didn’t order. This is called Otoshi.

  • Cost: Usually ¥300–¥500 per person.
  • Rule: It acts as a table charge (cover charge). You cannot refuse it, so consider it part of the experience.

2. “Nomihodai” (All-You-Can-Drink)

Many Izakayas offer a Nomihodai plan.

  • How it works: You pay a fixed price (e.g., ¥1,500 for 90 minutes) and can drink as much as you want from a specific menu.
  • Tip: This is a great deal if you plan to have more than 3 drinks.

3. The Call Button

A close-up of a wireless call button on a table at a Japanese Izakaya used to summon waiters
The “Call Button”. Just press this to summon staff for ordering or the bill. You don’t need to shout “Sumimasen” across the room!

Look for a button on your table. In Japan, waiters do not hover around you. When you are ready to order, press the button (ping-pong!) or raise your hand and shout “Sumimasen!” (Excuse me!).

Must-Order Izakaya Foods

A table spread featuring popular Izakaya foods: charcoal-grilled Yakitori skewers, crispy Karaage fried chicken, and a fresh Sashimi platter
The “Izakaya Big Three”. If you are unsure what to order, start with this combination (Yakitori, Karaage, Sashimi) for a perfect Japanese feast.

The menu can be huge, but here are the classics you should try:

  • Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers (try Momos or Tsukune).
  • Karaage: Japanese fried chicken. It goes perfectly with beer.
  • Edamame: Boiled soybeans. The standard starter.
  • Tamagoyaki: Japanese rolled omelet, often sweet and savory.
  • Sashimi: Fresh raw fish slices.
  • Potato Salad: Japanese potato salad often has mashed textures with cucumber and ham.

Popular Drinks

Friends toasting "Kanpai" with frosty mugs of Nama Biru (draft beer) featuring thick creamy foam at an Izakaya
Japanese draft beer is famous for its creamy foam and serving temperature. It is the perfect refreshment after a long day of travel.
  • Nama Biru: Draft Beer (usually Asahi, Kirin, or Sapporo).
  • Highball: Whisky and soda. Very popular and refreshing.
  • Lemon Sour: Shochu, soda, and lemon juice.
  • Nihonshu (Sake): Rice wine. You can order it hot (Atsukan) or cold (Reishu).

Ending the Meal: “Shime”

Japanese people end a drinking session with a carbohydrate dish called Shime. Popular options include Yaki-Onigiri (grilled rice ball) or a small bowl of Ramen.

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