Izakaya Food Restaurants(62)
COURSE MENUTakumi Gotanda
Indulge yourself at this elevated izakaya, where tuna and kuroge wagyu beef take the spotlight, and the sake flows endlessly.
SEAT RESERVATIONWashokuya Taichi
The owner-chef of this Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded Jiyugaoka izakaya shows off his skills by expertly balancing flavor profiles and seasonality, elevating izakaya food to new heights.
SEAT RESERVATIONThe New World
The sio group brings their trademark genre-defying cuisine to the basement of Shinsaibashi Parco with this modern, trendy izakaya. Drinking snacks and traditional Japanese fare are elevated to Michelin Bib Gourmand level.
SEAT RESERVATIONNikomi Kimura
The unpretentious izakaya housed in a renovated folkhouse has earned its Michelin Guide spot through a solid roster of stews and an excellent selection of booze.
SEAT RESERVATIONHachidori
Impressive lineup of sake from small breweries, paired with dishes featuring Shonai-grown vegetables, makes this couple-run izakaya a darling locale in Osaka.
SEAT RESERVATIONEitaroya
In this kappo izakaya, savor Kyoto-style drinking snacks and traditional sake under the convivial service of the owner.
SEAT RESERVATIONNihonshuzammai 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.
SEAT RESERVATIONSuigyo 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.
SEAT RESERVATIONShokudo Akari
Minamoto Fumimasa's deep love for his hometown in Wakayama Prefecture stirs up Osaka's dining scene, giving rise to one of the city's rare Michelin-approved izakayas.
SEAT RESERVATIONKotaro
A classic Japanese pub in Shibuya which raises the bar on casual after-work dining and drinks.
SEAT RESERVATIONOkinawa Paradise
Escape to the sunny isles of Okinawa at this Shinjuku restaurant specializing in the comfort food of the islands.
SEAT RESERVATIONTaketomijima
This Tokyo izakaya presents the best alcohol and food that Okinawa has to offer, and holds the same chilled-out atmosphere inside.
SEAT RESERVATIONBang 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.
SEAT RESERVATIONRyomakaido 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.
SEAT RESERVATIONUoshin Nogizaka
Seafood dining in downtown Tokyo’s vibrant entertainment center, with some literal heaps of fresh fish to enjoy.
SEAT RESERVATIONSasagin
This izakaya near Yoyogi Park is the perfect place to learn about Japan’s delicious native alcohols, with fantastic prices all round.
SEAT RESERVATIONKaikaya by the Sea
A top Shibuya seafood store where you can try authentic Japanese seafood cuisine, as well as Japanese fish in Western styles.
SEAT RESERVATIONShinsuke
A great range of sake and delicious small dishes make this Ueno izakaya one of the best places in the area to sample Japanese pub grub.
SEAT RESERVATIONIseya
A long-running yakitori institution, loved by the locals for decades for their delicious umami-packed skewers and dumplings.
SEAT RESERVATIONNumazuko Kaisho
All-you-can-eat seafood at truly astounding prices — this is a pescatarian paradise you won’t even want to leave.
SEAT RESERVATIONRobata Musashi Shinbashi
Traditional hearthside grilling at a Tokyo izakaya with a unique serving style and absolutely unbeatable prices.
SEAT RESERVATIONSakana Cuisine Ryo
Fresh seafood dining in Odawara, as a restaurant recognized by the Michelin Guide for its great value-for-money meals.
SEAT RESERVATIONDaruma
Grab a seat at a real local seafood izakaya, where you can enjoy great Japanese fish and drinks for less.
SEAT RESERVATIONTsudokko
Great pub food and an awesome all-you-can-drink deal make this a perfect place to enjoy Japanese drinking culture.
SEAT RESERVATIONRokkaku
Forget the chain izakayas — this Azabujuban gastropub offers Michelin-starred dining and premium bottles of sake.
SEAT RESERVATIONShunzentamusake 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.
SEAT RESERVATIONKannomiho
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.
SEAT RESERVATIONAhbon
Feast your eyes on the colorful array of ingredients on display here, transformed into delicious fried skewers you’ll be craving for weeks.
Recent Reviews from Guests
Discover the Best Izakaya Food Restaurants
If you're on a quest to find the best Izakaya food restaurants, you've come to the right place. An Izakaya, often referred to as a Japanese pub, is the ultimate spot for delicious small plates and great drinks, providing an authentic taste of Japan's vibrant food culture. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or trying Izakaya for the first time, these eateries promise an unforgettable culinary experience.
What Makes Izakaya Food Special?
Izakayas serve an array of small dishes, making them an excellent choice for anyone wanting to sample a variety of flavors in one sitting. From succulent skewers of yakitori to crispy karaage chicken, the menu is usually diverse, catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Additionally, unlike traditional restaurant settings, Izakayas are known for their lively and casual atmosphere, encouraging diners to relax and enjoy their meals without the formalities found in other dining situations.
The appeal of Izakaya doesn't just lie in the food but also in its pairing with a wide selection of drinks. Japanese sake, shochu, and beer are typically available, each chosen to enhance the flavors of the dishes served. This aspect makes Izakaya dining a more holistic experience where food and drink harmoniously come together.
Find Your Favorite Izakaya Nearby
Finding your favorite Izakaya food restaurant might seem like a challenge given the multitude of options available. However, it's important to consider a few factors. Authenticity should be a top priority; look for venues that stay true to traditional Japanese preparation and presentation methods. Another aspect to consider is the variety of dishes offered. A great Izakaya will provide a comprehensive menu, from time-honored classics to innovative new dishes that cater to contemporary tastes.
In addition to food, ambiance plays a significant role in the Izakaya experience. These establishments should provide a welcoming environment where guests feel comfortable and can enjoy the social aspect of dining. Whether you’re gathering with friends or connecting with new acquaintances, the lively nature of an Izakaya enhances these interactions.
Now that you're equipped with the knowledge of what makes an Izakaya experience special, you're prepared to dive into the rich world of Izakaya food restaurants. Discover a new favorite eatery, explore a diverse range of flavors, and enjoy the vibrant tradition of Japanese dining. The perfect Izakaya is just around the corner, ready to provide an exciting culinary journey.