Izakaya: Japan’s Unique Blend of Food and Drinks Culture What is an Izakaya? An izakaya (居酒屋) is a type of informal Japanese pub where people come to enjoy both food and drinks in a casual setting. While izakayas are popular throughout Japan, the combination of drinking and dining in one spot might be a new concept for some foreign visitors. In many Western cultures, dining and drinking are often separated—meals are typically enjoyed in a restaurant, while drinks are reserved for bars or pubs afterward. This unique blend of food and drink in izakayas offers a relaxed, social experience that’s distinctly Japanese. Tips for Visiting Izakaya 1. A Fusion of Food and Drink: In an izakaya, you’ll find a wide variety of dishes, from yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) to sashimi (raw fish), that pair perfectly with drinks like beer, sake, and shochu. Rather than heading to a separate bar after your meal, you can enjoy both in one spot. This makes izakayas a great choice for a night out with friends, where the emphasis is on eating, drinking, and socializing at the same time. 2. Expect a Lively Atmosphere: Izakayas are not quiet, formal dining spots. They’re known for their lively, buzzing atmosphere, where people talk, laugh, and unwind. It’s common to see groups of coworkers, known as “salarymen,” coming together for after-work drinks. The vibrant, casual vibe makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy Japanese hospitality. 3. Izakaya Etiquette: Upon arriving, you’ll often be served a small appetizer called otoshi or tsukidashi, which is a customary part of the seating charge. Then, you can order small dishes throughout your visit, sharing food and drinks with your companions. It’s all about enjoying a variety of flavors while socializing. Unique Culture of “Otoshi” at Japanese Restaurants What is Otoshi? 4. Cash is King: Recently, many izakayas accept credit cards, but there are still places that are cash-only, especially smaller or more traditional establishments. It’s a good idea to have some yen on hand just in case. 5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: If you’re unsure what to order or want to try something new, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations. Many izakayas offer English menus or have pictures, so even if you don’t speak Japanese, you’ll be able to navigate the menu easily. A Fun Aspect of Izakaya Culture Because izakayas blend food and drink, it’s common to see people drinking for hours as they continue to order food throughout the night. This can lead to a phenomenon you’ll notice, especially in big cities like Tokyo—drunk people on the late-night trains! Don’t be surprised to see someone napping on the train platform or even someone dozing off in their seat after a fun night out! You might also be surprised by the number of intoxicated people you see at night when visiting Japan, but this is largely influenced by the izakaya culture. With food and drinks flowing for hours, It’s not uncommon for people to have a bit too much fun, giving you a glimpse of a uniquely Japanese scene in cities like Tokyo. Why Izakayas Are Worth a Visit Izakayas offer more than just food and drink—they provide a unique cultural experience that’s different from Western dining habits. In Japan, enjoying a meal and drinks in the same place creates a special kind of social interaction. Whether you’re bonding with colleagues after work or spending time with friends, the casual and lively atmosphere makes izakayas an essential part of Japanese nightlife. So, the next time you’re in Japan, be sure to visit an izakaya. You’ll not only get to taste great food and drinks but also experience Japanese culture. Just remember, if you take the late-night train after your visit, you might see plenty of people stumbling around like zombies!