For many travelers, visiting an izakaya is the highlight of their trip to Japan. These lively pubs combine food, drinks, and atmosphere in a way that captures the spirit of Japanese nightlife. But for first-time visitors, ordering at an izakaya can feel overwhelming. From unique menus to shouting “Kanpai!” with strangers, the experience is both exciting and unfamiliar.

This guide will show you exactly how to order food and drinks at a Japanese izakaya—even if you don’t speak Japanese—so you can dive right into the fun.

• Definition: An izakaya is a casual Japanese pub where groups gather for drinks and small plates of food.

• Atmosphere: Lively, noisy, and social. Unlike restaurants, izakayas encourage sharing dishes.

• Why it matters for travelers: Izakayas offer an authentic slice of Japanese life, and learning how to order makes the experience accessible to everyone.

• Staff will greet you loudly with “Irasshaimase!” (Welcome). A nod or smile is enough in return.

• You may be asked how many people (Nan-mei sama desu ka?). Simply show the number with your fingers if you don’t know Japanese.

• Seating varies: counter, table, or tatami mat area.

Drinks come first at izakayas, often before any food.

• Most common first order:

  • Beer (nama bīru, draft beer) – “Toriaezu nama!” (Let’s start with beer!) is a common phrase.

• Other popular options:

  • Highball (whiskey + soda)

  • Sake or shochu

  • Soft drinks (cola, oolong tea, non-alcoholic beer)

• Useful phrase: “Kore o kudasai” (This one, please) while pointing at the menu.

Izakaya food is meant for sharing. Start small and order more as the night goes on.

• How menus are structured:

  • Yakitori (grilled skewers)

  • Sashimi

  • Fried dishes (karaage chicken, tempura)

  • Grilled dishes (fish, wagyu beef slices)

  • Rice or noodles to finish

• Tips:

  • Point at photos on the menu if available.

  • Don’t feel pressured to order everything at once.

  • Dishes are small and arrive quickly.

• “Sumimasen!” – Excuse me! (to call staff)

• “Nama bīru futatsu kudasai” – Two draft beers, please.

• “Osusume wa nan desu ka?” – What do you recommend?

• “Mizu kudasai” – Water, please.

• Kanpai! – Always join the first toast before drinking.

• Sharing – Use the opposite end of your chopsticks when taking food from shared plates.

• Stay as long as you like – No rush, but peak hours can be busy.

• Tipping – Not required in Japan.

• Bills are usually brought to your table.

• Pay at the cashier near the exit, not at the table.

• Split bill: Say “Betsu-betsu de” if you want to pay separately (not all izakaya accept this).

• Cash is most common, but many izakaya in Tokyo now take credit cards.

• Don’t be shy about pointing at the menu—staff are used to tourists.

• Many izakaya now have tablet menus with English support.

• Izakaya in Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Osaka are especially tourist-friendly.

• Remember that izakaya are about atmosphere—laughter, noise, and shared food.

Some izakaya are small, popular, and reservation-only. Making a booking in Japanese can be a challenge. Our service helps secure reservations, ensuring you get a table at the izakaya you want—without the stress of language barriers.

Ordering food and drinks at a Japanese izakaya doesn’t need to be difficult. With a few key phrases and an understanding of the culture, you’ll feel right at home. Whether you’re raising your glass of beer for a toast or sharing skewers of yakitori, the izakaya experience is one of the best ways to connect with Japanese nightlife.

👉 Let us help you reserve a spot at a popular izakaya in Tokyo today.