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I’m going to Tokyo next month and I’m excited to try izakayas (Japanese gastropubs), but I’ve heard they can be intimidating for foreigners. Most menus are only in Japanese.
What are the must-order izakaya dishes? How does ordering work? Is it rude to only order drinks? And are there any etiquette rules I should know?
Izakayas are my absolute favorite thing about Tokyo! Here’s everything you need to know:
How ordering works: You’ll usually be given a menu and can order whenever you want — just flag down staff with a friendly “sumimasen!” (excuse me). Most modern izakayas have picture menus or tablet ordering systems — a lifesaver!
Essential dishes to order:
- Yakitori — grilled chicken skewers, especially “negima” (chicken + spring onion) and “tsukune” (chicken meatballs)
- Edamame — the universal starter, usually comes automatically
- Karaage — Japanese fried chicken with yuzu mayo, impossibly good
- Dashimaki tamago — rolled omelette with dashi broth, a hidden gem
- Takoyaki — octopus balls (at some izakayas), crispy outside, molten inside
- Mentaiko potato salad — creamy potato salad with spicy cod roe
Drinks etiquette: You must order at least one drink per person — it’s considered rude not to. The first round is traditionally beer. Toast with “Kanpai!” and always pour for others before pouring for yourself.
Tipping: Do NOT tip in Japan — it can cause offense. A sincere “Oishikatta desu!” (It was delicious!) at the end is the highest compliment.
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