Traditional Japanese Izakaya
- "What's an izakaya?"
An izakaya is a Japanese-style drinking establishment that serves alcoholic beverages and accompanying food.I think the definition of an izakaya is a restaurant that serves beer, chu-hi, sake, etc. in a Japanese style and has a large variety and quantity of Japanese cuisine.
These casual drinking establishments, similar to tapas bars or gastropubs, can be found all over Japan and are affordable and popular places to hang out with co-workers and friends, have drinking parties, and unwind after a hard day's work.
- “Izakaya Menu”
It mainly consists of Japanese cuisine. There are sushi, sashimi, yakitori, stir-fried meat, grilled seafood, salads, pickles, local dishes, hot pot dishes, rice dishes, noodle dishes, etc., but many restaurants also have casual Western dishes such as fries and pizza.
Although izakayas are primarily drinking establishments, they also offer a wide range of domestic and sometimes imported alcoholic beverages, such as beer, sake, and shochu.
A typical meal costs between 2,000 and 5,000 yen per person. Some restaurants have an "all-you-can-drink" concept. Although there are time restrictions, some restaurants offer all-you-can-drink plans starting from around 2,000 yen for 90 to 120 minutes.
The meals are mainly small plates that can be shared. At large pub chains, orders may be placed on electronic tablets. Menus at smaller establishments are usually written only in Japanese, and some are completely handwritten.
- “Izakaya atmosphere”
The pub is very lively. Some restaurants allow you to eat while sitting on cushions or low chairs on the floor, while others have chairs and tables. You may also take off your shoes when entering the store or before going on the floor.
- "When you enter the pub"
When you take your seat, you will be given a towel to wipe your hands with and a small appetizer called otoshi. This is usually offered in lieu of a seat fee and costs a few hundred yen per person. The clerk may ask if your order is ready. Many people start by ordering alcohol before ordering food.
- “Payment?”
At an izakaya, there is a bill on the table, and you take it out and go to the cash register near the exit to pay. Depending on the store, you may be asked to pay the bill, or if you cross your index fingers to make an X, the bill will be paid and the bill will be brought to your table. Tipping is not customary in Japanese pubs.