Introduction

Izakayas are an essential part of the Japanese food scene, offering a unique and authentic dining experience. These traditional Japanese gastropubs are known for their casual and lively atmosphere, where people gather to socialize and enjoy delicious food and drinks. Izakayas have a long history in Japan and have evolved over time to become a must-visit for both locals and tourists. With a vast array of dishes and drinks to choose from, izakayas are perfect for a food crawl, allowing you to discover the diverse flavors of Japan. In this article, we will explore the best izakayas in Japan for an authentic food crawl.

1. What is an Izakaya?

Before diving into the best izakayas in Japan, it is essential to understand what an izakaya is and its significance in Japanese culture. The word izakaya translates to "stay sake shop," and it refers to a type of casual bar or pub that serves a variety of small dishes, known as "izakaya-style" dishes. Izakayas originated during the Edo period when small stalls selling sake opened on the streets to cater to travelers and workers. Over time, these stalls evolved into izakayas, offering a wide selection of food and drinks. Today, izakayas are popular among all age groups, and they are a favorite spot for after-work drinks, casual dinners, and social gatherings.

2. Characteristics of an Izakaya

Izakayas have a unique ambiance and atmosphere that sets them apart from other dining establishments in Japan. They are usually small, cozy, and intimate, with a lively and bustling atmosphere. The interior of an izakaya is often decorated with traditional elements such as wooden furniture, lanterns, and sake barrels. The seating arrangement is also different from western-style restaurants, with patrons often sitting around a low table on floor cushions.

One of the most distinctive features of an izakaya is the variety of dishes served. Izakaya-style dishes are typically small and meant to be shared among the group. They range from simple bar snacks to more elaborate dishes, such as grilled skewers, tempura, sashimi, and hotpots. The food is usually prepared fresh, and the menu changes frequently, depending on the season and availability of ingredients.

Another characteristic of izakayas is their extensive drink menu. Sake is the most popular drink at an izakaya, and it is served in a variety of ways, such as hot, cold, and sparkling. Other alcoholic beverages, including beer, shochu, and highball, are also readily available. Non-alcoholic options, such as tea and soft drinks, are also offered.

3. Best Izakayas in Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is home to some of the best izakayas in the country. The city is a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of izakayas to choose from. Here are some of the top izakayas in Tokyo for an authentic food crawl:

a. Torikizoku

Located in the bustling Shibuya district, Torikizoku is a popular izakaya chain known for its delicious yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). The menu boasts a variety of flavors, from classic salted and teriyaki chicken to more adventurous options like wasabi and mentai (spicy cod roe). The best part? Each dish is only 298 yen, making Torikizoku an affordable option for a food crawl.

b. Gonpachi Nishiazabu

This izakaya gained global recognition when it was featured in Quentin Tarantino's movie "Kill Bill." Located in the trendy Roppongi district, Gonpachi Nishiazabu offers a unique dining experience with its traditional interior, resembling an old-style Japanese village. The menu offers a mix of classic and modern izakaya dishes, and the restaurant is known for its wide selection of sake.

c. Tofuro

For a more upscale izakaya experience, head to Tofuro in the upscale Ginza district. This izakaya is housed in a traditional Japanese building and offers a range of seasonal dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant also has a fantastic selection of sake and shochu to accompany your meal.

d. Ebisu Yokocho

Ebisu Yokocho is not your typical izakaya; it is a collection of over 20 small, informal bars and restaurants under one roof. Each establishment serves its own specialty dishes, making it the perfect spot for a food crawl. From yakitori and sushi to ramen and okonomiyaki, there is something for everyone at Ebisu Yokocho.

e. Shin Hinomoto

Located in the historic Asakusa district, Shin Hinomoto is a must-visit for an authentic izakaya experience. The restaurant has been around for over 100 years and has retained its traditional charm and ambiance. The menu features classic izakaya dishes, including yakitori, sashimi, and tempura, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

4. Best Izakayas in Osaka

Osaka, often referred to as the "kitchen of Japan," is known for its vibrant Food Blog scene. The city is a paradise for foodies, with a variety of izakayas offering delicious dishes and drinks. Here are some of the best izakayas in Osaka for an authentic food crawl:

a. Kushiya Monogatari

Located in the bustling Dotonbori district, Kushiya Monogatari is a popular izakaya chain known for its all-you-can-eat kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). The restaurant has a lively and bustling atmosphere, with an open kitchen where you can see your food being prepared. The menu offers a variety of kushikatsu, including pork, beef, seafood, and vegetables.

b. Koyoshi

For a more traditional izakaya experience, head to Koyoshi in the Umeda district. The restaurant has a welcoming and cozy atmosphere, with wooden interiors and traditional lanterns. The menu features classic izakaya dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The sake selection is also impressive, with over 50 varieties to choose from.

c. Tengu

Located in the trendy Nakazaki-cho district, Tengu is a hidden gem known for its delicious food and sake. The restaurant has a warm and intimate atmosphere, with only seven counter seats and a private room. The menu features a variety of izakaya-style dishes, including grilled fish, sashimi, and yakitori, all made with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

d. Takomasa

Takomasa is a unique izakaya located in the Shinsekai district, famous for its Tsukemono (Japanese pickles). The restaurant has a casual and laid-back atmosphere, with a wide selection of pickles to choose from, including vegetables, fruits, and seafood. The pickles are served with a variety of izakaya-style dishes, such as yakitori, karaage (fried chicken), and edamame.

e. Kani Doraku

For a taste of the famous Osaka specialty, head to Kani Doraku in the Dotonbori district. This izakaya specializes in crab dishes, with a variety of options, including grilled, boiled, and sashimi. The restaurant's interior is also crab-themed, with decorations and artwork featuring the crustacean. Kani Doraku is a bit on the pricier side, but the food and experience are worth it.

5. Best Izakayas in Kyoto

Kyoto, known for its rich history and culture, is home to some of the best traditional izakayas in Japan. Here are some of the top izakayas in Kyoto for an authentic food crawl:

a. Gion Kappa

Located in the historic Gion district, Gion Kappa is a popular izakaya known for its delicious kushikatsu. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with counter seats and private dining rooms. The menu features a variety of kushikatsu, including the famous Gion Kappa specialty, deep-fried giant shrimp.

b. Kikunoi Roan

For a more upscale izakaya experience, head to Kikunoi Roan in the Higashiyama district. The restaurant is part of the Michelin-starred Kikunoi restaurant and offers a traditional kaiseki (multi-course) dining experience. The menu changes every month, depending on the season and availability of ingredients, and features a variety of small dishes, including sashimi, grilled fish, and wagyu beef.

c. Motoi

Motoi is a unique izakaya located in the Kiyamachi district, known for its homemade tofu dishes. The restaurant has a traditional and cozy atmosphere, with wooden furniture and lanterns. The menu features a variety of dishes made with fresh, homemade tofu, including tofu sashimi, grilled tofu, and hot tofu pots.

d. Gion Nishikawa

Gion Nishikawa is a hidden gem located in the historic Gion district. The restaurant is housed in a 150-year-old traditional machiya (townhouse) and offers a unique and authentic izakaya experience. The menu features classic izakaya dishes, including yakitori, sashimi, and tempura, all made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

e. Tsubaki

Located in the Pontocho district, Tsubaki is a cozy and casual izakaya known for its delicious yakitori and other grilled dishes. The restaurant has a lively and bustling atmosphere, with a counter and table seating. The menu features a variety of yakitori, including chicken, pork, beef, and vegetables, all grilled to perfection.

Conclusion

Izakayas are an essential part of Japanese culture and offer a unique and authentic dining experience. From Tokyo to Osaka to Kyoto, there are countless izakayas to choose from, each with its own specialty dishes and drinks. Whether you are looking for a casual after-work drink or a traditional kaiseki experience, there is an izakaya for you. So next time you are in Japan, be sure to add an izakaya food crawl to your itinerary to discover the diverse and delicious flavors of Japan.