Introduction
Hello! I’m Ken, editor-in-chief of Tokyo Insider Guide.
If you want to enjoy the Japanese night in the most “authentic” way, you cannot skip the Izakaya! The style of sharing a variety of small dishes while enjoying drinks with friends is the core of Japanese social culture.
In 2026, many Izakayas have introduced mobile ordering and tablets, making it much easier for international visitors. However, unique rules like “What is Otoshi?” or “Do I need to tip?” still confuse many people.
Read this guide, and you’ll be an Izakaya master by tonight! I’ll introduce the best chain restaurants loved by locals and teach you how to enjoy them smartly.
Ken’s TIP: Popular Izakayas are almost impossible to enter on weekends without a reservation. It’s best to book in advance using apps like Hot Pepper or Google Maps!
【Ken’s Choice】 6 Best Izakayas You Can’t Miss
Japanese Izakayas range from reliable “Large Chains” to “Independently Owned” shops that require a bit more courage to enter.
1. 【Ken’s Top Pick】 Shinjidai (新時代)
- Feature: One of the fastest-growing Izakaya chains in Japan right now. It’s incredibly cheap and energetic.
- Ken’s Point: You cannot visit without ordering their famous “Dengushi”! These are crispy chicken skin skewers glazed with a secret sauce and spices for only 50 yen per skewer. They are so addictive you’ll end up eating dozens. The local tradition is to stack them into a pyramid for a photo!
2. 【The King of Value】 Torikizoku (鳥貴族)
- Feature: All items on the menu (mostly Yakitori) are a single flat price of around 370 yen (tax included).
- Ken’s Point: Tablet ordering with perfect English support. Their signature “Kizokuyaki” skewers are huge and offer the best value for money in the city.
3. 【The All-Rounder Classic】 Uotami (魚民)
- Feature: The absolute standard when anyone thinks of a “Japanese Izakaya.”
- Ken’s Point: Their menu range is unmatched—from fish and meat to pizza and dessert. It’s perfect when your group can’t decide what to eat. They often have private booths, allowing for a more relaxed dining experience.
4. 【Interactive Kushikatsu】 Kushikatsu Tanaka (串カツ田中)
- Feature: Specialized in Osaka-style Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). Bright and welcoming for families.
- Ken’s Point: They offer fun interactive menus like the “Chinchirorin Highball” (rolling dice to get a discount) or DIY potato salad. Entirely non-smoking, which is great for those who dislike cigarette smoke.
5. 【Seafood BBQ Vibes】 Isomaru Suisan (磯丸水産)
- Feature: “Hamayaki” style where you grill shellfish and fish yourself on a portable stove at your table.
- Ken’s Point: It has high entertainment value, giving you a seaside BBQ vibe in the middle of the city. Many shops are open 24 hours, making it perfect for lunch or a late-night drink. The Crab Miso Shell Grill is a must-try!
6. 【Intermediate Challenge】 Local Red Lantern Shops (赤提灯)
- Feature: Small, cozy bars marked by “Akachochin” (Red Lanterns) hanging in back alleys.
- Ken’s Point: Once you’re comfortable with chains, definitely challenge yourself at a local red lantern shop! While there might be a language barrier, the closeness with the shop owner and other patrons offers a warmth you won’t find in a chain store. Look for spots with high Google Maps ratings!
Unique Izakaya Rules and Manners
Here are the points that often surprise visitors from entry to payment.
1. Otoshi (Table Charge)
When you sit down, you’ll be served a small appetizer you didn’t order. This is a unique Japanese system called “Table Charge” including your first small dish. It typically costs 300 to 500 yen per person. Think of it as a small “entry fee” to the fun!
2. “Toriaezu Nama!” (Start with Beer)
Locals usually shout “Toriaezu Nama!” (Draft beer for now!) before even looking at the food menu. Drinks usually arrive much faster than food, so this is the fastest way to get your night started! Of course, soft drinks are also welcome.
3. Nomihoudai (All-you-can-drink)
This is a legendary system where you pay a flat fee for unlimited drinks for a set time (90–120 mins). If you plan on having more than 3 drinks, this is by far the better deal!
4. Sharing Plates (Torizara)
Food usually comes on large platters. It is proper etiquette to distribute the food onto small individual plates called “Torizara” to share with everyone.
【Summary List】 Useful Izakaya Info
| Item | Details | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Ordering | Tablet / QR / Call Bell | Tablet stores are easier for non-Japanese speakers! |
| Tipping | Not Required | The “Otoshi” fee covers service charges. |
| Smoking | Varies by Shop | Most chains now have separate smoking rooms. |
| Payment | At Table or Register | Say “Okaikei onegaishimasu” for the bill. |
Ken’s Final Advice
- Never follow street touts! Ignore anyone in Shinjuku or Shibuya who calls out “Cheap bar over here!” They often charge exorbitant “weekend fees” or “service charges.” Stick to famous chains or highly-rated spots you find yourself.
- End with a “Shime”: It is Japanese style to order a carb dish like Onigiri, Ochazuke, or Ramen at the end of the night. This is called “Shime.” Even if you’re full, these have a magical way of fitting in!
Summary
Japanese Izakayas in 2026 offer a perfect mix of traditional bustle and digital convenience. Once you understand the rules of “Otoshi” and “Sharing,” there is no place more fun, affordable, and delicious. Go ahead and open that Noren curtain tonight. Kanpai!
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