You’re standing outside an izakaya, the smell of yakitori drifting out, but you’re terrified to go in because you don’t speak Japanese. Here’s the truth: you don’t need to. Izakayas are casual Japanese gastropubs where food and drinks flow freely — and they’re surprisingly foreigner-friendly once you know the tricks.
Before You Even Sit Down
Point to what others are having. Walk past a table and see something that looks good? Point at it and say “Kore” (これ) — it literally means “this one.” Staff will usually understand immediately.
Look for picture menus. Most izakayas have laminated menus with photos. This is your best friend. Just point and nod.
Seat yourself or wait? Look for a sign or staff near the entrance. If someone rushes over, they’ll seat you. If not, grab an open table — many izakayas are self-seat.
The Opening Move: Drinks First
The moment you sit down, someone will appear and essentially say “What’ll it be?” This is your cue. Just say one of these:
| You want | Say this |
|---|---|
| Beer | “Biiru” ビール |
| Cold draft beer | “Nama biiru” 生ビール |
| Highball (whisky soda) | “Hai-bo-ru” ハイボール |
| Sake | “Osake” お酒 |
| Non-alcoholic | “Sofuto dorinkusu” or just point at “ソフトドリンク” on the menu |
Holding up fingers works perfectly for quantities.
Ordering Food: The Core Strategy
Use the menu + finger method. Open to a page, point firmly at an item, hold up one or two fingers, and nod. Done. No Japanese required.
Tablets are your best friend. Many modern izakayas have touchscreen ordering tablets, often with English or picture options. Just tap and confirm.
Look for these safe crowd-pleasers (usually pictured):
- 唐揚げ Karaage — Japanese fried chicken, almost always excellent
- 枝豆 Edamame — salted soybeans, great starter
- 焼き鳥 Yakitori — grilled chicken skewers
- 冷奴 Hiyayakko — cold tofu with toppings
- ポテトフライ Poteto furai — fries, a universal safety net
- 刺身 Sashimi — fresh raw fish (usually pictured)
- たこ焼き Takoyaki — octopus balls, a classic
The Magic Phrases Worth Memorizing (Sounds Only)
You don’t need to read or write anything. Just learn the sounds:
| Situation | Say |
|---|---|
| Calling a server | “Sumimasen!” (SOO-mee-mah-sen) — excuse me |
| “This one please” | “Kore kudasai” (KOH-reh koo-dah-sigh) |
| “Same again” | “Onaji no” + hold up glass |
| “The check please” | “Okaikei onegaishimasu” or just make a writing gesture in the air ✍️ |
| “Delicious!” | “Oishii!” (OH-ee-shee) — staff will love you for this |
Things That Might Surprise You
- The otōshi — you’ll get a small snack you didn’t order. This is a cover charge in food form (usually ¥300–500). It’s normal; don’t send it back.
- No splitting the check — izakayas often give one bill for the table. Just divide it among yourselves outside.
- Last order — staff may say “Rasuto ooda” (last order). Order quickly!
- Ringing a bell — some places have a button or buzzer at the table to call staff. Press it freely.
- All-you-can-drink (nomi-hōdai) — look for 飲み放題 on the menu. Worth it if you’re staying 2 hours.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t tip. Tipping is not part of Japanese culture and can actually cause awkwardness. Just leave the exact amount or pay by card.
- Don’t wave your hand wildly to get attention. A calm, clear “Sumimasen” is all you need. Snapping fingers or shouting is considered rude.
- Don’t send the otōshi back. That small snack that arrives unannounced isn’t a mistake — it’s a cover charge. Refusing it creates confusion for everyone.
- Don’t linger over the menu for too long without ordering drinks. Izakayas expect you to order something right away. When in doubt, just say “Biiru” and figure out food from there.
- Don’t assume the restaurant is empty if shoes are at the entrance. Some traditional izakayas have tatami seating behind a curtain. Follow the host or wait to be guided.
The Golden Rule
Smile, point confidently, and say “kore kudasai.” Japanese izakaya staff are used to this, unfailingly patient, and genuinely happy you’re there. You don’t need perfect Japanese — you just need enthusiasm and a pointed finger.
Kanpai!
