Izakaya

An izakaya is a traditional Japanese pub-style restaurant where people gather to enjoy a variety of small dishes, drinks, and socializing. Usually informal and cozy, izakayas serve a wide selection of food like grilled skewers, sashimi, and tempura, along with alcoholic beverages such as sake, beer, and shochu. They function as casual venues for after-work friends or colleagues to relax and converse, often featuring lively atmospheres. While similar to pubs or tapas bars, izakayas are uniquely Japanese, blending culinary diversity with a warm, convivial environment.