Izakaya Survival Guide: Key Phrases for Ordering and Etiquette

What is an izakaya and why language matters

Ever wondered why 居酒屋 (izakaya, Japanese pub) feel different from restaurants? They’re after-work places for sharing small plates and drinks, not formal dining experiences. Most izakaya open around 17:00 and run until 23:00 or later, especially near office districts in Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo, so they get lively after work. That brings us to the language: you don’t need perfect grammar, but a handful of phrases in romaji will get you respectful service and better recommendations.

Essential phrases for ordering at an izakaya

Here's the thing: ordering at an izakaya is efficient because dishes are shared. You usually order several items over the session, and drinks may come in rounds.

Getting the server's attention and asking for a table

Quick detour: you might not be seated right away. Say すみません (sumimasen, excuse me / sorry) to get attention, then futari desu (if you’re two), or ichi mei desu (if it’s just one of you). A great example: call staff with sumimasen, then say これ (kore, this), お願いします (onegaishimasu, please) to point at the menu or items on the counter. From my experience, politeness goes a long way.

Ordering food and drinks

What most people don’t know is that izakaya menus often list many small plates like 焼き鳥 (yakitori, grilled chicken skewers), 枝豆 (edamame, boiled soybeans), 唐揚げ (karaage, Japanese fried chicken), sashimi, and tsukemono. Say kore onegaishimasu for "this please" while pointing. For drinks, try biiru (beer), sake, shochu, or a highball. If you want a recommended dish, ask osusume wa nan desu ka? The servers will usually point out popular items or seasonal specials, and they often recommend how many skewers or plates to order, expect about three to four small plates per two people.

Asking for modifications and more

Unlike what we’re used to with big Western menus, izakaya kitchens are small. Say chotto sukuname for a smaller portion, or mizu kudasai if you need water. Speaking of which, if you want the chef's choice, say omakase, but reserve that for places that advertise it. My tip: if you point and say kore plus a polite kudasai, you’ll rarely be misunderstood.

Politeness, common situations, and paying the bill

The first time I went to Japan, I tried to split a bill and made a mess of it. Quick correction: izakaya often prefer one bill unless you ask at the start. Ask betsu betsu ni onegaishimasu if you must pay separately, but prepare for a small extra hassle.

Toasting and manners

Basically, raise your glass and say kanpai. Don’t start drinking until everyone has their drink. Share plates, don’t waste food, and place your finished bones or shells neatly, not on the central plate. Many izakaya use tatami or counter seating, so be mindful of shoes and space.

Asking for the check and exiting

Speaking of which, when you’re ready to leave, call for the bill with okaikei onegaishimasu or simply bring your palm up slightly while saying sumimasen. Most places expect cash, but many urban izakaya accept credit cards. If the izakaya is cash-only, you’ll often see a small sign by the entrance. From my experience, tipping isn’t done in Japan, so just say arigato and leave.

Typical problems and how to handle them

Question: what if the server speaks little English? A great example: point to the menu, use numbers, and say futatsu or mitsu to indicate how many. If you need allergy help, say the ingredient in English and then add wa dame desu to indicate you can’t have it.

While we’re at it, many izakaya are noisy and fast-paced. If you want to linger, order another round and add a small plate to signal you’re staying. Convinced yet? These small moves change how staff treat you.

Sources

1. alc ej: Izakaya Japanese Phrases
2. r/TokyoTravel subreddit