Summary

• Key takeaways:
• Tokyo has a wide variety of izakayas, which are popular with locals for after-work drinks and affordable snacks.
• Each izakaya has its own unique offerings, from grilled fish with miso dressing to seafood creations and straw-roasted cuisine.
• Visitors can experience a lively and authentic night out in Tokyo by visiting traditional izakayas in different neighborhoods.

Tokyo is a vibrant city with many different wards or districts to explore. Of all the interesting facts about Tokyo, one that many tourists don't actually know is that each part of the city has a distinct vibe that makes it unique and draws crowds for a specific reason.

For example, Shinjuku is the heart of Tokyo’s nightlife scene, while the temple-filled area of Asakusa retains the feeling of a historic Tokyo. Japan's capital is also known for its food scene, from the many quirky cafés in Tokyo to vending machine meals and goodies to traditional bars. Head to these traditional bars (Izakayas) across various neighborhoods for a lively night in Tokyo.

UPDATE: 2023/11/07 16:41 EST BY LUANA FERREIRA

More Fun Izakayas In Tokyo

Tokyo has countless izakayas, and the best ones are often hidden in alleys of busy neighborhoods. They are the place locals often go after work to drink and eat affordable snacks and dishes. This list has been expanded to add four more popular izakayas.

14 Sasagin, Shimbashi

Shimbashi is home to several old-school izikayas, such as Sasagin. Guests may encounter groups of business people smoking outside when entering the place. This izakaya serves many grilled fishes topped with miso dressed that can be paired with many outstanding sakes—no, they are not all the same.

There is a large selection of beer for those who are not fans of sake. They are prepared to welcome foreign customers, and the menu is also in English.

• Address: Japan, 〒151-0064 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Uehara, 1 Chome−32−15 第二小林ビル

13 Shimbashi Shimizu

Shimbashi Shimizu is a classic and inviting izakaya located in the Minato-ku, a special ward in Tokyo. This traditional establishment offers various grilled dishes, including yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and other savory options.

While it caters to a range of budgets, it generally falls in the mid-price range. Visitors will find a lively atmosphere, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. Sake, shochu, and beer are popular drink choices to accompany the delectable grilled fare. Shimbashi Shimizu promises a quintessential izakaya experience in the heart of Tokyo.

• Address: 2 Chome-15-10 Shinbashi, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0004, Japan

12 Toridosi

Most tourists won't pay attention to a small izakaya in an alley in the Shibuya area. The Toridosi Shibuya is a discreet izakaya, but guests are impressed by its menu, which offers grilled chicken and tasty meaty gyoza wings. The dishes can be paired with seasonal fruit drinks.

Reviews praise the service and the grilled chicken leg served in the izakaya. As it's not a popular place among tourists, it is also the chance to blend with locals and have a typical experience.

Address: Japan, 〒150-0043 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Dogenzaka, 1 Chome−13−3 ＭＳＴ道玄坂 3F

11 Kaikaya by the Sea, Shibuya

Kaikaya by the Sea in Tokyo's vibrant Shibuya district is a seafood lover's haven. This renowned izakaya-style restaurant is celebrated for its delectable and inventive seafood creations, showcasing the finest catch from local fishermen. However, guests can also find great meat options.

This place is strongly committed to sustainability and guarantees freshness and quality in every dish. From exquisite sashimi to expertly grilled fish, the menu offers diverse seafood delights. The cozy and inviting ambiance adds to the charm, making it a beloved spot for Tokyoites and visitors seeking a memorable seafood dining experience in the city's heart.

Address: 23-7 Maruyamacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0044, Japan

10 Ebisu Yokocho Alley, Shibuya

Ebisu Yokocho is not a specific Izakaya but rather an alley full of traditional Izakayas in Shibuya. It’s a covered alleyway in southwest Tokyo with retro lighting and neon signs that are sure to give travelers a memorable night out.

• Address: 1 Chome-7-4 Ebisu, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0013, Japan

9 Ginza Toriko, Ginza

Ginza Toriko is a lively Izakaya and yakitori restaurant in Tokyo worth visiting at least once on a trip to the city. It’s open daily from 5 PM to 9 PM (except Sundays) and is the perfect place to spend an evening socializing with new friends or fellow travelers.

• Address: Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 6 Chome−3−11 西銀座ビル ５階

8 Shinsuke Izakaya, Ueno

Shinsuke Izakaya is a traditional style Japanese Izakaya in the heart of Tokyo’s Ueno district. The kind-hearted staff makes the experience special for travelers, and as a bonus, they serve an excellent selection of Sake. Like most Izakayas in Tokyo, Shinsuke opens in the evening around 4 PM and closes at 8:30 PM.

• Address: Japan, 〒113-0034 Tokyo, Bunkyo City, Yushima, 3 Chome−31−5 YUSHIMA3315ビル

7 Warayakiya, Roppongi

This highly-rated Tokyo Izakaya is located in Roppongi and specializes in straw-roasted cuisine. The unique cooking style requires roasting the dishes over flames that are burning from straw. With straw-roasting, the dishes are seared all over so that the umami (Japanese word for sense of deliciousness) is trapped in the food and creates a rich flavor.

The open-air kitchen and bar counter seating allow guests to enjoy a drink while watching the artful preparation of their meal at this Izakaya. It’s definitely a unique place to hang out for a night out in Tokyo. It deserves a spot on any itinerary for travelers visiting the bustling city, whether for a week or a long layover in Tokyo.

• Address: Japan, 〒106-0032 Tokyo, Minato City, Roppongi, 6 Chome−8−8 六本木ゴーディビル 1F

Although some people don't suggest visiting Tokyo, there are ways to make it feel less touristy and more authentic.

6 Uoshin Nogizaka, Akasaka

Uoshin Nogizaka is another fantastic Izakaya option in Tokyo, this time in the rich neighborhood of Akasaka. It’s easy to walk there from the Nogizaka subway station. In addition to serving traditional Japanese tavern drinks and snacks and have incredible seafood.

• Address: 9 Chome-6-32 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan

5 Andy's Shin Hinomoto, Yurakucho

Andy’s Shin Hinomoto is a relaxed atmosphere for hanging out with friends in Yurakucho, Tokyo. The Izakaya is low-key and sells a variety of beers and shareable Japanese plates. They’ve been in business for over 70 years and even offer cooking classes as a fun activity while visiting the city.

• Address: 2 Chome-4-4 Yurakucho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0006, Japan

4 Torikizoku, Shibuya

Torikizoku Shibuya Inokashira Street is a beautiful restaurant to visit in Shibuya, Tokyo, for dinner or drinks in the evening. The Izakaya serves traditional Japanese pub foods and has bar seating and a capacity to seat 65 people at tables. Reservations can be made online in advance to ensure visitors get a seat at this popular place to dine and drink in the city.

• Address: 31-3 Udagawacho 3rd Tanaka Building 3F, Shibuya 150-0042 Tokyo Prefecture

3 Namikibashi Nakamura Honten, Shibuya

Namikibashi Nakamura Honten is a trendy Izakaya in the bustling neighborhood of Shibuya. High-concept cuisine and a bar-style counter make this a fun place to indulge in Japanese shareable plates and drinks. This Izakaya opens around 5-5:30 PM and closes at 11:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays.

• Address: Japan, 〒150-0002 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Shibuya, 3 Chome−13−5 Bprレジデンス渋谷 2階B

2 Shirubee, Kitazawa

The cover charge makes Shirubee a more expensive option than some other Izakayas in Tokyo, but it’s worth the price for the incredible experience. The charming interior of this Izakaya is inviting and comfortable. Guests are seated on the floor and must respectfully remove their shoes before sitting.

There is a bar counter where visitors can watch the chefs prepare food and drinks. The Izakaya serves shareable Japanese plates plus a wide selection of drinks. Like many Izakayas in Tokyo, it’s open only until 11:30 PM, with the busiest evening peaking around 9 PM.

• Address: 2 Chome-18-2 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031, Japan

1 Gonpachi Nishi Azabu, Roppongi

Gonapachi Nishi Azabu is a historic Japanese Izakaya in Tokyo with a gorgeous interior design reflecting its storied past. There is live entertainment at the venue, and it is open way later than many Izakayas in Tokyo, with doors open until 3:30 AM.

• Address: 1 Chome-13-11 Nishiazabu, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0031, Japan