When visiting an izakaya, a Japanese-style pub, you’ll find an extensive menu of small dishes that pair perfectly with your drinks. Here are five popular izakaya appetizers you must try!
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Edamame (Boiled Soybeans)
Edamame are young soybeans boiled in their pods and lightly salted. This simple yet delicious appetizer is a staple at izakayas. Edamame are healthy, easy to eat, and go well with a variety of drinks, especially beer. They offer a refreshing taste that prepares your palate for more flavorful dishes.
Tori no Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken)
Tori karaage is Japanese-style fried chicken that is marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before being coated in flour and deep-fried to perfection. The result is crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken pieces that are a favorite among izakaya-goers. This dish pairs well with beer, sake, or any other alcoholic beverage, making it a must-try for first-time visitors.
If you want to enjoy a tour of Japan's hidden alleyways, I recommend the "Snack Alley" tour.
Takowasa (Marinated Octopus)
Takowasa is a dish of raw octopus marinated in a wasabi and soy sauce mixture. It has a unique texture and a spicy kick from the wasabi, making it a popular choice for adventurous eaters. The bold flavors of takowasa pair excellently with sake, providing a distinctive and memorable taste experience.
Agedashi Tofu (Deep-Fried Tofu)
Agedashi tofu is a dish consisting of deep-fried tofu served in a flavorful dashi broth with grated daikon radish, green onions, and bonito flakes on top. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, silky interior of the tofu makes it a delightful dish to enjoy with sake or beer. Its light and delicate flavors provide a nice balance to the stronger tastes of other izakaya dishes.
Yakitori (Grilled Chicken Skewers)
Yakitori are grilled chicken skewers seasoned with either salt or a savory tare sauce. They come in various cuts and types, such as thigh, breast, and even chicken liver or skin. Yakitori is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with many types of drinks, especially beer and sake. It’s one of the most iconic and beloved izakaya dishes, offering a perfect combination of smoky flavor and tender meat.
Hungry Now?
In addition to these popular appetizers, izakayas offer a wide range of other dishes that are worth exploring. You can find sashimi, tempura, various types of grilled fish, and unique regional specialties. Each izakaya has its own charm and specialties, so don’t hesitate to try new items and discover your favorites. Enjoying these dishes in the lively atmosphere of an izakaya is a quintessential Japanese experience that shouldn’t be missed. Next time you’re at an izakaya, be sure to try these popular dishes and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Japanese nightlife.
＼We can try Appetizers with alcohol on the tour with a fun guide!!／
Let’s go to Izakaya and a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide!!
You can enjoy many kinds of food at Izakaya and drinking culture Snack Bars, beloved by many but you can’t enter without a guide. You can enjoy communication with the owner and other customers, as well as singing karaoke, allowing for a relaxing time.
Most snack bars have a policy of refusing entry to foreigners. However, with a tour, you’ll have a guide, so you can enter with peace of mind.
When visiting Japan, don’t just check off the tourist spots –
dive into local experiences for an unforgettable journey!
Once you experience it, you’ll be captivated too! The charm of snack bars.
New encounters with people! The camaraderie of singing at a snack bar! Conversations with the mama-san!
