When visiting Japan, one of the most delightful and authentic experiences is dining at an izakaya. These traditional Japanese pubs offer a casual and lively atmosphere where friends, family, and coworkers gather to enjoy good food and drinks. One unique feature of izakayas that many foreigners might not be aware of is the “nomihodai” – all-you-can-drink courses. Here’s everything you need to know about enjoying these special offerings.
＼Experience Izakaya and a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide.／
Contents
What is an Izakaya?
An izakaya is a type of informal Japanese bar that serves a variety of alcoholic drinks and dishes. These establishments are perfect for relaxing after a long day, socializing, and trying a wide range of Japanese cuisine. Unlike typical restaurants, izakayas encourage sharing dishes, creating a communal dining experience.
What is Nomihodai?
Nomihodai (飲み放題) translates to “all-you-can-drink.” It is a popular option at many izakayas where, for a set price, you can enjoy unlimited drinks within a specified time frame, usually ranging from 90 minutes to two hours.
How It Works:
- Choose Your Plan: Upon arrival, you’ll be given the option to select a nomihodai plan. These plans can vary in price and the selection of drinks offered.
- Time Limit: You’ll typically have 90 minutes to two hours to enjoy as many drinks as you like.
- Ordering: You can order drinks one at a time, ensuring you don’t waste any. Some izakayas might have a rule that you need to finish one drink before ordering another.
- Enjoy Responsibly: While it’s tempting to drink as much as possible, it’s important to enjoy responsibly and be mindful of local customs and etiquette.
If you want to enjoy a tour of Japan's hidden alleyways, I recommend the "Snack Alley" tour.
Types of Drinks Available
The selection of drinks in a nomihodai plan can vary, but generally includes:
- Beer: Usually draft beer such as Asahi, Kirin, or Sapporo.
- Sake: A variety of Japanese rice wines.
- Shochu: A distilled spirit made from ingredients like barley, sweet potatoes, or rice.
- Highballs: Whiskey mixed with soda.
- Cocktails: Simple mixed drinks, such as vodka with tonic or cassis with orange juice.
- Soft Drinks: For those who prefer non-alcoholic options.
Mastering Japanese drinking culture at Izakaya
Course Menus
In addition to nomihodai, many izakayas offer set course menus that include a variety of dishes to complement your drinks. These courses often feature:
- Appetizers: Such as edamame, pickled vegetables, and sashimi.
- Grilled Dishes: Skewers of chicken (yakitori), fish, or vegetables.
- Fried Foods: Tempura, karaage (fried chicken), and agedashi tofu (fried tofu in broth).
- Noodle and Rice Dishes: Ramen, soba, or rice bowls.
- Desserts: A sweet end to your meal, such as matcha ice cream or mochi.
Tips for Enjoying Nomihodai
- Pace Yourself: Start with lighter drinks and gradually move to stronger ones.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water between alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated.
- Respect the Time Limit: Be aware of the time and order your last drink before the limit ends.
- Share Dishes: Ordering a variety of dishes to share is a great way to try more flavors.
Discover Japan’s Izakaya culture
Conclusion
Exploring an izakaya with a nomihodai plan is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. It’s an opportunity to try a variety of local drinks, enjoy delicious food, and experience the social atmosphere that makes izakayas so special. So, on your next trip to Japan, make sure to visit an izakaya and take advantage of the all-you-can-drink courses for an unforgettable night out!
Join the "Pub Crawl Tour" to enjoy pubs you can't enter without a guide!
Let’s go to Izakaya and a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide!!
You can enjoy many kinds of drink 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!
