The origins of izakaya are the traditional pubs in old buildings frequented by Japanese salarymen who would, after a long hard day at work, unwind over large amounts of sake, wines and spirits together with snacks and still go home for dinner.

Not simply tapas or mezze, izakaya-style dining today elevates Japanese cuisine to a level of sophistication. Small plate dishes which include robatayaki, yakitori, sushi, ramen, soba chazuke and karaage are meant to be paired with sakes, shochus, beers, wines and spirits and to be shared around. This conviviality sets an izakaya apart from ordinary Japanese restaurants.

Today, izakaya-style dining is enjoyed all over the world by young sophisticates out for a good time with friends and family and are fast overtaking sushi and ramen restaurants in popularity as the first choice for a special night out.