Japan First Move

How to Order at an Izakaya Without Feeling Lost

If you just sat down at an izakaya and staff is already waiting for your order, don’t panic.

Your first move is not to choose every dish. Start by choosing one drink.

First Move

Choose your first drink before choosing all your food.

Quick steps

  1. Wait for staff to show you to a seat.
  2. Choose your first drink.
  3. Don’t be surprised if a small starter arrives automatically.
  4. Order a few dishes to share.
  5. Ask for the bill when you are ready to leave.

Don’t Do This

Don’t wait too long before ordering anything.

At many izakaya, staff may ask for your first drink soon after you sit down. You can take more time with the food menu after that.

Don’t assume the small starter is free.

Many izakaya serve a small dish called otoshi. It is usually part of the seating charge or table charge.

Say or show this

Use these phrases to speak or point when you need help.

Use when you want a draft beer first. Nama biiru onegaishimasu. Draft beer, please.
Use when you want a cola. Koora onegaishimasu. Cola, please.
Use when you want ginger ale. Jinjaa eeru onegaishimasu. Ginger ale, please.
Use when you want to ask about non-alcoholic drinks. Arukooru nashi no nomimono wa arimasu ka? Do you have non-alcoholic drinks?

If You See or Hear This

Onomimono wa ikaga desu ka? It means: What would you like to drink? Your move Choose one drink first, even if you are still choosing food.
Otoshi desu. It means: This is the small starter or table charge dish. Your move This is often part of the table charge. If you cannot eat it, tell staff before touching it.
Rasuto oodaa desu. It means: Last order. Your move Order anything else now, or say you are okay.

If You’re Stuck

If you drink alcohol, a draft beer is an easy first order. If not, cola, ginger ale, or another non-alcoholic drink is fine. For food, start with two or three simple dishes. You can order more later.

Tiny Culture Note

An izakaya is more like a casual drinking restaurant than a quiet dinner spot. It is normal to order in rounds.

Need to explain food needs?

Small dishes such as otoshi may contain fish, egg, meat, or alcohol. Use a simple Japanese card to explain what you need to avoid.

Food needs

Create a food card for Japan

Show allergies, dietary needs, or ingredients to check before ordering.

No app needed Save as image Point-to-reply answers

One-time purchase: USD $7.99

Create my card See sample cards

Stay in the same situation area, or go back to the category page and choose the closest moment.

What to Do First at a Ramen Shop

What to Do When a Japanese Restaurant Says “We’re Full”

How to Pay at Restaurants and Shops
Back to Food