Japan Rankings
Discover "Wara Wara": Japan’s Cozy Izakaya Chain Loved by Locals
When you think of Japanese cuisine, images of sushi, ramen, and tempura might come to mind. But if you want to truly experience Japan the way locals do after work or on weekends, visiting an izakaya is a must. And among the many chains scattered across Japan, Wara Wara (笑笑) stands out for its cozy vibes, budget-friendly pricing, and wide-ranging comfort food menu.
Wara Wara is a popular izakaya (Japanese-style pub) chain operated by Monteroza Co., Ltd., a company that also manages other well-known brands like Shirokiya, Uotami, and Mekiki no Ginji. With hundreds of locations across Japan, Wara Wara is widely accessible—especially near major train stations and city centers.
The name "笑笑" literally means "smile smile" or "laugh laugh" in Japanese, reflecting the chain's warm and casual atmosphere. It’s a place where you can gather with friends, unwind after work, or even dine solo without feeling awkward.
Here’s why Wara Wara is a great stop for foreign travelers:
Whether you're an adventurous foodie or someone looking for a comforting meal, Wara Wara delivers.
In August 2024, Japanese food media outlet macaroni asked its readers to vote for their favorite Wara Wara menu items. Here's the result—these dishes are your best bet if you're ordering for the first time.
This hearty hotpot is packed with collagen-rich beef or pork offal and vegetables simmered in a rich, savory chicken-based white soup. It's warm, flavorful, and highly satisfying.
Inspired by German street food, this dish offers grilled sausages topped with spicy-sweet curry sauce. A rare fusion dish in Japan, it’s a favorite for beer drinkers.
Thinly sliced cured ham, served as a simple and elegant starter. Light yet packed with umami.
Karaage is a staple in Japanese pubs, and Wara Wara’s version is a standout. Crispy, juicy, and seasoned with just the right amount of salt.
A mix of grilled skewers including chicken thigh, skin, and gizzard. Perfect for sharing or for those who want to try a little of everything.
“Bari” means crispy. This regional-style fried chicken comes coated in a sweet soy glaze and is a go-to for fans of bold flavors.
An Italian-inspired dish that showcases thinly sliced rare beef, served with soy-based sauce or citrus ponzu. Ideal for meat lovers.
This version of fried chicken is tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, bringing a bit of the U.S. to the izakaya table.
A cooling appetizer with crunch and heat. The spicy miso meat topping gives this dish a satisfying depth.
A fiery tofu dish made with Szechuan peppercorns, chili oil, and ground pork. Surprisingly authentic and not for the faint of heart!
Ordering in an izakaya can feel intimidating, but Wara Wara makes it easy:
Pro tip: Most Wara Wara locations have touchscreen ordering tablets, some with language settings.
Here are some conveniently located branches for tourists:
Use Google Maps or food platforms like Tabelog to find the closest branch.
In Japan, izakayas are more than restaurants—they’re part of the country's social fabric. They’re where coworkers decompress, couples go on casual dates, and solo diners reflect over a drink. Wara Wara embodies all of this with approachability and flavor.
So if you’re visiting Japan and want a true local food experience, skip the touristy sushi spots for a night and dive into the lively, flavorful world of Wara Wara. Bring your appetite—and maybe some friends—and you’re guaranteed to leave with a smile.
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