Japan Rankings
Your guide to cheap and cheerful izakaya experiences across Japan
If you're visiting Japan and want to experience the country's true food culture, look beyond sushi restaurants and ramen shops — and head to an izakaya. These casual Japanese-style pubs are where locals gather after work to eat, drink, and unwind. They’re a core part of social life in Japan.
Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or on a budget, chain izakaya are a fantastic entry point. They offer affordable menus, familiar service styles, and the opportunity to eat and drink like a local — often in places most tourists walk right past.
Here are 10 popular and budget-friendly izakaya chains that are beloved by Japanese people all over the country.
Best for: Grilled chicken skewers and simple pricing
Nationwide Locations: Approx. 664
Everything — food and drinks — costs around ¥350 (~$2.50), making this chain a favorite among students, young professionals, and casual groups. Torikizoku specializes in yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), served in a fun, energetic atmosphere.
Try this: Negima (chicken and leek), chicken skin, draft beer
Scene: After-work drinking, friend hangouts, easygoing first dates
Official Website
Best for: Sushi lovers on a budget
Nationwide Locations: Approx. 299
This unique chain blends the world of izakaya and sushi. You can enjoy freshly made nigiri sushi along with drinks like sake and highballs — all in a relaxed, pub-like atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for those who want sushi without breaking the bank.
Try this: Salmon sushi, octopus karaage, sake
Scene: Solo dinners, low-key nights out, last-minute sushi cravings
Official Website
Best for: Affordable seafood
Nationwide Locations: Approx. 340
Known for its seafood dishes and quiet booth seating, Uotami is part of the large Monte Rosa group. It’s a go-to spot for work parties or chill nights out, with a wide range of Japanese izakaya staples.
Try this: Grilled mackerel, assorted sashimi, lemon sour
Scene: Group gatherings, after-work relaxation
Official Website
Best for: Local-style yakitori and cozy vibes
Nationwide Locations: Approx. 233
Hakkenden offers a classic izakaya experience with a focus on charcoal-grilled skewers, beer, and friendly service. Many locations have a warm, retro feel that locals find comforting and familiar.
Try this: Tsukune (chicken meatball), dashimaki tamago, highball
Scene: Neighborhood hangouts, solo visits, regular customers
Official Website
Best for: Deep-fried skewers, Osaka-style
Nationwide Locations: Approx. 309
Originally from Osaka, this izakaya chain specializes in kushikatsu — skewered and deep-fried meats, vegetables, and cheese. It’s lively and playful, with dipping sauce etiquette signs that even locals joke about.
Try this: Cheese kushi, lotus root, plum wine
Scene: Lively friend meetups, fun first-timers, Osaka food lovers
Official Website
Best for: Hokkaido-style comfort food
Nationwide Locations: Approx. 400
With roots in Hokkaido, Tsubohachi offers hearty dishes like zangi (fried chicken), buttered potatoes, and crab hotpot. It has a nostalgic vibe and is especially popular with locals outside major cities.
Try this: Zangi, miso ramen, potato butter
Scene: Family dinners, casual coworker outings
Official Website
Best for: Big groups and festive energy
Nationwide Locations: Approx. 298
This chain features vibrant decor with sumo and festival themes, and specializes in seafood. It often has all-you-can-drink (nomihodai) plans, making it ideal for large parties or special events.
Try this: Tuna sashimi, tempura, sake in wooden cups
Scene: Welcome/farewell parties, big nights out
Official Website
Best for: Retro izakaya charm
Nationwide Locations: Approx. 188
One of Japan’s oldest izakaya chains, Yoronotaki is known for its Showa-era aesthetic and simple, satisfying food. Prices are low, and regulars return again and again for the warm, unpretentious vibe.
Try this: Oden, stewed beef, sake
Scene: Local customers, salarymen, nostalgic solo diners
Official Website
Best for: Seafood in a fun, fisherman’s tavern setting
Nationwide Locations: Approx. 233
This chain offers a fisherman's hut-style interior and a strong focus on fresh seafood. It’s loud, cheerful, and a fun spot to enjoy sashimi, grilled fish, and cold beer with friends.
Try this: Assorted sashimi, grilled squid, shochu
Scene: Team dinners, seafood fans, social groups
Official Website
Best for: Down-to-earth yakitori with a personal touch
Nationwide Locations: Approx. 485
Yakitori Daikichi is beloved for its neighborhood feel — many stores are run by franchise owners who chat with customers at the counter. With classic yakitori at great prices, it’s a hit with older locals and solo drinkers.
Try this: Liver skewers, negima, seasonal shochu
Scene: Solo or quiet nights, regulars, neighborhood bar feel
Official Website
Izakaya are more than just places to eat and drink — they’re where Japanese people connect. You can expect:
Dishes meant for sharing, ordered gradually
A mix of hot and cold plates, drinks, and seasonal flavors
A space where social barriers break down — even for foreigners!
Say “Sumimasen” to call a staff member — it's totally normal
Don’t double-dip your kushikatsu sauce!
Ask for the "Eigo menu" (English menu) or look for picture menus
Expect to remove your shoes in some traditional-style seating areas
For a truly local experience that’s fun, flavorful, and wallet-friendly, these izakaya chains are your best bet. They're loved by Japanese people for a reason — and they're waiting to welcome you in.
So next time you’re in Japan, grab a stool, order a skewer, and join in the chorus of “Kanpai!”
