Looking for must-eat Japanese food to try at your next izakaya visit? An izakaya is the perfect place to explore comforting Japanese dishes in a casual and lively setting.
These cosy Japanese pubs are all about sharing good food, drinks, and conversation. Expect grilled skewers, warm stews, crispy bites, and rice bowls.
This guide highlights the top dishes you should try for a flavourful and satisfying experience.
1. Yakitori
There is nothing quite like the aroma of grilled yakitori sizzling over charcoal. These juicy chicken skewers, such as Negima with leeks, Tsukune chicken meatballs, and crispy chicken skin, are packed with savoury flavour. Choose between a sweet soy glaze or a simple salt finish to suit your taste.
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2. Grilled Seafood (Ikayaki)
Tender squid, succulent prawns, and buttery scallops are grilled to perfection, resulting in smoky and juicy dishes. Brushed with soy or miso sauce, every bite delivers a rich burst of ocean flavour.
3. Kushikatsu
Crispy on the outside and tender inside, kushikatsu is Osaka’s favourite deep-fried snack. These skewers of meat, vegetables, or prawns are breaded and fried to golden perfection, then dipped in a rich savoury sauce that makes each bite unforgettable.
4. Takoyaki / Akashiyaki
Takoyaki is a popular bite-sized treat made of soft batter filled with chunks of octopus, topped with tangy sauce, mayonnaise, and dancing bonito flakes. Prefer something more delicate? Try Akashiyaki, a fluffy egg dumpling gently dipped into warm dashi broth for a lighter twist.
5. Oden
Simmered in a light soy broth, oden is Japanese comfort food at its best. It features tender daikon radish, tofu, eggs and fish cakes that soak up deep savoury flavours. A warm and hearty dish, especially during colder nights.
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6. Ramen
A steaming bowl of ramen is the perfect way to wind down your izakaya meal. Choose from shoyu, miso or creamy tonkotsu broth with springy noodles, marinated egg, and sliced meat for a deeply satisfying experience.
7. Hamburg Steak
Juicy, tender and full of flavour, Japanese-style hamburg steak is made with minced beef or pork and served with a rich demi glace or tangy ponzu. It is a classic izakaya pick when you want something bold and comforting.
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8. Donburi (Japanese Rice Bowls)
Simple yet filling, donburi is a bowl of fluffy rice topped with delicious combinations, such as beef and onions in a sweet sauce, crispy pork cutlet, or soft, simmered chicken and egg. It is a wholesome dish that never disappoints.
9. Sashimi
Clean and elegant, sashimi is all about freshness. Slices of raw salmon, tuna, or yellowtail served with soy sauce and wasabi offer a light and refreshing balance to the richer izakaya fare.
10. Hitsumabushi (Grilled Eel Rice)
This grilled eel dish from Nagoya is served with rice and enjoyed in three delicious ways. First on its own, then with fragrant condiments, and finally with warm broth poured over. It is a unique and flavourful journey in every bowl.
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Make the Most of Your Izakaya Visit
Izakayas are all about good food, good company, and relaxed vibes. These quick tips will help you enjoy every bite to the fullest.
- Share to explore more: Izakayas are made for sharing, so mix and match dishes with friends to sample a wider variety of flavours.
- Pair with alcohol: Order a highball, sake, or beer to complement grilled or fried dishes. It’s part of the fun!
- Ask for seasonal items: Many izakayas serve seasonal specials, such as nabe or grilled fish. Don’t hesitate to ask what’s fresh.
- Try the three-stage meal: If you order hitsumabushi, enjoy it plain, with condiments, and finally with warm broth for a full flavour journey.
- Eat light to heavy: Start with sashimi or yakitori, then move on to fried or rice dishes to pace your appetite like a pro.
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Experience Must-Eat Japanese Food at Izakaya Group’s Restaurants
Izakaya Group believes a great meal is meant to be shared, savoured, and remembered.
Our curated selection of Japanese food brings together the heart of izakaya dining in every dish at our Japanese restaurant in Malaysia.
Enjoy grilled skewers, comforting bowls, crispy bites, and fresh seafood. Each dish is crafted to bring bold flavours in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Come in, take a seat, and let us serve you the best of Japan, one delicious bite at a time.
Reserve your table at Izakaya Group now for an unforgettable Japanese dining experience.
