Travel Tips In Japan No.2: How To Order, One Dish At A Time Or All At Once?

OK so next, I’d like to share order style. I saw news about tourism in Japan and there are some problem at an Izakayas in sightseeing place. Customers didn’t order a lot, and customers ordered too much foods but most of them were left.

Compared to western style restaurant, Izakayas are completely different. At a restaurant, we order a big plate of foods and small plates at a time and share it. How ever, normally, at an Izakaya, there is a flow how to order.

Actually, when I was in Dublin and went to Japanese Izakaya with my classmates, we ordered too much plates at a time and around 30% were left.

To solve this problem and enjoy your Izakaya’s experience, you’ll get tips from my article.

So! Let’s get start it!

Travel Tips In Japan No.1: “Irashaimase” Do You Know Correct Response At An Izakaya?

Izakaya: Advice To Enjoy Experience In An Izakaya In Japan!

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1. How Ordering Styles Differ: Japan vs. Overseas

When dining out in many Western countries, the typical restaurant experience follows a fairly structured pattern. Each person usually orders their own dish—such as a main course with a side or salad—and meals are often not meant to be shared. Once orders are placed, the menus are usually taken away, and there’s not much back-and-forth between guests and staff afterward.

In contrast, Japanese izakayas (casual pubs) operate very differently. Sharing is the norm, and dishes are served in small portions, designed to be placed in the center of the table and enjoyed together. Rather than ordering everything at the beginning, it’s common to start with drinks and a few light dishes, then continue ordering gradually throughout the meal. Menus usually stay on the table for the entire time.

This style creates a more relaxed, social atmosphere where the pace is slower and more flexible. You can adjust based on what you’re craving, how full you are, or how long you plan to stay. For people used to the Western style of ordering once and being done, this can be surprising—but it’s also one of the joys of the izakaya experience.

2. The Basic Flow of Ordering at an Izakaya

Ordering at an izakaya follows a unique rhythm that’s quite different from typical Western restaurants. When you sit down, the first thing you’ll usually be asked is for your drink order—even before you look at the food menu. It’s customary to start with a drink (often beer or a highball), and saying “Toriaezu nama!” (Just draft beer for now!) is a common phrase you’ll hear.

Next comes the “otoshi”, a small appetizer automatically served with your drink. It’s not something you order, and it usually costs a small fee (around ¥300–500). While some visitors are confused by this custom, it’s part of the izakaya experience and helps bridge the time before the first dishes arrive.

As for food, there’s no need to rush. Most people begin with light items like edamame, pickles, or sashimi, then gradually move toward grilled or fried dishes. Because sharing is expected, dishes come out as soon as they’re ready, not all at once.

Throughout the night, it’s normal to keep browsing the menu and ordering a few items at a time. This flexible, ongoing approach keeps the meal fun and interactive—perfect for relaxing conversations over drinks.

3. The Benefits of Ordering One Dish at a Time

One of the most enjoyable aspects of dining at an izakaya is the ability to order gradually—one or two dishes at a time, based on how you feel in the moment. This approach offers several benefits, especially for those who like to take their time and enjoy the experience.

First, it allows you to enjoy food while it’s hot and fresh. Since dishes are prepared and served as they’re ready, ordering in smaller rounds ensures that each one arrives at its best. You don’t end up with a crowded table full of cooling plates, which can happen if you order everything at once.

Second, it gives you the chance to read the room—see what your friends are enjoying, how hungry everyone is, and what mood the table is in. You can then adjust your next choices accordingly. This keeps the meal dynamic and responsive.

Finally, it encourages more interaction with the staff and with your dining companions. Asking for recommendations, trying something new, and discussing the next order becomes part of the fun.

Overall, this style is perfect for slow, social meals where the goal isn’t just to eat—but to enjoy the atmosphere and company.

4. When It Makes Sense to Order All at Once

While ordering one dish at a time is common at izakayas, there are situations where ordering everything at once is the smarter choice. It all depends on your group size, schedule, and the atmosphere of the izakaya.

If you’re dining with a large group, it can be more efficient to place a bulk order early on. This helps avoid confusion and ensures that everyone gets something they like without waiting too long. Plus, when food arrives all at once, it’s easier to share everything while it’s still hot.

Another case is when you’re on a tight schedule—for example, during a short after-work gathering or if you have plans afterward. In these situations, placing your full order upfront saves time and lets you focus on enjoying your meal without constant interruptions.

The best option in this case is a COMBO menu. Izakayas offer a combo menu for a large group and first visitors. In particular, the end of year and new year seasons, many businessperson make a reservation for a party. The strong advantage is no necessary to think about what we should order. Also, for a point of chef, the cuisines are same so it’s easy to make them for customer

Also, if you’re using a “nomihodai” (all-you-can-drink) plan, many izakayas prefer if you order most of your food at the beginning. Some places even require it, so the kitchen can pace your dishes to match the drinking time limit.

While izakayas are flexible, understanding these exceptions helps you navigate different scenarios smoothly and respectfully.

5. Recommended Ordering Patterns (with Examples)

Not sure how to approach ordering at an izakaya? Here are a few simple and effective patterns based on group size and situation. These will help you enjoy the meal without overthinking it.

・For Two People (Date or Casual Night Out)

Start with drinks and one or two small dishes—like edamame or tuna sashimi. After tasting those, you can move on to something grilled (like yakitori) and finish with a hearty dish like fried rice or udon. Keep it light and flexible, and enjoy chatting while you order slowly.

・For a Group of Four

Begin with a round of drinks and 3–4 starter dishes for sharing: pickles, potato salad, karaage (fried chicken), and tofu dishes. After those are mostly gone, take orders for grilled items, hot pots, or tempura. End with a shared rice or noodle dish. Assign one person to lead the ordering if needed.

・ When Hosting International Guests

Choose a variety of textures and flavors: raw (like sashimi), cooked (like skewers), fried, and pickled. Don’t overload them at first—let guests try things slowly. Ask the staff for recommendations and explain what each dish is as it comes out. That turns the meal into a fun cultural experience.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering

Even though izakayas are casual and welcoming, there are a few common mistakes that can make the experience less enjoyable—for both you and the staff. Being aware of these helps you blend in and enjoy the meal like a local.

・Over-ordering at the Beginning

It might be tempting to order a lot all at once, especially if you’re hungry—but resist the urge. Food comes out as soon as it’s ready, so if you order everything upfront, your table can quickly become crowded, and dishes may go cold before you can enjoy them.

・Wasting Food

Since izakaya dishes are designed for sharing, portions can add up. Be careful not to order more than you can eat, especially if you’re trying unfamiliar items. It’s perfectly okay to order slowly and see what you like before committing to more.

・Not Ordering at All for Long Periods

Izakayas make money through a steady flow of orders. Sitting for an hour without ordering anything—especially during busy hours—can be seen as inconsiderate. Even just a drink or light snack helps keep things balanced.

Being mindful of these small points shows respect for the culture—and helps you have a smoother, more enjoyable night out.

7. Conclusion: Find the Right Balance

So, should you order one dish at a time or everything at once at an izakaya? The real answer is: it depends. Both styles have their advantages, and the key is to stay flexible and aware of your situation.

Ordering gradually lets you enjoy the meal at a comfortable pace, trying different flavors while keeping dishes fresh and conversation flowing. It’s ideal for small groups, dates, or relaxed nights out where the focus is on sharing time, not just food.

On the other hand, ordering more at once makes sense when you’re in a large group, short on time, or using a set drinking plan like nomihodai. It helps things run smoothly and avoids delays in the kitchen.

Ultimately, the best izakaya experiences come from reading the room—noticing how busy the place is, how hungry your group is, and how the night is unfolding. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations or guidance—they’re usually happy to help.

By finding the right balance between spontaneity and strategy, you’ll not only enjoy delicious food and drinks—you’ll also experience a truly Japanese way of socializing.