Essential Japanese Phrases for Izakaya: Speak Like a Local in Japan

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If you’re planning to visit Japan, experiencing an izakaya is a must.
An izakaya is a casual Japanese-style pub where people gather to enjoy drinks, small dishes, and good conversation.

But here’s the thing—many menus are in Japanese, and not all staff speak fluent English.

Don’t worry.

With just a few simple Japanese phrases, you can completely transform your experience and enjoy your night like a local.

In this guide, I’ll introduce four essential phrases you can actually use at an izakaya in Japan.

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🍻 1. “Toriaezu Nama de” (とりあえず生で)

Meaning: “Draft beer for now”

When you sit down at an izakaya, one of the first things you’ll notice is that many people immediately order beer.

In Japan, it’s very common to start the night with this phrase:
“Toriaezu nama de.”

• “Toriaezu” = for now / to start with
• “Nama” = draft beer

So together, it means:
👉 “Let’s start with draft beer!”

Even if you’re not sure what you want to drink yet, ordering beer first is part of the culture.

💡 Pro Tip:

If you’re with friends, everyone often orders beer first, then decides on other drinks later.

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🍽️ 2. “Osusume wa Nan Desu Ka?” (おすすめはなんですか？)

Meaning: “What do you recommend?”

Izakaya menus can be overwhelming—there are so many options like yakitori, sashimi, fried dishes, and seasonal items.

If you’re unsure what to choose, just ask:
“Osusume wa nan desu ka?”

This is one of the most useful phrases you can learn.

Why?

Because instead of guessing, you’ll get:

• The restaurant’s best dishes
• Seasonal specialties
• Staff favorites

💡 Pro Tip:

Japanese staff are usually happy to recommend something, especially if you show interest in local food.

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🍲 3. “Okawari Kudasai” (おかわりください)

Meaning: “Another one, please”

Found something you love?

Say:
“Okawari kudasai!”

This phrase is perfect when you want:

• Another drink 🍺
• More rice 🍚
• The same dish again 🍢

It’s simple, polite, and very commonly used.

💡 Cultural Insight:

In Japan, repeating a dish you enjoyed is totally normal.
In fact, it shows appreciation!

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💳 4. “Okaikei Onegaishimasu” (お会計お願いします)

Meaning: “Check, please”

When you’re ready to leave, use this phrase:
“Okaikei onegaishimasu.”

Unlike some countries, the bill is not always brought automatically.

So you usually:

• Call the staff
• Or say this phrase when they come by

💡 Pro Tip:

In many izakaya, you’ll take the bill to the cashier near the entrance to pay.

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🇯🇵 Why These Phrases Matter

Learning these phrases is not just about communication.

It’s about connection.

When you use even simple Japanese:

• Staff become more friendly
• Service often feels warmer
• You experience Japan more deeply

Even small efforts go a long way.

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🍶 Bonus: Enjoy Izakaya Culture Like a Local

Here are a few extra tips to enhance your izakaya experience:

• Don’t be surprised if you receive a small dish (otoshi) you didn’t order
• Sharing food is common
• It’s okay to be a little loud and have fun
• Saying “Kanpai!” (cheers) is a must 🍻

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✨ Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be fluent in Japanese to enjoy an izakaya.

Just remember these four phrases:

• “Toriaezu nama de” 🍺
• “Osusume wa nan desu ka?” 🍽️
• “Okawari kudasai” 🍲
• “Okaikei onegaishimasu” 💳

With these, you’ll not only order smoothly—you’ll feel like part of the culture.

So next time you’re in Japan, step into an izakaya, try these phrases, and enjoy the experience like a local.