“What is the expectation in an izakaya? We’re a family that doesn’t drink alcohol or smoke but love the food. Are we expected to order alcohol, and are izakayas smoke-filled?”

Guess what? In izakayas, which are super popular in Japan, people often go for drinks and small plates. Drinking and smoking are common, but not expected; you can totally just enjoy the food! If you’re more into trying dishes like yakitori (grilled chicken) and sashimi without a buzzy bar vibe, you might find specialized restaurants a fantastic choice. They focus more on the food, and it can be a bit cheaper and yummier too. Plus, you can take your time savoring every bite without the lively izakaya atmosphere!

What Japanese People Actually Do

Most locals are familiar with this topic and handle it naturally in their daily lives.

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