For tourists traveling to Japan, izakaya — casual bars known for their lively atmospheres and small bites of bar food — are often a must-visit stop for a taste of the local culture. But for those who don’t have travel plans in the books, you can sample that style of eatery right in Northern Virginia. At these seven izakaya-style restaurants and bars, diners will find cocktails, sake, and delectable Japanese bites like yakitori and takoyaki that provide a taste of Tokyo right at home.
Genki Izakaya
Head to Genki Izakaya for creative cocktails like the Ube Colada and the miso-mandarin Kyoto Sour. There’s a full page of sake options, including some high-dollar premium options. Hungry visitors can try a variety of Japanese skewers, hot appetizers like pork buns, and a variety of Japanese curry dishes. 9508 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax
Izakaya Nana
This Chantilly izakaya is an expansion of its first location in Flushing, Queens. The interior is decked out with design elements that take inspiration from Japan, and the menu offers a selection of yakitori, sushi, and small bites like gyoza. There are also craft cocktails and sake options. 13882 Metrotech Dr., Chantilly
Kimen Ramen & Izakaya
Get a steaming bowl of ramen — there are specialty options like a seafood tsukemen ramen and a brothless mazemen version — or fill up on appetizers like ikagaso karaage, a pork katsu sandwich, and kurobuta sausage. There are also several options for katsu and donburi meals. 11725 Route 29, Ste. 13A, Fairfax; 5720 Pickwick Rd., Centreville
Pak Soii Izakaya
This cozy spot in Del Ray just opened in October. It blends Asian street food culture with Japanese influences, with menu items like hand rolls, donburi, takoyaki, and sashimi. 1909 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria
SHō Sushi & Izakaya
This chic McLean restaurant offers classic Japanese dishes with Western influences. On the izakaya menu, find simple bites like shishito peppers, chicken thighs, and a variety of skewers. The sushi menu is extensive, with an option for a “SHōmakase” meal that includes miso soup, a cold appetizer, eight pieces of chef’s-choice nigiri, and one temaki. 6828 Old Dominion Dr., Ste. D, McLean
Starry Night Izakaya Korean Pub
Beyond the food — a blend of Korean and Japanese fare — patrons flock to this late-night Chantilly spot for its lively karaoke scene. It’s open until 2 a.m. for music, drinks, and food. Nibble on small plates like fried squid legs or dumplings, or go for an entree like vegetable beef hot pot. The cocktails are classic staples like margaritas and mojitos, with eight sake options. 13952 Route 50, Chantilly
Tomo Izakaya Sushi & Grill
Open since 2005, this Japanese restaurant lauds itself as the first Japanese Korean fusion restaurant to open in Centreville. Head here for sushi and sashimi, hibachi, and dishes like chicken katsu. Snag a seat by the bar to watch the sushi chefs at work. 13810-A Braddock Rd., Centreville
Feature image of Izakaya Nana by Alice Levitt
