Absolutely, no problem! Visiting an izakaya is one of the absolute best ways to experience local Japanese life. Don't worry, it's not as complicated as you think. I'll break it down for you step by step.

What is an Izakaya? How to Order and Experience It?

1. First, What Exactly is an Izakaya?

Think of it as a "Japanese-style Pub" or a "Bar Serving Many Side Dishes."

It's different from formal restaurants and pure drinking bars. The core of an izakaya is: a place to drink casually, eat small dishes, chat with friends, and relax.

Atmosphere: Usually lively, noisy, and filled with chatter and laughter. It's the top choice for Japanese coworkers or friends after work. So, don't expect quiet romance; embrace the lively atmosphere.
Food: This is key! Izakaya food comes in small portions, perfect for sharing. From cold dishes and salads to fried food, skewers, stews, even main dishes and desserts – they have it all. You can sample a wide variety of dishes in one go.
Seating: Options include standard tables and chairs, traditional Japanese seating where you remove your shoes (tatami), and bar counter seats where you can watch the chefs work (Counter-seki).

Simply put, it's about a group sitting together, starting with drinks, then looking at the menu, ordering a little of this and that, chatting while eating and drinking, and enjoying a relaxed evening.

2. Super Practical! Izakaya Ordering Experience Flow

Don't worry about the menu; many izakaya nowadays, especially in big cities like Tokyo, have picture menus and even Chinese or English menus. Follow this flow and you'll be fine!

Step 1: Seating & the "Mysterious" Appetizer (お通し / Otōshi)

When you enter, staff will greet you with a loud "Irasshaimase!" (Welcome!), and then show you to your seat.

After you sit down, before you've even ordered anything, staff will usually bring a small appetizer dish. This is called お通し (Otōshi).

Important Note: This is not free! Think of it as a "seating/appetizer fee", usually 300-500 yen per person. This is standard izakaya practice, so don't be surprised when you see it on the bill. Just enjoy it as your first small dish!

Step 2: Order Drinks First! (飲み物 / Nomimono)

In Japan, ordering drinks first after sitting down is essential. The server will ask: "Onomimono wa?" (What would you like to drink?).

If unsure, try these safe bets:

"Toriaezu Bīru" (とりあえずビール - Beer for now!): This is a Japanese catchphrase and the most authentic way to start. Order a draft beer (生ビール / Nama Bīru)! 🍻
Highball: Whiskey and soda water; refreshing and very popular.
Sawa (サワー): Shochu mixed with fruit juice and soda, with flavors like lemon, grapefruit, Calpis (lactic acid drink). Low alcohol, fizzy like soda, popular with women.
Sake (日本酒 / Nihonshu): Give it a try if you're feeling adventurous. You can order a small flask (一合 / Ichi-gō).
Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Oolong Tea (Oolong-cha), Cola, and other soft drinks are also available.

Step 3: Start Ordering Food! (食べ物 / Tabemono)

Once your drinks arrive, you can take your time ordering food. Remember, "a little, often" is key! Don't order everything at once.

Recommended ordering strategy:

Start with Quick Cold Appetizers (とりあえずの一品 / Toriaezu no Ippin):
- Edamame: Classic pub snack.
- Hiyayakko (冷奴): Chilled tofu, simple and refreshing.
- Tatakikyūri (たたききゅうり): Gently smashed cucumber salad; similar to ours but seasoned differently.
Then, Move to Signature & Heartier Dishes:
- Yakitori (焼き鳥): Must-try grilled chicken skewers! Various parts like thigh (もも / Momo) or chicken and green onion (ねぎま / Negima). Choose salt seasoning (塩 / Shio) or sweet soy sauce glaze (タレ / Tare). 🍢
- Karaage (唐揚げ): Crispy Juicy Japanese Fried Chicken – perfect with beer!
- Dashimaki Tamago (出し巻き卵): Fluffy rolled omelet made with dashi broth.
- Sashimi Moriawase (刺身盛り合わせ): Assorted sashimi platter. Worth it if the place is known for freshness.
Wanting More Later?: See what locals around you are eating. Point to their dish (or the menu picture) and tell the staff "Kore kudasai" (これください / I'll have this, please).
Finishing with a Starch (締め / Shime):
- If you feel a bit pegged after drinking, order a starch to fill up.
- Yaki Onigiri (焼きおにぎり): Grilled rice ball with a tasty, slightly crispy soy sauce exterior.
- Ochazuke (お茶漬け): Rice with hot tea or broth poured over; light, warm, and comforting.

Step 4: Calling Staff & Payment

Ordering More: When you want to add something, say "Sumimasen!" (すみません！ / Excuse me!). Many modern izakaya have call buttons on the table – just press it and the staff will come.
Paying: Ready to leave? Say "Okaikei onegaishimasu" (お会計お願いします / Check, please), or take the bill holder directly to the register near the entrance. In Japan, you almost always pay at the cashier, not at the table.

3. Bonus Tips for a Great Experience 👍

Don't Be Shy: It's a place to relax. Speak up, use hand gestures; staff are usually very friendly.
Order Sake/Shochu by the Bottle: If you're in a group, ordering a whole bottle (Bottle Keep) is often more economical. Unfinished bottles can be labeled with your name and kept at the restaurant for your next visit.
Look for "飲み放題" (Nomihōdai): This means "all-you-can-drink." You pay a fixed price to drink (usually specific menu items) freely for a set time (typically 90-120 minutes). Great if you plan to drink a fair amount.
Be Mindful of Smoking: While many places are smoke-free now, some traditional or smaller izakaya may still allow smoking. If sensitive to smoke, ask when reserving about "禁煙席" (Kin-en Seki / Non-smoking seats).
Embrace the Buzz: Let me reiterate! The charm of an izakaya lies in its energy and lively vibe. Enjoy the atmosphere, raise a glass with friends, and soak in a genuine Japanese night out!

Hope this guide makes you feel right at home at the izakaya! Have a fantastic time in Tokyo, good food, and great drinks!