Shibuya After Dark: Top 15 Izakayas for Foreign Visitors

Introduction

Shibuya pulses with youthful energy and neon nights—this district is a must for izakaya lovers looking for eclectic flavors, friendly atmospheres, and convenient late-night dining. Ideal for solo travelers, groups, couples—you’ll find a mix of cozy pubs, upscale sake bars, and interactive venues where English menus and non-smoking zones are becoming increasingly common.

1. Uobei Shibuya

Recommended Menu: Conveyor-belt sushi-style yakitori and kushiyaki, miso soup
Smoking: Non-smoking throughout
Typical Crowd: Young locals, students, solo diners
Ideal Scene: Casual, tech-savvy dining after shopping or clubbing—quick bites when you want variety fast

2. Toriyoshi Shibuya

Recommended Menu: Premium toriyaki chicken, liver skewers, house-infused highball
Smoking: Smoking allowed in certain seating areas
Typical Crowd: Yakitori fans, after-work office groups, date nights
Ideal Scene: A refined night out—order a round of skewers, sip drinks, enjoy the skilled grill

3. Nonbei Yokocho

Recommended Menu: Seafood sashimi, oden, aged sake
Smoking: Smoking allowed in most tiny bars
Typical Crowd: Solo explorers, creative types, expats
Ideal Scene: Bar-hopping heaven—explore multiple ten-seat stops along the narrow neon alley

4. Katsukichi, Shibuya

Why Visit: A beloved tonkatsu specialist offering crispy panko-cutlets with sake or shochu—ideal for those craving comfort food after a long day.
What’s Inside: A relaxed izakaya space focused on various pork-cutlet dishes (hire-katsu, rosu-katsu), accompanied by seasonal sides and daily specials.
Drinks & Food: Beers ¥450–600; sake ¥500–800; tonkatsu plates ¥800–1,200; side dishes ¥300–500.
Typical Cost: About ¥2,500–4,000pp.
Tourist Tips: Smoking is non-smoking inside; some tables offer outdoor smoking. English menus are available. Great for groups or couples seeking hearty Japanese comfort food.

5. Toritake Hon-ten

Why Visit: A legendary Shibuya yakitori institution serving premium chicken skewers in a retro, post-war atmosphere.
What’s Inside: Traditional charcoal-grilled skewers—thigh, liver, tsukune—served alongside miso-dressed salads in a character-rich wooden interior.
Drinks & Food: Beers ¥450–650; sake/shochu ¥500–800; yakitori skewers ¥150–400; sides ¥200–600.
Typical Cost: ¥3,000–4,500pp for a delicious three-stop yakitori experience.
Tourist Tips: Smoking allowed at the counters. English menus may be limited—pointing to displayed items works. Expect a warm, old-school vibe and friendly staff.

6. Kōtarō, Shibuya

Why Visit: Cozy, family-run charcoal yakitori pub with a welcoming vibe, tucked down a quiet side street.
What’s Inside: A narrow interior with counter and table seating, specializing in classic skewers and small plates paired with local sake.
Drinks & Food: Beers ¥450–650; sake ¥500–800; skewers ¥150–400; grilled vegetables ¥200–500.
Typical Cost: ¥2,500–3,800pp.
Tourist Tips: Smoking allowed; limited English—try the house recommendations or ask for “osusume” (recommendation).

7. Shibuya Dagashi Bar

Why Visit: A nostalgic sweets & snack bar by day, turning into a casual drinking spot at night—perfect for sugar+spirits lovers.
What’s Inside: Shelves lined with retro dagashi (cheap candies) plus a full bar serving sake, chuhai, and nostalgic snacks.
Drinks & Food: Beers/chuhai ¥400–700; sake ¥500–800; snacks ¥100–300 per piece/tube.
Typical Cost: ¥2,000–3,000pp for sweets and drinks.
Tourist Tips: Non-smoking inside. English menu limited—just pick your favorites from the colorful display and say “Kore kudasai” (this, please).

8. Toriryōri Shimizu

Why Visit: A haven for chicken lovers—this stylish izakaya elevates yakitori with rare cuts and refined presentation.
What’s Inside: A modern interior with plush seating offering skewers featuring premium Japanese chicken parts that rotate seasonally.
Drinks & Food: Premium beer ¥500–700; sake ¥600–900; skewers ¥200–500; specialty side dishes ¥400–800.
Typical Cost: ¥3,500–5,000pp for a refined yakitori course.
Tourist Tips: Non-smoking inside, with outdoor smoking permitted. English menu available; upscale Japanese bar etiquette applies.

9. Echigoya Sandayū

Why Visit: A Japanese sake and grilled fare bar with a hearty countryside-home theme from Niigata’s rice-farming region.
What’s Inside: Rustic wood interiors offering Niigata sake, grilled fish, home-style simmered dishes, and regional snacks.
Drinks & Food: Beers ¥450–650; Niigata sake ¥600–900; food plates ¥300–700.
Typical Cost: ¥3,000–4,500pp.
Tourist Tips: Non-smoking indoors; English templates and staff are on hand. Enjoy a cozy, regional culinary experience.

10. Shibuya Jōmon

Why Visit: An award-winning grilled chicken and sake tavern known for charcoal-kissed flavor and urban-casual elegance.
What’s Inside: Spacious modern izakaya with private booths; menu highlights include rare-skewer cuts and seasonal salad platters.
Drinks & Food: Beers ¥500–700; sake/chuhai ¥600–900; skewers ¥200–500; salads/desserts ¥400–800.
Typical Cost: ¥3,500–5,500pp.
Tourist Tips: Non-smoking indoors; English menu provided. Perfect for date nights or small groups.

11. Kamiyama

Why Visit: A calm, spiritual-themed izakaya serving grilled cuisine and sake in temple-like interiors.
What’s Inside: Minimalistic space with lantern lighting, serving skewers, sake flights, hotpot, and yakizakana (grilled fish).
Drinks & Food: Beers ¥450–650; sake flights ¥800–1,200; skewers ¥200–400; fish plates ¥500–900.
Typical Cost: ¥3,500–5,000pp.
Tourist Tips: Non-smoking indoors; quiet ambiance; English menu available. Ideal for mindful dinners after an active day.

12. HA

Why Visit: A trendy fusion izakaya blending Japanese yakitori with international flavors and craft cocktails.
What’s Inside: Sleek, modern décor with both counter and table seating; yakitori skewers with twists like miso-maple glaze and artisanal drinks.
Drinks & Food: Craft cocktails ¥700–1,000; beer/sake ¥500–800; fusion skewers ¥250–500; fusion plates ¥400–900.
Typical Cost: ¥4,000–6,000pp.
Tourist Tips: Non-smoking indoors; English menu; perfect for travelers seeking unique fusion bites.

13. Cha-cha Konoka

Why Visit: A relaxed, tea-inspired izakaya mixing seasonal Japanese dishes with matcha-specialty cocktails.
What’s Inside: Warm interiors with rustic wood décor featuring skewers, tofu, matcha desserts, and cocktail pairings.
Drinks & Food: Matcha cocktails ¥700–900; beer/sake ¥500–800; tea-infused dishes ¥400–900.
Typical Cost: ¥3,000–4,500pp.
Tourist Tips: Non-smoking indoors; English menus available. Great for couples or small groups wanting a mellow evening.

14. Shirubee Shibuya

Why Visit: A soup-focused izakaya specializing in nabe, oden, and broth-rich comfort dishes—great in cooler seasons.
What’s Inside: Intimate setting offering mini hotpots and seasonal broths with veggies, seafood, or chicken.
Drinks & Food: Shochu highballs ¥450–600; sake ¥500–800; broth bowls ¥500–900; small plates ¥300–700.
Typical Cost: ¥3,000–4,500pp.
Tourist Tips: Few smoking tables available; majority is non-smoking. English menus provided. Cozy choice for warming up on chilly nights.

15. KICHIRI Shibuya

Why Visit: A modern twist on the traditional izakaya—this upscale yet casual spot blends Japanese hospitality with a chic, lounge-like setting. Ideal for first-time visitors looking for an easy, stylish introduction to Japanese pub culture.
What’s Inside: A spacious and stylish interior with semi-private booths, sleek wood accents, and mood lighting. The menu features creative takes on Japanese classics—like truffle edamame, sashimi platters, and wagyu steak skewers—alongside cocktails and craft beers.
Drinks & Food: Beers ¥500–700, sake ¥600–900; small plates ¥400–900; signature dishes like wagyu skewers and matcha desserts ¥700–1,200.
Typical Cost: Around ¥3,500–5,000pp for a dinner and drinks session.
Tourist Tips: Non-smoking indoors. Staff are friendly and English menus are available. A great place for mixed groups or travelers wanting a more polished, accessible izakaya experience without sacrificing authenticity. Reservations recommended on weekends.

📚 Shibuya Izakaya Tips & Culture

Seating setup: Cozy counters, small tables, and shared-door rooms are common
Ordering: Picture menus, English staff, and pointing work well—even in the busiest spots
Phrases to know: Start with “Kampai!” when your drink arrives, and end with “Gochisōsama deshita!”
Payment norms: Cash works everywhere; casual bars prefer it, while middle-tier places take cards
Best time: Relaxed evenings (6–8 PM); lively energy and crowds after 9 PM

✅ Final Summary

Celebrate Shibuya’s dynamic nightlife with a curated crawl through 15 izakayas offering everything from exquisite seafood to party-style skewers. With versatile smoking zones, English menus, and atmospheres fit for any traveler, this list lets you explore Tokyo’s flavor-filled nights effortlessly.