Introduction: Yes, You Can Be Vegetarian in an Izakaya
Many travelers to Japan worry that vegetarian options will be limited—especially in traditional dining settings like izakayas, where grilled meats and seafood dominate the menu. But don’t worry: while it’s true that the typical izakaya menu leans heavily toward animal-based dishes, there are still plenty of satisfying, flavorful, and culturally authentic choices for vegetarians.
This guide explores:
- What vegetarian options are available at most izakayas
- What hidden animal products to watch for (like bonito flakes or dashi)
- How to order politely in Japanese
- Tips for communicating dietary preferences
- Cultural expectations and dining etiquette
1. Understanding the Japanese Definition of “Vegetarian”
In Japan, vegetarianism isn’t as widely understood or practiced as in some Western countries. While the number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants has grown in larger cities, traditional eateries—like izakayas—may not be familiar with dietary restrictions beyond allergies.
Dishes labeled as “vegetarian” may still include:
- Dashi (出汁): A broth made from fish flakes, often used in soups, stews, and dipping sauces
- Katsuobushi (鰹節): Dried bonito flakes sprinkled on tofu, okonomiyaki, or rice dishes
- Oyster sauce or meat-based broths: Used in stir-fries and some vegetable dishes
Many chefs use these ingredients as default seasoning, even in otherwise meat-free dishes. For strict vegetarians or vegans, it’s crucial to ask specific questions about ingredients.
Useful phrases include:
- “Niku to sakana wa taberarenai desu” (I cannot eat meat or fish)
- “Dashi wa haitteimasu ka?” (Does this contain dashi?)
Understanding this context is essential to avoid surprises and to find dishes that align with your dietary values.
2. Safe and Delicious Vegetarian Dishes
While the menu won’t have a vegetarian section, many izakayas serve vegetable-focused dishes that are naturally meat-free or easy to adapt. These are traditional, flavorful, and satisfying:
- Edamame (枝豆): Salted, boiled green soybeans served cold. A classic starter.
- Hiyayakko (冷奴): Chilled tofu with toppings like scallions, ginger, or wasabi. Ask for it without bonito flakes (“katsuobushi nuki”).
- Agedashi Tofu (揚げ出し豆腐): Deep-fried tofu in a warm broth. Often served with grated radish and scallions. Ask if the broth contains fish-based dashi.
- Yaki nasu (焼きなす): Charcoal-grilled eggplant served with soy sauce or ginger. Naturally vegetarian and full of umami.
- Nasu Dengaku (なす田楽): Grilled eggplant with a rich, sweet miso glaze. A must-try.
- Tsukemono (漬物): Pickled vegetables. Some varieties may use fish sauce or fermented stock, so it’s best to ask.
- Gohan (ご飯): Plain white rice. Perfect as a base or palate cleanser.
- Yaki Onigiri (焼きおにぎり): Grilled rice balls with soy sauce glaze. Ask for versions without fish or furikake toppings.
- Kinpira Gobo (金平ごぼう): Stir-fried burdock root and carrots. Sometimes made with dashi—confirm with the kitchen.
- Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き): Savory pancake made with cabbage, eggs, and flour. Order without pork, seafood, or bonito flakes.
- Salads: Common options include daikon salad, tofu salad, cucumber salad, or seaweed salad. Always ask about dressings and toppings.
Some izakayas also offer seasonal vegetable dishes or grilled mushrooms like shiitake and enoki—check the daily specials or ask the staff.
3. What to Avoid (or Double Check)
There are some seemingly vegetarian dishes that often contain hidden animal products. Be cautious with the following:
- Miso Soup (味噌汁): Typically made with fish-based dashi unless specified otherwise.
- Tempura: Although vegetable tempura exists, it may be fried in shared oil with shrimp or meat.
- Pickles (Tsukemono): Occasionally fermented using bonito stock or fish sauce.
- Potato Salad: Commonly includes ham, bacon, or fish roe.
- Gyoza (餃子): Usually filled with ground pork or shrimp.
- Takoyaki (たこ焼き): Ball-shaped snacks made with octopus—even if vegetarian, they’re topped with bonito flakes.
Always ask: “Kore wa niku to sakana haitteimasu ka?” (Does this contain meat or fish?)
4. Ordering Tips in Japanese
Polite and clear communication goes a long way. Japanese staff generally appreciate guests who try to speak their language or respectfully express their needs.
Useful phrases:
- “Bejitarian desu.” – I’m a vegetarian.
- “Kore wa bejitarian desu ka?” – Is this vegetarian?
- “Dashi wa haitteimasu ka?” – Does this contain fish broth?
- “Katsuobushi wa nuki ni shite kudasai.” – Please remove the bonito flakes.
- “Niku to sakana wa dame desu.” – I cannot eat meat or fish.
If language is a barrier, consider carrying a card that states your dietary needs in Japanese. Some travel websites offer printable vegetarian/vegan restaurant cards that explain what you do and don’t eat.
5. What to Drink
Drinks are generally stress-free for vegetarians. Here are common options:
Alcoholic Options:
- Beer (ビール): Japan’s major brands—Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo—are all vegetarian.
- Highballs (ハイボール): Whiskey and soda water, often served with lemon.
- Chuhai / Sours (チューハイ): Shochu-based drinks with fruit flavors like lemon, yuzu, and ume.
- Umeshu (梅酒): Sweet plum wine—fruity and aromatic.
- Sake (日本酒): Usually vegetarian, though some brands may use animal-based clarifiers. Ask if unsure.
Non-Alcoholic Options:
- Oolong Tea, Green Tea, Mugicha (barley tea)
- Soft drinks: Cola, ginger ale, soda water
- Calpis: A sweet, milky soda
6. Embracing the Izakaya Culture as a Vegetarian
Dining at an izakaya is more than just about food—it’s about atmosphere, shared experience, and relaxation after a long day. Even if your dish options are fewer, the environment makes up for it. You can:
- Join in group toasts with a beer or highball
- Share side dishes and rice-based items
- Explore new vegetables and preparation styles
Vegetarians often find joy in the variety of tofu-based and seasonal vegetable dishes unique to Japanese cuisine. Many izakayas are now more aware of dietary needs due to increasing tourism and are happy to accommodate requests.
7. Pro Tips for a Better Vegetarian Izakaya Experience
- Eat before you go: If you’re unsure whether the izakaya will have enough options, have a light meal first so you’re not disappointed.
- Check menus in advance: Use Google Maps or Tabelog to browse menus before heading out.
- Go with a Japanese-speaking friend: If possible, having someone fluent in Japanese can help clarify questions.
- Choose modern or larger izakayas: Chain izakayas like Watami, Torikizoku, or Uotami often have more structured menus and staff familiar with special requests.
- Consider fusion izakayas: These venues may be more familiar with vegetarian and vegan diets.
Conclusion: Yes, You Can Enjoy the Izakaya Experience
While the izakaya scene can be a bit tricky for strict vegetarians, with a little preparation and a few key phrases, you’ll still be able to enjoy the atmosphere, culture, and delicious food. Focus on plant-based staples like tofu, grilled vegetables, and pickles. Embrace the social vibe and try new combinations of safe dishes.
Vegetarian travelers don’t need to skip the izakaya entirely. With an open mind and some flexibility, you can immerse yourself in Japanese nightlife and cuisine—without compromising your values.
📎 More vegetarian-friendly Japan guides at: https://afterdarkjapan.com
