Want to drink like a local in Japan?
It’s not just about sake. Japanese people love a variety of drinks—from whiskey highballs to cold beer and craft shochu.
But the real secret? The food pairings.
In Japan, drinking is never just about the alcohol. It’s about balance, flavor, and social rhythm. Let’s dive into the most popular drinks and the foods locals love to enjoy alongside them.
1. Beer (ビール)
When They Drink It:
- First drink of the night (“Toriaezu beer!” is a common phrase)
- Summer BBQs, company dinners, after-work izakaya stops
What They Eat With It:
- Edamame (boiled green soybeans)
- Karaage (Japanese fried chicken)
- French fries with seaweed salt
- Yakitori (especially salt-flavored chicken skewers)
Beer is refreshing, crisp, and goes well with anything salty or fried.
2. Sake (日本酒)
When They Drink It:
- Formal dinners, sushi restaurants, traditional settings
- Winter, with hot sake (“atsukan”)
What They Eat With It:
- Sashimi or grilled fish
- Tofu dishes
- Tsukemono (Japanese pickles)
- Nabe (hot pot)
Sake enhances umami flavors. It’s all about harmony.
Tip: Cold sake (“reishu”) is great with lighter food. Warm sake suits heavier or oily dishes.
3. Shochu (焼酎)
When They Drink It:
- At home, in bars, or with regional cuisine
- Especially popular in southern Japan (Kyushu)
What They Eat With It:
- Oden (winter stew with daikon, egg, and fishcakes)
- Grilled mackerel
- Nankotsu karaage (fried chicken cartilage)
- Kimchi or spicy side dishes
Shochu is more subtle than sake, lower in sugar, and often served with water, ice, or soda.
4. Highball (ハイボール)
When They Drink It:
- All year round, especially with light meals or solo dining
- Whiskey + soda water = simple, stylish
What They Eat With It:
- Yakisoba (stir-fried noodles)
- Tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet)
- Pickled plum or wasabi snacks
The highball is versatile, low-calorie, and not too strong. Great for casual drinking.
5. Umeshu (梅酒)
When They Drink It:
- Sweet, fruity, often enjoyed by beginners or light drinkers
- Served on the rocks, with soda, or straight
What They Eat With It:
- Cheese (surprisingly common!)
- Fried lotus root or burdock chips
- Japanese-style desserts like warabi mochi
Umeshu has a strong sweet-sour character. Think of it like Japan’s answer to dessert wine.
Conclusion
Drinking in Japan is an experience.
Each drink has its place. Each food pairing tells a story. And if you drink like a local, you’ll discover how deep and thoughtful those pairings can be.
So next time you’re in Japan? Skip the wine.
Order a highball, a few skewers, and taste the rhythm of a real Japanese night.
Kanpai!
