WHAT IS AN IZAKAYA? AN EVENING WHERE YOU DON'T NEED TO ORDER ALL YOUR DISHES RIGHT AWAY

Izakaya is often translated as a Japanese-style pub, but that only tells half the story. It's a place where drinks and small dishes coexist, where people drop by after work, order a few dishes to start, and let the conversation dictate how long dinner lasts.

Not a fixed-course restaurant

At a traditional dinner, diners might order appetizers, main courses, and desserts right from the start. Izakaya is more flexible. Start with drinks and edamame or small bites, then move on to yakitori, grilled dishes, fried items; if the mood strikes, order more. Dishes arrive at the pace of the kitchen and the table, not necessarily in a linear fashion.

Yakitori and Robata

Yakitori are grilled skewers, typically featuring chicken and various parts, allowing guests to sample different textures in small portions. Robata emphasizes charcoal grilling and smoky flavors. Both are perfect for ordering in rounds: a few skewers first, then adding more based on what the whole table enjoys most.

Sake, Highball and the principle of sharing

Sake isn't the only option. Highballs—typically whisky mixed with soda—offer a light and refreshing feel alongside grilled dishes. Beer, non-alcoholic beverages, and other options all have a place at the table. The important thing is to drink responsibly and pair with food, because the spirit of Izakaya lies in conversation and connection, not just heavy drinking.

Small plates are typically shared. When dining in a group, ask beforehand about dietary restrictions, allergies, and preferences; order enough for the first round to taste, then add more. This keeps dishes warm, reduces waste, and adds more topics for conversation during dinner.

Izakaya in An Thượng

Hura Izakaya is located on the 4th floor of Furama Dining House, perfectly suited to the evening rhythm of the neighborhood. Guests can come directly for a Japanese-style evening, or drop by after dinner on another floor. The Izakaya atmosphere is especially great for groups of friends, colleagues, and those who want a late meal without a heavy main course.

If it's your first time, don't try to find a "must-order" dish. Simply order a suitable drink, a few skewers, a vegetable dish, and a hot dish to share. After the first round, your table will naturally know what you want next. That's when Izakaya becomes clearest: it's not just a type of food, but a way for the evening to continue.