居酒屋を英語で説明・紹介するための基本情報と、英会話に役立つ表現をシンプルでわかりやすい英語で紹介します。
英会話ダイアローグ・概要・10の質問を通して、居酒屋に関する英語表現を学びます。
英語
英会話ダイアローグを読む前に知っておくと良い前提知識と情報です。
- 居酒屋の基本
- カジュアルな飲み屋で、お酒と多様な小皿料理を楽しむ場所
- 仕事帰り、友人や同僚との飲み会、家族の集まりなど、幅広い目的で利用
- 小皿料理をいくつか注文して、みんなでシェアしながら食べるのが一般的
- 居酒屋の特徴・ルール
- メニュー: 焼き鳥、刺身、揚げ物、サラダなど、和食から洋風まで幅広い料理がある
- ドリンク: ビール、日本酒、焼酎、ハイボール、カクテル、ソフトドリンクなど多彩
- お通し: 席に着くと小さなおつまみが出され、これは席料のようなもので基本的に断れない
- 注文・料金: 1品ずつ注文するアラカルト方式が主流で、価格は比較的リーズナブル
- 雰囲気・人気の理由
- 気軽に立ち寄れて、雰囲気も明るくにぎやか、ドレスコードも特にない
- 食事やお酒を通じて人とのつながりを深める「社交の場」として親しまれている
- 学生から社会人、家族連れ、観光客まで幅広く利用
- 観光客向けのポイント
- 最近は英語や写真付きのメニューがある店も多く、外国人でも安心して利用できる
- 居酒屋は日本の日常や地域ごとの食文化を体験できる、観光客にも人気のスポット
２人が居酒屋について話しています。
居酒屋の特徴や魅力、雰囲気、豊富なメニュー、手頃な値段、お通しの仕組み、幅広い客層などを話題にしています。
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, do you often go to izakaya? I’ve started getting really interested in them lately.
Oh, absolutely! I actually love going to izakaya with friends. They’re such a big part of life here in Tokyo. What got you interested?
Well, I went a few times after work with my coworkers, and I was surprised by how relaxed and lively the atmosphere was. It’s really different from western pubs.
That’s true. Izakaya are all about being casual and comfortable. You can show up in your work clothes or even go alone. There’s no pressure.
I noticed the menu is huge! There are so many dishes—grilled chicken, sashimi, tempura, salads… It’s almost overwhelming.
Yes, that’s one of the best things. The variety is amazing, and you don’t have to order a big meal. People usually order lots of small plates and share everything.
I liked that. It feels more social, and you get to try many flavors in one visit. Do you have any favorite dishes?
Definitely! I love yakitori and karaage, and I almost always get some sashimi. Oh, and the edamame for sure.
I was also surprised by how affordable everything is. I thought eating out in Tokyo would be expensive, but izakaya seem reasonable.
They are! That’s why they’re so popular, especially for students and people starting their careers. You can enjoy good food and drinks without spending too much.
What about drinks? The selection looked huge—beer, sake, cocktails, even soft drinks.
Right, and recently many places have started offering more options like craft beer or even non-alcoholic cocktails. There’s something for everyone.
I also noticed something called “otoshi” that comes automatically when you sit down. What’s that about?
Otoshi is a small appetizer you get when you order a drink. It’s sort of a table charge, but you get a little snack with it.
That makes sense. By the way, are izakaya always that lively and noisy?
Usually, yes! People go there to relax, laugh, and unwind, so it can get pretty loud, especially on Friday nights.
I saw people of all ages—young people, office workers, even some families. Are izakaya really that popular with everyone?
Absolutely. They’re a classic place for after-work drinks, but also for family gatherings or just hanging out with friends. Even tourists love izakaya now.
Yeah, I heard some izakaya have English menus these days. That must help foreigners a lot.
It does! Some even have picture menus, and staff are getting used to foreign customers. Izakaya are a great way for visitors to experience Japanese daily life.
That’s what I liked the most—it felt like I was part of everyday Japanese culture. It wasn’t just about food and drink, but about connecting with people.
Exactly. Izakaya are more than restaurants. They’re social spaces, and every visit is a bit different.
Now I really want to try a local, non-chain izakaya. Maybe we can go together next time and you can show me your favorites?
Let’s do it! I know a great spot nearby. I promise you’ll love the atmosphere and the food!
概要 / Overview
「居酒屋」について、理解を深めるための「英語での概要」です。
居酒屋
What Is an Izakaya?
An izakaya is a type of casual Japanese restaurant. It is a place where people go to enjoy food and drinks in a relaxed setting. Izakaya are very common in Japan, and you can find them in almost every city and town. They are popular with office workers, students, families, and even tourists.
The Atmosphere
Izakaya have a friendly and lively atmosphere. People come to talk, laugh, and spend time together. You do not need to dress up, and you can visit with friends, coworkers, or even alone. Most izakaya open in the evening and stay open until late at night.
The Menu
The menu at an izakaya is very big. There are many small dishes, such as grilled chicken (yakitori), sashimi, fried foods, salads, and more. Drinks are also important. People can order beer, sake, shochu, cocktails, or soft drinks. Usually, everyone shares the food at the table.
Special Points
One unique point is the “otoshi.” This is a small appetizer that comes when you sit down. You pay for it, and it is a part of the izakaya experience. Izakaya are not expensive, so you can enjoy many dishes and drinks for a good price.
Why Are They Popular?
Izakaya are popular because they are fun, social, and give people a taste of Japanese daily life. Both locals and visitors enjoy the variety and friendly style. For anyone visiting Japan, going to an izakaya is a great way to experience Japanese culture.
10の質問 / 10 questions
「居酒屋」について、理解を深めるための「英語での10の質問」です。
1: What is an izakaya?
An izakaya is a Japanese casual restaurant where people enjoy many small dishes and drinks in a relaxed place.
2: When do people usually go to izakaya?
People usually go to izakaya in the evening, after work, or on weekends with friends or family.
3: What kind of food can you eat at an izakaya?
You can eat grilled chicken, sashimi, fried foods, salads, and many other Japanese dishes.
4: What drinks are popular at izakaya?
Beer, sake, shochu, cocktails, and soft drinks are all popular at izakaya.
5: How do people order food at an izakaya?
People look at the menu and order many small dishes to share with everyone at the table.
6: What is “otoshi” in an izakaya?
Otoshi is a small appetizer that comes automatically when you sit down. You pay for it as part of the experience.
7: Is izakaya expensive?
No, izakaya are usually not expensive. You can eat and drink a lot for a good price.
8: Can you go to izakaya alone?
Yes, you can go alone. Many izakaya have counter seats for single customers.
9: Are izakaya popular with tourists?
Yes, many tourists like to go to izakaya to try Japanese food and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
10: Do izakaya have English menus?
Many izakaya in big cities have English menus or menus with pictures, so it is easy for visitors to order.
和訳付
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, do you often go to izakaya? I’ve started getting really interested in them lately.
ねえKey、君はよく居酒屋に行く？最近すごく興味が出てきたんだ。
Oh, absolutely! I actually love going to izakaya with friends. They’re such a big part of life here in Tokyo. What got you interested?
うん、もちろん！私は友達と居酒屋に行くのが本当に好きなんだ。東京では生活の一部って感じだよ。どうして興味を持ったの？
Well, I went a few times after work with my coworkers, and I was surprised by how relaxed and lively the atmosphere was. It’s really different from western pubs.
仕事帰りに何度か同僚と行ってみたんだけど、すごくリラックスできるし、賑やかな雰囲気に驚いたよ。西洋のパブとは全然違うね。
That’s true. Izakaya are all about being casual and comfortable. You can show up in your work clothes or even go alone. There’s no pressure.
それは本当だね。居酒屋はカジュアルで気楽な場所だよ。仕事の服のままでもいいし、一人で行っても大丈夫。気を張らなくていいんだ。
I noticed the menu is huge! There are so many dishes—grilled chicken, sashimi, tempura, salads… It’s almost overwhelming.
メニューの種類がすごく多いよね！焼き鳥とか刺身、天ぷら、サラダとか…本当にたくさんあってちょっと圧倒されたよ。
Yes, that’s one of the best things. The variety is amazing, and you don’t have to order a big meal. People usually order lots of small plates and share everything.
そう、それがいいところの一つだよ。種類が本当に豊富だし、大きい料理を頼む必要もないしね。みんなで小皿をたくさん頼んでシェアするのが普通だよ。
I liked that. It feels more social, and you get to try many flavors in one visit. Do you have any favorite dishes?
そのスタイルが気に入ったよ。もっとみんなでワイワイできるし、一度でいろんな味を試せるのがいいね。Keyのお気に入りの料理はある？
Definitely! I love yakitori and karaage, and I almost always get some sashimi. Oh, and the edamame for sure.
もちろん！私は焼き鳥と唐揚げが大好きで、ほとんど毎回刺身も頼んじゃう。あと枝豆は絶対外せないね。
I was also surprised by how affordable everything is. I thought eating out in Tokyo would be expensive, but izakaya seem reasonable.
値段が意外と手ごろなのにも驚いたよ。東京で外食は高いと思ってたけど、居酒屋は結構リーズナブルだね。
They are! That’s why they’re so popular, especially for students and people starting their careers. You can enjoy good food and drinks without spending too much.
そうだよ！だから学生や新社会人にも人気なんだ。あまりお金をかけなくても美味しい料理とお酒が楽しめるからね。
What about drinks? The selection looked huge—beer, sake, cocktails, even soft drinks.
飲み物も種類がすごく多かったよね。ビール、日本酒、カクテル、ソフトドリンクまでいろいろあるんだね。
Right, and recently many places have started offering more options like craft beer or even non-alcoholic cocktails. There’s something for everyone.
うん、最近はクラフトビールやノンアルコールカクテルを出すお店も増えてきたし、どんな人でも楽しめると思うよ。
I also noticed something called “otoshi” that comes automatically when you sit down. What’s that about?
「お通し」っていうのも出てきたけど、あれは何なの？
Otoshi is a small appetizer you get when you order a drink. It’s sort of a table charge, but you get a little snack with it.
お通しは、ドリンクを頼むと自動的に出てくる小さなおつまみだよ。席料みたいなものだけど、おつまみがついてくるんだ。
That makes sense. By the way, are izakaya always that lively and noisy?
なるほどね。ところで、居酒屋っていつもあんなに賑やかでうるさいの？
Usually, yes! People go there to relax, laugh, and unwind, so it can get pretty loud, especially on Friday nights.
たいていそうだよ！みんなリラックスしたり、笑ったり、ストレス発散しに来るから、特に金曜の夜はかなりにぎやかになるよ。
I saw people of all ages—young people, office workers, even some families. Are izakaya really that popular with everyone?
若い人や会社員、家族連れまで、いろんな年代の人がいたけど、本当にみんなに人気なんだね？
Absolutely. They’re a classic place for after-work drinks, but also for family gatherings or just hanging out with friends. Even tourists love izakaya now.
そうだよ。仕事終わりの飲み会は定番だけど、家族の集まりや友達同士でも使えるし。今では観光客にも大人気だよ。
Yeah, I heard some izakaya have English menus these days. That must help foreigners a lot.
最近は英語のメニューがある居酒屋も増えてきたって聞いたよ。外国人には助かるよね。
It does! Some even have picture menus, and staff are getting used to foreign customers. Izakaya are a great way for visitors to experience Japanese daily life.
うん、すごく役立つよ。写真付きメニューがあるお店もあるし、店員さんも外国のお客さんに慣れてきてるから。居酒屋は観光客が日本の日常を体験するのにぴったりだよ。
That’s what I liked the most—it felt like I was part of everyday Japanese culture. It wasn’t just about food and drink, but about connecting with people.
そこが一番よかったよ。日本の普段の生活に溶け込んだ気がしたし、単に食べたり飲んだりするだけじゃなくて、人とのつながりも感じたよ。
Exactly. Izakaya are more than restaurants. They’re social spaces, and every visit is a bit different.
その通り！居酒屋はただのレストランじゃなくて、社交の場なんだ。行くたびに違う楽しみがあるよ。
Now I really want to try a local, non-chain izakaya. Maybe we can go together next time and you can show me your favorites?
今度は地元のチェーンじゃない居酒屋にも行ってみたくなったよ。今度一緒に行って、Keyのお気に入りのお店を教えてくれない？
Let’s do it! I know a great spot nearby. I promise you’ll love the atmosphere and the food!
ぜひ行こう！近くにいいお店があるんだ。絶対、雰囲気も料理も気に入ると思うよ！
概要 / Overview
居酒屋
What Is an Izakaya?
An izakaya is a type of casual Japanese restaurant. It is a place where people go to enjoy food and drinks in a relaxed setting. Izakaya are very common in Japan, and you can find them in almost every city and town. They are popular with office workers, students, families, and even tourists.
居酒屋とは？
居酒屋はカジュアルな日本のレストランの一種です。人々がリラックスした雰囲気の中で、食事や飲み物を楽しむ場所です。日本ではとても一般的で、ほとんどすべての都市や町で見つけることができます。会社員、学生、家族、観光客にも人気があります。
The Atmosphere
Izakaya have a friendly and lively atmosphere. People come to talk, laugh, and spend time together. You do not need to dress up, and you can visit with friends, coworkers, or even alone. Most izakaya open in the evening and stay open until late at night.
雰囲気
居酒屋はフレンドリーでにぎやかな雰囲気があります。人々は会話や笑いを楽しみ、みんなで時間を過ごします。おしゃれをする必要はなく、友人や同僚、または一人でも気軽に行けます。多くの居酒屋は夕方から営業し、夜遅くまで開いています。
The Menu
The menu at an izakaya is very big. There are many small dishes, such as grilled chicken (yakitori), sashimi, fried foods, salads, and more. Drinks are also important. People can order beer, sake, shochu, cocktails, or soft drinks. Usually, everyone shares the food at the table.
メニュー
居酒屋のメニューはとても豊富です。焼き鳥、刺身、揚げ物、サラダなど、たくさんの小皿料理があります。ドリンクも大事なポイントです。ビール、日本酒、焼酎、カクテル、ソフトドリンクなどが注文できます。たいてい、テーブルの皆で料理をシェアして食べます。
Special Points
One unique point is the “otoshi.” This is a small appetizer that comes when you sit down. You pay for it, and it is a part of the izakaya experience. Izakaya are not expensive, so you can enjoy many dishes and drinks for a good price.
特別なポイント
「お通し」という独特のシステムがあります。これは席に座ると自動的に出される小さなおつまみで、料金に含まれています。居酒屋は値段も高くないので、いろいろな料理や飲み物を手ごろな価格で楽しめます。
Why Are They Popular?
Izakaya are popular because they are fun, social, and give people a taste of Japanese daily life. Both locals and visitors enjoy the variety and friendly style. For anyone visiting Japan, going to an izakaya is a great way to experience Japanese culture.
なぜ人気なのか？
居酒屋は楽しく、社交的で、日本の日常を体験できるため人気があります。地元の人も観光客も、豊富なメニューと親しみやすい雰囲気を楽しんでいます。日本を訪れる人にとって、居酒屋は日本文化を体験する絶好の場所です。
10の質問 / 10 questions
1: What is an izakaya?
居酒屋とは何ですか？
An izakaya is a Japanese casual restaurant where people enjoy many small dishes and drinks in a relaxed place.
居酒屋は、リラックスした雰囲気で多くの小皿料理と飲み物を楽しむ日本のカジュアルな飲食店です。
2: When do people usually go to izakaya?
人々は通常いつ居酒屋に行きますか？
People usually go to izakaya in the evening, after work, or on weekends with friends or family.
人々はたいてい、夕方や仕事帰り、週末に友人や家族と居酒屋に行きます。
3: What kind of food can you eat at an izakaya?
居酒屋ではどんな料理が食べられますか？
You can eat grilled chicken, sashimi, fried foods, salads, and many other Japanese dishes.
焼き鳥や刺身、揚げ物、サラダなど、さまざまな日本料理を食べることができます。
4: What drinks are popular at izakaya?
居酒屋で人気のある飲み物は何ですか？
Beer, sake, shochu, cocktails, and soft drinks are all popular at izakaya.
ビール、日本酒、焼酎、カクテル、ソフトドリンクなどが居酒屋で人気です。
5: How do people order food at an izakaya?
居酒屋での注文方法はどうなっていますか？
People look at the menu and order many small dishes to share with everyone at the table.
人々はメニューを見て、小皿料理をいくつも注文し、テーブルのみんなでシェアします。
6: What is “otoshi” in an izakaya?
居酒屋での「お通し」とは何ですか？
Otoshi is a small appetizer that comes automatically when you sit down. You pay for it as part of the experience.
お通しは席に座ると自動的に出される小さなおつまみで、体験の一部として料金がかかります。
7: Is izakaya expensive?
居酒屋は高いですか？
No, izakaya are usually not expensive. You can eat and drink a lot for a good price.
いいえ、居酒屋は通常高くありません。手ごろな価格でたくさん食べたり飲んだりできます。
8: Can you go to izakaya alone?
一人で居酒屋に行けますか？
Yes, you can go alone. Many izakaya have counter seats for single customers.
はい、一人でも行けます。多くの居酒屋には一人客向けのカウンター席があります。
9: Are izakaya popular with tourists?
居酒屋は観光客にも人気ですか？
Yes, many tourists like to go to izakaya to try Japanese food and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
はい、多くの観光客が日本料理を味わい、にぎやかな雰囲気を楽しむために居酒屋に行きます。
10: Do izakaya have English menus?
居酒屋には英語のメニューがありますか？
Many izakaya in big cities have English menus or menus with pictures, so it is easy for visitors to order.
大都市の多くの居酒屋では英語メニューや写真付きメニューがあり、訪れる人も注文しやすいです。
words & phrases
英会話ダイアローグと関連情報に出てきた単語・フレーズです（例文は各３つ）。
show up : 動詞句
意味: 現れる、到着する。To arrive at a place or event, especially unexpectedly or after being expected.
（居酒屋に行くとき、特に服装を気にせず気軽に「現れる」ことができるという話で使用）
例文：
- He didn’t show up at the party last night.
「彼は昨夜のパーティーに現れませんでした。」 - You can just show up in your work clothes at the izakaya.
「居酒屋にはそのまま仕事の服で気軽に行っていいんだよ。」 - She always shows up late for meetings.
「彼女はいつも会議に遅れて現れます。」
overwhelming : 形容詞
意味: 圧倒的な、圧倒されるほどの。Very great in amount; so strong or large that it is hard to handle.
（居酒屋のメニューがとても多くて「圧倒される」ように感じた場面で使用）
例文：
- The number of choices was overwhelming.
「選択肢の数が圧倒的でした。」 - The support from the fans was overwhelming.
「ファンからの応援は圧倒的でした。」 - She felt overwhelmed by the amount of work.
「彼女は仕事の量に圧倒されました。」
flavor : 名詞
意味: 味、風味。The taste of a particular type of food or drink.
（居酒屋でいろいろな料理をシェアし「いろいろな味」を楽しめるという話で使用）
例文：
- I like the spicy flavor of this dish.
「この料理の辛い味が好きです。」 - Each region has its own unique flavors.
「それぞれの地域に独特の風味があります。」 - Try this ice cream! It has a new flavor.
「このアイスクリームを食べてみて！新しい味だよ。」
affordable : 形容詞
意味: 手ごろな値段の、手が届く。Cheap enough that people can pay for it.
（居酒屋の料理や飲み物が「手ごろな価格」で楽しめるという意味で使用）
例文：
- The food at the izakaya is very affordable.
「居酒屋の料理はとても手ごろです。」 - They offer affordable lunch sets for students.
「学生向けに手ごろなランチセットを提供しています。」 - This hotel is clean and affordable.
「このホテルはきれいで手ごろな価格です。」
unwind : 動詞 /ʌnˈwaɪnd/
意味: リラックスする、くつろぐ。To relax after being busy or stressed.
（居酒屋が、仕事帰りなどに「くつろぐ」「リラックスする」場所として使われているという説明で使用）
例文：
- People go to izakaya to unwind after work.
「人々は仕事帰りにリラックスするために居酒屋に行きます。」 - Listening to music helps me unwind.
「音楽を聴くとリラックスできます。」 - Take a hot bath to unwind at night.
「夜はお風呂に入ってリラックスしましょう。」