Izumiya

This was our first meal back on our trip in April. After a long plane then train ride, we arrived at our hotel in Yokohama (My stays). Not knowing what we wanted to eat, we decided to walk around and find something. The great thing about Japan is there is good food everywhere, you don't need to loo...k far. We found this little spot by opening the small sliding door and peeking in. It appeared to be a traditional cozy izakaya. Just a disclaimer, I speak and read Japanese, so communication wasn't an issue. This place could be a challenge as I don't think anyone spoke Engish, and there are no English menus anywhere. I doubt this place hardly gets many foreigners. Even more reason you should try it! It's not a touristy spot, and you will get a very authentic local experience. As with most izakaya, there is a regular menu to order from, but also specials and a ton of things to order from off the small signs on the wall. This makes it easy for people who are drinking to just yell to someone what they want. Don't feel awkward doing it, that is how it's done here. I asked the waitress what was good and her recommendation was the karaage (fried chicken). I ordered one, a daikon salad, grilled saba (mackerel), moro kyu (cucumber with miso) and eventually a hot pot with veggies and fish. The reason we ended up ordering it is the table next to us gifted us a big plate of fish. Perhaps they were shocked to see foreigners in their small neighborhood, and wanted to extend their hospitality. It was appreciated! All of the food was delicious. Most family run type places like this are. Small little holes in the wall not many from outside the neighborhood know about. It definitely hit the spot as we were especially hungry. I wouldn't hesitate to go there again if I were ever in the area.

Visited April 2016