From the “hidden” bars in Príncipe Real to late-afternoon snacks on Avenida, we’ve discovered where you can sample the best yakitori, gyoza, and sake in the capital— all inspired by traditional Japanese taverns, the famous izakayas.
If you’re still the type who seeks out classic salmon platters, the freshest sashimi in town, or the sushi rolls that have made Lisbon one of the top destinations for Japanese cuisine in Portugal, you should know that you might be “behind the times.”
The thing is, the new Japanese scene in Lisbon is all about izakayas— those typical Japanese pubs, noisy and informal, where technical precision blends with a relaxed atmosphere after a busy day at the office.
In these “new” spots in Lisbon, the main course has given way to sharing small plates, comfort food, and glasses of sake, shochu, or ice-cold beer.
With that in mind, we’ve done all the legwork for you and set out to find the best izakayas in Lisbon— the ones that are setting the new trends on the city’s culinary scene.
KOPPU Ramen Izakaya
The Koppu restaurants (the one on Avenida has also opened) are a must-visit if you’re looking for quality without breaking the bank.
Koppu’s focus is on clever combinations that let you snack at the bar in a very casual way, with friends or family. And if you’ll take our suggestion: try one of this place’s ramen dishes.
The Tokyo Summer Set is the new izakaya menu at Magokoro Ramen restaurants in Lisbon—especially if you’re looking to sample a little bit of everything that traditional Japanese taverns in Tokyo have to offer.
And in these spots, everything is very simple: you can choose between the option for 2 people (€45), which includes 6 appetizers (from among the 18 on the general menu), 2 soft drinks, 2 alcoholic beverages, and 2 coffees; or the option for 4 people (€85), which includes 10 appetizers (from among the 18 on the general menu), 4 soft drinks, 4 alcoholic beverages, and 4 coffees. In addition, they also serve the famous yakitori skewers from Friday through Sunday for dinner at the Amoreiras location.
If you want to experience the spirit of Tokyo in Lisbon without going for traditional sushi (or all-you-can-eat sushi), Ajitama has launched a summer menu, “Izakaya & Bites,” inspired by Japanese taverns, featuring 15 small plates to share.
Our recommendation is that you don’t miss the Soft-Shell Crab Tempura and the Smash Tuna Carpaccio, which are among the most incredible delicacies we’ve tasted this summer.
Izakaya Lisbon
This is alreadyTiago Penão’s second restaurant ( the other is in Cascais), featuring a counter for sharing and anincredible variety of Japanese appetizers with that special touch.
The concept is the same one that was a hit in Cascais, in a perfect setting that becomes increasingly social as time goes on, and it’s also spectacular for those who enjoy watching the action in the kitchen.
After Dark
If you value exclusivity, save this address. It operates as a secret izakaya with only 11 seats available at the bar and serves just two seatings per night.
It offers a tasting menu (in constant flux) with strong Japanese influences, places a strong emphasis on sake tastings, and requires advance reservations.
Saikai Izakaya
It opened in May 2025 at Portas de Santo Antão, next to Avenida da Liberdade, and was designed specifically for after-work gatherings, proving to be one of the ideal spots to unwind in the late afternoon.
One of the standout features of this spot is that you can even dress up in one of the yukatas provided, making the experience even more immersive.
YoiZaru by SakeMico
Yoizaru only serves food starting at 6 p.m.— that is, after the usual workday.
…is distinguished by a strong focus on Asian mixology, with shochu (a Japanese spirit) as the house specialty, but also by some of the most incredible appetizers you’ll ever taste in Lisbon.