There’s something magical about summer evenings with family—the golden hour light, the warm breeze, and the unhurried sense of time. This past summer, my family and I decided to change up our usual routine of backyard barbecues and pizza nights. Instead, we embarked on a culinary adventure exploring Japanese izakayas in Orange County. As a dad who loves good food and quality time with my kids, this turned out to be one of the best decisions we made all year.
For those unfamiliar, izakayas are casual Japanese pubs where people gather to enjoy small plates of food, drinks, and conversation. Think of them as the Japanese equivalent of a tapas bar, where the atmosphere is laid-back, the dishes come to the table as they’re ready, and everyone shares. Izakayas are less about formality and more about connection—perfect for a family night out.
A New Kind of Family Tradition
It all started when my oldest daughter suggested we try something different for our Friday family nights. She had read about izakayas online and thought they sounded fun. I’ll admit, the idea of stepping out of our comfort zone appealed to me. As a dad, I’m always looking for ways to keep our family traditions fresh while also teaching my kids to appreciate different cultures. So, I said, “Why not?”
Our first visit was to a little spot tucked away in a corner strip mall. From the outside, it didn’t look like much—just a plain sign and some frosted windows. But as soon as we stepped inside, we were transported. The dim lighting, wooden accents, and soft hum of conversation instantly set the tone. The staff greeted us with a cheerful "Irasshaimase!" (Welcome!), and I could see the kids’ faces light up with curiosity and excitement.
Learning the Art of Sharing
One of my favorite parts of the izakaya experience is the way it brings people together. Unlike traditional restaurants where everyone orders their own meal, izakayas encourage sharing. The menu is typically filled with small plates meantto be passed around the table. It’s communal dining at its best, and it fit perfectly with our family dynamic.
Our first round of dishes included classics like karaage (Japanese fried chicken), edamame, and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). I watched as my youngest son, who is usually a picky eater, reached for a skewer and took a cautious bite. To my surprise—and his—he loved it. “Why haven’t we had this before?” he asked, his eyes wide. Moments like that made me realize how important it is to expose my kids to new flavors and experiences.
Finding Favorites and Trying the Unexpected
As the summer went on, we made it our mission to visit a different izakaya every other week. Each one had its ownunique vibe and specialties. At one spot, we discovered agedashi tofu, crispy on the outside and silky on the inside, floating in a flavorful dashi broth. At another, we tried takoyaki—gooey octopus-filled batter balls topped with dancing bonito flakes. I’ll admit, the kids were hesitant about the octopus at first, but after some coaxing (and a little bribery involving dessert), they gave it a shot. It didn’t take long for takoyaki to become one of their favorites.
Of course, there were dishes that pushed even my adventurous spirit. One night, we ordered natto (fermented soybeans) as a dare. I’d read about its strong taste and sticky texture but figured, “How bad could it be?” Let’s just say it wasn’t a hit—but it did lead to plenty of laughs, which made it worthwhile. Not every dish has to be a winner; sometimes, the fun is in the trying.
Atmosphere That Feels Like Home
What makes izakayas special isn’t just the food—it’s the atmosphere. Unlike formal restaurants, izakayas feel cozy and personal. The staff often took the time to chat with us, explaining the dishes or recommending their favorites. One chefeven came out to show my kids how they prepared the yakitori over a traditional charcoal grill. It was clear they took pride in their craft, and that passion was contagious.
The casual setting also encouraged us to linger longer. We’d order in rounds, spacing out the food so we could enjoy it slowly. This gave us more time to talk, laugh, and simply be present with each other. As a dad, these are the moments I treasure the most—when the distractions of work and school fade away, and we’re just a family enjoying each other’scompany.
Exploring the Culture Behind the Food
Each visit also became an opportunity to learn about Japanese culture. We talked about the origins of izakayas, the importance of hospitality in Japanese dining, and even a bit about the ingredients and cooking techniques. My middle child, who’s a budding artist, was especially fascinated by the way each dish was presented. From the carefully arranged sashimi to the colorful garnish on the plates, she started sketching her own versions of the meals in her notebook.
I also made it a point to teach the kids a few simple Japanese phrases. We learned how to say “thank you” (“arigatou”)and “delicious” (“oishii”). By the end of the summer, they were confidently using these words during our meals, which made me proud. These little cultural exchanges added an extra layer of meaning to our nights out.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
By the end of our izakaya journey, we had not only discovered some incredible food but also grown closer as a family. Each outing reminded me of how important it is to step outside our routines and try something new. It’s easy to get stuck in the same habits, but the world is full of opportunities to explore, connect, and grow—even if it’s just through dinner.
I also realized how much my kids are capable of appreciating when given the chance. They surprised me with their willingness to try unfamiliar foods, their curiosity about different cultures, and their openness to new experiences. As a dad, it’s my job to give them those opportunities, and this summer, they taught me just as much as I taught them.
Where to Start: Tips for Your Own Izakaya Adventure
If you’re thinking about exploring izakayas with your family, here are a few tips to get you started:
- Do a little research. Not all izakayas are kid-friendly, so check reviews or call ahead to make sure the spot you choose has a welcoming atmosphere.
- Start with the basics. Order familiar dishes like fried chicken or grilled skewers to ease picky eaters into the experience.
- Be adventurous. Encourage your family to try at least one new dish each time. You never know what might become a favorite!
- Go slow. Order in rounds so you can enjoy the food at a relaxed pace and savor the experience.
- Learn as you go. Take the opportunity to talk about the culture behind the food—it makes the experience even more enriching.
The End of Summer, but Not the Adventure
As summer came to a close, we found ourselves reminiscing about our favorite dishes and laughing about our misadventures (looking at you, natto). The kids even asked if we could keep the tradition going during the school year.While it might not happen as often, I’m determined to make izakaya nights a semi-regular thing.
There’s something special about sharing a meal that’s more than just food—it’s an experience, a memory in the making. And for this dad, there’s no better way to spend time with the people I love most. So here’s to more nights of yakitori, laughter, and discovering the world one bite at a time.
