Izakaya in Brisbane
The izakaya format (small plates, sake, a warm and unhurried atmosphere) has found a natural home in Brisbane. Many listed rooms draw from the Japanese tradition while working with local seafood and produce. Counter seating, a thoughtful drinks list, and a kitchen focused on the pleasure of the moment rather than formal ambition.
Shared dining
Mobo
Izakaya-style Japanese dining in Kangaroo Point.
Explore Mobo
Shared Japanese plates
NIIWA
A Japanese restaurant and izakaya on James Street, with sushi, robata, yakitori and banquets.
Explore NIIWARiverfront dining
Yoko Dining
Contemporary izakaya-style dining along the Brisbane River at Howard Smith Wharves.
Explore Yoko Dining- Mobo: “Range of skewers offered in traditional izakaya style” (its own site)
- NIIWA: “Tokyo inspired izakaya, sushi & robata” (its own site)
- Yoko Dining: “contemporary izakaya dining along the Brisbane River” (its own site)
What is an izakaya?
An izakaya is a Japanese pub or casual dining bar where small plates are ordered to share alongside drinks. The atmosphere is relaxed and the menu is designed for grazing over several hours.
Which Brisbane venues in this guide are izakaya?
Mobo in Kangaroo Point, whose menu offers skewers in traditional izakaya style; NIIWA on James Street, which calls itself a Tokyo-inspired izakaya; and Yoko at Howard Smith Wharves, which describes contemporary izakaya dining on the river.