I went to Daian, a popular izakaya about 5 minutes‘ walk from Kanazawa Station. By izakaya standards it is quite large, covering 3 entire floors, and the traditional Japanese interior, complete with sliding doors known as fusuma, and tatami flooring, create an ambiance that epitomizes the essence of Japanese design. When being led into a tatami room, always remember to take off your shoes. Some izakayas have standard areas with tables and chairs, in which case taking off your shoes is not necessary. Eating at the counter is also an option, which may suit the solo traveler, or anyone who wishes to catch a glimpse of the chefs hard at work as they prepare an array of delectable dishes.
After you sit down, the waiter will probably leave you alone until you are ready to order. Large izakayas usually have a call button you can press. If you don’t see one on the table, you may need to call out sumimasen to get the waiters attention. Don’t feel shy about doing this, the waiters are aware that you are there, and will usually respond quickly after you call them.
 
The point of the izakaya is to share food, so keep that in mind when ordering. Large izakayas, like Daian, usually offer menus in English which makes it easy when ordering. The first dish that will arrive is the otoshi. The cost of the otoshi is usually around 500 yen. It is an obligatory dish that is decided by the izakaya and acts as a kind of seating charge. It usually comes right after you place your order. In keeping with the izakaya culture, drinking while eating is a must, so the otoshi gives you something to snack on while you wait for your main food to arrive. As you don’t know what the otoshi is going to be, it creates a sense of excitement and gives you the chance to try a dish that you may not have considered before.