Izakaya

The story

Izakaya in Cascais: Authentic Japanese Tavern with Michelin Recognition

Izakaya in Cascais: An Authentic Japanese Tavern

In the heart of Cascais, Izakaya brings the spirit of a Tokyo alleyway to Portugal. This is not a formal dining room but a genuine Japanese tavern—informal, vibrant, and warm. The space revolves around the counter, where chefs slice, grill, fry, and plate dishes right before your eyes. It is an immersive experience, stripped of distance and ceremony.

The menu is built on intense, authentic flavors. You might start with a toro yokke chirashi, move on to a kastusando, or sample several yakitoris—from heart to skin. The karaage has become a habit for many. The choices are many, and the urge to repeat is strong.

Music is part of the soul here. DJ Kwan curates a soundtrack that crosses Tokyo and Lisbon—R&B, funky, hip-hop—setting the tone for long evenings of shared plates and full glasses.

Izakaya has earned a Michelin Recommended distinction for 2025, a recognition that aligns with its reputation as a place where every dish is a burst of flavor and every glass a toast to sharing. It was also named Restaurant of the Year in Cascais by Mesa Marcada.

The restaurant now lives in two addresses: the original in Cascais and a second location in Lisbon’s Príncipe Real. In both, the energy remains the same—no rush, no formality, just good food and good company.