12 Izakayas In KL, PJ & Subang To Visit Because You Deserve A Break
Take me to Japan pls.
By Tamara Jayne — 23 Nov 2021, 10:32 AM
1. Hamasho
After a long, tiring week, you might be feeling like just kicking it back and enjoying your evening. Hamasho provides the right ambience to lift your spirits back up over some good food and drinks.
Run by Japanese, this izakaya is known for their seafood barbecue. If you miss Japan's little street bars tucked along their alleys, this is one place you should check out.
2. Butaya Izakaya
A crowd favourite at this cosy izakaya is their yakitori, which is said to be full of flavour and grilled to perfection.
Many review that the prices are affordable too, compared to other popular izakaya-style restaurants in KL. However, it can get pretty crowded, so try to make a reservation in advance if you want to secure a table.
3. Kitsuzo Izakaya
The interior of this space will make you feel like you're at a cosy diner in Japan. One customer recommends their tori karaage spicy don, which has juicy fried chicken coated in a spicy sauce. :O
They also have an extensive sake menu, so you'll be sure to have a good time. ;)
4. Fujisawa Izakaya
With several outlets in Klang Valley, Fujisawa Izakaya is a go-to spot for many who are in the mood for refreshing drinks after work. Some of what they offer includes tamago sushi, unagi roll, soft shell crab inari, salmon sashimi, and more.
Just be aware that the place is often packed at peak hours, so there may be a longer waiting time or make a reservation to avoid any disappointment.
Address:
PJ Uptown
52M, Jalan SS 21/58, Damansara Utama,
47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
The Starling Mall
Level 3. Foodies' Nest. The Starling Mall,
Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Sri Petaling
12-1, Jalan Radin Bagus 1, Bandar Baru Sri Petaling,
57000 Kuala Lumpur
Kepong
21, Jalan Metro Perdana Barat 1,
Taman Usahawan Kepong, 52100 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours:
12pm – 3pm, 5.30pm – 11pm (Sundays to Thursdays)
12pm – 3pm, 5.30pm – 12am (Fridays and Saturdays)
Facebook | Instagram
5. Tobu
Tobu is a 'hideout' that you'll wanna head to for a chill night with friends or colleagues after work.
Their aesthetic is very much like stepping into a cosy bar in Kyoto. They even have a Torii gate (traditional Japanese gate) at the entrance and bottles of sake lined up against a wall. On occasion, you might be able to catch a live performance on their small stage as well.
6. Robataya Izakaya
With three outlets in Klang Valley, Robataya Izakaya will be able to satisfy any Japanese food cravings. They have everything from sushi, sashimi, yakitori, and other grilled meats to beer and sake. You'll also find a selection of porky goodness too!
Address:
Publika
D4-G3-09, 1, Jalan Dutamas 1,
Solaris Dutamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Empire Subang
Lot No. G-16, Empire Shopping Gallery, Ss 16,
47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor
1 Utama Shopping Centre
G202 & G203 1 Utama Shopping Centre 1,
Lebuh Bandar Utama One Utama, Bandar Utama,
47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
You can check out their website.
7. Senya Izakaya
We'll let the photos speak for themselves. Everything at Senya Izakaya looks delish! And they've managed to create a name for themselves in Solaris, attracting loyal customers throughout the week. One of their signatures is the Hokkaido pork don, which many say has a smoky flavour and comes in a big portion.
8. Shakariki 432"
Originally from Osaka, Shakariki 432" has over 25 outlets in Bangkok and two outlets in KL. It's one place that you'll find everything under one roof — yakitori, sushi, oden, draught beer, and sake, the list is extensive!
Address:
Publika
D4-G3-5, Publika, Solaris Dutamas,
Jalan Dutamas 1, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Desa Sri Hartamas
G Tingkat Bawah Jalan 23/70A 50480,
Desa Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours:
12pm – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm (Tuesdays to Fridays)
11.30am – 10pm (Saturdays and Sundays)
Closed on Mondays.
Facebook | Instagram
9. Miyako Land
It's not just about the food at izakayas, but a good ambience too. If you miss Japan or have never set foot there, check out this Okinawa-themed izakaya in PJ.
Customers recommend their juicy meat skewers, and you'll also find a decent gin selection here. Though the restaurant has two floors, it can get pretty packed, especially on weekends, so it's best to make a reservation in advance.
10. Fujiwara Yakitori Bar
Inspired by manga series Initial D, this yakitori bar in KL has the iconic car at the front of the restaurant that you can snap a pic with. Inside, the space is also filled with Initial D posters and manga. There's even an arcade machine for you to get your street racing game on, while waiting for your food and beer to arrive.
11. Yoshimune Izakaya
Had a long week? Enjoy a set of drinks and good food at this new space in Kota Damansara. Run by a lovely couple, who used to own Gyukingu Yakiniku, they decided to open an izakaya earlier this year and are working alongside Japanese chef Saito san.
They serve an assortment of yakitori, grilled mackerel, octopus salad, barbecued dishes, and even ramen with premium Wagyu beef for RM60. Yums. What a way to end the day!
Address:
12, Jalan PJU 5/15, Kota Damansara,
47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours:
11.30am – 10.30pm (Daily)
Check out their Facebook.
12. Ryoshi Izakaya
We're loving the Japanese vibes at this izakaya in Subang. Their menu includes a variety of fresh seafood and snacks that will pair perfectly with your drinks. Try their pork rice bowl if you're looking for a heavier meal, or their yakitori oyster wrapped in bacon and mentaiko pork! *drools*
