7 izakayas in Hong Kong to get your authentic fix

Hong Kong’s obsession with Japanese food is well-documented – it’s a city where omakase menus are a dime a dozen and there’s a sushi restaurant or takeaway every couple of blocks. In recent years, the humble Japanese izakaya – a casual eatery typically specialising in meat and vegetable skewers and liquor – has become the hangout of choice for the post-work crowd. 

We’ve rounded up some of the best izakayas in Hong Kong below, from authentic neighbourhood dives to splurge-worthy hotspots, at some of which you’ll be able to make the most of your visit and earn Asia Miles.  

Firebird

As you might have guessed from the name, fire and poultry are central to the menu at this yakitori bar where minced chicken balls, wagyu beef and charred leeks are served alongside pots of creamy egg yolks for dipping. Those keen on surf and turf selections will be spoiled with the menu’s wide array of sashimi, eel and shellfish platters, all to complement the grilled mains. There are two branches throughout the city at Causeway Bay and Tung Chung. Whichever location you choose, be sure to grab a seat at the bar so you’ll be on the front row for all the action. 

From now till 31 August, Cathay members visiting Firebird will also be able to choose between two exclusively curated sake pairing menus, as well as earn bonus miles at an earn rate of up to HKD1 = 1 by presenting their QR code in the Asia Miles by Cathay app.  

Firebird Causeway Bay: G/F, 13 Pennington Street, Causeway Bay 

Firebird Tung Chung: Shop B113, B1/F, Citygate Outlets, 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung 

The Aubrey 

The Aubrey has taken the izakaya and catapulted it to luxe new heights, even earning itself a spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars. Lashings of caviar, Kagoshima beef and lobster aren’t typically what you’d find on an izakaya menu, but this Mandarin Oriental restaurant has made it work. Their menu elevates comfort staples like beef sandos, robata grilled skewers and moreish karaage (Japanese fried chicken). Don't leave without trying at least one cocktail, as the drinks list changes with the seasons and even features cocktail omakase experiences. Boasting stunning views over Hong Kong harbour and Art Nouveau-inspired interiors, this restaurant is an elegant experience all around, perfect for a date night.

The Aubrey, 25/F, Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Road, Central 

Hige 

Tucked away just above Caine Road, this discreet izakaya feels as though you’ve walked straight into Japan. With cozy tatami booths, walls covered in polaroids and shogi tiles, and a menu of sake and whiskey as long as your arm, you’ll be able to get your comfort food fix here and more. From honey-brown tonkatsu to grilled scallops topped with uni, Hige does it all, but also specialises in kushiyaki: a.k.a. anything grilled and served on a stick. Splurge-happy diners can also opt for the seasonal omakase menu. But in any case, it’s all best washed down with a draught pint of Asahi or a glass of the house-made plum shochu. 

Hige, Shop A, G/F, Woodland House, 9A-9C Castle Road, Mid-Levels 

Jan Jan Kushikatsu 

For something different, head to the outpost of Osaka izakaya Jan Jan Kushikatsu for speciality skewers featuring deep-fried meat and vegetables. Some of its signatures include fried scallops topped with briney, pop-in-your-mouth salmon roe, fried soft boiled egg oozing with yolk, and a flash fried Fuji apple that’s perfect as a light dessert. You’ll be able to pair your sticks with grilled rice balls, soba or noodles for a truly indulgent meal. With locations in Wan Chai and Tsim Sha Tsui, it’s convenient to get your fix no matter which side of the Island you’re on. And chances are, you’ll be coming back again and again. 

Members visiting Jan Jan Kushikatsu can earn up to HKD2 = 1 when presenting their QR code in the Asia Miles by Cathay app, while Standard Chartered Cathay Mastercard^® holders can earn up to HKD4 = 3. 

Jan Jan Kushikatsu Wan Chai: 2/F, 100 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai 

Jan Jan Kushikatsu Tsim Sha Tsui: 1/F, 25 Hart Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui

Isono Suisan 

This popular Causeway Bay izakaya specialises in jet-fresh Japanese seafood and hamayaki, the art of grilling fish whole over binchotan charcoal. Pass through Isono Suisan ’s double doors and you’ll discover a warm and low-key atmosphere, complete with curios, knickknacks, vibrant posters and a generous bar that complements the city views outside. Offering meticulously prepared sashimi platters, sake-braised shellfish and grilled seasonal fish, the menu also features generous sea urchin toppings on everything from crispy fried rice to miso crab. 

Isono Suisan, 19/F, Macau Yat Yuen Centre, 525 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay 

Yardbird 

This vibey Sheung Wan izakaya’s electric atmosphere and delicious skewers consistently attracts the city’s coolest crowds, winning it its Michelin-star accolade since 2021. The entire chicken is honoured at Yardbird and you’ll be able to choose which specific part you’d like grilled over binchotan coals, from the crispy skin to the peppery thigh meat, as well as crunchy gizzards, and moreish hearts and liver, which are loved by diners in-the-know. It’s not just about the yakitori here, though, as you’ll want to sink your teeth into their yuzu- and chili-spiced Korean-fried cauliflower (“KFC”) or chicken rice topped with a perfect onsen egg. Stay a little longer and make your way through the list of fantastic cocktails, umeshu and an extensive sake selection. 

Yardbird, G/F, Shops A and B, Winsome House, 154-158 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan 

Yurakucho 

As one of the newer kids on the scene, Singular Concepts’ Yurakucho is named for the famed Japanese district (and its corresponding subway station) lined with poky izakayas popular with raucous salarymen after hours. This sprawling Soho restaurant channels the spirit of the neighbourhood while bringing something new to the experience with crunchy chicken skin-wrapped gyoza, takoyaki-style tater tots and traditional robata-style flame-grilled specials. A drink here is mandatory, with a large range of fruity highballs and seasonal cocktails. The “Shisomato” in particular is a must for any Bloody Mary lover.  

Yurakucho, G/F, Yu Yuet Lai Building, 43-55 Wyndham Street, Central