Izakayas: The Top Three Places by Neighborhood’s Verdict
An izakaya is not quite a restaurant nor a bar in the usual sense, but something between a cozy pub and a casual cafe. Literally, the word means “a place where you sit and drink,” which perfectly describes the format.
People stop by after work to relax, have a drink, and try various small dishes. Izakayas serve beer, sake, plum wine (umeshu), and a multitude of small plates: from yakitori and fried tofu to miso soup and tempura.
The atmosphere is lively, noisy, and very friendly. People chat, share dishes, and try a little bit of everything. Essentially, an izakaya is the Japanese version of a bar, but with sake, chopsticks, and flavors you’ll want to explore.
Keanu
The interior of the establishment is in the best traditions of an izakaya. An intimate restaurant with a warm, almost homely atmosphere. There’s a lot of wood: walls, floor, built-in shelves, a neat bar area with lighting and bottles on open shelving.
If you think people come here primarily for drinks, as they would to any bar, we’re here to convince you otherwise—guests in reviews unanimously praise the food, and we agree: they serve perfect sushi, fresh poke, and huge portions of soup.
Address: Alberta iela 1
Neighborhood Choice: Shrimp, mango, and avocado poke—an unusual combination you need to try if you’re tired of classic tuna or salmon poke.
GONGU
This is an unusual izakaya: it combines Japanese and Latin American cuisines—a bold decision made by the renowned chef Evgeny Pesin. So people come here not only for drinks and cocktails but, first and foremost, for the delicious food: artichoke salad, brioche with wagyu, nigiri with eel and foie gras, tomato kimchi—none of the dishes are exactly classic. And they are prepared only from fresh Spanish fish.
The establishment’s concept is closer to an upscale restaurant than a bar: a hostess greets guests at the entrance, servers present cocktails beautifully, and the interior is meticulously thought out. But despite this, the izakaya atmosphere is present—everyone is drinking and having fun.
Address: Palasta iela 9
Neighborhood Choice: Bluefin tuna tartare with avocado and caviar—a delicate texture that will make you forget all the previous tartares you’ve ever tried. And the perfect pairing for it is a cocktail made with two seemingly incompatible ingredients—matcha and mint liqueur—a signature cocktail of the establishment.
The Catch
People, however, often come to this izakaya for drinks, cocktails, and wine. It has a small menu, consisting mainly of rolls, poke, and bowls. The interior is also more like a bar: it’s compact with closely spaced tables, better suited for lively, heartfelt gatherings than for a full meal. However, the variety of alcohol will be a pleasant surprise—The Catch’s bar menu is a separate reason to stop by.
Address: Antonijas iela 12
Neighborhood Choice: Truffle Espresso—will appeal to those who love sweet, rich, and full-bodied drinks where the alcohol is barely noticeable.
Japanese Establishments: Restaurants, Noodle Houses, and Sushi Bars
If you’re in the mood for something more classic than the sometimes noisy izakayas, here are four reliable establishments where you can enjoy Japanese cuisine in a cozy and authentic atmosphere.
Shoyu
A small but cozy spot for a leisurely dinner. The inteXrior is minimalist: grey walls, lamps over the tables, sofas, and simple black chairs. In the summer, the outdoor terrace is especially pleasant.
The main reason to come here is the food. Many guests gather when a Japanese head chef is in the kitchen (we recommend checking about this when making a reservation). The menu delights with its variety: dozens of types of ramen, unusual desserts like avocado ice cream pops, and snacks for every taste.
Address: Ausekļa iela 20
Neighborhood Choice: Mazemen—this is the same Japanese ramen, but without the broth. “Mazemen” translates to “mixed noodles” and features a richer, more concentrated flavor. It’s perfect to pair with a set of six types of sake—especially for a group.
Ramen Riga
The name makes it clear what the main dish is here. Visitors come not only for the soup but also for the atmosphere: the interior is designed in a Japanese style with posters, neon lights, and magazines. There is a separate, bright hall that can be booked for parties and events. While you enjoy gyoza, a warming soup, or onigiri, decorative birds on the walls “watch” over you.
Address: Stabu iela 14
Neighborhood Choice: Beef ramen—a huge portion that can easily be shared by two.
Yakuza sushi
This restaurant specializes in Asian fusion cuisine, combining traditional Japanese recipes with modern gastronomic ideas. It features unusual dishes, such as asparagus sushi or matcha cake, alongside classic rolls like Philadelphia and veggie maki.
The interior is simple, neat, and in a modern Japanese style. At the same time, it’s a visual treat: the restaurant is located opposite the historic mansion of architect Mikhail Eisenstein (built in 1901), and its facade is adorned with sculptural masks, floral motifs, atlas figures, and lion heads.
Address: Elizabetes iela 10, Biķernieku iela 141
Neighborhood Choice: Sushi from the “Yakuza Dragon” collection and shrimp bao.
Unagi inu
As the venue’s team says, it’s a favorite spot for Japanese cuisine lovers in the center of Riga. It’s true: the restaurant, covered in Asian graffiti, is filled with anime fans and cosplayers. This adds to the atmosphere, and it’s also fun to come with kids—the little ones will not only enjoy watching the vibrant youth but also spending time in the kids’ zone with free arcade machines.
The menu is suitable for those less familiar with Japanese cuisine. It offers many neutral options like bao buns, sandwiches, and sushi hot dogs.
Address: Jeruzalemes iela 10
Neighborhood Choice: Bao cheeseburger—a juicy beef patty with soft steamed bao buns.
Ocean restaurant
This place combines modern minimalism with soft Japanese accents: light wood, plenty of greenery, and calm, muted lighting. As befits an izakaya, the main focus is the bar. The illuminated counter immediately catches the eye, and your first instinct is to choose a drink to set the tone for the evening.
Guests most often order sushi, but that’s far from all there is to try. The appetizers, salads, woks, and soups here are on par with full-fledged restaurant dishes—generous portions and quality ingredients speak for themselves.
Neighborhood Choice: Tom Kha. If you know how this soup should taste, it won’t disappoint: rich coconut milk, spicy paste, tender chicken breast, and fresh mushrooms—everything is in its right place.
Address: Zolitūdes iela 34
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Shogun restaurant
This izakaya isn’t entirely classic. In terms of atmosphere, Shogun is closer to a modern restaurant with Japanese accents. The center of the hall features a long, illuminated bar with red panels, surrounded by high stools. Above the bar are pendant lights with intricate shades that create soft, diffused lighting.
But despite the neat and thoughtful interior, the format remains true to its concept. Alongside the sushi, it has that lively, noisy izakaya energy—with sake, beer, conversations, and a general relaxed atmosphere. Shogun is more about comfort and aesthetics than strict authenticity, but the spirit of friendly gatherings is captured perfectly.
Neighborhood Choice: Limoncello—an unexpected favorite. People come here specifically for this Italian liqueur, served as a digestif after a hearty meal.
Address: Brīvības iela 31
