Chibachan

When you find yourself wandering through the neon-lit streets of Shibuya with hunger pangs and no reservation in sight, Chibachan is exactly the kind of spot you hope to stumble upon. This classic izakaya embodies everything wonderful about Tokyo’s casual dining scene—unpretentious, welcoming, and designed for good times with friends.

The star attraction here is undoubtedly the karaage yacht, and yes, it’s every bit as impressive as it sounds. Picture a massive wooden boat arriving at your table loaded with more than forty pieces of perfectly golden, impossibly crispy fried chicken. It’s a showstopper that practically demands you bring a group to tackle it properly. The edamame comes in similarly generous portions, served trough-style because apparently moderation isn’t on the menu here.

What really sets Chibachan apart from the wave of trendy modern izakayas popping up around Tokyo is its refreshingly affordable all-you-can-drink option. Combine that with the relaxed atmosphere and ability to seat larger parties, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a memorable evening out. With five locations scattered across busy districts like Shinjuku and Ikebukuro in addition to this Shibuya outpost, there’s usually one nearby when the craving strikes.

While walk-ins are possible, snagging a reservation is wise if you want to avoid waiting—especially on weekends when the after-work crowd descends. This is exactly the kind of place Tokyo does so well: honest food, reasonable prices, and an atmosphere that encourages you to stay for just one more round.