Awaji Izakaya — Restaurant in Oklahoma City

5 Stars Absolutely loved our visit to Awaji Izakaya in OKC!

This dimly lit Japanese gastropub delivers big on flavor, atmosphere, and service. We stopped by during happy hour and were blown away by how good everything was — not just the pricing, but the overall quality of the food and drinks. The service was top-tier too — shoutout to Solomon and Pearl for being super personable, attentive, and making the experience even better.

Here’s what we tried (all from the happy hour menu):

Sea Bass Karaage – Some of the best karaage I’ve had. Perfectly crispy outside, tender inside, with great seasoning. Volcano Crawfish Fries – Absolutely fantastic. Rich, spicy, creamy — the kind of dish you come back for. Bloody Hamachi Sashimi – Fresh, clean cuts of yellowtail dressed in a bold sauce. Beautiful presentation too. Crispy California Roll – Lightly fried and still fresh-tasting. Great texture. Volcano Roll – Packed with flavor, creamy spicy topping, even better without the cucumber (personal preference). Katsu Curry – Breaded pork cutlet was great. The curry was solid but could’ve been a bit richer for more depth.

For drinks, we tried the Espresso Martini, Awaji Punch, and Tokyo Old Fashioned — all hit the mark. The espresso martini in particular was a great closer.

The space itself is tucked into a shopping center (where the old Nhinja Sushi and a Rogers Concepts spot used to be), but once you’re inside, it’s got an eclectic, cozy vibe with cool decor and great energy.

We’ll definitely be back — this spot is a hidden gem for happy hour or a casual, flavor-packed night out.

Photos attached — the food tasted just as good...

I had the most delightful experience at Awaji Izakaya in OKC. From the moment I walked in, I was enveloped in a wonderful atmosphere that transported me straight to Japan. I'm incredibly grateful that such a restaurant exists here in Oklahoma City.

The ambiance at Awaji Izakaya is truly special. The decor, the lighting, and the attention to detail all contribute to an authentic Japanese dining experience. The traditional elements blend seamlessly with modern touches, creating a comfortable and inviting space. It's a place where you can unwind, enjoy good company, and savor delicious food.

The menu is a treasure trove of Japanese culinary delights. The variety of dishes, from sushi to tempura to yakitori, showcases the rich and diverse flavors of Japan. Each bite feels like a journey through Japanese cuisine, and the presentation is a work of art in itself.

What sets Awaji Izakaya apart is not just the food, but the sense of community it fosters. The staff exudes warmth and genuine hospitality, making you feel like a cherished guest. The attention they give to explaining dishes and suggesting pairings adds to the overall experience. It's evident that they're passionate about sharing their culture and cuisine with patrons.

In a city like Oklahoma City, finding a restaurant that captures the essence of Japan is a true gem. Awaji Izakaya goes beyond being just a place to eat; it's a cultural oasis that brings a slice of Japan to the heart of Oklahoma. If you're in the area and want to embark on a culinary and cultural adventure, I wholeheartedly recommend...

🗾🗼Take a trip to Japan in OKC 🗼🗾

👺 make reservation for dinner time 👺

👺Lunch, and their happiest hour can walk in and be seated 👺

👺 Visit Awaji Izakaya and you'll keep coming back. Thank you to Tom, chef Richard, manager Marcus and their entire staff amazing team 🍻

👺 Awaji Izakaya is the 🥇 standard for sushi restaurant in Oklahoma City don't sit on visiting this location 💯🍣🌊🙏🏻.

👺 There's literally no reason now to not try THEE best Japanese UPSCALE street food 🇯🇵

👺 UPDATE 11-14-24* 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. they have happiest hour 🥳 Discount on wings and select sushi rolls perfect time to try Awaji for the first time 🎌

👺 UPDATE 12-13-24* Awaji is now open for Lunch!!!!! Lunch menu posted and some pictures. Turks Beer, Seasonal nigiri, miso soup an okonomiyaki with shrimp 🍤 !!!

👺 UPDATE 1-23-25* If you haven't tried Awaji's lunch menu yet, make it a resolution. Just tried the yakisoba with shrimp, paired with their NEW spritzers line up they'll be having for Spring 🍃

📸 #1- Spicy edamame yakitori sampler with extra enoki mushroom wrapped in bacon 🤤

📸#2- Gold digger roll, alongside shishito peppers and inoki mushroom yakitori 🤤

📸#3- Tabasaki wings 🍗 paired an Turks Beer eaten today 11-14-24. Thank you Thadius J 🪄

📸#4-5 Lunch 6 piece nigiri 🍣 and okonomoyaki with 🦐* lunches served with Miso Soup😎*.

📸#6-7 Lunch menu 🍱, Kimchi Friend rice 🍚

📸#8 Lunch Yakisoba 🍜 with Steamed shrimp 🦐 and a Blueberry 🫐 Spritzer 🙏🏻

📸 #9 Lunch Tonkatsu Sandwich & Fries with spicy mayo dipping sauce and ketchup 😎

10/10 go to Awaji...