BKK Japanese BBQ: 5 Best Izakaya Spots in Phnom Penh
BKK Japanese BBQ is having a moment right now. In fact, Boeung Keng Kang is packed with great options, from full yakiniku spreads to cozy izakaya bars. Whether you want a private room for a family dinner or a lively night out with drinks, we’ve got you covered. So here are five spots worth trying.
1. Kazu: BKK Japanese BBQ with a Wagyu Sushi Deal
If you’re after a full Japanese BBQ experience in BKK, Yakiniku Kazu is the spot. Right now, they’re running a buy one get one free promotion on their Kuroge Wagyu Sushi. However, it’s only valid until the end of September, so grab your friends and family before it ends.
Kazu serves BBQ along with a wide food menu. They also have private rooms if you want something more intimate. Lunch runs from 11 AM to 2 PM, while dinner runs from 5 PM to 10 PM.
Price per person: $10 to $15
Food: 5/5
Service: 5/5
Atmosphere: 5/5
Wait time: Up to 10 minutes
Seating: Indoor dining area
2. Sakaba New Tokyo: Cozy Izakaya Vibes in BKK
Sakaba New Tokyo nails the cozy izakaya vibe with a Japanese style interior and an open kitchen. Because of the open layout, you can watch your food being cooked right in front of you. There’s also upstairs seating for dinner. Overall, it’s a great pick for a casual night out with drinks and friends.
Open from 5 PM to midnight.
Price per person: $15 to $20
Food: 5/5
Service: 5/5
Atmosphere: 5/5
Group size: 3 to 4 people, 5 to 8 people, or 9 and up
Wait time: No wait
3. Tono Izakaya: Affordable BKK Japanese Food with Live Music
Tono Izakaya is one of the more affordable options in BKK, serving both lunch and dinner. The vibe leans more bar and bistro than traditional izakaya. Meanwhile, they have an open kitchen so you can watch the chef work. Overall, the food looks fresh, and the menu has plenty of variety at mid-range prices.
Lunch runs 12 PM to 3 PM, and dinner runs 5 PM to midnight. On top of that, they host a live band on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. For families or larger groups, a private room is also available.
Price per person: $15 to $20
Food: 5/5
Service: 5/5
Atmosphere: 5/5
Seating: Indoor dining area
4. Kento Handroll & SakĂ©: BKK’s Trendiest Izakaya Spot
Kento has a clean, retro Japanese feel with an open kitchen. On top of that, they bring in a DJ on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. Lunch and dinner run from 11 AM to midnight, and their menu now includes sushi tacos alongside the usual handrolls.
Additionally, happy hour runs Monday to Thursday from 8 PM, with buy one get one on craft sake and draft beer.
Price per person: $25 to $30
Food: 4/5
Service: 4/5
Atmosphere: 4/5
Noise level: Loud, but you can still talk
Group size: 1 person up to 8 people
Wait time: No wait
Parking: Somewhat difficult to find, but free street parking is available
5. Maruhachi Suisan: Budget Japanese BBQ and Sushi in BKK
Maruhachi Suisan is the most budget friendly on this list, with menu items starting from just $3. Here, a chef comes to your table to make sushi. Even better, the seafood is fresh enough that you can grill it yourself right at the table. Overall, the whole space has an authentic Japanese feel.
Price per person: $10 to $15
Food: 5/5
Service: 4/5
Atmosphere: 4/5
Noise level: Quiet, easy to talk
Wait time: Up to 10 minutes
Final Thoughts on BKK Japanese BBQ
Overall, BKK has become one of the best areas in Phnom Penh for Japanese food. From full BBQ spreads to sake and sushi tacos, there’s something for every craving. So pick your vibe, grab your crew, and go try one this week.
