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Kuroya izakaya offers fresh seafood, seasonal Kaga vegetables, and a lively local dining experience just minutes from the station.

Kuroya Izakaya Kanazawa is a traditional Japanese izakaya with a wooden exterior, red and brown signs in Japanese, a hanging paper lantern, and a chalkboard menu outside the entrance at night.

Delicious Izakaya in Kanazawa

After a full day of sightseeing, we were ready for something easy and satisfying. We found Kuroya (くろ屋), a small izakaya near Kanazawa Station—and it turned out to be just what we needed.

Kuroya is a local favorite known for seasonal seafood, grilled dishes, and regional vegetables from the Kaga area. The food comes out in small, shareable plates, and the lively atmosphere makes it perfect for unwinding in the evening.

Try Regional Specialities

At Kuroya Izakaya Kanazawa, a wooden bowl filled with assorted sashimi—salmon, tuna, shrimp, and garnishes like wasabi, shredded daikon, and shiso leaf—is elegantly served on a bed of ice.

We arrived just after opening and were glad we had called ahead to make a reservation. The restaurant was buzzing, but still warm and welcoming. The menu was focused on fresh fish from the Japan Sea, especially from Noto Peninsula and Toyama Bay. There were also Kaga vegetables, grilled skewers, sashimi, and a few creative small plates. Most items ranged from ¥400 to ¥800, which made it easy to try a wide mix of flavors without spending too much.

Our favorites were the local sashimi platter, grilled eggplant with miso, and a lightly fried dish made with lotus root. Each plate was beautifully presented, and the flavors were clean and well balanced. We especially love trying sashimi on Japan’s western coast—the seafood comes from the Sea of Japan, so the selection is often different from what you’ll find in Tokyo.

What Is an Izakaya?

At Kuroya Izakaya Kanazawa, enjoy two whole grilled fish with crispy skin, served on a rectangular ceramic plate with a wedge of lemon, radish garnish, and a green leaf on a dark wooden table.

An izakaya is a casual Japanese pub where you can enjoy drinks and small plates. Think of it as a mix between a tapas bar and a gastropub. You don’t order all your food at once. Instead, dishes come out in waves, and you share as you go.

Here are a few helpful tips before visiting one:

  • Reservations are essential at busy places like Kuroya.
  • Some izakayas allow indoor smoking. If you prefer smoke-free, ask when booking.
  • You’ll usually get a small appetizer (called otoshi) when you order the first alcoholic beverage.
  • The energy is part of the fun. It’s common to hear cheers, laughter, and orders being called out loudly.

How to Get to Kuroya (くろ屋)

On Foot

  • From Kanazawa Station, exit from the East Gate and walk 5–7 minutes to Hirooka district.

Bus

  • Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus and get off at Musashigatsuji or Kanazawa Station. From there, walk to Kuroya.

Taxi

  • A taxi from most central Kanazawa costs around ¥700–¥1,200 and takes under 10 minutes.

Our Verdict on Kuroya (くろ屋)

A rectangular Japanese omelette (tamagoyaki) with a brown design on top is served on a light blue plate at Kuroya Izakaya Kanazawa, accompanied by a mound of grated daikon radish on the side.


Since there aren’t many ryokans near downtown Kanazawa, it’s worth checking out the local dining scene. Kuroya hits all the right notes—exceptional seafood, seasonal vegetables, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. If you’re looking for an izakaya with great atmosphere and quality food at a fair price, this is a perfect spot to kick off your Kanazawa trip.

More to Explore Nearby

After enjoying seasonal small plates and sake at Kuroya Izakaya, explore more of Kanazawa’s nightlife and hidden local gems nearby:

  • Kanazawa Food Guide – Discover other must-try local dishes like Jibuni, Hanton rice, and Kanazawa curry.
  • Nagamachi Samurai District – Take a quiet evening walk through stone-paved streets and historic homes.
  • Nishi Chaya District – A more intimate geisha quarter, perfect for an after-dinner stroll and local sweets.
  • Kanazawa Castle Park – Stroll through massive stone walls and reconstructed gates just a few blocks away.