Izakaya Wa Introduce
Welcome to the vibrant world of Izakaya Wa, a celebrated Japanese restaurant nestled in the heart of Houston, Texas. More than just a sushi spot, Izakaya Wa brings the authentic and beloved concept of an "izakaya"—a casual Japanese pub—to the Texas dining scene. It's a place where friends and family gather to unwind, share delicious small plates, and enjoy a wide selection of drinks in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The name "Izakaya Wa" itself, which translates to "Japanese pub" and "harmony," perfectly encapsulates the experience: a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese cuisine and a cozy, communal dining environment. Whether you're a seasoned sushi connoisseur or new to the flavors of Japan, Izakaya Wa offers a culinary journey that is both exciting and comforting.
What truly sets Izakaya Wa apart is its commitment to quality and tradition. The restaurant prides itself on using premium ingredients, from the "tamanishiki premium rice" for its rice dishes to the "kiku ariake" seaweed for its hand rolls, ensuring every bite is a testament to authentic Japanese flavors. The menu is a thoughtful curation of Japanese classics, including not only an extensive sushi selection but also a variety of hot and cold shared plates, traditional rice and noodle dishes, and delightful desserts. This diverse offering ensures there is something to satisfy every palate, from savory grilled meats and seafood to comforting noodle soups and crispy tempura.
The ambiance at Izakaya Wa is designed to make you feel right at home. It's a casual yet trendy space that is perfect for a variety of occasions, from a quick solo meal during a lunch break to a lively dinner with a group of friends. The combination of a cozy setting, excellent food, and attentive service creates an inviting atmosphere that keeps locals and tourists coming back for more. This focus on providing a complete and enjoyable dining experience—one that feels both special and accessible—is a key part of the Izakaya Wa charm. It's a place where the love for Japanese food and the spirit of community come together seamlessly, making it a true gem in Houston's dynamic culinary landscape.
As you read on, you'll discover more about what makes Izakaya Wa a must-visit destination. We'll explore its convenient location, the variety of services it offers, and the special features that make it stand out. You'll get a glimpse into the menu highlights, understand the unique aspects of their service, and learn exactly why it's a great choice for your next meal. So, whether you're planning a date night, a family outing, or just looking to satisfy a craving for authentic Japanese cuisine, this guide will provide all the information you need to make the most of your visit to Izakaya Wa.
Izakaya Wa is conveniently situated at 2015 W Gray St ste j, Houston, TX 77019, USA. Its location in Houston makes it an accessible spot for many, whether you're coming from the surrounding neighborhoods or are a tourist exploring the city. The restaurant's accessibility is a key feature, catering to a diverse crowd.
For those driving, there are several parking options available. While some parking may be paid, the area also offers free street parking and a free parking lot, which can make a visit more convenient. It's always a good idea to check for the most current parking information before you go.
Izakaya Wa is also committed to ensuring a comfortable experience for all its patrons. The establishment is wheelchair accessible, with a wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone can enjoy a meal with ease and comfort.
Izakaya Wa offers a variety of services to meet the needs of its customers, providing flexibility and convenience.
- Dine-in: Enjoy the full Izakaya Wa experience by dining in and taking advantage of the cozy and trendy atmosphere.
- Takeout: For those on the go, the restaurant offers takeout services, allowing you to enjoy your favorite Japanese dishes from the comfort of your home.
- Reservations: To ensure a table, especially during popular times, reservations are accepted and highly recommended.
- Table service: The dining experience is enhanced by attentive table service, ensuring your needs are met throughout your meal.
- High chairs: The restaurant is family-friendly, providing high chairs for children.
- Bar onsite: A full bar is available, offering a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails.
- Payments: The restaurant accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, for a seamless checkout process.
Izakaya Wa stands out for its commitment to providing a high-quality and enjoyable dining experience. These highlights are what make it a popular choice for many.
- Fast service: The restaurant is known for its efficient and fast service, which is especially appreciated during busy lunch and dinner hours.
- Menu variety: The menu is extensive and diverse, offering everything from classic sushi and sashimi to traditional izakaya small plates, and even gourmet curry rice.
- Quality ingredients: Izakaya Wa places a strong emphasis on using top-quality ingredients, such as "tamanishiki premium rice" and "kiku ariake" seaweed, to create authentic and flavorful dishes.
- Specialty dishes: The menu features unique and signature items like the "Bluefin Nigiri Combo," "Wa Fu Futomaki," and "Battera-Osaka Style Box Pressed Sushi," offering a taste of authentic Japanese culinary artistry.
- Atmosphere: The atmosphere is a perfect balance of casual, cozy, and trendy, making it a great spot for a variety of social gatherings.
- Highlights for all: The restaurant is popular for lunch and dinner and is also a great option for solo diners. Its diverse crowd includes locals and tourists alike.
- Authentic flavors: The menu includes traditional items like Ochazuke Rice Soup, Onigiri, and a variety of Noodle dishes made with "inaniwa udon" noodles in a "kansai style clear soup," bringing true Japanese flavors to Houston.
For more information or to make a reservation, you can contact Izakaya Wa directly.
Address: 2015 W Gray St ste j, Houston, TX 77019, USA
Phone: (832) 548-1889
Choosing Izakaya Wa means opting for an authentic and high-quality Japanese dining experience right here in Houston. The restaurant's dedication to using premium ingredients is evident in every dish, from the melt-in-your-mouth tuna sashimi to the flavorful curry accompanying the chicken katsu. The menu offers an impressive breadth of options, ensuring that whether you're craving classic sushi, a comforting bowl of udon, or a variety of small plates to share, you'll find something to love.
Beyond the food, the atmosphere is a significant draw. It is a place where you can relax and enjoy your meal in a setting that feels both casual and special. The ability to secure reservations is a huge plus, especially on busy nights, and the fast service ensures that even if you're on a tight schedule, your meal will be a pleasure rather than a rush. The positive feedback on the food quality, from the fresh fish to the flavorful curry, highlights the consistent excellence of their kitchen.
While some patrons have noted that they expected larger portions for the price, the consensus remains that the food itself is of very high quality. The freshness of the fish and the rich flavors of dishes like the curry are frequently praised. The efficiency of the support staff, such as the busboys, is also a testament to the restaurant's commitment to a smooth and pleasant dining experience. This blend of exceptional food and a well-managed environment makes Izakaya Wa a solid choice for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Japan in Texas.
The restaurant's focus on small, shareable plates—the core of the izakaya concept—is ideal for social dining. You can sample a little bit of everything, making your meal a fun and interactive experience. From the savory takoyaki to the delicate salmon sashimi trio, there's always something new to try. This variety, combined with the comfortable setting and friendly service, creates a dining destination that is both rewarding and memorable. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Izakaya Wa offers a culinary escape that is well worth the visit.
Izakaya Wa Menu
Izakaya Wa Dinner Special
- Maccha $7.00
- Sesame Montblanc Parfait $7.00
Sushi - Rolls/ Hand Rolls
We use top quality seaweed for our hand rolls.signature rolls in red
- Memorial Roll $16.00
Sp tuna or sp salmon, fresh salmon on top, avocado, sp mayo
- Crunchy Shrimp $13.00
Fried shrimp, avocado, salmon, eel, sp mayo, red tobiko
- Skydiver Roll $17.00
Softshell crab, eel, avocado, cucumber, eel sauce
- 5 Spices Roll $16.00
Pepper bluefin tuna, avo, sp sake, siracha, wasabi mayo & wasabi tobiko
- Boheme Roll $12.00
Shrimp tempura, kani, sp salmon, serrano pepper, sp mayo
- Wa Fu Futomaki $13.00
Bluefin tuna, salmon yellowtail, unagi , ikura, shiso
- Rainbow Roll $17.00
Bluefin tuna, salmon, yellowtail, white fish,tsubugai, ebi,& cali roll
- Cowboy Roll $16.00
Seared angus beef, cucumber,avo, sp mayo , chilli,eel sauce,negi
- California Roll $7.00
Kanikama, avocado, cucumber, sesame
- Spicy Scallop $10.00
Spicy scallop, green onion, sp mayo
- Spicy Tuna $9.00
Sp tuna, sesame
- Spicy Salmon $8.00
Spicy salmo, sesame
- Spicy Yellowtail $9.00
Spicy yellowtail, sesame
- Shaggy Dog $13.00
Shrimp tempura, kanikama, sp mayo,
- Crazy Roll $11.00
Shrimp tempura, sp tuna, cucumber, sp mayo,soy paper
- Tiger Eye Roll $9.00
Tempura salmon, jalapeno, cream cheese, soy paper
- Rock-N-Roll $8.00
Shrimp tempura, masago, cucumber, sp mayo
- Spider Roll $9.00
Softshell crab, masago, cucumber, sp mayo
- Toro Taku Roll $11.00
Toro,takuwan, shiso (limited supply every day)
Sushi - Rolls/ Hand Rolls - Dinner Sushi Combo
(With miso soup)
- Omakase 5 Kinds Nigiri $17.00
(Chef's choice fo 5 kinds of sushi)
Sushi - Rolls/ Hand Rolls - Tasting Sushi Combo
- Bluefin Nigiri Combo $20.00
Bluefin tuna toro, chuto, akami, torotaku gunkan
Sushi - Rolls/ Hand Rolls - Saba Oshizushi
- Battera-Osaka Style Box Pressed Sushi $9.50
Sushi - Nigiri/Sashimi
- Bluefin Tuna
Hon maguro
- Pepper Tuna
Aburi hon maguro
- Midium Fatty Tuna
Chu toro
- Negitoro Gunkan $4.50
Negitoro gunkan
- Fatty Tuna
O-toro
- Fresh Salmon
Sake
- King Salmon
Beni jyake
- Smoked Salmon
Kunsei sake
- Yellowtail
Hamachi
- Freshwater Eel
Unagi
- Shrimp
Ebi
- Sweet Shrimp
Amaebi
- Salmon Roe
Ikura
- Wasabi Flying Fish Egg
Wasabi tobiko
- Hokkaido Scallop
Hotate
- Spicy Chopped Scallop
Pirikara hotate
- Japanese Snapper
Madai
- Sea Urchin
Uni
- Egg Omelet
Homemade tamago
- Sea Snail
Tsubugaí
- Mackarel
Saba
Rice Dish/Noodle - Rice Dishes
We use "tamanishiki premium rice" for rice dishes. Also our seaweed is premium" kiku ariake" to enjoy flavor
- Ochazuke Rice Soup
- Onigiri
- Yaki Onigiri $3.80
Grilled rice ball with soy butter
Rice Dish/Noodle - Rice Dishes - Gourmet Curry Rice
- Mugi Fuji Pork Katsu Curry
- Chicken Katsu Curry
Rice Dish/Noodle - Noodle Dishes
Pride 5 we are proud to use inaniwa udon as regular noodle soup. This udon has smooth texure. Our noodle soup broth is kansai style clear soup.
- Beef Udon
Light cooked angus beef ribeye, green onion, fish cake
- Tempura Udon $12.00
Shrimps, onion and potato tempura
Sweets
If you don't have room for rice or noodle dishes, we have traditional japanese desserts.
- Mochi Ice Cream $4.00
Choice of 2 kinds (green tea, mango, strawberry)
Sweets - Parfait
- Maccha Montblanc Parfait $8.00
Green tea flavored montblanc with ice cream
Sweets - Ice Cream
- Ice Cream $3.75
One scoop 2 two scoops (green tea, vanilla)
Sweets - Cheese Cake
- Green Tea Cheese Cake $6.00
Served with vanilla ice cream & chocolate syrup
Sharable Started - Quick Bites
- Edamame $4.00
Boiled soybeans
- Pirikara Cucumber $3.50
Fresh cucumber marinated w/spicy kimchi sauce
- Wasabi Tsubugai $5.00
Marinated wasabi flavor sea snail with kelp
- Shiso Kurage $4.50
Shiso marinated jelly fish
- Mac & Potato Salad $5.00
Japanese macaroni, bacon,mayo & potato salad
- Tako Wasabi $6.00
Spicy marinated raw octopus with wasabi root
- Tuna Tartare $6.50
Minced tuna, avocado, onion, masago with rice chips
- Seaweed Salad $4.00
Marinated seaweed
Sharable Started - Vegetables & Tofu
- Miso Soup $2.50
Tofu, seaweed, green onion
- Wa Style Salad $6.00
Daikon, tomato, shiso, kaiware with yuzu plum soy dressing
- Kenchin Miso Soup $5.00
Assorted vegetable miso soup
- House Salad $4.00
Romaine lettuce, spring mix, grape tomato with creamy miso or yuzu soy
- Cucumber Sunomono $4.00
Cucumber,seaweed, sesame, sunomono sauce
- Agedashi Tofu $5.00
Flash fried tofu with bonito, green onion
Sharable Started - From Sushi Bar Served With Real Wasabi
- Salmon Trio Sashimi $17.00
Scottish salmon(2), king salmon(2), smoked salmon(2)
- Bluefin Tuna Sashimi Combo $28.00
Bluefin tuna tasting of akami(2), chutoro(2), toro(2)
- Carpaccio
Salmon11, hamachi14 pepper tuna13, with serano pepper
- Sashimi Combo A $18.00
Bluefin tuna(2), salmon(2), japanese snappe (2)
- Sashimi Combo B $38.00
Bluefin tuna(3), salmon(3), yellowtail(3), japanese snapper (2), scallop (2)
- Seared Sashimi $21.00
Pepper bluefin tuna(3), salmon(3), scallop (4)
Sharable Started - From Kitchen
Fried-grilled-steamed items
- Potato Croquette $2.75
Fried hokkaido mashed potato with spicy mayo
- Hokke $15.00
Grilled whole atka fish
- Age Takoyaki $6.00
Deep fried octopus balls with bonito, mayo, sauce, and ginger
- Gindara $14.00
House marinated alaskan black cod
- Vegetable Tempura $8.00
Five kinds of vegetable tempura
- Wasabi Shumai $5.00
Steamed wasabi pork dumplingwith spicy wasabi soy
- Gyutan $12.00
Sliced beef tongue with sesami oil & green onion
- Tako Karaage $5.50
Deep fried octopus
- Ika Sugatayaki $12.00
Grilled whole japanese squid with ginger soy with jalapeno
- Kara Age $6.00
Fried natural chicken nuggets
- Nasu Torimiso $5.50
Flash fried egg plant with sweet miso with grounded chicken
Izakaya Wa Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Fast service
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Food at bar
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Locals
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Parking
Izakaya Wa Photos










Izakaya Wa Location
Izakaya Wa
2015 W Gray St ste j, Houston, TX 77019, USA
Izakaya Wa Reviews
atmosphereparkingtapasnigirigrilledbeef udonrollsfood and servicechicken katsutuna
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1This Japanese restaurant offers fresh and high-quality food, but with the price paid, I expected even better quality and more generous portion sizes. While the ingredients are fresh, the overall experience felt a bit underwhelming considering the cost.Service-wise, there’s definitely room for improvement. A more genuine greeting, better attention to detail, and thoughtful menu recommendations would elevate the dining experience. On the other hand, the busboys did a fantastic job—efficiently clearing empty dishes with great manners, which kept the table tidy throughout the meal. The restroom was also clean, which is always a plus.One thing to note is that parking is now paid, which might be an inconvenience for some. Overall, it’s a decent spot with potential, but refining both the service and portion sizes would make it a better value. Four out of five stars.
March 20 · Aylin WeyhFood is amazing! Tuna melts in your mouth and the curry for the chicken katsu is so flavorful! We were able to get a table for two without a reservation on Friday evening, but reservations are recommended.
August 10 · Traci VEvery time I pass by I thought it was an upper scale restaurant, but when I finally tried it and I was little disappointed. Casual dining nothing fancy, too loud, and expensive.The waitress wasn’t a great help as I am not familiar with a Japanese cuisine, she recommended some dishes that were appetizers ( the skewers ), paid $82 for 2 persons with No drinks we had water. The seating is not comfortable.2 hours later we were hungry again.
April 09 · maher bashawryI don’t usually do reviews, but this place has given me such a solid first time experience that I gotta rant. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by multiple people, and a lady sat me down by the sushi bar. I came here to try out the beef udon that my coworker [strongly] recommended, and mind you it did not disappoint lol. I also had an eel nigiri (fire, my absolute fav) and was finally tempted with a matcha mont blanc parfait (I am a diehard matcha fanatic) which was life changing btw, it had everything I loved in a single dessert. My server and all the staff were so friendly-it really added to the atmosphere! This is a comfortable environment for friend groups/family or for introverts who want to eat alone like me. This experience meant a lot because it was a perfect end to a stressful, upsetting day. 20/10 definitely coming back:)
March 29 · bananakooAlways excellent service and high quality food. Each time I visit I feel very welcomed and the environment is so enjoyable. Flounder nigiri is amazing. I ate it before I could take a picture. If you have a sushi and traditional Japanese cuisine itch to scratch then you’ve come to the right place.
March 12 · Tucker Netherton
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