Izakaya 017 Yokaban

What a great izakaya! We originally found this place on a Saturday evening but it was crowded and we were too hungry to wait so we decided to make a reservation and come back the next evening, and it was a great idea! Reina, the owner, along with all of her staff, was super friendly and we didn't feel like we were standing out as "the tourists" in the middle of the locals. The place serves many different shochu types (as well as beer), in a "self-service" style. There are many local specialities to try, and everything we had was delicious. We can highly recommend the braised black pork, the homemade tofu, the tulip chicken and the lava plate grill selection! We didn't go for chicken sashimi tonight, but it looked great too. We had a great evening and would definitely love to come back one day. So don't be afraid if you're a foreigner, it's okay, they have an english menu with pictures and it's not a tourist trap! Vielen Danke liebe Reina ❤️

What a place! Is not only an Izakaya but a wonderful journey into Kagoshima culture and food, guided by the great energy of Reina (owner). Definitely a must try! Chicken Sashimi and fried sweet potato with honey are incredible!!!

The owner, Reina, and her staff really made us feel welcome. They were friendly and efficient. The food was delicious and many dishes were local, including the home mate tofu. Beer was self serve (😋), and we ordered the meal set which we cooked on a volcanic rock slab. Fun to cook and delicious. I rarely rate places, but when they are this good, I feel I need to write a review.

Do not miss out on visiting Yokoban if you’re in Kagoshima! What an amazing two nights I had as a solo traveler. Reina is incredibly welcoming and her English is amazing! I visited two nights in a row and cannot wait to be able to come back again in the future. Thanks Reina for such amazing memories of your awesome city and bar!!

I'm usually skeptical when all the reviews are by Americans--especially in Japan--but they are surprisingly correct about this spot. The host's personality really shines through and her care about the guest's experience is obvious. It's a bonus that she speaks great English! Please drink shochu here, ask her for advice on which to try. Mix with water, don't drink straight 😂 The chicken sashimi is a must order...give it a shot, you will be happily surprised.

What a great izakaya! Reina makes it a point to make sure all her guests have a good time. “Yokaban means a wonderful night in Kagoshima dialect” and with her delicious food, self-serve drinks and warm presence she makes sure you do have a wonderful night.

Great place to eat local food in a nice authentic atmosphere! Reina the owner is very friendly and speaks good English. She will recommend you the best dishes! Personally- I don’t eat much meat- but I’d strongly recommend the braised pork. It’s delicious and melts in your mouth! For vegetarians the tofu is a must! If you want to enjoy a nice meal in a local restaurant please go and see Reina you won’t be disappointed!

Reina was so warm and welcoming, as were the rest of the staff. I had a very light meal as I had a late lunch and wish I had more stomach room to try the other local specialities Do try the chicken sashimi! If you drink, try the sochu that Reina sources from all over Kagoshima Prefecture