Izakaya 017 Yokaban

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.

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

We came up with this place in Google Maps and read many good reviews, mainly from foreign tourists in Kagoshima who found this as a very friendly and local place. We went to tried and found Reina, the very friendly and active owner who made us feel very comfortable and took all the time to explain us the menu in English (she has an illustrative menu in English too). The food was very good, and was also great that we could try some local specialties. I liked the dynamic of drink self-serving, where you get to serve your drinks by yourself and tell Reina to write that down.

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!!

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.

I came here for dinner with my Dad and we had an amazing time! The food was delicious and all the staff were super welcoming and friendly and the homemade tofu was so great we ended up ordering all different types to try them all! The atmosphere of the restaurant was also very fun and we had a great time talking to some other diners.

What a joy. Yokaban has great food, sake, beer, and wonderful hosts who make you feel at home. It was a wonderful evening, and we met wonderful local Japanese. Great choice. It's definitely worth visiting. We will be back. hosts are first class.

The home made tofu and the pork, cooked for 5 days, were one of the best meals I've had in my 6 week trip in Japan. Worth the trip to Kagoshima! Plus lovely owner, chef and staff...