Yanaga Kappo Izakaya
By: Zachary Blumberg
Chef Kevin Yanaga’s Yanaga Kappo Izakaya offers a fresh, nontraditional twist on the Japanese dive bar experience in Philadelphia. Located at the corner of Fairmount Avenue and North 3rd Street in the vibrant Northern Liberties neighborhood, this high-energy restaurant opened earlier this year. Its name reflects the fusion of two Japanese culinary styles: Kappo, meaning “to cut and cook,” where small dishes are prepared in front of customers, and Izakaya, a casual bar style known for drinks and snacks.
Seafood is the star of the menu, largely sourced from Samuels. While Japanese flavors dominate, Chef Yanaga incorporates unique touches. The popular shrimp nachos, made with tempura-fried Oishii shrimp, pickles, wonton chips, and guacamole, provide a bold fusion twist. The Gohanmono (rice dishes) and Menmono (noodle dishes) include standouts like the salmon and tuna poke bowls, both featuring umami cucumbers, guacamole, nori, seaweed salad, bubu arare, and sesame. Sushi lovers can enjoy a crab roll served with drawn butter for dipping. Keep an eye out for the upcoming chef-curated dinner in Yanaga’s secret Omakase room, where the “Sushi Whisperer” himself will surprise diners with an exclusive, multi-course experience.
Originally a BYOB, Yanaga Kappo Izakaya now boasts an impressive drink menu. Guests can enjoy cleverly-named cocktails like “Where Did You Learn How to Spin, No-Face?”, a wide selection of sake, shochu, wine, beer, and mocktails. The restaurant features both regular and late-night happy hours, offering great deals on drinks and snacks.
The playful atmosphere, enhanced by anime-inspired décor and artwork, makes Yanaga Kappo Izakaya a lively and vibrant destination. Whether you’re drawn by the creative food, the energetic setting—complete with anime and sports on the TVs—or the extensive drink menu, Chef Yanaga has created a space you’ll want to revisit time and again.
