If I had to pick one type of restaurant to call my favorite, I’d most likely choose the izakaya. The Japanese term translates roughly to “stay-drink-place”, and restaurants that fall into this category tend to be homey, welcoming places where you and your friends can show up and spend a whole evening whiling the hours away with delicious food and generous drinks. Fortunately, if you happen to be visiting Columbia, there’s a top-quality izakaya restaurant right in the town center. Akira Ramen & Izakaya is a small but boisterous spot where you can bring friends, share a few beers, and devour some of the most delicious Japanese food you’ll find this side of Wilde Lake. They offer a variety of flavorful twists on Japanese classics that are bound to impress.

Akira is an elegant and sleekly modern take on the traditional izakaya. The outside dining area, when lit up at night, is a beautiful place to take in the summer evening.
Hugh Taylor, Contributed Photo
The decor of Akira’s main dining room showcases the modern spin on the classic atmosphere. The wood panels and open kitchen bring that traditional feel, but the sleek polish and unique water decanters, shaped like large glass sake bottles, provide a modern shine.
Hugh Taylor, Contributed Photo
No trip to an izakaya is complete without a cold glass of beer, and Akira happens to serve one of my absolute favorite brews. Orion, brewed on the tropical island of Okinawa, is the perfect refreshing summer beverage after a long day outside.
Hugh Taylor, Contributed Photo

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The veggie spring rolls are light, crunchy, and delicious. There’s always a delicious way to get a serving of vegetables at a Japanese restaurant.
Hugh Taylor, Contributed Photo
The Twin Rivers roll is a house specialty and is one of the tastiest sushi rolls I personally have ever had. It consists of salmon, mango, and avocado, topped with salmon belly, and then seasoned with a spicy yuzu sauce. It comes together beautifully and should absolutely not be skipped.
Hugh Taylor, Contributed Photo
Akira also offers a collection of traditional Japanese desserts, like this taiyaki - a crispy red snapper-shaped waffle filled with sweet red bean paste. It’s a homey, warm way to top off a delicious meal.
Hugh Taylor, Contributed Photo

Be sure to follow Akira Ramen & Izakaya on Facebook for all updates to the menu and hours, or to make reservations – it can fill up quickly on weekends. And if you’re interested in learning more about izakaya and the food they serve, this listing on BookShop can help you get started on your culinary exploration!

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10101 Twin Rivers Rd Suite C2-100, Columbia, MD 21044