Zakana

Zakana is a term used in Japanese cuisine to denote small dishes or snacks served with alcoholic beverages. In Japanese, the concept is written as 酒肴 and is commonly read as sakana. The romanization “zakana” appears in some non-Japanese contexts as a transliteration variation, but the standard reading in Japan is sakana.

Definition and scope

Zakana refers to light, savory bites intended to accompany drinking, typically offered in izakayas, bars, and home settings. The category encompasses a wide range of dishes, from simple items like edamame, pickles, and dried fish to more substantial bite-size preparations such as yakitori, fried or grilled morsels, sashimi pieces, nimono, and small hot dishes. The common goal is to provide flavor variety and texture that complement alcoholic beverages rather than serve as a main course.

Relationship to related terms

Zakana is part of a family of Japanese terms for drinking snacks. Tsumami and otsumami are related concepts describing snacks eaten with alcohol; tsuma or tsumami is a general term for small savory bites, while otsumami can refer to chosen accompaniments. The exact usage can vary by region and establishment, but all revolve around enhancing the drinking experience.

Cultural context and usage

In Japan, zakana is integral to social drinking culture, especially in izakayas where patrons order several small dishes to share with colleagues or friends. The selection often reflects seasonality and regional specialties, balancing flavors such as salty, sweet, sour, and umami to pair with sake, beer, shochu, or whisky.

See also: Izakaya, otsumami, tsumami, small plates, tapas.