A truly unique dining experience
本当にユニークな食事体験
Our Restaurant
Est. 2023
いらっしゃいませ
Welcome to Awaji Izakaya, where we invite you to savor the authentic flavors and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Japanese gastropubs, conveniently located right here in the heart of Oklahoma City. Our mission is unwavering: to deliver an extraordinary dining experience that seamlessly merges the traditional tastes of Japan with a modern twist.
Experience a culinary journey at Awaji Izakaya with our diverse menu of thoughtfully crafted small plates, or otsumami. We prioritize the freshest, locally sourced ingredients to ensure high-quality dishes. Our offerings include a unique blend of traditional sushi and perfectly grilled yakitori sticks. For those less inclined towards fish, our menu offers a variety of chicken, pork, beef, and vegetable skewers - all prepared fresh to order. With each bite, we aim to transport you on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of Japan for a friendly, and affordable dining experience.
Omotenashi (genuine hospitality): We’re committed to excellence from the moment you step through our doors. Our warm and welcoming staff is here to ensure your every need is met, and their training reflects our dedication to providing exceptional service. Our overarching goal is to create lasting memories for our valued guests, no matter the occasion.
Our chef
Chef Richard Ly arrived in Lamesa, Texas at the tender age of five as a refugee from Vietnam and later grew up in the Greater Dallas-Fort Worth Area.
In 1999, Chef Ly's culinary adventure took a significant turn as he delved into the art of Japanese cuisine under the expert guidance of Chef Miyaki from Okinawa, Japan. This pivotal experience unfolded at Kampai Sushi and Grill in Addison, Texas, marking the beginning of his culinary education.
Fast forward to 2002, when Chef Ly partnered with the owner of Kampai to establish Wasabi Sushi and Grill in McKinney, Texas. This successful endeavor solidified his reputation as a culinary visionary.
In 2013, Chef Ly embarked on a new chapter in his career, relocating to Oklahoma City to play a crucial role in the opening of Cafe Icon in Edmond. His exceptional skills and dedication to culinary excellence resulted in the creation of an outstanding menu, one that continues to shine brightly, drawing discerning diners.
Chef Ly's professional journey also led him to the prestigious ranks of PF Chang's corporation, where he served as the Executive Chef for the Oklahoma City unit.
Before coming to Awaji Izakaya, Chef Richard Ly held the position of Executive Chef/FOH/BOH Manager at Jimmy B's of the Hal Smith Restaurants Group, a testament to his culinary prowess and leadership.
our craft
Every dish and cocktail we serve is prepared with meticulous attention to detail and a pursuit of perfection. We eagerly await the opportunity to serve you and enhance the beauty of your dining experience. Awaji Izakaya is more than just a restaurant; it's an invitation to savor the essence of Japan, right here in Oklahoma City.
Japanese Craft Cocktails
We carry an extensive selection of Japanese sake, shōchū, and whiskys to a curated assortment of beers and wines, our menu is a testament to uniqueness and memorability.
Yakitori and Sushi
We prioritize quality. Our meat and vegetables are sourced from the finest producers, ensuring the freshest, locally grown ingredients.
We take pride in sourcing only the freshest fish, whether it's from Hawaii, Japan, New Zealand, or the Copper River in Alaska.
With sustainability as our guiding principle, we’re committed to serving the cleanest, and freshest ingredients that elevate your dining experience to a truly memorable level.
