Izakaya MonjaSakaba Dashiya Ikebukuro at Ikebukuro, Tokyo

A lively monjayaki and yakitori izakaya near Ikebukuro West Exit with 25-plus monja varieties and drinks from 99 yen.

Monja Sakaba Dashiya is a casual, railway-station-adjacent izakaya specialising in monjayaki, the Tokyo-born griddle favourite, alongside yakitori and quick iron-plate snacks. The chain runs both a West Exit branch a two-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station and an East Exit branch that opened in August 2024, each styled as an accessible neighbourhood tavern where monja is priced at 990 yen across the board and drinks start from 299 yen. More than 25 monja varieties range from classics such as mentaiko-mochi, negi-salt pork belly and pork-kimchi cheese to unusual options including squid-and-shiso and squid-ink cheese risotto, all customisable with over 40 toppings. Premium Malts draft beer is held at 329 yen and lemon sours from 109 yen, with a full all-you-can-eat-and-drink plan for those who want to go the whole way. Free cheese topping, a 50-plus-drink list and late hours (the West Exit branch opens at noon on weekends and runs through to 4am) make it a handy choice for after-work gatherings and group nights out, while the East Exit branch's two-floor layout caters to walk-in parties. Both branches are non-smoking and welcome table bookings online through Hot Pepper and Tabelog. Whether you are a monja first-timer or a seasoned hand, Dashiya keeps the griddle sizzling with generous portions and a warm, bustling mood. Step off the train, grab a seat and let the staff cook up a savoury, crispy-edged pancake - it is honest Tokyo comfort food served at a price that invites lingering.