If you’ve ever visited a Japanese izakaya (pub), you’ve likely heard the phrase “Toriaezu nama!” which roughly translates to “A draft beer to start!” or “Namachuu, one please!” Japan is known for its love of cold beer, served at a temperature much lower than what is common in many other countries. But why is Japanese beer always so cold, and what’s the deal with ordering “nama” as if it’s synonymous with beer? Plus, why do Japanese people often pair their beer with edamame? Let’s dive into these fascinating aspects of Japanese beer culture.
Why Japanese Beer is Served Ice Cold
Japanese beer is often served at a temperature close to freezing—between 0°C and 2°C (32°F to 36°F). In contrast, many European countries serve beer at slightly higher temperatures, especially for beers like ales, which are best enjoyed at room temperature to enhance their flavor profiles.
The Japanese preference for cold beer has a few cultural and practical reasons:
- Refreshing Experience: Japan has hot and humid summers, making cold drinks, especially cold beer, incredibly refreshing. After a long day or during social gatherings, there’s nothing like the crisp, icy taste of beer to cool off.
- Flavor: Japanese lagers, such as Asahi Super Dry or Sapporo, are brewed to have a light, clean, and crisp flavor. Serving them ice cold enhances their refreshing qualities, and for many, the coldness masks any bitterness or strong flavors, making it more palatable.
- Customer Expectation: Over time, Japanese consumers have come to expect their beer to be as cold as possible. Restaurants and bars have developed systems to ensure beer is served ice cold, and this has become a standard part of the experience.
What Does “Toriaezu Nama” Mean? Why Is Beer Referred to as “Nama”?
The phrase “Toriaezu nama” is something you’ll hear regularly in Japanese izakayas, and it’s deeply ingrained in Japanese drinking culture. The word “nama” (生) means “raw” or “fresh,” but in the context of beer, it refers to draft beer—beer that’s freshly poured from the tap.
- “Toriaezu nama” – A Social Norm: When people say “Toriaezu nama!” they’re essentially saying, “Let’s start with a beer!” It’s a customary way to kick off the meal or drinking session, even if the person plans to order something else later. Beer has become the standard “first drink” because it’s light, easy to drink, and not too alcoholic compared to other beverages like sake or whiskey.
- “Nama” Equals Beer: Over time, “nama” has become almost synonymous with draft beer. Instead of specifying the type of beer, people simply say “nama” or “namachuu” (a medium-sized draft beer), and everyone knows it means beer, no questions asked.
Edamame and Beer: A Classic Pairing
When you order beer in Japan, especially in an izakaya, you’ll often see edamame (boiled green soybeans) on the table. This pairing is more than just a random choice; there are several reasons why edamame and beer go hand in hand in Japan.
- Light and Refreshing Snack: Edamame is light, salty, and refreshing, making it a perfect snack to nibble on while drinking beer. The saltiness of the edamame enhances the crisp, cold flavor of the beer, creating a harmonious balance of taste.
- Healthy Option: Unlike heavier bar snacks like fried foods, edamame is a healthier option. It’s rich in protein and low in calories, so it’s an easy choice for those who want a snack that’s not too filling or greasy.
- A Social Snack: Edamame is also a very social snack. It’s easy to share, and the process of popping the beans out of their pods creates a casual and relaxed eating environment that fits well with beer drinking.
Beer as “Water” in Japan?
You might hear some people jokingly say, “Beer is like water” in Japan. This often refers to how easy it is to drink and how common it is to start with beer at social gatherings. Japanese lagers, in particular, are light in body and alcohol content (typically around 5%), making them easy to drink in larger quantities without overwhelming the senses. This lightness contributes to the idea that beer is refreshing like water—something that quenches your thirst, rather than something heavy or overly complex.
In essence, for many Japanese people, beer is not just an alcoholic beverage but a social lubricant and a symbol of relaxation, especially when served ice cold and paired with simple, healthy snacks like edamame.
A Refreshing Experience with Cultural Roots
The way beer is served and consumed in Japan reflects both the climate and the cultural importance of social drinking. Whether it’s the ice-cold temperature, the quick order of “nama,” or the side of edamame, Japanese beer culture has its own unique identity. For foreigners living in or visiting Japan, these customs offer an interesting window into the everyday dining and drinking experiences that make the country’s food culture so enjoyable. Next time you’re in an izakaya, try starting with a “nama” and see why this cold, crisp beer is such an integral part of Japanese life.
