My siblings who recently returned from a trip to Japan talked about the rampant beer and small plates culture they saw while in Tokyo, and somehow I inadvertently connected that to the laidback drinking and savoury treats culture I’d observed in Goa. Barely a few weeks later, I was given the lead about Jsan - a Japanese Izakaya-style restaurant in Goa. And turns out the parallels that I drew between the drinking and small plates culture of Tokyo and Goa were not too far off.
According to GoTokyo, “...the Japanese word izakaya (居酒屋) is made up of three kanji with the meaning, in order, “stay-drink-place.” In Japan, the izakaya is much more than a pub; it’s a ritual, a comforting end to a long day, where colleagues unwind over sake and small plates, sharing stories and laughter. In Goa, the concept of ‘sussegad’ is just as deeply ingrained - a philosophy of leisure, of embracing life’s simple pleasures without hurry. At JSAN in Anjuna, these two cultures - one defined by after-work camaraderie, the other by unhurried coastal relaxation- found harmony. The result is this Japanese izakaya experience that meets Goa’s laid-back, sun-drenched temperament.
Located in the popular neighbourhood of Anjuna, JSan was founded by Chef Vishesh Jawarani, who envisioned an authentic izakaya dining experience infused with the warmth of Goa’s hospitality. Situated next to Cliff Monty Guesthouse, opposite the iconic Artjuna Cafe in Monteiro Vaddo, JSan’s location is as much a part of its charm as its menu. By day, Anjuna hums with the energy of beachgoers and market wanderers; by night, it transforms into a haven for those seeking good food and good company. The setting allows JSAN to offer a moment of pause—a place where one can transition effortlessly from the buzz of Goa’s streets to the quiet pleasure of an exquisite Japanese meal.
Architecturally, JSan leans into its Japanese inspirations, with each step entering through their Japanese-style Torii gate, into a space filled with wooden accents, clean lines, and a subtle interplay of textures to create an ambience that is cosy and suited for the Izakaya style of dining. Whether you’re slipping in for a solo meal at the counter or gathering with friends over drinks and a spread of small plates, JSan encourages the art of lingering—sipping, sharing, and savouring.
At its core, an izakaya is about more than just food - it’s about the experience of communal dining, where flavours unfold in layers, much like a conversation that deepens with each drink poured. JSan stays true to this ethos, offering a menu designed for exploration.
They have something to suit every palate on the menu; whether you go for the warm treats like gyoza- their delicate wrappers giving way to a burst of umami-rich filling, or opt for the cold, light, and refreshing mixed green salad - a deceptively simple dish that balances crisp textures of puffed rice, and sesame with vegetables finished with a miso dressing. The pork Tonkatsu Ramen is a standout favourite that boasts of a broth that is velvety and collagen-rich after being slow-cooked for 48 hours, and coats the the tender slices of pork chashu and compliment the Shoyu Tare, and is finished with soy-marinated egg to create a dish that feels like a warm embrace. From Hot Honey Edamame and Tuna Tartare to authentic Chawanmushi (Japanese egg custard) to filling Yokisoba or fried rice, JSan is offering up a dining experience that is flavourful, authentic and has a lot of heart.
Since its launch on January 8, word has spread about JSan’s offerings and diners online and on restaurant review platforms are praising the restaurant for its balance of authenticity and accessibility. Whether it’s tourists longing for a taste of Japan, or locals eager to explore new places to have a drink and unwind with some authentic culinary experiences, JSan is a new eatery in Goa that is drawing the crowds.
Its popularity can perhaps be credited to how food cultures can seamlessly merge, and in turn, bring together the best of different communities and their influences. By pairing Japan’s after-work drinks and small plates culture with Goa’s overall slow-living philosophy, Chef Vishesh Jawarani has created something truly special. Whether you arrive in search of familiar flavours or new experiences, JSan invites you to take a seat, raise a glass, and savour an authentic Japanese dining experience in Goa and to take your time doing so, as is the unifying characteristic of both Izakaya and Sussegad.
Follow JSan here.
If you enjoyed reading this, here's more from Homegrown:
How OTRA Mumbai Is Giving Latin American Cuisine A Quintessentially Homegrown Homecoming
Housed In A 130-Year-Old Outhouse, Grumps Goa's Charm Lies In Its Sense Of Humour
Richa Kashelkar's Art Is Inspired By Goa's Slow & Meaningful Susegad Lifestyle