Beer & Hard Seltzer: Jinbeh's Japanese Twist
From Sapporo on tap to refreshing hard seltzers, discover Jinbeh's beer and seltzer selection, perfectly chosen to pair with our hibachi and sushi. Here's your guide to what to drink at a Japanese restaurant.
Key Takeaway
Japanese rice lagers (Sapporo, Asahi, Kirin) are the perfect companions for sushi and hibachi, crisp, clean, and designed to complement rather than compete with the food. Hard seltzers offer a lighter alternative that pairs especially well with seafood rolls.
The Japanese Beer Experience
There's a reason Japanese beers have become some of the mostpopular in the world: they're specifically crafted to pair with food. Unlike heavy craft IPAs or bitter ales, Japanese lagers are clean, crisp, and refreshing, designed to enhance your meal rather than overpower it.
🇯🇵 Jinbeh's Wine & Spirits Philosophy
Jinbeh's approach to drinks is refreshingly honest: the wine selection focuses on the best-quality bottles and top brands our customers love. The sake and Japanese whisky programs are where Jinbeh truly shines. We stock rare Yamazaki that the owner has to fight to acquire, and the premium cold sake selection is curated with decades of expertise.
At Jinbeh, our guests consistently mention that "Sapporo on tap is a highlight" of the dining experience. There's nothing quite like a cold Sapporo alongside sizzling hibachi or fresh sushi rolls from our full menu.
Explore our complete beverage program at the Jinbeh bar, where our bartenders can guide you through Japanese beers, craft cocktails, and premium sake selections.
Did You Know?
The Japanese beer market is worth tens of billions globally, with Sapporo, Asahi, and Kirin controlling 90% of the market. Interestingly, Japanese beers use rice as a key ingredient. This gives them their distinctively clean, crisp taste that pairs better with food than Western-style hoppy beers. Sapporo is the oldest beer brand in Japan, having been brewed continuously since 1876.
Source: Japan Brewers Association & IBISWorld
Our Japanese Beer Selection
🍺 Sapporo Premium
Flavor profile: Smooth, balanced, clean finish
ABV: 4.9%
Best with: Everything, it's the ultimate all-purpose Japanese beer
Available: On tap (draft) and bottled
Japan's oldest beer brand, brewed since 1876. Sapporo is our #1 seller and the go-to recommendation for first-time visitors. Our guests love the draft pour, there's nothing like a cold, freshly poured Sapporo.
🍺 Asahi Super Dry
Flavor profile: Ultra-crisp, dry finish, very refreshing
ABV: 5.0%
Best with: Rich hibachi steak, fried rice, tempura
The "karakuchi" (dry) style revolutionized Japanese brewing. Asahi Super Dry cuts through the richness of hibachi-grilled meats and fried dishes like nothing else. If you like your beer clean and sharp, this is your pick.
🍺 Kirin Ichiban
Flavor profile: Slightly fuller body, subtle sweetness
ABV: 5.0%
Best with: Sashimi, grilled seafood, richer sushi rolls
"Ichiban" means "first press",Kirin uses only the first press of the wort, resulting in a smoother, more complex flavor. Excellent with delicate seafood dishes and for those who want a bit more depth than a standard lager.
Hard Seltzer: The Light Alternative
For guests who prefer something lighter, our seltzer selection offers a refreshing alternative to beer without sacrificing flavor. Hard seltzers are particularly great during warmer months and pair beautifully with lighter fare.
Best pairings: Hard seltzers with citrus or tropical flavors are excellent alongside fresh sushi rolls, especially seafood-focused rolls. They also pair well with our edamame and lighter appetizers.
The Perfect Pairing Guide
Not sure what to order? Here's our quick pairing guide based on what you're eating:
| Ordering… | Pair With |
|---|---|
| Hibachi steak or chicken | Sapporo Draft or Asahi Super Dry |
| Hibachi shrimp or seafood | Kirin Ichiban or citrus seltzer |
| Sushi rolls (classic) | Sapporo, won't overpower delicate fish |
| Sushi rolls (spicy) | Asahi Super Dry to cool the heat |
| Sashimi | Kirin Ichiban or premium sake |
| Tempura & fried apps | Asahi Super Dry (cuts through richness) |
Want to explore beyond beer? Check out our Japanese cocktails guide or our sake tasting guide for even more options. Our guests say the "lychee martini is a must",another great option alongside your meal.
Happy Hour & Beer Specials
The best way to explore our beer and seltzer selection? Happy hour at Jinbeh. Enjoy discounted Sapporo drafts, select cocktails, and appetizers. It's the perfect way to start your evening before the hibachi show begins.
Whether you're a Japanese beer connoisseur or trying your first Sapporo, our bartenders are happy to guide you to the perfect drink for your meal. That's been the Jinbeh way since 1988.
Chef's Pro Tip
Jinbeh Frisco
⭐ 4.4 GoogleJinbeh Lewisville
⭐ 4.4 GoogleFrequently Asked Questions
What Japanese beers does Jinbeh serve?
Jinbeh serves Sapporo (on tap and bottled), Asahi Super Dry, and Kirin Ichiban, the three most popular Japanese beer brands. We also carry domestic and craft options. Our Sapporo on tap is a guest favorite and pairs perfectly with both hibachi and sushi.
What beer pairs best with sushi?
Light, crisp beers pair best with sushi. Japanese lagers like Sapporo and Asahi are ideal because they complement delicate fish flavors without overpowering them. For richer rolls with eel or tempura, try Kirin Ichiban for its slightly fuller body. Ask your server for personalized recommendations.
What beer pairs best with hibachi?
Hibachi's bold, smoky flavors pair well with a cold Sapporo draft or Asahi Super Dry. The crispness of Japanese lagers cuts through the richness of hibachi-grilled steak and fried rice. For a lighter option, a citrus hard seltzer complements the grilled vegetables beautifully.
Does Jinbeh have happy hour drink specials?
Yes! Our happy hour features Japanese draft beer, sake, and wine. Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM at both our Frisco and Lewisville locations.
What is the difference between Sapporo, Asahi, and Kirin?
Sapporo is smooth with a clean finish, great for beginners. Asahi Super Dry is ultra-crisp with a dry finish, making it refreshing with rich foods. Kirin Ichiban uses only first-press wort for a fuller, slightly sweeter flavor. All three are Japanese rice lagers, but each has a distinct character.
What non-alcoholic drinks pair well with sushi and hibachi?
We offer Ramune (Japanese lemon-lime soda), hot and iced green tea, and Japanese soft drinks. Green tea is the traditional pairing, its clean, slightly bitter taste cleanses the palate between bites of sushi. For hibachi, a cold Ramune or iced tea is refreshing alongside the smoky grilled flavors.
Ready to Experience Jinbeh?
Join us for an unforgettable hibachi dinner and a show. Family-owned since 1988, serving North Texas with authentic Japanese cuisine and warm hospitality.