ハイボール （はいぼーる / Haibōru）
Whisky and soda
- Category
- Traditional drink
- Main Ingredient
- Grains & Noodles
A highball is a simple cocktail made by mixing whisky with soda water. In Japan, it is a popular drink that pairs well with food, available at almost all izakayas and even in canned form at convenience stores.
When / How to Eat
Often enjoyed with fried or grilled foods like yakitori, highballs are a go-to drink after work and a staple mealtime beverage.
Cultural Background
Highballs became popular in postwar Japan and resurged in the 2000s. Branded drinks like “Kaku Highball” are now staples in convenience stores and izakayas.
Cautions
Because of its light taste, it’s easy to overdrink, but highballs can have a strong alcohol content. Enjoy in moderation.