How to say "tavern" in Japanese

• バーJLPT N1approx.Common
  nounThe loanword for a Western-style bar: a counter where drinks and cocktails are served. Use it when 'tavern' means a pub-like drinking place in the Western mold, as in a hotel or downtown bar.
  二人ふたりの男おとこはバーで飲のんでいた。↗

  The two men were drinking in a bar.
• 酒場さかばJLPT N2approx.Common
  nounA general word for a place where people drink alcohol, literally a 'sake place'. It has a traditional flavor, and you will see it on signs and in writing; it suits an old-style tavern.
  彼かれはその酒場さかばで歯医者はいしゃに成なりすましていた。↗

  He posed as a dentist at that bar.
• 飲み屋のみやCommon
  nounAn everyday, conversational word for a drinking place — the kind of casual neighborhood bar where regulars drop in after work. It fits 'tavern' in its homely, local sense.
  ここはいい飲み屋のみやのようだ。↗

  This looks like a nice watering hole.

Choose 「バー」 for a Western-style bar or pub, 酒場 for a drinking place in general with something of a traditional flavor, and 「飲み屋」 for a casual neighborhood spot to drink.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• バーbar
• 酒場さかばbar
• 飲み屋のみやbar
• 旅籠はたごinn