Bringing the Izakaya to Lakeland
PHOTOS BY JORDAN RANDALL
The Japanese word izakaya translates to ‘stay-drink-place’—a promise of more than just food, but a space to linger, unwind and connect. Hakuchō brings that spirit to Lakeland. Located at 207 E Main St., the Japanese-inspired izakaya channels the casual pub tradition of pairing drinks with shareable plates while weaving in global influences that make the experience uniquely its own. The result is a fresh and elevated approach to community dining that feels both approachable and adventurous, inviting guests to gather, explore and savor together.
For Ryan Neal, the visionary behind Hakuchō, food is more than sustenance—it’s a personal passion rooted in discovery and the joy of new experiences. Guided by the belief that Lakeland deserves more independent, high-quality dining, he has long embraced the idea of “being the change you want to see.” Initially, Ryan set his sights on scouting a second location for his well-loved concept, Sabu—which has long been a beloved local offering at The Joinery—but Tampa emerged as the only option for expansion. The thought of constant long-distance driving quickly soured the idea, and in its place, inspiration struck: why not create something entirely new, right here in his own community? From that moment, Hakuchō was born.
Unlike ramen shops, sushi bars, or tempura houses, izakayas offer freedom—a blank canvas for creativity. “Having experienced izakayas in Tokyo firsthand, I loved the versatility and energy,” Neal says.
That spirit inspired Hakuchō, rooted in Japanese cuisine but open to influences from French, Scandinavian American and Southeast Asian traditions. In this restaurant, flavor and creativity rise from scratch-made dishes and hand-crafted cocktails.
“Everything we serve is scratch made and uses great-tasting products,” says Ryan, and it shows in plates that surprise the palate, avoiding the usual shortcuts like generic sriracha or bottled Thai chili sauce. “You’re going to get to experience dishes that our chefs and mixologists created and are excited about you trying.”
“You’re going to get to experience dishes that our chefs and mixologists created and are excited about you trying.”
Signature dishes like the warm greens and sautéed mushrooms are unique to the restaurant, while the pork belly delivers the perfect tenderness with just enough bite, a nod to competition-style BBQ. The Abura Soba honors the legacy of Ichicoro Ramen, where Ryan once worked, blending personal history with creative flair.
Bar Manager Joey Ramirez’s inventive drinks shine, including the Hatchi Sting, featuring a numbing edible flower called a Buzz Button. There are also a couple of high level mocktails, the Sweet HighBall and Tart HighBall.
Outside the kitchen, Ryan brings a playful energy to Hakuchō’s story. His background in ministry shaped his passion for helping others grow, a calling that still guides his work in the restaurant industry. In his free time, he enjoys activities like pickleball and Dungeons & Dragons, but his greatest fulfillment comes from creating experiences that spark joy and strengthen community. His long-term goal is to mentor aspiring owners, continuing to support others and build connections beyond the table.
That same spirit shapes Hakuchō itself. More than a restaurant, it is a place where innovation, community, and discovery meet at the table. From distinctive dishes to a culture of respect, every detail reflects a vision that invites guests to experience the flavors, energy, and heart that make Hakuchō a distinctive part of Lakeland’s dining landscape.