The air of the packed izakaya is often filled with smoke, despite the abundance of contradictory 'no smoking' signs to appease local city mandates, with ashtrays found at every table. The smoke-stained panels on the walls are adorned with a collection of old movie posters, outdated advertisements, celebrity pictures and autographs. There seems to be a gathering of decades of dust and grease that seems to have accumulated in the crevices of the establishment alongside the numerous toys sitting on the shelves. The informators play a cycle of variety shows and Kinsenka Breweries ads on repeat. Despite the appearance, which might be appalling to some, Tama Izakaya has a loyal customer base that continues to return. Over the years, the establishment has been resilient to popular trends and outlasted many newer businesses that have attempted to usurp the izayaka from being the community fixture.
The izakaya has a bar and raised tables, with an upstairs dining space that has traditional seating of low tables and cushions. For those who want to avoid the indoor smoke, there are also an abundance of folding chairs and tables placed outside that offer a view of the street with the shore in the distance. The restaurant is packed in the late hours, but efficient service ensures that there's always a quick turnover so that they can seat the next set of customers.