Osaka, often referred to as “Japan’s Kitchen,” is a city that lives and breathes food. With its vibrant street food scene, hearty regional dishes, and a love for all things delicious, Osaka is a must-visit destination for any food lover. Here are the top foods that you absolutely need to try.
1. Takoyaki: The Quintessential Osaka Snack
Takoyaki, or octopus balls, are one of Osaka’s most iconic street foods. These savoury balls of batter are filled with chunks of octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onions, then cooked on a special griddle until golden brown.
- Top Takoyaki Spots:
- Takoyaki Wanaka: Located near the bustling Dotonbori area, this popular spot serves perfectly crispy takoyaki with a variety of toppings.
- Aizuya: This historic eatery is credited with inventing takoyaki, and still serves its original, slightly different version—without the sauce.
2. Okonomiyaki: Osaka’s Savoury Pancake
Okonomiyaki is another beloved dish, often described as a savoury pancake, and whilst I wasn’t originally a big fan of it, by the end of my recent Japan trip I was a convert. Made with a batter of flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, and a choice of toppings like pork, seafood, or cheese, it’s cooked on a griddle and drizzled with okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.
- Best Okonomiyaki Restaurants:
- Chibo: Located in Dotonbori, Chibo offers a variety of okonomiyaki options in a lively setting.
- Kiji: A local favourite in Umeda, known for its classic Osaka-style okonomiyaki, cooked to perfection in a cozy, down-to-earth atmosphere.
3. Kushikatsu: Deep-Fried Delights on a Stick
Kushikatsu consists of skewered and deep-fried pieces of meat, seafood, and vegetables. Served with a communal dipping sauce, this dish is a popular choice for a casual meal or snack, particularly in the Shinsekai district.
- Top Kushikatsu Joints:
- Daruma: One of the most famous kushikatsu chains in Osaka, with multiple locations throughout the city, known for its crispy, golden skewers.
- Tengu: A long-standing restaurant in Shinsekai, offering a wide selection of kushikatsu in a nostalgic, retro setting.
4. Street Food at Kuromon Ichiba Market: Osaka’s Kitchen
Kuromon Ichiba Market is a food lover’s paradise, offering an array of fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and prepared foods. Here, there are fresh, plump scallops grilled right in front of you and served with butter and soy sauce, fresh uni served on its own or atop rice, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience, and sweet, fluffy Japanese omelettes that are a popular snack at the market. It’s a fantastic place.
5. Doteyaki: A Taste of Osaka’s Soul Food
Doteyaki is a hearty dish made from simmering beef tendons and konnyaku (a type of yam cake) in a rich, miso-based sauce. It’s a comforting and flavourful dish often served at izakayas (Japanese pubs) and restaurants specialising in Osaka cuisine.
- Best Doteyaki Spots:
- Ajinoya: Located in Namba, Ajinoya is famous for its okonomiyaki, but their doteyaki is also a must-try, offering a true taste of Osaka comfort food.
- Okaru: A long-established okonomiyaki restaurant in Dotonbori, Okaru serves a delicious doteyaki that pairs perfectly with a cold beer.
6. Osaka Sushi: The Art of Hakozushi
Osaka has its own style of sushi known as hakozushi, or “box sushi.” This pressed sushi is made by layering rice and toppings in a wooden box, then pressing them into neat, square-shaped pieces. It’s a visually stunning and uniquely delicious take on sushi.
- Top Hakozushi Restaurants:
- Yoshino Sushi: Established in 1841, Yoshino Sushi is one of Osaka’s oldest sushi restaurants, specialising in beautifully crafted hakozushi.
- Harukoma Sushi: A beloved sushi spot in the Tenjinbashi area, known for its fresh ingredients and generous portions of both traditional and hakozushi.
7. Ramen: Slurping Happiness
While Osaka may not be as famous for ramen as other Japanese cities, it still boasts some excellent ramen shops that are worth seeking out. From rich tonkotsu broths to lighter shoyu versions, Osaka’s ramen scene has something for everyone.
- Top Ramen Shops:
- Ichiran: A popular ramen chain known for its customisable tonkotsu ramen, with individual dining booths for a focused eating experience.
- Ippudo: Another well-known chain offering rich and creamy tonkotsu ramen with a variety of toppings, located near Osaka Station.
8. Osaka Yakiniku: Grilled Meat Heaven
Yakiniku, or Japanese BBQ, is a dining experience where you grill your own meat at the table. Osaka is home to many excellent yakiniku restaurants, where you can savour high-quality cuts of beef, pork, and more.
- Best Yakiniku Restaurants:
- Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M: Specializing in Matsusaka beef, one of Japan’s top three wagyu brands, this restaurant offers an indulgent yakiniku experience.
- Yakiniku Rokko: A local favourite in Umeda, known for its tender meat and friendly atmosphere, perfect for a casual BBQ feast.
9. Sweet Treats: Osaka’s Dessert Scene
Osaka’s sweet offerings range from traditional Japanese confections to modern desserts that cater to all tastes. The city is also famous for its unique take on cheesecake and other Western-style desserts.
- Top Dessert Spots:
- Rikuro Ojisan no Mise: This bakery is famous for its fluffy, jiggly cheesecakes, a must-try for any dessert lover visiting Osaka.
- Gozasoro: Located in various locations across Osaka, Gozasoro offers freshly made dorayaki (red bean paste sandwiched between fluffy pancakes) that are perfect for a sweet snack on the go.
10. Michelin-Starred Dining: Osaka’s Fine Dining Scene
For those seeking an upscale dining experience, Osaka is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants that offer exquisite cuisine, ranging from traditional Japanese to innovative fusion.
- Top Michelin-Starred Restaurants:
- Hajime: A three-Michelin-starred restaurant that blends French techniques with Japanese ingredients, offering an unforgettable culinary journey.
- Taian: A Michelin-starred restaurant that specialises in kaiseki cuisine, presenting beautifully crafted dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients.
Osaka’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering something for every palate. From iconic street foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki to fine dining experiences and traditional specialties, the flavours of Osaka are sure to leave you salivating for more.
Here, I had the absolute nicest tour guide called Misato, and together we explored the streets of Osaka. She was very sweet and enthusiastic, and by the end of the tour, it felt as though I had made a good friend.
I wouldn’t go on a food tour in Japan with any other company than Ninja Food Tours, and each time I travel with them, I fall in love with them a little more. The tours are a perfect balance of divine food, information, and entertainment, and I always leave absolutely stuffed to the brim. This tour isn’t just about eating—it’s about connecting with the heart of Osaka through its vibrant food scene, making delicious memories along the way.
