When it comes to street food, Osaka is a city that delivers unparalleled culinary experiences. Most people associate Osaka’s street food scene with Takoyaki, but there is so much more to try. In this section, we’ll introduce you to the must-try street food experiences in Osaka beyond takoyaki.
Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey that will take you through the vibrant streets of Osaka, where you will have a chance to taste some of the best street food in the world. From savory dishes like Okonomiyaki and Kushikatsu to sweet treats like Osaka’s street desserts and street sushi, we’ve got you covered.
Discover the hidden food gems of Osaka’s street food scene and find out why it’s a must-visit destination for foodies. Let’s dive in and explore Osaka street food beyond takoyaki!
Try Okonomiyaki – Osaka’s Iconic Street Food Dish
When searching for the best food in Osaka, you cannot miss the chance to try the city’s iconic street food dish – Okonomiyaki. This savory pancake is a must-try when in Osaka, and its different variations and unique flavors make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The dish is made with a batter of flour, eggs, cabbage, and other ingredients, depending on the recipe. The ingredients are mixed together and fried on a griddle to form a pancake. The toppings can vary from seafood, pork, beef, chicken, to cheese, noodles, and more. The pancake is then topped with okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, seaweed flakes, and bonito flakes, giving it a delicious and unique flavor.
One of the best places to try Okonomiyaki is at the famous Okonomiyaki Chibo in the Shinsaibashi area. Another great option is the Mizuno restaurant, which has been serving the dish for over 70 years and is located in the Dotonbori area.
Make sure to add this authentic street food experience to your Osaka culinary adventure and discover why Okonomiyaki is one of the best food in Osaka.
Indulge in Kushikatsu – Fried Skewers of Delight
If you want to discover Osaka’s authentic street food, one dish you must try is Kushikatsu. It’s a simple yet addictive snack that consists of skewered and deep-fried meat, seafood, and vegetables. The crispy and flavorful treat is dipped into a savory sauce before eating, enhancing its taste and texture.
While you can find Kushikatsu all over Osaka, certain places are known for serving up the best. Some notable spots include Daruma Kushikatsu, Kushiya Monogatari, and Kushikatsu Tanaka. These places offer a range of choices, from classic options like meat and vegetables to more unusual skewers like cheese and quail eggs.
When indulging in Kushikatsu, there are a few rules to keep in mind. Most restaurants will have signs asking you not to dip your skewer twice in the sauce, as a double dip is considered impolite. Additionally, you should refrain from touching your food with your hands and instead use the communal chopsticks provided at the table.
In summary, if you’re looking for a satisfying and tasty street food experience, be sure to add Kushikatsu to your must-try list. Explore the vibrant Osaka food scene and discover the best places to enjoy this fried skewer delight.
Savor the Delicate Flavor of Takoyaki’s Cousin – Akashiyaki
Osaka is not just famous for takoyaki. You should also try another delightful snacks called Akashiyaki – a ball-shaped octopus snack cooked in a special dashi broth. Some say it is a distant cousin of takoyaki, but once you have tasted its delicate flavor, you will agree Akashiyaki is in a class all its own.
The dashi broth adds a unique flavor that makes Akashiyaki stand out. The dumplings are usually served with a ponzu citrus soy sauce, giving the snack a refreshing tang.
There are several places to try Akashiyaki in Osaka. You can find them in local food markets, restaurants, and street vendors. Here are some recommendations to get you started:
| Name of the Place | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Suzume no Oyado | Kita Ward, Osaka | Akashiyaki in soup |
| Botejyu | Chuo Ward, Osaka | Famous for their Akashiyaki sauce |
| Akashiyaki Dotonbori Kukuru | Chuo Ward, Osaka | Offers a modern twist on traditional Akashiyaki |
Explore the World of Okonomiyaki’s Counterpart – Monjayaki
After savoring the taste of Okonomiyaki, its cousin, Monjayaki is a must-try culinary delight on your list. Monjayaki is a gooey and savory dish that originated in the Tsukishima area of Tokyo but has become increasingly popular in Osaka. The dish is made up of a batter formed from flour, water, and dashi broth, along with various ingredients like cabbage, seafood, meat, and vegetables. It is cooked on a hot pan on a low flame until the batter becomes gooey and the ingredients are fully cooked.
The texture of Monjayaki may be a little runnier than its cousin dish, but it is equally delicious and worth trying. The dish is believed to have originated from Chinese migrants to Japan, and its name is derived from the word “Monja” meaning “things you love.
Ready to try Monjayaki? Head to Osaka Monja Nakaichi, a popular restaurant located in Osaka where you can indulge in a variety of Monjayaki dishes. The restaurant’s popular menu items include seafood Monjayaki, beef tendon Monjayaki, and the restaurant’s signature spicy Giulia Monja. Don’t forget to add this unique and delicious Osaka culinary delight to your food recommendations when exploring local food in Osaka.
Discover the Savory Delights of Yakitori – Grilled Skewered Chicken
If you’re a chicken lover, you’ll be delighted to know that Osaka’s street food scene has some of the most mouth-watering yakitori you won’t find anywhere else. Yakitori is a type of Japanese kebab dish made with bite-sized meat, often chicken, that is skewered and grilled over charcoal to perfection. You can easily find food vendors selling tantalizing bites of yakitori all over Osaka’s streets and local markets.
The best part about yakitori is that you can enjoy either a single type of meat or a mix of different meats, depending on your taste preferences. The most popular types of yakitori include tsukune (ground chicken), negima (chicken with leek) and momo (chicken thigh). Pair your skewers with some fresh veggies and rice to balance out the flavor and soak in the authentic street food experience of Osaka.
To fully appreciate the art of yakitori making, head over to Torikizoku, a restaurant chain in Osaka that specializes in different types of yakitori at an affordable price. This restaurant offers over 30 different types of skewers, made from different parts of the chicken, and has gained a reputation for offering some of the best food in Osaka. Make sure you try their signature dish – Momo Ninniku (garlic chicken thighs) and wash it down with some cold beer.
Osaka’s Best Yakitori Spots
| Yakitori Spot | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Mangetsu | Fukushima Ward, Osaka | Grilled chicken skin skewers |
| Tentenko | Fukushima Ward, Osaka | Negima (chicken with leek) skewers |
| Syura | Chuo Ward, Osaka | Tsukune (ground chicken) skewers |
| Kushikatsuryori Tomonari | Ikuno Ward, Osaka | Momokawa (chicken wings) skewers |
Don’t forget to try some rare types of yakitori like toriwasa (chicken sashimi) and heart and liver skewers at these recommended spots. Now that you know where to go to find the best street food in Osaka, why not make a plan to visit these hidden food gems in Osaka and explore the culinary delights the city has to offer?
Delight in the Freshness of Osaka’s Street Sushi
When it comes to street food in Osaka, sushi may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, Osaka’s street sushi is a must-try for any foodie looking to explore the city’s culinary delights.
The street sushi in Osaka is known for its freshness and variety of flavors. Many sushi vendors use locally-sourced seafood, guaranteeing the freshness and quality of the ingredients. From classic nigiri to creative sushi rolls, you will find a diverse range of options to satisfy your sushi cravings.
If you want to try the best street sushi in Osaka, head to Endo Sushi in the iconic Kuromon Ichiba Market. This 100-year-old establishment is known for its mouth-watering sushi, friendly staff, and authentic atmosphere.
| Sushi Roll | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fatty Tuna Roll | Made with melt-in-your-mouth tuna belly and perfectly seasoned rice | $15 |
| Salmon and Avocado Roll | A healthy and delicious sushi roll with fresh salmon and creamy avocado | $8 |
| Sea Urchin Nigiri | A delicacy in Japan, this nigiri is made with sweet and buttery uni | $12 |
Endo Sushi is just one of the many places where you can experience the deliciousness of Osaka’s street sushi scene. So, be sure to explore and discover the local food in Osaka during your visit.
Uncover the Tempting Treats of Osaka’s Street Desserts
After indulging in savory street food, it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth! Osaka’s street food scene offers a variety of delectable desserts that you shouldn’t miss. From traditional Japanese desserts to modern interpretations, Osaka’s street desserts are a hidden food gem that you need to try.
One of the must-try desserts is the Taiyaki, a fish-shaped cake that is usually filled with sweet red bean paste. This cute and tasty treat is a popular snack among locals and visitors alike. Another popular dessert is the Mochi, a glutinous rice cake that comes in various flavors and fillings. Try the Ichigo Daifuku Mochi, a strawberry-filled mochi that is both refreshing and satisfying.
If you’re looking for a sweet and refreshing drink, try the Matcha Soft Serve, a green tea-flavored ice cream. You can find it in various street vendors and ice cream parlors around Osaka.
Finally, the Kakigori is a perfect dessert to cool down on hot days. This Japanese shaved ice dessert is topped with various flavors, syrups, and fruits. Try the Uji Matcha Kakigori, a matcha-flavored shaved ice topped with condensed milk, red beans, and mochi.
Don’t miss the chance to discover Osaka’s street desserts and find your favorite sweet treats. Authentic street food in Osaka extends beyond savory dishes, offering you an unforgettable culinary experience.
Conclusion
Now that you have discovered Osaka’s best street food experiences beyond takoyaki, it’s time to embark on a culinary journey and explore the vibrant food scene in the city. From the iconic Okonomiyaki and Kushikatsu to the lesser-known Akashiyaki and Monjayaki, Osaka has plenty of delicious treats to offer.
By following this Osaka food guide, you will be able to try the best food in Osaka and uncover hidden food gems in the city. So, make sure to add these must-try street food experiences to your list and indulge in the authentic flavors of Osaka’s street food scene.
Don’t miss out on these must-try street food experiences in Osaka beyond takoyaki. Happy eating!
