What are the must-try foods in Dotonbori, Osaka?

Dotonbori is famous for its street food. You must try Takoyaki, especially from Michelin-starred Akaoni, and enjoy a bowl of rich Tonkotsu ramen from Kinryu Ramen, which is open 24/7. Okonomiyaki at Yakizen is also a local favorite.

Are there any unique dining experiences in Osaka?

Yes, for a unique experience, visit Jumbo Tsuribune Tsurikichi in Dotonbori. You can fish for your own dinner from a large tank inside the restaurant, and they will prepare your catch as fresh sashimi or grilled fish.

What is the best takoyaki in Umeda?

Hanadako, located near Umeda Station, is highly recommended for takoyaki. It's known for being incredibly creamy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Their 'Negitako' with extra green onions is particularly popular.

Where can I find good Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) in Umeda?

Yakiniku Kameda is a cozy spot popular with locals in Umeda. It offers high-quality meat at a reasonable price. Their aged beef tongue and short ribs are exceptionally flavorful.

Is Osaka a good city for food lovers?

Absolutely. Osaka is known as Japan's kitchen for a reason. From bustling street food stalls in Dotonbori to more refined dining in Umeda, the city offers an incredible variety of delicious food that makes it a top destination for food lovers.

Osaka Food Guide: 9 Best Restaurants in Dotonbori & Umeda

Osaka, Japan's culinary capital, is a city where every neighborhood boasts a diverse array of must-visit restaurants. Dotonbori and Umeda, in particular, are foodie hotspots loved by tourists and locals alike. This guide introduces nine carefully selected restaurants in these two vibrant districts. From full meals to quick snacks, these spots are all easily accessible via Google Maps, making it convenient to drop by if they're on your travel route.

Osaka Food Guide

Dotonbori's Culinary Gems

Akaoni

If you're looking for takoyaki in Dotonbori, Akaoni is a place I highly recommend. This Michelin-starred spot serves the quintessential takoyaki—crispy on the outside, incredibly soft on the inside. Unlike typical takoyaki, they offer creative toppings like savory cheese and wasabi mayo. The salt-butter takoyaki, with its perfect balance of salty and sweet, was particularly memorable. It was easy to see why it earned a spot in the Michelin Guide.

Akaoni

Kinryu Ramen Sennichimae

This 24-hour ramen shop is located right in the heart of Dotonbori. Its round-the-clock service made it incredibly convenient for a meal anytime during my trip. The classic tonkotsu ramen has a rich broth without an overpowering pork flavor, making it enjoyable for everyone. A major plus is the self-serve toppings bar with kimchi, chives, and garlic, allowing you to customize your bowl. It's the kind of place you'll naturally find yourself drawn to after a late-night stroll through Dotonbori.

Kinryu Ramen in Dotonbori, open 24 hours

Kinryu Ramen Sennichimae

Yakizen

This okonomiyaki restaurant is a favorite among locals, offering a quiet and calm atmosphere from the moment you step inside. Rather than being cooked on a teppan grill at your table, the okonomiyaki is served fully prepared, with a perfect balance of seasonings and sauce. The seafood okonomiyaki, packed with fresh ingredients, was especially delicious. Despite its central location in a tourist area, it remains relatively undiscovered, allowing for a relaxed dining experience.

Yakizen

Uoshin Sushi

The sushi here is so large it's almost unbelievable; the palm-sized neta (fish topping) nearly covers the rice entirely. The eel sushi was incredibly tender, melting in my mouth and leaving a lasting savory flavor. I was able to get a table without much of a wait, even during lunchtime. The high-quality food, elegant atmosphere, and reasonable prices made for a highly satisfying meal. This is the place to go in Dotonbori when you're craving fresh fish or sushi.

Uoshin Sushi

Jumbo Tsuribune Tsurikichi

More than just an izakaya, this place is an experience. In the center of the restaurant is a large fish tank where customers can fish for their own meal. The fish you catch is immediately prepared as sashimi or grilled, and its freshness is beyond description. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff made it one of the most memorable experiences of my trip.

Jumbo Tsuribune Tsurikichi

Umeda's Foodie Spots

Hanadako

This small takoyaki shop, tucked away near Umeda Station, is incredibly popular, with a line that never seems to end. The takoyaki here is crispy on the outside and almost cream-like on the inside. The "Negitako," topped with a generous amount of green onions, seems to be a crowd favorite, and the soy-based sauce is light and not overpowering. With limited seating and a standing-style setup, it's the perfect spot for a quick snack.

Hanadako

Yakiniku Kameda

A small but cozy yakiniku restaurant frequented by local office workers. The menu features set combinations of popular cuts, making it easy for first-timers to order. The quality of the meat was excellent for the price. The beef tongue and short ribs, in particular, were well-aged, with a rich, savory flavor that intensified with every bite. The staff also offered tips on grilling, making it an accessible experience for newcomers.

Yakiniku Kameda

Shabucho

If you're looking to enjoy sukiyaki in a refined atmosphere, Shabucho is the place to go. All tables are partitioned, allowing for a quiet and private dining experience. The food was fresh, with no gamey taste, and the vegetables complemented the meat perfectly. The meat was lean yet juicy, making for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Shabucho

Kogaryu

Located in Shinsaibashi, this takoyaki shop is known for its unique menu featuring various sauce combinations. I personally found the soy-mayonnaise sauce more flavorful than the classic takoyaki. The takoyaki itself is soft and almost melts in your mouth, with the toppings creating a perfect balance of flavors. It's also great for takeout, which I enjoyed with a cold beer as a snack.

Kogaryu

Beyond the restaurants introduced here, Osaka is home to countless other culinary delights. Each area has its own unique character and atmosphere, making it fun to explore. In Dotonbori, you can easily enjoy popular street foods like takoyaki, ramen, and okonomiyaki. In Umeda, you can savor a more relaxed meal in a quieter, more organized setting. If any of these spots fit into your travel itinerary, paying them a visit will surely be a great choice.