Osaka Food Guide: Best Food To Eat In Osaka

Osaka Food Guide: What To Eat in Osaka

Last updated on April 21st, 2024

Read on our Top 8 Best Food To Eat In Osaka. An ultimate Osaka food guide if you are looking for what and where to eat in Osaka.

Welcome to Osaka! Osaka is Japan’s kitchen’ for your food adventure in Japan! It is a very popular destination for many travelers. Centrally located in the Kansai region, Osaka is a great location to visit other cities such as Kyoto, Nara, Uji, and Kobe. It is famous for its modern architecture, shopping and best eat in Japan.

There is a few iconic and famous food in Osaka that must eat when visiting here. In this article, we will introduce each of these foods and why it is so special. Most importantly, we listed our Osaka eating guide from what we ate and try during our visit to Osaka. Together with a location map and how to get there to help you to decide on your Osaka food tour.

Meanwhile, continue to read on our food blog for the ultimate Osaka food guide for the best Osaka specialties.

Table of Contents

Osaka Food Guide

That is to say, the most challenging isn’t finding what to eat in Osaka. You will find it is more difficult when to decide on the best food in Osaka. There are so many great choices recommended from the Osaka travel food blog with various opinions.

We understand that sometimes it is hard to make the arrangement to eat all of them especially since we have only a limited 1 or 2 days in Osaka. In this Osaka Food guide blog for food lovers, find out what and where are the best places to eat in the city.

Osaka Food Guide: The Must-eat Best Food in Osaka

Takoyaki – Octopus Ball
Okonomiyaki – Japanese Savory Pancake
Kushikatsu – Battered, Deep-Fried Skewer
Yakitori in Izakaya
Fugu, Exotic Special Delicacy
Local Street Food from Kuromon Ichiba Market
A Hot Bowl of Tasty Ramen
Desserts and Snacks

Osaka Food Tips: When looking for best food in Osaka, we recommended staying nearby subway station to ease on transport arrangement. Check for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Osaka check prices for Osaka Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.

Takoyaki (Octopus Ball)

The Takoyaki, also known as octopus ball. It is Osaka’s most famous snack and can be considered a synonym for Osaka. This classic Osaka snack is made from eggs and flour filled with octopus, ginger, and green onions. It is then fried into bite-sized balls and topped with a savory sauce, mayonnaise, seaweed, and katsuobushi flakes.

Remember to eat it while is still hot and fresh. It is crispy crust at the edge but soft in the middle.

Best Takoyaki in Osaka

No doubt, Takoyaki is one of the most famous street food. So sure the Takoyaki is one of our top three must in our Osaka food guide list. You can easily find them on any busy street in Osaka and even in Japan. It is something that you need to try, especially for first-time visitors.

One of the best takoyaki in Osaka:

Kogaryu (甲賀流): Takoyaki from Kogaryu is topped with a sweeter sauce. It is best to match with their sweet sauce and their special mayonnaise sauce. Takoyaki fans rated it as one of the best takoyaki in Osaka. Kogaryu has a couple of sister branches across Osaka, including Dotonbori.

Best takoyaki in Dotonburi

Kukuru Dotonburi serving the best takoyaki in Osaka

Dotombori has the most takoyaki stores and is famous for this Osaka’s best cheap eat. So, remember to enjoy this flavored snack when you are in Dotonbori.

Below are the few popular shops serving the best takoyaki in Dotonburi, Osaka. All have their supporter for this tasty Osaka food.

Aizuya claimed for the first and invented for Takoyaki. So this is the best place for you to try the most authentic takoyaki in Osaka. Their takoyaki is best to taste without the sauce. So that you can know how tasty the original takoyaki.
Secondly, one of the more famous takoyaki stores in Dotomburi is Kukuru. It stands ahead of the fierce competition in Dotomburi. You can easily spot it with a gigantic octopus signboard on its shopfront when you are in the busy street. There is always a long line waiting to try on their famous takoyaki.
Wanaka is one of the most popular takoyaki shops in Osaka. Their handmade takoyaki is so crisp yet melts in your mouth when you eat. It is located on the same street as Kukuro in Dotomburi.

Getting there: 3 to 6 minutes walk from Namba station.

Okonomiyaki (Japanese Savory Pancake)

best Okonomiyaki in Osaka: Fukutaro (福太郎) — Osaka Must Eat: Okonomiyaki, Japanese Savory Pancake

Next on our Osaka food guide. The Osaka-style okonomiyaki is another must-eat when visiting Osaka. Okonomiyaki is a kind of savory pancake made from eggs, flour, and shredded cabbage. It was grilled into round shapes by topped with different ingredients such as pork, squid, shrimp, beef, seafood, and more.

You’ll fall in love with Okonomiyaki after trying on it in Osaka, just like me! Whenever I visited Osaka, I am always looking for a chance to try at least one Okonomiyaki in Osaka.

Best Okonomiyaki in Osaka

Many places offer this savory Japanese pancake, okonomiyaki in Osaka. Each shop has its recipe for tasty okonomiyaki.

Below is the highly recommended okonomiyaki that was rated as the Top 3 best okonomiyaki in Osaka after my food review:

Mizuno (美津の) is one of the Michelin-starred restaurants in Osaka that specialized in Okonomiyaki. It is a family-run restaurant with a long history since 1945. It was best known for its unique okonomiyaki called yoshokuyaki with noodles on top. Extremely popular among locals and visitors with consistently waiting lines in front of the shop.
Fukutaro (福太郎) is one of our favorite takoyaki while we were in Osaka. Their okonomiyaki is prepared and cooked in front of you at the counter bar where customers are seated surrounded. You can try on their Negiyaki which replaces the cabbage with green onion.
Kiji (きじ本店) is another popular Okonomiyaki in Osaka. Even locals flock to Kiji to try on this best Okonomiyaki. It is located in the quaint basement of the Umeda sky building with a queuing line always front from the shop to the staircase. So be prepared to wait to taste it.

Lastly, make sure to read on our food blog the top 3 best okonomiyaki in Osaka. We have listed our dining experiences to Kiji, Fukutaro, and Mizuno. The best and quick way if you are looking for where to eat okonomiyaki in Osaka.

Kushikatsu (Battered, Deep-Fried Skewer)

Kushikatsu - Osaka Food Guide — Kushikatsu: Battered, Deep Fried Skewer

Besides okonomiyaki and takoyaki, Kushikatsu is one of the signature Osaka food that you hardly can’t miss when visiting Osaka. It is a deep-fried, battered skewer of meat or vegetables. Typical the menu of kushikatsu is meat and vegetables. For example pork, beef, shrimp, pumpkin, onion, quail’s eggs, asparagus wrapped in bacon, shiitake mushrooms, and more.

Normally kushikatsu is served hot by the chef in front of you. Next, dip it into the thin and black special recipe sauce. The dipping sauce is shared among the customers. So please take note no double-dipping is allowed. A stick of kushikatsu is priced from as low as 100 yen to 500 yen depending on the kushikatsu you choose.

Best Kushikatsu in Osaka

This Osaka’s best cheap food, Kushikatsu can be found all over Osaka and Japan. However, Shinseikai is the birthplace of kushikatsu. Therefore, this is where to eat the best kushikatsu in Osaka. To get there, there is about a 3-minute walk from Subway Sakaisuji-line Ebisucho station.

Kushikatsu Baikingu Daitoryo with buffet style kushikatsu in Osaka — Kushikatsu Baikingu Daitoryo with buffet-style kushikatsu in Osaka

Best Kushikatsu in Shinseikai, Osaka:

Ganso Kushikatsu Daruma is one of the most popular kushikatsu restaurants in Osaka with shops in Dodomtori, Shinseikai, and many other branches scattered around central Osaka. While Daruma’s flagship store is located in Shinseikai, so don’t forget to head over to taste it if you are visiting Tsutenkaku and nearby neighborhoods.
Kushikatsu Baikingu Tabehokdai Daitoryo is the buffet-style kushikatsu restaurant in Shinseikai. You have freely selected any item from the menu to eat with various flavor combinations of sauce. The price is very reasonable with lunch at around 1000 yen and dinner at 1600 yen for all you can eat within one hour. The weekend will be slightly more expensive compared with weekdays. Local’s favorite kushikatsu!
Another popular restaurant in Shinseikai serving the best kushikatsu is the Yaekatsu. Founded 50 years ago, this popular restaurant is famous for its fluffy kushikatsu which is deep-fried at high temperatures. There is always a line to try on in the morning. Wide variety of kushikatsu up to 30 items on the menu.

Yakitori in Izakaya

Next on our Osaka must-try food guide. Yakitori is a traditional Japanese grilled chicken skewer from various parts of the chicken. For example, it widely consists of different cuts of meat, skin, wing, heart the organ. Normally it is cooked with either sweet soy sauce or just salt.

I am sure you will love how simple, tasty and fun it is to eat yakitori in Osaka. It is a simple dish but can also be specialized by its cooking method and sauce. Moreover, the best part of eating yakitori is drinking alcoholic beer or Japanese sake with a group of friends in Izakaya (Japanese pub). Enjoy Yakitori in Izakaya!

Best yakitori from Torikizoku Osaka — Enjoy Yakitori in Izakaya

Popular Izakaya in Osaka

Torikizoku is the Yakitori specialty restaurant in Osaka. This budget-friendly Yakitori restaurant has many branches in Osaka including Dodomburi, and Namba, and is scattered around the Kansai region.

One of the best parts of Torikizoku is their yakitori are using Japanese domestic chicken. Additionally, it is offered at the fixed price of 280 yen including tax. A perfect place for people who experience the Japanese izakaya culture without breaking their bank.

We visited Torikizoku for supper during one of our stays in Osaka. The menu consists of Japanese grilled skewers with up to almost 30 kinds of yakitori to choose from. We ordered various yakitori to try on. The yakitori was so juicy and tasty. It tastes so good with cooling beer. The best place to look for what to eat in Osaka for late night or supper. Highly recommended if you are looking for the best Yakitori in Osaka.

Best Yakitori in Osaka: Torijiro Dotombori Branch

Address: 4-5F, Bonchi Bldg., 1-10-7, Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Operating hour: Daily from 17:00 to the next day at 2:00 a.m. Added, Friday and Saturday will be until 5:00 a.m.

Legendary Osaka Street Food Izakaya

Izakaya Toyo The Legendary Osaka Best Street Food

If you are in Osaka you simply must go and experience the legendary Izakaya Toyo! A standing street food stall specializing in seafood and sushi with a local vibe located close to Kyobashi Station.

Izakaya Toyo (居酒屋とよ) is a popular Osaka street food vendor that specializes in seafood. It was started by owner and chef Toyoji Chikumoto in 1992. Toyo-san has been through so much and he has succeeded in his dream. His life story appeared in the Netflix episode on Osaka’s street foods and you will have a deep appreciation for Toyo-San.

What To Eat in Izakaya Toyo - Fatty Tuna

We highly recommended Izakaya Toyo to experience the charm and passion of Toyo san. The casual vibe and the chef’s loud energy makes for a great experience. The quality of the food is excellent and fresh. You won’t be disappointed!

Read more on our food trip: Izakaya Toyo: Legendary Osaka Best Street Food

Izakaya Toyo (居酒屋とよ)
Address: 3 Chome-2-26 Higashinodamachi, Miyakojima Ward, Osaka.
Getting there: 3 minutes walk from Kyobashi Station.
Operating hours: Closed on Thursday, Sunday, and Monday.

Pro Tips: Always check their website for the opening time before your visit!

Fugu, Exotic Special Delicacy

Taste on blowfish in Kuromon market Osaka — The Fugu, Exotic Special Delicacy

Fugu or also called blowfish or pufferfish. It is one of Japan’s exotic special delicacies and be very poison if it does not handle properly. Every Fugu chef is specially trained to qualify for a license.

That’s no other better place than Osaka to try the fugu. You can try to taste blowfish at the cheapest price in the Kuromon market. But the Zuborayo is the most famous blowfish restaurant in Osaka. You can easily spot this restaurant with its large inflated blowfish lantern. The fugu course set consists of various ways of dishes. From fugu sashimi, shabu-shabu, karaage, or even fugu in sake. A unique food experience in Osaka.

Local Street Food from Kuromon Ichiba Market

Best places for food in Osaka is Kuromon Market — Best Food from Kuromon Ichiba Market

One of the best spots for local street food in Osaka is Kuromon Market. No doubt, Kuromon Ichiba market is the best place to taste Osaka’s best food. This food market is home to hundreds of shops selling local produce such as seafood, fruits, vegetables, and meats. Most importantly, all kinds of prepared food samples of the best food in Osaka.

Food Hunting in Osaka Local Market

Enjoy fresh seafood at Kuromon Ichiba market

There is a variety of seafood and street food available for your food hunting in Kuromon Ichiba Market. I have visited Osaka three times and the Kuromon market is one of the must-visit places for food. It is best to visit during the morning before getting crowded by visitors.

We enjoyed our food tour in the Kuromon market from start until the end of the street. Enjoy the seafood feast here with fresh uni (sea urchin), oyster, grilled scallop, crab leg, and prawns. Besides, don’t forget to taste the fatty tuna as it was cheaper compared with other places.

Meanwhile, we have listed down the top 10 must-eat food if you are interested to look at what to eat in Kuromon Market.

Related Food Blog: What to eat in Kuromon Ichiba Market

A Hot Bowl of Tasty Ramen

Osaka is the hot spot for the ramen battleground in Japan. There are so many ramen shops opened in Osaka for competing for the best ramen restaurants in Osaka. From popular chain restaurants to local home ramen stores.

For first-timer, probably you’ll confuse about the best place to enjoy a bowlful and flavourful ramen.

Osaka Best Ramen

Ichiran Ramen in Osaka Dodonburi — Enjoy a Hot Bowl of Tasty Ramen

Where to find the best ramen in Osaka? Here is the top pick for the best ramen in Osaka that you should not miss.

Origin from Fukuoka, Ichiran Ramen is one of the largest Japanese Ramen chains in Japan. Famous for its Tonkotsu ramen, Ichiran is popular among foreigners. Many people love their favored and rich taste of Tonkotsu broth soaked with thin noodles. There are even three Ichiran ramen shops in the Dotonburi area. But still, a long line always especially at Ichiran Dotonbori Main Building.
For local’s favorite, we recommended you headed to Human Beings Everybody Noodles (人類みな麺類). This ramen specialty in Osaka served the soy sauce (shoyu) ramen. You can choose to have 1 slab or 2 slabs of massive char siu pork topping to satisfy your appetite. Tasty and flavorful ramen in Osaka.

There are many good ramen restaurants across the city. If you want to know where to eat the best ramen in Osaka, you can check out my recommendations on Where To Eat Ramen in Osaka.

Desserts and Snacks

Aside from must-try local specialties, Osaka has a wide variety of delicious dishes including dessert. There are so many cafes, patisseries, coffee, and dessert shop scattered all over Osaka. After your delicious lunch or dinner, don’t forget to stop by for one of the best desserts in Osaka to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Enjoy PABLO chessecake in Dodonbori Osaka — Enjoy PABLO cheesecake in Dodonbori Osaka

Popular Osaka Cafes

Here are the top three popular dessert shops you need to visit in Osaka!

My vote goes for PABLO for the best dessert in Osaka. PABLO is famous for its freshly baked cheese tart throughout Japan. There are many PABLO shops in Osaka. We recommended you try the PABLO Dotonbori with a seating area. The freshly bake Pablo cheesecake is just like melting in your mouth. Read my food review in PABLO Dotonori Osaka here.
Next, Herb is one of the popular Japanese chain cake shops. Origin from Nagoya, Harbs Osaka is located inside the 6th floor of Daimaru 6th floor in Osaka station. Their most famous and signature Mille Crepes are stuffed with fresh thick cream and freshest fruit in each layer. A perfect place for tea time in Osaka.
Last but not least, you may consider trying on the Meotozenzai. It is a Japanese sweet red bean soup made with premium red beans. They say that people who ate their red bean soup will be blessed with a good marriage. While one order will come with two bowls of red bean soup which represent husband and wife.

More Osaka Food Tips

What is Osaka’s famous food?

In our opinion, Osaka is a widely popular travel destination and food paradise for many.

What is Must Eat food in Osaka?

Osaka is well-known for Takoyaki and okonomiyaki. These two food specialties are the must-eat food that you hardly can’t miss in Osaka.

How much does food cost in Osaka?

The meal prices in Osaka can vary and the average meal price in Osaka normally costs about ¥2,000 to ¥4,000 per person. While expected the dinner price will be more experience than lunch.

Where To eat cheap in Osaka?

Ramen is one of the best cheap food in Osaka. A bowl of ramen usually costs around ¥800 to ¥1,100.

Overview: Best Food in Osaka

All in all, hopefully, my Osaka food guide will help in planning what to eat in Osaka. There are so many mouthwatering foods that you can’t miss during your visit. Enjoy your Osaka food tour!

Lastly, this Osaka Food Guide is part of my Osaka travel blog. Read on my other travel post to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Uji on my 7 days Kansai itinerary.

How to Plan Your 7 Days Kansai Japan itinerary

Osaka Itinerary: Things To Do in Osaka itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog

Kyoto itinerary: 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto

Best Day trip from Kyoto or Osaka

What To Eat in Kyoto: Top 8 Must Eat Food Guide

by Emily | posted in: Asia Food Guide, Japan, Kansai Japan | 0

Last updated on April 21st, 2024

Visiting Kyoto and looking for what to eat in Kyoto? Here is the top must-eat food that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Kyoto.

Kyoto is world-famous for its historical stunning shrine and beautiful garden. If you come to Kyoto, you will want to try their local food. Compare with Osaka which is famous as Japan’s kitchen, Kyoto food is more focused on traditional local dishes. Kyoto is known for its clean water. Consequently, Kyoto is famous for Tofu, Sake, and Soba which required good quality water to produce.

Added, one of the important tips for your Kyoto food hunt trip. It is important to look for accommodation for your food trip. Some people only plan for a day trip from Osaka to Kyoto. But it is a better idea to stay in Kyoto for 2 to 3 days to explore the beauty of Kyoto and also Kyoto food hunting. For a smart traveler, consider staying nearby Kyoto station for easy getting around. We recommended Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto with a great-sized room and tons of restaurants and shops within walking distance.

In this food post, I will introduce you to the top must-eat food in Kyoto. Most of the food is very extraordinary and only can be found in Kyoto. Make sure to give this food a try when visiting there.

Table of Contents

Kyoto Food Guide

There are definitely heaps of traditional Japanese foods on offer, as well as local specialties in Kyoto. Here is some of the recommendation Kyoto’s best food if looking for what to eat in Kyoto.

Top Must Eat Food in Kyoto:

Kyoto Fire Ramen
Nishin Soba
Kyoto Ramen
Handwoven Teori Sushi
Yudofu
Kyoto Style Sushi
Green tea dessert
Japanese street food
Japanese Dessert (Mont Blanc Chesnut dessert)

What is Kyoto famous food?

Kyoto is famous for its traditional style of Japanese cuisine with a long history. Kyoto cuisine has its unique characteristic of using seasonal ingredients without over-flavoring the dish when eating.

What should I eat in Kyoto?

Tofu is almost synonymous with Kyoto cuisine. Almost every shop and restaurant will serve tofu as part of their meal.

Where To Eat Cheap in Kyoto?

One of the best places to eat cheap in Kyoto is at Nishiki Market with loads of great street foods, Kyoto snacks, and more.

Kyoto Fire Ramen

Our top 1 must-eat food in Kyoto is the Menbakaichidai Kyoto fire ramen. This flaming ramen is an extraordinary dining experience where the ramen burning right in front of you. Located nearby Nijo Castle within 10 minute walk, Menbakaichidai is very popular among visitors. People are coming here to try on ramen on fire. While the shop is very small with only can for 12 people. So expected to wait in line.

I visited Fire Ramen Menbaka during my 3 days Kyoto itinerary. There were about 30 minutes of waiting time for this hot bowl of ramen. Clear instruction and safety rules required you to follow to try on the flaming Kyoto ramen. It was amazing when the staff pour the flaming oil into your ramen. Truly a memorable dining experience in Menbakaichidai.

For detailed food review and dining experience: Kyoto fire Ramen Menbaka.

Kyoto Fire Ramen Menbaka:

Address: 757-2 Minami Iseyacho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8153
Operating Hour: Daily 11:30 to 23:00
Price: From 1400 yen.
Official website: http://fireramen.com/menbaka/index.html

Kyoto Travel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Kyoto check prices for Kyoto Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy. We recommended staying nearby Kyoto station for easy getting around. The Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto is in a great strategic location with 5 minutes walk from Kyoto Station. Great sized room, and tons of restaurants and shops within walking distance.

Nishin Soba

One of Kyoto’s specialty cuisine is Nishin soba. It is a local herring fish soba noodle dish with flavored soy sauce broth. The herring fish was perfectly smoked with sweet and salty tastes. It is a very unique Kyoto-style soba noodle that you can’t simply find it anywhere. A representative specialty of Kyoto!

Matsuba Soba is the oldest and most famous Nishin soba restaurant in Kyoto. It is said is the inventor of Nishin soba and is highly recommended by locals.

The main store of Matsuba Soba is located beside Minamiza Theater. It is easy to find at Kawaramachi downtown. Alternatively, you can try the Nishin soba at Matsuba Kyoto Station.

The handmade soba noodles from Matsuba with different structures compared to ramen. The Nishin soba was delicious and the taste was exceptional. Added, warm service by lovely staff to make you feel at home.

How to get to Matsuba Soba Main Store: From Kyoto station, take the Kyoto City Bus to “Shijo-kawaramachi”. Next, 5 minutes walk will get you to Matsuba.

Best Nishin soba in Kyoto, Matsuba:

Address: 192 Kawabata-cho, Shijo-ohashi Higashi-iru, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto.
Operating Hour: Daily 11:00 to 21:30
Price: Approximate 1400 yen.

Kyoto Ramen

Ramen is the typical Japanese noodle with different types of broth and is topped with a variety of meat and vegetable. No doubt, ramen is one of the most popular dishes in the whole of Japan. While each city has its local recipe and sure Kyoto has its version of Kyoto ramen.

We got our taste of Kyoto ramen in Kyoto Ramen Koji on the 10th floor of Kyoto station. It is home to eight ramen specialties from Hakata, Sapporo, Fukushima, Tokyo, Toyama, Tokushima, Kyoto, and Osaka.

For sure, we decided to try on Masutani ramen shop which origin in Kyoto. This ramen store was established in 1948 and it is the birthplace of ramen in pork back fat soy sauce. The broth was very flavorful and tasty. Of course, there is a wide variety of Kyoto ramen shops to try during your trip. Make sure to try on a hot bowl of ramen in Kyoto.

Kyoto Ramen Koji

Address: Kyoto, Shimogyo, Karasuma-dori, Shiokoji-Sagaru, Higashi-Shiokojicho 901, Kyoto Station building 10F
Operating hour: 11:00 to 22:00 (Last order 21:30)
Price: less than 1000 yen for a hot bowl of ramen.

Handwoven Teori Sushi

The new kind of sushi style called tengiri-zushi has a unique artistic twist between traditional and modern sushi. The handwoven sushi is kind of like a de-constructed meal. You’re free to DIY and make your own Teori sushi according to your desire.

AWOMB Kyoto An Unique Teori Sushi Dining Experience — AWOMB Kyoto

The AWOMB Karasuma Honten is the origin of this hand-woven sushi. The unique sushi-style platter set meal comes with fresh local obanzai, where you can roll your own sushi with nori (seaweed), obanzai, and rice of your own choice. But what is so overwhelming is the obanzai and condiments were served in a beautifully arranged tray for you to make your own sushi. What’s an eye feast dining experience in Kyoto!

Apparently, there is a total of 4 shops in Kyoto. We visited the AWOMB Karasuma Honten, located about 30 minutes away from downtown. From our hotel, Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto, we took the train to Shijo Station and walked to the AWOMB Kyoto. It was about 7 minutes walking distance to the shop. Be sure to book in advance, as very limited table capacity. Feel free to read on our Kyoto food blog at AWOMB Kyoto.

AWOMB Kyoto An Unique Teori Sushi Dining Experience

AWOMB Karasuma Honten

Address: 189 Ebanagicho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Operating hours: Lunch 12:00-14:00 LO, Dinner 18:00-20:00 LO
Price: The supreme set comes with 3,000 yen

Yudofu

One thing listed as a must-try in Kyoto is yudofu. It is boiled tofu that places in a hot pot with vinegar sauce. Sound simple right? Don’t underestimate these simple dishes as it need clean water and quality soybean to process good tofu. Kyoto has met all of its criteria. Moreover, it was used to be vegetarian cuisine for Buddhist monks.

For the best place for you in Kyoto, most people will vote for Yudofu Sagano. It is famous for tofu kaiseki in Arasihayama. Enjoy the traditional Japanese garden during your yudofu kaiseki meal. If you love tofu, you’ll sure enjoy eating here. A great tofu dining experience in Arashiyama in Yudofu Sagano.

Best cheap eat in Arashiyama Yudofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu

I am not a fan of tofu. Since yudofu is one of the most eaten food in Kyoto, we decided to try the tofu dishes in Tofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu. It is a cabin kiosk on the main street of Arashiyama, selling various kinds of tofu dishes.

What to eat at Yudofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu

While the price is relatively cheap at about 500 yen for one dish. However, don’t underestimate its popularity. A lot of locals were queuing for the tofu dishes. All of us ordered a bowl of soba and the yudofu at Tofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu to try.

The yudofu was so soft like melted in your mouth. And I can’t imagine that it was delicious. It changes my image of the traditional tofu dish. So be sure to try it for yourself. A popular shop in Arashiyama if you are looking for the best cheap eats in Arashiyama.

Tofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu (嵯峨豆腐三忠)

Address: 2-1 Sagatenryuji Tateishicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8375, Japan
Price: Ranging from 300 yen to 700 yen depending on the item.

Kyoto Style Sushi

For authentic Kyoto-style sushi, Izuju Sushi is one of the must-try tastes the Kyoto. Located nearby Yasada Shrine, Izuju Sushi is a quaint century-old sushi restaurant in Kyoto. Compare with the regular nigiri sushi, sushi in Izuju is prepared differently. Their sushi rice is marinated with vinegar. So the taste will be different from this traditional Kyoto-style sushi. It has a stronger burst of flavor when tasted.

Limited tables available and long queue especially during peak hours. While most of the customers are takeaway for a picnic. So the queue moves very fast. Please be sure to write down your name on the reservation list. The staff will be called you according to the running number.

If you’d like to have normal sushi, then this restaurant is not for you. However, if you’d like to feel and taste the authentic Kyoto sushi, this is the perfect restaurant for you.

Izuju Sushi Kyoto:

Address: 292 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan
Operating hour: Daily from 10:30 to 19:00. Closed at Wednesday.

Green Tea Dessert

Located 30 minutes from Kyoto, Uji is the birthplace of Japanese green tea. So, no surprise that Kyoto has tons of green tea specialty stores selling kind of match products. Matcha lovers don’t miss the opportunity to try as much as possible.

Among them, Tsujii Gion is one of the must-try desserts in Kyoto. It is a popular dessert cafe in Kyoto, specializing in green tea and matcha. Most importantly, Tsujiri uses the top-notch green tea from Uji. It gained its popularity by serving various kinds of sweets. For example shaved ice, cake, jelly drinks, green tea noodles, and more. Moreover, their hojicha parfait is the best selling, especially during summer.

We originally planned for afternoon tea at Tsujiri. However, the line was so long. While this dessert shop has many branches in Japan and even oversea, we ended up giving up and proceeded with our Kyoto itinerary. So for those who want to try on the dessert in Tsujiri, please be ready for the queue..

Tsujiri Gion Kyoto

Address: 573-3 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0074, Japan
Operating hour: Daily from 10:00 to 19:30 or 20:00

Japanese Street Food

Last but not least, remember to try on Japanese street food in Kyoto. While the Nishiki Market is the most popular food market in Kyoto. It is a narrow street filled with more than a hundred food stores and restaurants.

With over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to traditional Japanese sweets, you can find something to eat here. So, this is one of the great places to sample as much as possible Japanese street food in Kyoto.

Nishiki Market

Address: 609, Nishidaimonjicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto.
Operating Hour: Daily from 9:30 to 18:00

Moreover, we also recommended street food hunting in Arashiyama street. There has a variety of snack food on the busy street of Arashiyama. We tried fried chicken, takoyaki, matcha ice cream, mochi, and various street food. A great place to sample Japanese snack food.

Japanese Dessert

Treat yourself to a traditional Japanese dessert when visiting Kyoto! The charming city has many dessert shops and cafes are offering dessert in traditional setting. There are many Japanese dessert you can try in Kyoto but one can’t miss the chance to try it the Mont Banc.

The making of Mont Blanc at Waguri Senmon Saori

In Japan, Mont Blanc is made with a pureed, sweetened sponge cake base, topped with layered rich chestnut cream. The pressed chestnut cream is generously topped with long piped strings into a mountain shape. This desset is particular popular in Kyoto!

Enjoy the Mont Blanc soft-served ice cream from Waguri Senmon Saori

Kyoto’s best Mont Blanc from Waguri Senmon Saori – This little gem is a popular dessert place in Kyoto and is known for its Mont Blanc Chesnut dessert using the waguri (Japanese chestnut). Their desserts are served delicately and carefully that all look like pieces of art.

Waguri Senmon Saori (和栗専門紗織さをり)
Address: 170-1 Izumiyacho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto.
Business Hours: Daily from 10:00 to 18:00 (Last order at 17:30)

Kyoto Travel Guide

This top must-eat food in Kyoto is part of our Kyoto travel blog. For travel tips to Kyoto, check out our Kyoto travel guide below. We have included the 3 days Kyoto travel itinerary, food review, and transportation guide. Happy travel to Kyoto!

Kyoto itinerary: 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto

Kyoto Transportation Guide:

Kyoto Accommodation Guide: Where to Stay in Kyoto (Tips For Your Best Stay in Kyoto)

Top 3 Best Okonomiyaki in Osaka: Kiji, Fukutaro, Mizuno

by Emily | posted in: Kansai Japan | 0

Last updated on April 21st, 2024

Read through our Osaka food post and review to decide on the best Okonomiyaki in Osaka. The top 3 best Okonomiyaki in Osaka are Kiji, Fukutaro, and Mizuno.

Okonomiyaki is one of the best delicacies of Osaka. One couldn’t resist the try on this Osaka specialty when visiting here. Okonomiyaki is a kind of savory pancake. The main recipe is made from eggs, flour, grated yam, and shredded cabbage. You can add different ingredients to make your flavor of Okonomiyaki. For example pork, squid, shrimp, beef, seafood, and more.

Osaka is known for the best okonomiyaki in Japan. This local specialty is always one of the must-eat food when visiting Osaka. However, there are so many okonomiyaki shops. I am sure you’d find it difficult to decide where to eat the best okonomiyaki. I tried on a few Okonomiyaki restaurant in Osaka. All are very delicious and unique by its taste. Still, it is very hard to judge for the best okonomiyaki in Osaka.

Looking at this common question. We listed the top 3 Okonomiyaki restaurant in Osaka to ease on your Osaka food hunt. All are highly recommended by locals.

1. Kiji: Local’s Favorite Okonomiyaki in Osaka

First of all, we recommended Kiji (きじ本店) as one of our top 3 best okonomiyaki in Osaka. Kiji is a popular little shop located at the quaint basement of Umeda sky building. There is no sign to point you to this best Okonomiyaki shop in Osaka. However, there is always a line in front to try on their okonomiyaki.

Okonomiyaki from Kiji

Kiji only served okonomiyaki and yakisoba. You can choose from seafood, beef or pork. Besides, depend on where you are seated. You can choose to seat at the counter bar or table. The chef is cooking at the hotplate in front of the bar seats. Next, it will be transferred and keep warm at your hotplate build at the table.

Eating in Kiji is an enjoyable moment. The staffs were super friendly and attentive even when they didn’t speak English very well. They try their best to explain if you have any questions.

The Okonomiyaki served in Kiji was flavorful and filling. It is well deserved for the best Okonomiyaki in Osaka with its reputation. Moreover, Kiji is listed in the Michelin Guide Kyoto/Osaka 2017 Bib Gourmand. So expected to wait especially during peak hour. A must try in Osaka.

Top 1 Okonomiyaki in Osaka: Kiji

Address: Shin-Umeda Shokudogai, 9-20 Kakuta-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka.
Operating hours: Daily from 11:30 to 21:30. Closed on Sunday.

How to get to Kiji: It is located inside the basement of the Umeda Sky Building. To get there, there is within walking distance from Osaka station.

2. Fukutaro: Okonomiyaki or Negiyaki?

Top 2 Okonomiyaki in Osaka: Fukutaro (福太郎)

Secondly, Fukutaro (福太郎) is one of the top three must-try Okonomiyaki restaurant in Osaka. Fukutaro is an Okonomiyaki-specialized restaurant in Osaka, especially in the Namba area. It is located within 5 minutes’ walk from Namba station from Midosuji Line. So it is easy access to the shop.

We visited Fukutaro in the early evening during our 2 days in Osaka. However, there already have people line up and waiting for their table to try on the Okonomiyaki. Added, friendly reminder for those who want to try okonomiyaki in Fukutaro. Remember to write down your name and party on the waiting list.

Okonomiyaki from Fukutaro

Compare with Kiji and Mizuno, Fukutaro is slightly bigger and can fit for 20 to 25 people. The preparation of Okonomiyaki is in the middle of the shop with customers seated surround the square counter. It will be cooked and then served on the hot plate in front of you.

We had our best seated close to the cooking hotplate. The okonomiyaki was being made in front of us. We were able to watch all the cooking processes of okonomiyaki before served to all the customers. While the chef was cook all the Okonomiyaki orders while you watch. It was a truly amazing experience.

Aside from the regular okonomiyaki, Fukutaro is particularly popular for its Negiyaki with lots of green onions in place of cabbage. We ordered Negiyaki, Yakisoba, and Okonomiyaki to try on different varieties. All of us agree that Negiyaki was the best choice we made. It is slightly thinner compare with regular Okonomiyaki. But it has some freshness taste, probably due to the green onion.

Related food blog: Fukutaro: The Taste of Best Okonomiyaki in Osaka

All in all, eating Okonomiyaki in Fukutaro is a great dining experience. Reasonable price for a tasty meal with a great atmosphere in Osaka. Side note, Fukutaro also listed in the Michelin Guide Kyoto/Osaka 2017 Bib Gourmand.

Top 2 Okonomiyaki in Osaka: Fukutaro

Address: 2 Chome-3-17 Sennichimae, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0074, Japan
Operating hours: Weekday from 17:00 to 23:30 and weekend from 12:00 to 23:00

How to getting to Fukutaro: 5 minutes’ walk from Namba station.

3. Mizuno: Michelin Star Okonomiyaki in Osaka

Lastly, Mizuno (美津の) is the Michelin star Okonomiyaki restaurant in Osaka. It has been awarded 4 consecutive years of Osaka Michelin guide since 2016. The shop is located nearby Dotonburi and easy to drop by while you are at Dotonburi.

Prepare to wait in line especially in peak hour to try on this best Okonomiyaki restaurant in Osaka. Similar to most of the traditional Japanese restaurant. Mizuno is a small restaurant with limited seats. However, the queue moved pretty fast. The staff will take your orders in advance while waiting in line. Meanwhile, the kitchen was ready to start preparing your order as soon as you’re seated.

Wide menu with multiple types of okonomiyaki available for you to choose on. Additionally, you can also opt for more or less sauces, spring onions, and flakes. Due to the extra popularity, you are not allowed to add on any other orders. Added, take note that the minimum one dish per person.

Okonomiyaki from Mizuno

The okonomiyaki served from Mizuno is tasty and with decent quality. As per what we had expected, the flavors are amazing and melt in your mouth. Added, the price was reasonable for the Michelin star restaurant dining experience in Osaka.

Due to the efficient ordering, we finished our meal within 40 minutes. However, the service may not as good as other Japanese restaurants due to its popularity. That is to say, we take this as one of the food tour adventures in Osaka. In short, Mizuno one of our favorites, and must eat while we were in Osaka.

Top 3 Okonomiyaki in Osaka: Mizuno

Address: 1 Chome-4-15 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
Operating hours: Daily from 11:00 to 22:00.

How to get to Mizuno: 5 minutes’ walk from Namba station.

Conclusion: Best Okonomiyaki in Osaka

All in all, eating okonomiyaki is an inexpensive meal in Osaka. The top three Okonomiyaki restaurants above are highly recommended if you look for what to eat in Osaka. All the shops are very popular among locals and visitors. Don’t be discouraged by the line of people, the wait is worth it!

Meanwhile, this okonomiyaki food review is part of my travel post during my Kansai trip. We truly enjoy the sightseeing itinerary and food tour to Osaka, Kyoto, Uji, and Nara. If you are interested, continue to read on my travel itinerary below. Happy travel and food hunting in Osaka!

To sum up, our Kansai Japan itinerary for 7 days including:

Osaka itinerary

Osaka Must Eat Food: Top 8 Unique Food To Eat in Osaka

Kyoto itinerary:

Next, Kyoto Must Try Food Guide: Top 7 Must Eat Food in Kyoto

Best Day trip from Kyoto or Osaka:

Kansai Japan Transport Guide:

How To Get Agoda Promo Code For Further Discount, Explained

by Emily | posted in: Travel Guides | 0

Last updated on January 28th, 2023

In this blog post, I will show you where to look for Agoda promo code and how to apply the Agoda promo code into your hotel deal. There is some tricks that you need to follow to get the Agoda discount code. Otherwise you won’t be able to use the promo code.

Agoda is one of the best hotel reservation website for worldwide. It is a reliability accommodation booking website when you are looking for place to stay in local or international. There are thousands of properties with special hotel deal available in their website.

However, did you know you can get more discount with special promo code from Agoda? Agoda start begin aggressive on the hotel booking by distribute discount code to specific channel. This promo code or sometimes people classify as coupon code or hotel deal. It required specific step in order to apply at specific link.

Here is the step-by-step guide on how to get and apply Agoda promo codes!

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Get Agoda Promo Code

1. Visit the Agoda Website here! Make sure to click on it else the promo code will not activate.

2. Click On Agoda Today’s Deal on the Agoda page.

You should see discounted hotel on specific city or country. These are the promo that applicable promo code offer by Agoda during certain period.

3. Click on the “Get Coupon” from the Agoda hotel deal. And you will see the promo code offered from Agoda. Just copy the Agoda voucher code.

4. Next, it’s time to search for your best hotel. Just do this as usual by enter destination, city or a specific hotel on your travel date. For example, i am looking for the best hotel deal from HongKong.

5. Find the best hotel that suit your budget and preference. Then choose your room and click “BOOK NOW”.

6. Check on your booking detail and filled in the guest information.

7. You will find the separate box on the right side of your booking detail. This is where to enter the Agoda promote code that you had copied. If there is no separate box to key in the promo code, mean this hotel does not allow for further discount.

8. Apply your Agoda Promo Code and enter.

9. Check your Agoda discount is correct as per desired. The discount value is only applicable for hotel stay and not include the service charge and tax.

10. Proceed to Payment.

Best Agoda Promotion Code

So far, the best promo code offer by Agoda is 10%. This special discount promotion is the best coupon code compare with previous of 5% to 8%.

The most recent Agoda coupon Code!

If the promo code does not able to apply, that is because the coupon does not allocated for your country or visited country. What you need to do is activate it follow as per proper step.

Step 1: Click on Agoda Website here!
Step 2: Activate the Agoda Promo Code as per below step.
Step 3: Select your hotel and applied it into dedicated box. That’s it!

Please take note that voucher code can only be used in the PC version of Agoda website. It is not applicable on Agoda mobile version or mobile app. Added, these Agoda Promotion Codes are not valid for ‘book now pay later’ or ‘book now pay directly at hotel’ bookings.

So, don’t forget to book your next travel accommodation using Agoda discount code for your hotel stay. The 10% Agoda discount might sound little compare with existing 8% or 5% Agoda promo code. But it make big different if you are booking for the whole travel date.

Be a smart traveler and save more with the best hotel deal. Happy travel!

Blog Full

Osaka Food Guide

Takoyaki (Octopus Ball)

Best Takoyaki in Osaka

Best takoyaki in Dotonburi

Okonomiyaki (Japanese Savory Pancake)

Best Okonomiyaki in Osaka

Kushikatsu (Battered, Deep-Fried Skewer)

Best Kushikatsu in Osaka

Yakitori in Izakaya

Popular Izakaya in Osaka

Legendary Osaka Street Food Izakaya

Fugu, Exotic Special Delicacy

Local Street Food from Kuromon Ichiba Market

Food Hunting in Osaka Local Market

A Hot Bowl of Tasty Ramen

Osaka Best Ramen

Desserts and Snacks

Popular Osaka Cafes

More Osaka Food Tips

Overview: Best Food in Osaka

Kyoto Food Guide

Kyoto Fire Ramen

Nishin Soba

Kyoto Ramen

Handwoven Teori Sushi

Yudofu

Kyoto Style Sushi

Green Tea Dessert

Japanese Street Food

Japanese Dessert

Kyoto Travel Guide

1. Kiji: Local’s Favorite Okonomiyaki in Osaka

Okonomiyaki from Kiji

2. Fukutaro: Okonomiyaki or Negiyaki?

Okonomiyaki from Fukutaro

3. Mizuno: Michelin Star Okonomiyaki in Osaka

Okonomiyaki from Mizuno

Conclusion: Best Okonomiyaki in Osaka

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Get Agoda Promo Code

Best Agoda Promotion Code