Osaka’s foodie scene offers an array of delicious street foods that are a must-try when visiting this vibrant city. Known as one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, Osaka’s food culture is a major draw for travelers. Here are some dishes you absolutely must taste when in Osaka.
1. Takoyaki
The most famous food in Osaka must be takoyaki or octopus balls. It comes in bite sized balls made of batter filled with diced octopus. A cast-iron mold is used for cooking takoyaki. The octopus balls will be rolled and rolled around until the outside has a crispy texture while the inside is still soft. Takoyaki will be served with mayonnaise, takoyaki sauce, bonito flakes, and also seaweed sprinkle.
2. Okonomiyaki
Another Osaka originated food you have to try is okonomiyaki. It is a type of savory pancake that is made with the mixture of eggs, flour, and shredded cabbage. The batter will be cooked fresh on a griddle right in front of the customers. You can order customized toppings that can be seafood, pork, or cheese.
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3. Kushikatsu
Another popular dish in Osaka is kushikatsu. You have to try this dish that comes as deep fried seafood, meat, and vegetables skewers. This snack food is cheap and tasty with crispy fried batter on the outside and savory dipping sauce. Since the dipping sauce is served in the communal sauce bowls, you must not double dip the skewers. The best pairing for eating kushikatsu is a cold beer.
4. Kitsune Udon
Udon is a type of chewy noodles that can be found everywhere in Japan. However, every region has its own variety of udon. In Osaka, you have to try kitsune udon. It is a comfort food that can be pretty satisfying since the noodles will be served in a light dashi broth and fried tofu topping. Kitsune literally means fox and it is used for this udon name because according to Japanese folklore, foxes love fried tofu.
5. Sushi with Osaka Style
Osaka’s Foodie Scene will not be completed without trying unique Osaka-style sushi. It is called oshi-zushi that means pressed sushi or hako-zushi that means box sushi. The sushi comes with fresh fish or seafood topping that is pressed onto the vinegared rice in the wooden box mold. As a result, the sushi piece looks neat and compact.
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6. Nashiro basho
Nashiro basho is a modern twist on traditional Japanese sweets. It’s essentially a manju bun, but shaped like a banana and filled with white bean paste. The unique shape pays homage to the luxury of bananas during the Meiji period, when they were considered a rare and prized fruit in Japan.
7. Candied Fruit Skewers
Candied fruit skewers are a must-try dessert in Osaka, not only for their delicious taste but also for their photogenic appeal. Choose from skewers of fresh strawberries or mixed fruits, all coated with a thin layer of candy that gives them a sweet crunch—perfect for your next social media post.
8. Ikayaki
Ikayaki is sold everywhere in Japan, especially in the Japanese festivals. It commonly means grilled squid in Japan, but in Osaka, it can also mean squid pancake. The Osaka version of ikayaki comes in the form of a thin and savory pancake with chopped squid and spring onions toppings. You can drizzle the ikayaki with mayonnaise and Japanese style barbecue sauce for a more authentic experience.
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9. Yakiniku
If you are familiar with Korean BBQ, yakiniku has a pretty similar experience since you will cook the meat right on your table. This Japanese BBQ can be found all across the country but Osaka has many amazing yakiniku restaurants along with premium meat cuts.
10. Sake
You should also try sake in Osaka by joining a sake tour. During the tour, you can learn more not only about the brewing process, but also the best dishes to be paired with the sake.
Osaka’s food scene is a vibrant reflection of the city’s rich culinary heritage, offering an incredible variety of flavors that will make your journey truly memorable. From savory street foods to unique sweets, each dish tells a story of Osaka’s culture and history. Have you had the opportunity to try all of these mouthwatering dishes, or are there still some tasty gems waiting to be discovered on your next visit?
