When visiting Japan, one of the main elements people rave about is the food. Whether it's fresh sushi, fine Michelin-starred dining in Tokyo, or a simple cup of ramen, nearly everyone will agree that Japan has some of the best food on the planet.
If you've had the opportunity to travel more than just the Tokyo region, you know that Osaka is often considered the food capital of Japan. That distinction is well-earned as the local specialties in Osaka are definitely some of the best eats you can find in Japan. Here is a look at a few of the foods that are considered "must-try" items when visiting Osaka.
1. Takoyaki
In Japanese, tako means octopus. Takoyaki are essentially just octopus balls. While that may not sound appetizing to some, these are definitely worth a try as there is so much more than just octopus in a good takoyaki.
Good takoyaki are dumplings made of batter, ginger, chopped or whole baby octopus, green onions, and they are topped with the sweet okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, small fish shavings, laver, and sometimes ponzu. They are typically sold by street vendors or issen-yoshoku shops. When in Osaka, they are pretty easy to find as many stores display a big octopus figure outside or on their signage.
Takoyaki dates back to the mid-1930's when a street vendor named Endo Tomekichi came up with these now popular tasty treats.
2. Okonomiyaki
The sauce used in the takoyaki balls is called "okonomiyaki", which is another Osaka specialty. It is basically a savory Japanese pancake or pizza that is topped with nearly anything you can want or imagine, and then cooked on grills at your table. Some places will cook for you, while others are literally do-it-yourself restaurants.
Okonomiyaki are most associated with Hiroshima and Osaka and each region has a different take on these. They are found around the country, but if you want to try a really good one, Osaka has endless Okonomiyaki restaurants that offer some of the most delicious options in the country.
To learn more about okonomiyaki, please read Japanese Dishes: Okonomi-yaki Types and Regional Differences.
3. Kushikatsu
Kushikatsu is another fun Osaka specialty definitely worth a try. Nearly every Asian culture's street food includes "food on a stick" and Japan is no exception. Kushikatsu is a term for meats, vegetables, and other treats skewered and fried to a crisp.
Not all kushikatsu are created equal -- the secret is the sauce. The delicious and secret recipe sauces restaurants use can really set them apart from the next kushikatsu place. Be mindful though -- never double dip!
4. Sushi
Of course, good sushi is synonymous with Japan. In Tokyo, the prices for sushi can easily reach hundreds of dollars, which is often a shock to people who associate sushi with California rolls. Traditional Japanese sushi is also quite different than you find in the United States -- many of the fancy rolls are a western creation and not available in sushi bars in Japan.
If you like nigiri, maki rolls, and sashimi, then definitely try sushi in Osaka. The prices are typically more reasonable than Tokyo -- you can easily fill up on good sushi for under $50 US. Do not be intimidated by the lack of English or any menus in general. Some restaurants have photos, you can point to the fish in the case, or, if you know the Japanese words for the sushi you order at home, you will be fine!
5. Wagashi
After enjoying the other Osaka foods listed above, be sure to save room and track down some wagashi, or Japanese sweets. Some of the local Osaka style desserts are recipes that have been passed down through generations.
Erin De Santiago - Erin is a freelance travel, food/wine, & Disney writer in Taipei, Taiwan, who has traveled within 40+ different countries to date.
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