Top 6 Places to Eat in Osaka

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
21/08/2025
Captivating view of Dotonbori Canal in Osaka at sunset, highlighting urban architecture and vibrant city life.
Satoshi Hirayama, Pexels

Osaka's culinary landscape is famously diverse, offering a wide array of dining experiences from casual street food to refined high-end options, catering to all tastes and budgets.

1. Takoyaki Juhachiban Dotonbori

Cuisine: Takoyaki

Stepping up to this stall in Dotonbori, I find myself amidst the enticing aroma of sizzling batter. Their takoyaki are exceptional, consistently crispy on the outside and wonderfully creamy within, generously filled with tender octopus and enhanced by unique crispy tempura bits. It’s a perfect, satisfying street snack, best enjoyed hot.

Price: ¥500 - ¥800 / $3 - $5 per plate

Getting There: Located directly in the Dotonbori area, it is easily accessible by walking from Namba or Shinsaibashi stations.

2. Kushikatsu Daruma Shinsekai Honten

Cuisine: Kushikatsu (Deep-fried Skewers)

Visiting the original Daruma in Shinsekai is an essential Osaka experience. The skewers, from succulent meats to crisp vegetables, are expertly fried to a perfect golden crisp. The rule of 'no double-dipping' into the communal, tangy sauce is clearly observed, ensuring a fresh taste with every bite. The atmosphere here is lively and authentically local, a true taste of Osaka's comfort food tradition.

Price: ¥150 - ¥300 / $1 - $2 per skewer

Getting There: Located in Shinsekai, it is a short walk from Dobutsuen-mae Station (Midosuji Line, Sakaisuji Line) or Shin-Imamiya Station (JR Loop Line).

3. Ajinoya Honten

Cuisine: Okonomiyaki

At Ajinoya, the experience of having okonomiyaki prepared right before me on the sizzling griddle is captivating. The savory pancake, with its generous portion of cabbage and chosen fillings like pork and shrimp, is cooked to a delightful fluffy texture. Drizzled with their signature sauce and mayonnaise, it's a hearty and deeply flavorful meal that embodies Osaka's unique style of Japanese comfort food.

Price: ¥1,000 - ¥2,000 / $7 - $14 per person

Getting There: A short walk from Namba Station (Osaka Metro Midosuji Line) in the Dotonbori area.

4. Shinkawa Nishiya

Cuisine: Izakaya (Japanese Pub Fare, Sushi, Sashimi)

Stepping into Shinkawa Nishiya, I immediately appreciate its retro charm and welcoming ambiance. This izakaya, popular with locals, offers an impressive selection of fresh sushi and sashimi, along with various Japanese dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients. It is an excellent spot to unwind and enjoy high-quality food, complemented by their good selection of sake and beer. Being open until late adds to its appeal for an authentic evening.

Price: ¥3,000 - ¥6,000 / $20 - $40 per person

Getting There: This hidden gem is conveniently located near Namba Station (Osaka Metro Midosuji Line, Yotsubashi Line, Sennichimae Line), typically within a 5-10 minute walk.

5. Daiki-suisan Kaitenzushi Dotonbori

Cuisine: Conveyor Belt Sushi

The lively atmosphere of Daiki-suisan Kaitenzushi in Dotonbori makes for a fun and efficient dining experience. Plates of fresh, good-quality sushi glide by on the conveyor belt, allowing me to pick and choose as I desire. The variety is excellent, from classic nigiri to inventive rolls, all at surprisingly reasonable prices for the quality received. It is a fantastic option for a quick, satisfying meal in the heart of the action.

Price: ¥100 - ¥600 / $1 - $4 per plate

Getting There: Situated in the bustling Dotonbori district, it's easily walkable from Namba and Shinsaibashi stations.

6. Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M (Houzenji Yokocho Branch)

Cuisine: Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ, Matsusaka Beef)

Dining at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M is a true indulgence for beef lovers. I had the pleasure of grilling exquisite cuts of Matsusaka beef right at my table, savoring its incredible marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The Houzenji Yokocho branch offers an intimate and authentic setting, perfect for a special evening out. The quality of the meat here is consistently outstanding, making it a highlight of Osaka's dining scene.

Price: ¥8,000 - ¥15,000+ / $55 - $100+ per person

Getting There: Located in the charming Houzenji Yokocho alley, it's a short walk from Namba Station (Osaka Metro Midosuji Line, Yotsubashi Line, Sennichimae Line).

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