Lucas is a student from San Diego, California. He is working and living in Tokyo for an internship program, aiming to learn more about Japan’s work culture and to have a better understanding of the Japanese way of life. After the internship, he will ultimately travel back home to complete his Bachelor’s Degree, but hopes to travel more in he future to have more experiences abroad.
This post may contain some affiliate links. When you click through and make a purchase we may receive some commission, at no extra cost to you.
Takoyaki, a famous street food made from a wheat flour batter in a circular pan. The dough balls are filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, ginger, and green onion. This creates a very creamy and savory treat that can be found all across Japan. Nowhere is more saturated with quality takoyaki than Osaka, which has its own unique style that tends to favor a runny center for a more creamy filling while maintaining the crunchy outside batter. Today we take a look at some of the best or most popular spots around Osaka if you want to give this famous street food a try.
1. Abeno Takoyaki Yamachan
Located in Tennoji, takoyaki purveyor Yamachan is one of the most famous and highly-rated in its genre. Yama-chan concocts a special broth daily to make the batter for their takoyaki. Their ingredients are kept pretty secret, but we do know that the broth includes chicken, vegetables, bonito…and pineapple! This gentle broth gives the dumpling a distinct flavor that is best with or without sauce and mayonnaise. They also have the runny centers that make Osaka-style takoyaki famous.
2. Kougaryu
In Amerikamura, not only is the takoyaki fabulous, but there’s also a wealth of intriguing toppings to choose from. This shop makes their own mayonnaise which is slightly less sour to compliment their homemade sauce. They also add pureed Japanese mountain yams to their batter, so the final product is noticeably chewy.
3. Hanadako
Hanadako is located in Umeda Shin-Shokudogai, which is just between Hankyu Umeda Station and the Hankyu department store. These are a more modern example of Osaka-style takoyaki which means they are very fluffy on the outside and gooey inside. They are definitely a unique style that you should definitely try.
4. Takoya Dotonburi Kukuru
This famed spot in the Dotonbori area, widely known for its “bikkuri takoyaki” or “Surprise Takoyaki.” The surprise element comes from the unusually large pieces of octopus used, with many pieces protruding from the takoyaki balls. They also serve “akashiyaki,” a variation from Akashi City in Hyogo prefecture, known for its eggy batter and slightly spongier texture.
5. Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka
This spot is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The takoyaki here is celebrated for its excellent flavor, especially when enjoyed as a weekend breakfast treat in true Osaka binge-eating fashion. The shop offers a variety of toppings, including the classic sweet and tangy brown sauce, as well as salt, dashi stock, soy sauce, and bonito flakes. For those who find it hard to choose, the o-iri sampler with four different toppings is a popular choice.
6. Juhachi-ban
In Minami, these octopus balls contain several surprise ingredients that take them to the next level of deliciousness. First, they put a lot of tenkasu in their takoyaki, giving them a slightly crunchy texture. Moreover, they use milk in their broth, giving their takoyaki creamy flavor. However, the outside is still nicely crunchy and they have a variety of topping options.
Are you feeling hungry for Takoyaki now? It’s an absolute staple street food in Osaka and all of these shops are worth a visit, but which one was your favorite? Have you tried any of these shops or are you looking to add some to your travel plans? Let us know your opinions below or if we missed any of your favorites.
Japan Wonder Travel Tours in Osaka
If you are planning on visiting Osaka and need some help organizing your trip, you came to the right place! We would be more than happy to help make your trip the best it possibly could be. We can advise you on where to go, or even better, hook you up with a local English speaking guide that can show you all of the best spots. Let us help you make fun, safe, and unforgettable memories in Osaka!
▶Osaka Highlights Private Walking Tour
On this full-day private tour of Osaka, we will take you to Osaka’s highlights that include Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, the popular Dotonbori area, etc. Learn about the rich history of the area, local lifestyle, and of course delicious Osaka food!
▶Kyoto Food and Drink Tour @Nishiki Street & Gion
If you’re planning on visiting Kyoto along with Osaka and are looking to learn more about the culture and local cuisine, this is definitely the perfect tour for you! Take part in this fun food and drink tour and explore the 400-year-old market and the famous Gion district.
Kimono Experience
▶Kimono Rental
Explore the exciting city of Osaka with a kimono, Japanese traditional clothing. You can choose the one you like the most from several patterns and colors at the rental shop. In Osaka, it’s located at the center of the city, accessible from the main tourist attractions which makes it easy to try it on and explore the city for a day!
