[2025] A complete guide to tasting takoyaki in Dotonbori! If you come to Osaka, you’re missing out if you don’t try the takoyaki!

Dotonbori is a must-see area for tourists in Osaka. It is a famous tourist spot that is said to be “Dotonbori is Osaka,” and it is also a place where you can find Osaka’s specialty flour-based gourmet food.

Among them, takoyaki is a soul food unique to Osaka, with a large octopus in hot, melty batter.

There are many takoyaki shops in the Dotonbori area, and each shop is competing with each other with creative flavors and services.

In this article, we will pick out the most popular takoyaki shops in Dotonbori and introduce their flavors (review trends), prices , distinctive toppings , store atmosphere and facilities , and other services in detail.

In addition, we will propose a model plan for a “takoyaki eating tour” where you can visit multiple famous takoyaki shops at once and compare the tastes.

Why not enjoy eating delicious takoyaki as you walk around Osaka and create some great memories?

A list of popular takoyaki shops in the Dotonbori area

We will introduce popular takoyaki shops in the Dotonbori area in detail, classified by their characteristics. Each shop offers its own unique taste and service, so try to find a shop that suits your taste.

Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka (Dotonbori store)

A takoyaki specialty store that is one of the most popular in Dotonbori.

The appeal of “Wanaka” is that you can enjoy a wide variety of flavors such as soy sauce , salt , mentaiko mayonnaise

, as well as the standard sauce flavor. The signature menu item “Ooi-ri” is a set that contains 4 flavors (2 pieces each) of sauce, soy sauce, salt, and mentaiko mayonnaise, and is popular for being able to compare different flavors .

It has also been highly praised for its “soft and piping hot inside” and the deliciousness of all three flavors aside from the standard sauce.
The batter is the classic Osaka style with a strong dashi stock flavor. It also contains a large piece of octopus, making it very filling.

The price is reasonable, at around 500 yen for a pack of 6, and 600 yen for a pack of 8 , and the “Oi-ri” version, which allows you to enjoy several different flavors, is just a little over 500 yen (tax included)

We also recommend “Takosen” (takoyaki rice cracker sandwich), a dish unique to Osaka.
This simple dish of takoyaki sandwiched between special rice crackers is perfect as a snack to eat on the go.

Takosen topped with green onions and cheese are also popular, and are well-received by tourists as a light snack.

The store is located in the heart of Dotonbori, with a dining area on the second floor .
You can sit down and enjoy your meal, but it is always crowded with customers, so be prepared to queue.
Even on weekday evenings, the store is almost full, and some reviews say that even on weekday lunches, you have to queue for about 15 minutes. The service is efficient, so the turnover is fast.

As many foreign tourists visit, an English menu is available and the staff are cheerful and efficient. This popular restaurant is perfect for first-time visitors to Osaka as you can enjoy a wide variety of flavors all at once .

Takoya Dotonbori Kukuru (Main store)

Takoya Dotonbori Kukuri is a super famous takoyaki shop in Dotonbori that always has to wait in line .

The giant red octopus sign near the Glico sign is the landmark, and it’s perfect for taking photos. In addition to the standard takoyaki, there is a wide variety of menu items, from Akashiyaki to creative dishes, and they also offer drink sets (including alcoholic beverages) , so you can enjoy a variety of flavors with a beer in hand, and they are well-known for this.
One of the most unique dishes is the “All-Round Yaki.” It is a luxurious takoyaki with eight pieces, each filled with a different ingredient, and includes not only octopus, but also unusual varieties such as mochi, cheese, tuna, pork, and bacon, so you can try a variety of flavors on one plate .

Another specialty is the “Meibutsu Bikkuri Takoyaki.” As the name suggests, it is a very impressive dish with a huge octopus that is so big it sticks out of the bowl , and it is very popular and satisfying to eat.

In addition, Kukuru also serves Akashiyaki, which is eaten with dashi broth in the Akashiyaki style, and the style of dipping the soft takoyaki dough in the elegant broth is popular with female customers.

Some customers have commented that “the broth is so good I could eat as many as I wanted” and “it was light and fluffy and smooth, I drank it all up to the last drop”, allowing you to enjoy the deliciousness of authentic broth.

The queue is always long, with some reviews saying, “There’s always a long queue every time we visit. Surprisingly, there’s only one person in charge of cooking, and it took more than 30 minutes before we could eat.” However, it is still the most popular restaurant, with rave reviews saying, “The creamy batter and the dashi stock make it absolutely delicious!”

The fluffy and creamy batter is characterized by the strong flavor of the secret dashi stock. The octopus is also large and bouncy with a great texture, and it is said that “there may be no more delicious takoyaki in Osaka.”

Prices start from around 600 to 700 yen for a box of 8, and although there is a slight premium for unusual varieties and sets, the price is still reasonable and you will be very satisfied with the taste and volume . This is a shop where you can experience the bustle that is unique to Dotonbori, including the time you spend waiting for your turn while watching the okonomiyaki being grilled in front of the store.

Takoyaki Juhachiban (Dotonbori store)

Takoyaki Juhachiban, which is within walking distance from Osaka Metro Namba Station, is also a popular takoyaki restaurant, including among foreign tourists.

The biggest feature of the takoyaki here is that they put tempura scraps (fried tempura bits) inside .
The tempura scraps in the batter give it a unique crispy texture, and the crispy bits on the grill give it a fragrant taste, which is why it is so popular.

In addition to the classic sauce flavor, the most popular is the salt flavor . The salt sauce brings out the umami of the takoyaki, and many reviews say that “the salt flavor is especially recommended . “

The menu includes a variety of combinations of multiple flavors, such as the “Three Kinds of Ohako” (4 of each of the three flavors: mayonnaise, salt, and ponzu sauce, for a total of 12), and “Half & Half” (mayo sauce + salt).

The “Three Kinds of Ohako” comes in a box of 12 and costs 1,210 yen, a reasonable price for a tourist destination. After purchasing, you can enjoy comparing the flavors in the standing area at the back of the store. Some customers
have commented that the ponzu flavor is refreshing and a must-try, and each of the three flavors is well-received for its large, firm octopus that pairs perfectly with the seasonings.

The “Half & Half” comes in a pack of 8 (or 10), making it easy to share with a group.

In fact, some repeat customers rave about it, saying, “When I come to Osaka, the first place I go to is Juhachiban. What sets it apart from other stores is the amount of tempura flakes inside, which creates a crispy and fluffy texture!”

It’s also fun to watch the chefs skillfully bake the bread in front of the store, and although it is so popular that there are often long queues at peak times, many people say that it’s “worth the wait.”

It’s a casual eatery with a stand-up style that allows you to eat quickly, and the crispy, soft texture and delicious salty flavor make this a great place to eat.

Creole (Dotonbori store)

Creole is a restaurant where you can enjoy not only takoyaki but also okonomiyaki, kushiage , doteyaki, and other Osaka specialties.

Located in the heart of Dotonbori, this large restaurant has hot plate seating on the first floor and additional tables on the second floor , so it has been praised as a convenient place to eat while sightseeing.

It is popular among tourists as a place where you can enjoy Osaka cuisine all at once, with some saying, “I was able to enjoy my time in Osaka even during my short stay by sitting down and eating takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu at my leisure.” The staff are also polite and the atmosphere is comfortable.

One of their signature dishes is the “Three Kinds of Takoyaki .” There are two types: a Japanese-style set (salted lemon, grated daikon radish and ponzu mayonnaise, and plum and shiso) and a Western-style set (cheese, truffle salt, and peperoncino-style), so you can compare the unique flavors of nine takoyaki in total.

In particular, they offer Western-style dishes such as truffle salt and peperoncino , which are rare in other restaurants, and are popular for their robust flavors that go well with beer.

The dough has a “slightly crispy, fluffy and creamy texture,” and although the crispiness varies depending on the day, the basic texture is light and fragrant on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside.
Each flavor has its own distinct personality and is highly rated for its deliciousness.

Besides takoyaki, other specialties include omu soba (omelette fried noodles) and beef tendon and leek . The omu soba in particular is a hearty dish of thick, richly flavored fried noodles wrapped in a fluffy egg, and has been described as “the perfect combination of fried noodles and egg” and “many people order it with takoyaki.”

The price is around 600 to 700 yen for 8 takoyaki, and although the “3 kinds of octopus balls” is a little pricey, it is within the acceptable range considering the high-quality ingredients such as truffle salt. There are
plenty of seats , so it is a perfect restaurant for those who want to sit down and enjoy a meal or those who want to enjoy Osaka specialties all at once .

Honke Otako (Dotonbori branch)

Honke Otako, located along the Dotonbori River, is a long-established restaurant recommended for those who want to taste traditional, simple takoyaki .

It has been a popular place among locals for many years, with some Osakans fondly saying, “This is the takoyaki shop I’ve known since I was a child.” The sign has a big red octopus illustration, making it easy for tourists to understand. There is a self-service eat-in space
at the back of the store , so you can sit down and eat after purchasing.

The most popular menu item is simply “Takoyaki.” You can choose the number of pieces you order – 6, 10, or 20 – and a pack of 6 is just one coin (500 yen) !

Its biggest feature, as the name suggests, is the size of the octopus , with huge chunks of octopus practically spilling out of the dough.

Therefore, one bite is quite filling, and you can enjoy the delicious flavor and elasticity of the octopus with every bite. It is seasoned with the traditional sauce, green laver, bonito flakes, and mayonnaise to taste. The dough is not fluffy or gooey, but is cooked just right and has a firm Showa-era flavor that goes perfectly with the savory sauce. Although it is simple, it is consistently delicious and is known as “this is Osaka takoyaki,” making it popular with both tourists and locals alike.

There is always a line, but because they cook a lot of takoyaki at once, the turnover is fast and you can buy one without waiting too long. Some
people said, “They cook a lot, so it’s smooth,” and “It’s worth waiting in line.” The staff are energetic and handle orders efficiently.

By the way, the pork and egg okonomiyaki is also filled with large chunks of octopus, a specialty of this restaurant, and is said to be a luxurious dish despite being reasonably priced at 550 yen.

Some customers also enjoy comparing the takoyaki with other local specialties. This lively takoyaki shop has it all – cheap, filling, and quick.

Takohachi (Dotonbori main store)

Takohachi, a long-established chain founded in 1979 , has its flagship store located right in the heart of Dotonbori.

The large signboard stands out, so it’s easy to find, and although there is often a line , the service is fast , so the turnover is good .

The shop has seating from the first to third floors (a rare large store in Dotonbori), and in addition to takoyaki, it also offers okonomiyaki, yakisoba, teppanyaki, and a la carte dishes, making it very convenient, which is another reason for its popularity.

As a famous restaurant with multiple locations in Osaka and expansion into Tokyo and other prefectures, it has an atmosphere that is welcoming to both tourists and locals.

Their signature dish, takoyaki , is available for just 500 yen for a pack of 6 or 990 yen for a pack of 10, all for just 500 yen!

The batter is made with a secret soy sauce broth, and the cooked takoyaki is coated with a special sweet sauce.

It has also been praised as being “an exquisite combination of hot, soft takoyaki and the sweet sauce,” and can be said to be the classic Osaka takoyaki with its soft, fluffy texture and refined soy sauce flavor .

Each one is slightly larger and more satisfying to eat.

Another popular menu item is Akashiyaki (8 pieces). It is a style of eating plain takoyaki without anything on it, dipped in hot soup stock, and the shop’s special soup stock has a gentle taste but is so delicious that you will want to drink it all up. There are many repeat customers who come just for the Akashiyaki.

It has received rave reviews, with comments such as “The fluffy, soft batter is dipped in broth for a refined taste” and “A taste you won’t find in Tokyo.”

The restaurant has many tables and is air-conditioned, so you can enjoy a comfortable time here in summer and winter. It is a takoyaki dining restaurant where you can relax and enjoy your meal and drinks, and is easy for large groups and families to enter .

KONAMON HEAVEN

As the name of the restaurant suggests, “Konamon” (flour-based foods) is a place where you can enjoy Osaka’s flour-based delicacies such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu all in one place.

It is located within walking distance from Namba subway station, on the east side of Dotonbori shopping street. The menu is very rich , mainly takoyaki and kushikatsu , and most of the dishes are cheap at around 500 yen, so it is excellent value for money.

It is widely used by both tourists and locals.

The actual takoyaki itself is priced at 500 yen for 6 pieces and 990 yen for 12 pieces, also in the convenient 500 yen price range.

They are always served hot and steaming hot because they are freshly made. They are “quite large” in size and are said to be satisfying to eat. The dough has a strong dashi flavor and the texture is just right, “neither crunchy nor gooey.”

The outside is lightly browned, and the inside is soft and chewy. Some people have commented that it was “big, fluffy, and delicious!”, so it can be said to be a consistently delicious treat that is popular with everyone.

There are no other notable toppings other than the basic sauce and mayonnaise, but you can still enjoy the traditional takoyaki flavor.
There are condiments such as sauce, soy sauce, and salt on the tables, so you can customize your takoyaki to your liking. There is a simple eat-in space in front of the store , so you can enjoy the outside air while stuffing your cheeks with kushikatsu and takoyaki.

People can be seen drinking beer and eating takoyaki at outdoor seats during the day, with some saying, “Ice-cold beer and takoyaki are the best on a hot day!”

It’s an all-purpose flour- based izakaya restaurant, so it’s a great place to stop by whether you want a full meal or a light drink.

Takosho (Dotonbori main store)

“Takomasa” is a popular takoyaki restaurant in the Dotonbori area where you can relax and eat in .

There are seats on the first and second floors, so you can enjoy piping hot takoyaki in a relaxed atmosphere.

In addition to takoyaki, they also have a full range of Osaka’s classic delicacies such as okonomiyaki and Akashiyaki , making it the perfect place to stop by for a break during your sightseeing trip to Dotonbori.

The founder is known as a “Takoyaki master born in Senba” and is a nationally renowned shop that offers frozen takoyaki as a gift in return for hometown tax donations and also sets up stalls at events around the country. Their signature takoyaki comes in a variety of flavors, including the standard sauce, green onion (salt sauce) and ponzu sauce .

The most popular are the “Negi Mayo” which is sauce + mayonnaise topped with plenty of green onions, and the refreshing “Ponzu Mayo”. There is also a half-and-half set which allows you to enjoy both sauce and negi salt, and the dough is soft and creamy, and the sweet and spicy sauce goes well with the mayonnaise, making it a delicious dish that is highly rated.

The size is not too big or too small, making it easy to eat, and it has a texture that melts in your mouth when you put it in your mouth. There were also comments of excitement saying, “I don’t know if it’s the dough or the sauce that’s delicious, but it’s different from other chain stores.”

The balance of sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes is just right, and the dish has been praised as “a classic yet highly refined takoyaki dish.”

A unique option is the “Tipsy Set,” a great value set that includes six soy sauce flavored takoyaki balls with green onions, draft beer, and fried octopus rice crackers.

It’s an irresistible combination for alcohol lovers, and the price is reasonable, so some customers have said they ended up ordering it even when they weren’t planning on drinking.

Akashiyaki (8 pieces) is also a popular menu item, with fluffy egg-filled batter dipped in hot soup stock for an elegant taste that has been highly praised as having an “authentic taste.”

The price range for all dishes is around 1000 yen, which is standard for a tourist destination. The restaurant is fully air-conditioned and heated, and the staff are known for their friendly service. This is a reliable, well-known restaurant that is recommended for those who want to sit down and enjoy the flavors of Osaka.

Odoridaco (Dotonbori store)

Even among the fierce takoyaki battle zone of Dotonbori, “Odoridako” stands out in particular.

This is a take-out specialty store , but it is always crowded with people and there is always a line. The most popular item is the takoyaki with a whole “Iidako” (sea octopus) inside, which is very satisfying and impressive .

The menu name is simply “Dancing Takoyaki” and you can choose from 4, 6, or 8 pieces.

The sight of the small octopuses rolling around in the water is just like a dancing octopus, and is sure to amaze anyone who sees it for the first time. It’s perfect for Instagram, and some tourists visit just to take photos.

You can choose from two types of seasoning , sauce or soy sauce , and you can also have half and half. The dough is soft and light, and the contrast with the bouncy texture of the flat octopus is enjoyable. As it is not a large takoyaki, it is not as heavy as it looks, and you can eat it all in one go. It has received rave reviews, with comments such as “It’s irresistible for octopus lovers” and “The texture of the flat octopus is the best!”

They also offer a rock salt flavor for a limited time , and some people have commented that the simple combination of salt and dashi-flavored dough is simply delicious.

The price is 600 yen for four pieces, which is a tourist price, but many people say it’s still worth eating.

After purchasing in front of the store, you can eat it standing up in the space to the side. It’s so popular that even at 11am there’s a line of about 10 minutes to wait, and even if the line clears, people seem to line up again soon.
The sight of a whole octopus inside each one seems to be shocking even to foreign tourists, and there are often exclamations of surprise at the storefront.

Walking around Dotonbori and sampling some unique takoyaki in the vibrant atmosphere is sure to be a memorable experience.

Atchichi Honpo (Dotonbori store)

As the name of the shop means “hot,” Atchichi Honpo always sells freshly made piping hot takoyaki. It is located at the eastern end of Dotonbori Shopping Street, close to Nihonbashi Station. The shop is popular for its takoyaki, which can be enjoyed in a variety of flavors , with a lineup of 9 different flavors .

In addition to the basic sauce, soy sauce mayonnaise, and ponzu sauce, there are variations that you won’t find anywhere else, such as salt mayonnaise , mentaiko sauce, and limited-edition flavors.

You can choose your favorite flavor for each of the 8 pieces, so it’s recommended to go with a group of people and share different flavors.

The quality of the takoyaki is also guaranteed. The outside is crispy and the inside is soft and chewy, and it has been praised by customers for its “unbelievably delicious crispy and chewy texture.”

The most popular flavor is sauce and mayonnaise, but the “salt mayonnaise” flavor, which is not available at other stores, is a hidden favorite.

The light saltiness is complemented by the mellow sourness and richness of the mayonnaise, making for a delicious taste that lingers on your tongue.

You can also add toppings such as ginger and tempura flakes, so you can change the flavor to suit your taste. In fact, some customers have commented that “it was hot, but it matched well with the sauce and other toppings and was really delicious,” and “the pickled ginger that came with it was a nice palate cleanser.” You can eat it from start to finish without getting bored.

There is an eat-in space in the basement of the store, where you can sit and enjoy your meal.
However, many people buy takeout and eat at the standing tables outside, or buy their food and eat it while walking to the nearby Ebisubashi Bridge. It is a popular store that has a line even on weekdays, but “it’s surprisingly smooth because the turnover is fast.” Many customers order the alcohol set
(8 takoyaki + 1 drink of their choice) during the day to enjoy a little afternoon drinking, and we heard one customer say, “Takoyaki under the blue sky with a beer in hand is the best!”

This takoyaki shop is popular with both tourists and local regulars , and some fans visit specifically for its original flavors such as salt-and-mayo.

Dotonbori Red Demon

“Dotonbori Akaoni” is a takoyaki shop located about a 4-minute walk from Nihonbashi Station, near the eastern end of Dotonbori Shopping Street, and is the perfect place to eat while walking around
. It is a popular shop that often has a line even on rainy days, and in addition to takoyaki, it also serves grilled squid and a unique menu item called “chapu chapu.”

It is mainly a takeaway, and many people buy it and eat it while walking around Dotonbori. Takoyaki are seasoned with four types of sauce (sweet and spicy) , dashi soy sauce , and rock salt .

Among them, the traditional sweet sauce flavor is the most popular, with a reputation for being “delicious as always.”
The dough has a strong dashi flavor, with a crispy outside and a hot, melty texture inside . The flavor of the dashi is particularly strong, so some people say, “It’s delicious as is, you don’t even need the rock salt flavor.”
The octopus is just the right size and chewy, making for a well-balanced, exquisite takoyaki. A “value set with beer” is also available, so you can enjoy takoyaki and a drink at a great price.

A must-try in the cold season is the signature dish “Chapu Chapu” . It is a soup takoyaki with five takoyaki balls in hot soup stock, and is very popular in winter as it warms you from the inside out . The soup stock is full of flavor and the portion is quite filling, so you will be very satisfied.

Regular customers also give it their stamp of approval, saying “Winter chapu chapu is exquisite” and “They serve it fresh.” The price is standard at around 500 yen for around six pieces. There will be a wait time when there is a line, but depending on the timing, you may be able to buy it without having to wait too long.

Many customers say that this is their “favorite takoyaki shop for a long time,” and if you want to enjoy crispy and creamy takoyaki and Osaka specialties (grilled squid and chapu chapu) in the Dotonbori area, this is a shop you can’t miss.

Dotonbori Takoyaki Shop Comparison List

We have compiled a list of the characteristics of each restaurant. Please use it as a reference to choose a restaurant that suits you by comparing the taste trends, price range, facilities, etc.

Store name	Taste characteristics (review trends)	Basic fee	Main toppings/menu	Facilities and Others
Wanaka (Dotonbori)	The inside is piping hot and melty. There is a wide range of delicious sauces, from the standard to salt, soy sauce, and mentaiko mayonnaise.	6個～8個 ¥500-¥600前後	“Oiiri” 4-item set, mentaiko mayonnaise, salted green onion, takosen (rice cracker sandwich)	There are seats on the second floor. There is a line, but it moves quickly. English menus are available.
Kukuru (Main store)	The dough is soft and fluffy, and the dashi stock is very tasty. The octopus is big and plump, and very satisfying to eat.	8個 ¥600-¥700程度	All-round Yaki (8 pieces with different fillings), Surprise Takoyaki (with extra large octopus), Akashiyaki	Eat-in is available (drink set available). There is always a long line. Look for the giant octopus sign.
Specialty (Dotonbori)	The tempura bits are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The grill marks are crispy in places and fragrant.	8個 ¥600前後～	Salt-flavored takoyaki is popular, and ponzu flavor is also available. “Three kinds of takoyaki” (sauce, salt, ponzu, total of 12 pieces)	There is a standing area available. It is also popular with foreigners. The skill of the chefs is definitely worth seeing.
Cleo	The outside is slightly crispy and the inside is soft and tender. The truffle salt and other unique flavors are also delicious.	8個 ¥600-¥800程度	3-item set (Japanese or Western style, total of 9 pieces), truffle salt, plum shiso, cheese sauce	There are seats on the 1st and 2nd floors. There is a wide variety of menu items, including okonomiyaki and kushikatsu. The staff are very friendly.
Original Big Octopus	The dough is firm and traditional. It’s not too runny and blends well with the sauce. The extra-thick octopus adds a delicious flavor and texture.	6個 ¥500（10個¥800程度）	The basic version is sauce mayonnaise. Pork and egg okonomiyaki with large octopus is also popular.	There is seating in the back for eating in. They grill in large quantities so the turnover is fast . It has a Showa retro atmosphere.
Takohachi (Main store)	The dough has a soft and creamy texture with a hint of soy sauce . The sweet sauce is perfectly combined for an elegant taste.	6個 ¥500（10個¥990）​	Takoyaki with secret soy sauce batter, Akashiyaki (8 pieces), various okonomiyaki and yakisoba	There are seats up to the third floor. A long-established chain founded in 1979. Service is quick and the turnaround is good even when there is a line.
KONAMON HEAVEN	Its main feature is its large size. The outside is neither crunchy nor gooey, giving it a perfect texture that is suitable for everyone.	6個 ¥500（12個¥990）​	Sauce mayonnaise (standard). Various kushikatsu skewers (each skewer for under 300 yen) are also a specialty.	There is standing seating in front of the store. They also have a wide selection of kushikatsu and okonomiyaki. A casual restaurant where you can drink during the day.
Takosho (Dotonbori)	The dough is soft and has a refined flavor with a fragrant dashi stock. The sauce has a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, making it a classic yet exceptionally delicious dish.	8個 ¥600前後～	There are about 5 types in total, including sauce, salted green onion, and ponzu sauce. Tipsy set (6 takoyaki + beer, etc.), Akashiyaki	There are seats on the first and second floors. You can relax in a calm atmosphere. Take-out is also available.
Dancing	The dough is soft and light in texture. The bouncy texture of the whole Japanese octopus adds an addictive touch.	4個 ¥600（6個¥900程度）	You can choose between sauce flavor and soy sauce flavor (half available). Rock salt flavor is also available for a limited time.	Take- out only . Queues are common. The most striking visuals on social media.
Atchichi Honpo	Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, hot and juicy​. The sauce is consistently delicious, and the salt mayonnaise has a unique light flavor​.	8個 ¥550-¥650程度	There are 9 types in total, including sauce, soy sauce mayonnaise, salt mayonnaise , and mentaiko. Alcohol sets are also available.	There is seating for eating in the basement. Beer is available from the daytime. A popular restaurant supported by locals.
Red Demon	The outside is crispy and the inside is soft, with a fragrant flavor and a strong dashi stock flavor. The nostalgic sweet sauce is also great.	6個 ¥500-¥600前後	Sauce (sweet/spicy), dashi soy sauce, rock salt. Winter limited edition chapu chapu (5 takoyaki in dashi soup)	Mainly take-out. Long queues outside the store. Famous for grilled squid. Beer set available.

*Prices include tax at the time of coverage (as this is a tourist destination, they may be subject to change or revision).

Dotonbori Takoyaki Eating Tour – Sample Plan

How about a tour to visit and compare the famous takoyaki shops scattered around the Dotonbori area? We will introduce recommended routes within walking distance and the estimated time required. Enjoy a typical Osaka walk while tasting hot takoyaki at each shop!

Sample course (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours)

1. Dotonbori Akaoni (Start) – The tour starts at Akaoni on the east side, near Nihonbashi Station. First, warm up with the crispy and creamy texture and traditional sauce flavor. [Time required: 15 minutes] Once you receive your freshly baked okonomiyaki, you can eat it standing up on the spot, and if it’s cold, you can warm yourself up with the specialty chapu chapu.
2. Atchichi Honpo – From Akaoni, walk west (towards Namba) on Dotonbori Street for about 5 minutes to find Atchichi Honpo. If the line is short, try it here too. Try their unique flavors, such as salt mayonnaise (you can skip if you’re full). [Time required: 10-15 minutes] As you stuff your cheeks with the hot food, you can also change up the flavor by adding toppings like green onions and pickled ginger.
3. Odoridako – If you go another 3 minutes west, you’ll arrive at Odoridako, which is particularly crowded with people. Buy just four takoyaki balls filled with whole octopus to share, and you’ll see what sets it apart from other stores. [Time required: 10 minutes] Don’t forget to take photos while marveling at the plump octopus. That’s three stores you’ve visited so far!
4. Takoya Dotonbori Kukuru (Finish) – The tour ends at the main store of “Kukuru” near Dotonbori Bridge (Ebisu Bridge). [4-minute walk] Head there while admiring the scenery along Dotonbori River and the Glico sign. It depends on the queue, but if you have time, it’s a famous restaurant that’s worth waiting in line to eat at. [Time required: 20-30 minutes] Order the All-Round Yaki or Surprise Takoyaki, and enjoy the gorgeous takoyaki that’s perfect for the end of the tour. If you’re lucky enough to get a seat on the second floor, take a break and enjoy the hot takoyaki.

Route Overview

This course heads west along Dotonbori Shopping Arcade from near Nihonbashi Station (east end) to near Ebisubashi (center).
The walking distance for the entire course is about 500 meters, and the total travel time is about 10 to 15 minutes.

Along the way, you can enjoy the sights of Dotonbori, such as the giant crab sign at Kani Douraku and the Glico neon sign.

Visiting three or four shops will leave you quite full, so if you have a large group, it’s a good idea to share and try small amounts at each shop.

The time required will vary depending on the waiting time at each store, but the guideline is about 1.5 to 2 hours (if you go around during a relatively quiet time such as a weekday afternoon, you may be able to go around in about an hour).

The lines tend to be long in the afternoons and evenings on weekends and holidays, so if possible, visit during the daytime or early evening on weekdays to ensure a smooth food tour.

Plan extension/extra edition

If you have the time and stomach, try heading further west from Ebisubashi Bridge.

For example, try the four-kind assortment at “Takoyaki Douraku Wanaka” near Ebisubashi Bridge, or cross the Dotonbori River and check out “Honke Otako” on the opposite bank.

There are many famous restaurants around Dotonbori that we were unable to introduce this time (such as “Kogaryu” in Americamura and “Hanadako” in Umeda).

There are many different kinds of takoyaki available all over the city of Osaka, so it might be fun to create your own “takoyaki map” based on the time you have available during your trip.

summary

Each takoyaki shop in the Dotonbori area has its own unique flavor and innovative service .

Whether you like crispy or soft, Osaka classic or something different, you’re sure to find your favorite skewer. Enjoy eating the delicious takoyaki that is unique to Dotonbori, Osaka!

Once you bite into the hot, freshly baked bread, you’ll definitely smile and say, “It’s so good!” So please come with an empty stomach!