Dotonbori is located in the center of Osaka and is a must-see area for tourists. Walk along the Dotonbori River, sample local specialties, and experience Osaka’s food culture.
Here we will introduce some recommended food spots for first-time visitors to Japan.
- 1. The start is at Ebisubashi Bridge along the Dotonbori River
- 2. Takoyaki is a great snack, so we recommend trying it at multiple stores, including “Wanaka.”
- 3. It is forbidden to eat the Daruma Kushikatsu twice.
- 4. Okonomiyaki “Senbo” – Eat it with rice and you’ll become an Osaka expert!
- 5. I can still eat! For dessert, I had cheesecake from “Uncle Rikuro’s Shop.”
- Summary Experience the Dotonbori food tour “Kuidaore”
1. The start is at Ebisubashi Bridge along the Dotonbori River
Ebisubashi, a symbol of the Dotonbori area, is a popular tourist spot. Start here and enjoy a meal while you explore the area, experiencing the history and culture of Dotonbori. Ebisubashi originally developed as a commercial center, and is now famous as a tourist spot. The neon signs and the tourist attraction Glico sign seen from the bridge are a typical Osaka sight.
2. Takoyaki is a great snack, so we recommend trying it at multiple stores, including “Wanaka.”
When one talks about Osaka’s specialties, it has to be takoyaki (octopus balls). Wanaka, located near Dotonbori, is a popular restaurant that serves the best takoyaki, crisp on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside.
How to order and etiquette
When ordering, you can choose to either take out or eat in, but if you choose to eat inside the restaurant, you will likely be sharing with other customers, so try to be considerate of each other as much as possible. Also, when eating takoyaki, it’s best to eat them while they’re still hot to bring out the best flavor.
Store Information
- Address: 1-6-4 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
- Business hours: 10:00-22:00 (irregular holidays)
- Closed: Irregular holidays
3. It is forbidden to eat the Daruma Kushikatsu twice.
Daruma, a famous kushikatsu restaurant, has been a long-time favorite in the Dotonbori area. The crispy fried kushikatsu is truly delicious. Seeing them lined up outside the restaurant is a sight unique to Osaka.
How to order and etiquette
When ordering kushikatsu, you can order just one skewer, but as it is a popular restaurant, you will often have to wait in line. There is a “no double dipping” sign posted inside the restaurant. This is part of Osaka’s food culture, where customers are not allowed to dip into sauce that has been used by other customers. Please be sure to follow this rule.
Store Information
- Address: 1-7-21 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
- Business hours: 11:00-23:00 (last order 22:30)
- Closed: None
4. Okonomiyaki “Senbo” – Eat it with rice and you’ll become an Osaka expert!
If you want to try Osaka’s teppanyaki dish, “Okonomiyaki,” then “Senbo” is the place to go. The okonomiyaki, cooked on a hot plate, has a fluffy texture and is perfectly coated with a sweet sauce, making it very satisfying to eat.
How to order and etiquette
Once the okonomiyaki is cooked, the staff will cut it for you, so you can enjoy some side dishes or relax with a beer while you wait. Okonomiyaki is often shared with other customers, so it’s recommended to eat it little by little.
Store Information
- Address: 1-5-5 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
- Business hours: 11:00-22:00 (last order 21:30)
- Closed: None
5. I can still eat! For dessert, I had cheesecake from “Uncle Rikuro’s Shop.”
To finish off your food tour, try Osaka’s specialty, cheesecake. Uncle Rikuro’s Shop is known for its fluffy cheesecake. It’s easy to buy in the Dotonbori area, so it’s a convenient place to stop by during your sightseeing.
How to order and etiquette
It’s mainly a takeaway shop, but if you do choose to eat inside, please be considerate of those around you and try to eat calmly. Taking a bite of the warm cheesecake is the perfect way to end your trip to Osaka.
Store Information
- Address: 1-7-2 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
- Business hours: 10:00-20:00 (irregular holidays)
- Closed: Irregular holidays
Summary Experience the Dotonbori food tour “Kuidaore”
The Dotonbori area is a place where you can experience Osaka’s food culture firsthand.
It’s a lively place where locals and tourists can have fun together through a food walking tour.
Be sure to take this tour and fully experience the charm of Osaka!
