Osaka
in Japan

The vibe is so warm, whether this is due to its dimly-lit open space, or for it's ever-so welcoming waiters. This bistro is the perfect spot to pop in for a drink alone, or come with the family for a dinner. Try the signature quiche (it's flaky, oh so buttery pastry has us hooked) alongside a good glass of vino!

With a few branches dotted around Osaka, Elmer's Green Cafe is sure to provide you with a good cup of coffee, and some delicious fresh bakes. From the traditionally British scone zhuzhed up with some peanut puree and cream cheese, to the hearty sandwiches for the savoury toothed, a trip to Elmers guarantees a good lunch.  

If you're looking for a quick pit stop and some delicious food, head straight to Endo Sushi. It's quaint, unassuming, but exceptionally welcoming. Ushering in tourists and locals alike, though the menu is small, the sushi is excellent. 

The neutral colours, open windows, and a design-enthusiasts haven, Fujiya 1935 is instantly welcoming, full of ambience, and a place that will have you wanting to return to time and time again. Serving a lunch or dinner tasting menu, chef Tetsuya Fujiwara aims to create 'a dining table of seasons and memories'. And we think he does just that. 

Specialising in soba noodles, Genji-soba is the spot where we want to source all our future noodles from. With their very own grindstone, the term 'fresh' is taken to a whole new dimension. Healthy, hearty, but so very tasty: this is the perfect lunch. 

An interior and homeware store, come kitchen, graf is a space that is unwittingly chic. Find inspiration in every nook before settling down for some hearty, healthy food. 

The spot to go for some delicious oden; order the chef's choice and it won't let you down. Hanakujira honten is a popular spot so be prepared to wait in line whilst inhaling the glorious smells of the soup stock, tofu, and marinating ginger. 

Locals and discerning tourists alike flock to Honke Shibato for their superb grilled unagi bowls. From a river fish merchant 800 years ago to a booming restaurant spot in Osaka, it's safe to say that Honke Shibato are masters of their craft. Take their speciality Osaka mamushi, or the Ohitsu mamush if you're feeling like a little more jazz. 

It is fast food and only made to-go, but Kogaryu Takoyaki is nothing like the fast food we know so well. With some of the finest grade octopus and an age-old commitment to supplying the tastiest of sauces, Kogaryu has become world-renowned for its Takoyaki. Crunchy, flavoursome, and oh so moreish, whether you're after lunch, dinner, or a midday snack this is the place to go. 

It's as though you've step into a fantastical wonderland: this spot is small, ever-so traditional, and ridiculously cosy. If it's not the impeccable ambience that draws you through the doors, it will be the wafts of spices and deliciousness that does it. 

Although Regalo is not your traditional Osaka institution, it's Neapolitan pizza could transport you to the streets of Italy. So, for when you're fancying a slice of that ever so cheesy bite of pizza, pop in by to this small hangout where the chef operates a one-man show. 

Though it may not be for the vegetarians amongst us, Moeyo Mensuke has made quite a name for itself from its signature duck ramen. Thinly sliced duck, a perfect broth, hand pulled noodles, and a lava egg to top it, this is heaven in a bowl!

It can be a tough decision to decide between the oasis of eateries in Osaka. If you're in the mood for an easy lunch, or a laid-back dinner, however, then Naniwa Okina won't disappoint. Serving up handmade soba noodles in a scrumptiously, slurpable broth, no matter the season this spot is one of our go-to's. 

It's unassuming and wonderfully unfussy, though like lots of our hidden spots Rodda Group serves one of the tastiest Sri Lankan curries we've had. You have to try their 'Plate Lunch'; it's the only way to sample as much as the menu as you possibly can. 

For all udon fans, Byakuan has perfected the art of making the yummiest noodles out there. Perfectly slurpable what with the delicious broth to go alongside, it may not be the most glamorous thing to eat but the taste makes it worth the mess. Go with one of their top picks: from the sardine soup stock, to the chicken tempura bukkake udon, or for those wanting a bit of spice, the chiku egg tempura curry udon. 

Whether you're an adventurous foodie or not, unagi is a speciality in Osaka and therefore has to be tried at least one. We assure you, you'll be coming back for me. Serving it kanto-style, the eel is perfectly crispy, but so very tender. Scooped up with a good portion of sticky rice and a dribble of soy; if this isn't the perfect lunch we don't know what is.

A michelin-star spot serving some terrific sushi, head here for a slow lunch and dine on the freshest seasonal fish, though served with some innovative flourishes. Expect lots of creativity, and some beautiful garnishing. The food here is almost too pretty to eat; until you've taken your first mouthful!