Osaka
in Japan

It may not be a michelin-star dining experience, though this is one of our hot-spots in Osaka when we're after a quick refuel and casual dinner. Unassuming, though big on flavour, pop into Takoyaki Yamachan for some of the tastiest octopus balls. Served with 'Young B' (soy sauce and mayo) or our favourite 'goma-shio' (sesame oil and salt), this makes for an incredibly moreish supper. 

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!

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. 

Okonomiyaki, the dish famous to Osaka, is the speciality at Fukutaro. It's always a hive of activity, so though you should expect to wait for a table we assure you, you won't be disappointed. 

This hidden gem will have you feeling like a true local. Known as a tachinomi-ya (or standing, drinking bar), Ginzaya is relaxed, low-key, yet, extremely popular. Join the crowds milling around sipping on a beer, or sake, and nibbling on some sashimi, crab cream croquettes, and beef tataki. An evening well spent!          

Though the interiors are paired back, minimalist, and ever-so-simple, the food is anything but. In an experience where cameras are forbidden, Hajime is a restaurant as iconic as it gets. Perhaps best renown for the dish 'Planet Earth', this place is beyond sensational. Save it for that special occasion. 

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. 

A teppanyaki restaurant, though with a luxurious twist. This spot is innovative and creative, putting their own little twist on the classic menu. Come prepared to share a few dishes: from nama-fu, salmon tartare, to the more classic pork okonomiyaki, you'll want to discover it all. 

With only eight seats and two sittings, KAHALA is intimate and so world-renowned it's essential to book well in advance. Chef Yoshifumi Mori iconically blends Japanese tradition with an ode to French cuisine; the flavours are unimaginable, the presentation just phenomenal. A man of many talents, even the crockery you dine on is handcrafted by Mori. 

With rooms designed by architect Toshinori Nakamura, this is a dining experience like no other. Overlooking the idyllic oasis beyond the open windows, dive into a menu focused on the seasons. The 'Dragon Cloud Grill' will constantly play into our dreams!

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. 

The space is excellent. The food even more so. Chef Yusuke Takada serves up food that is nothing but exquisite, and almost too pretty to eat! Fusing together French cuisine with Japanese style and ingredients, a trip to La Cime is certainly going to be special. 

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. 

Sake and sushi: name a better duo! Serving the freshest fish from blue crab, monkfish, octopus, to Harika squid there is an endless amount to try. So go with an empty stomach and an open mind, as Masaru sushi won't let you down!

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. 

Though the cobbled streets of Italy may be geographically far, Ristorante Quintocanto makes la dolce vita feel incredibly close by. With a tasting menu ranging foie gras, to cutlassfish dumplings, to a pappardelle with a rich ragu sauce, head here for some seriously good food, and a fabulous ambience. 

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. 

Sushi Ohata makes a name for itself for many reasons, one of which is its creative use of vinegar. Unusual, perhaps, but once you've tasted the conncotions chef Ohata Masamichi creates you can fully understand why. Treating vinegar in the same way a sommelier would treat wine, be prepared for some top-notch sushi. 

Head here for the chicken yakitori, stay for the excellent vibe and dreamy-design setting. Chef Yoshitomo Ishii has furnessed the skill of fine dining, serving up the most delicious food in the neighbourhood. Sit by the bar and watch the magic unfold beneath your very eyes. 

Calling all meat lovers out there, if you're in the market for some of the best chicken in Osaka then look no further than Yakitori Ichimatsu. Perfectly seared on the grill, the chicken is served in more ways and varieties than you would think possible. Alongside a sake and wine pairing, watch the magic unfold. 

Another fine dining experience to add to the multitude of culinary greatness in Osaka; it's known as the 'Kitchen of Japan' for something after all! Local ingredients, and seasonal produce are used to make some of the finest Kaiseki in Osaka.