Osaka
in Japan

One of Osaka's tachinomiya, or standing bars, there's no better way to round up the day. Akagakiya Namba is the spot where locals and visitors alike flock for a carafe or two of sake. When you're after some pre-dinner snacks order some doteyaki to share.

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.  

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

This cosy little coffee company is quite literally filled with all things coffee. From freshly brewed beans, coffee flasks, tools pop on by to fulfill all those caffeine needs. 

With a splendid riverside terrace, Moto Coffee is the place to go to enjoy a good cup of espresso. Using the beans from Kajita and tea leaves from Tea House Yojaya expect the finest blends. Finish off with a slice of cheesecake - perfection in a bite!

A beautifully renovated castle which is surrounded by an even more breathtaking garden. With over 600 cherry blossom trees there is no better place to enjoy a picnic. 

Quite literally a treat for all your senses. When you step through the doors and enter into the inviting and vibrant hub of this jazz and blues takoyaki bar, it really is quite magical. Unwind and enjoy a sake, umeshu, iced-cold beer within the wood panelled interior of this hip bar. If you get hungry the takoyaki, or octopus dumplings, are renowned for being amongst some of the best in Osaka. 

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!