Osaka
in Japan

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. 

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!

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!

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!

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

The space is vast, though this comes in handy when the place is as popular as Takamura Wine and Coffee Roasters. Roasting the freshest of beans, and supplying a whole host of wines, pop on by for some of our favourite beverages!

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. 

An escape from the city streets, the grounds of what was once the Osaka City Hall, are the perfect place to take a coffee and a good book. With views across the Okawa River and oodles of cherry trees, greenery, and shrubs; it's hard to believe you're just five minutes from the heart of the city. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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!

This beautiful boutique hotel seamlessly blends luxury and peace. Located within minutes from the trendy Kitashinchi, Zentis Osaka attracts all sorts of creative city trippers.