Where to Find the Best Takoyaki in Osaka: Top 5 Spots
Osaka is often called the “Nation’s Kitchen” of Japan, and for good reason. Among its rich food culture, takoyaki, or octopus balls, stands out as one of the most iconic street foods in the city.
Takoyaki is made of wheat flour batter filled with pieces of octopus, tempura scraps, green onions, and pickled ginger. It is cooked in a special mold to form its signature round shape. Once done, it’s topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and sometimes seaweed powder.
If you’re craving this delicious snack while in Osaka, here are five incredible places to check out. Each offers a unique twist on this beloved dish, making it worth visiting.
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1. Aizuya: The Original Takoyaki Shop
Aizuya is where takoyaki was invented. This shop started selling its famous octopus balls in the 1930s, making it a must-visit for anyone curious about the roots of this dish. Aizuya keeps things simple. Their takoyaki is served without extra toppings like mayonnaise or bonito flakes, so you can taste the batter and octopus in their purest form.
The owner of Aizuya originally made a snack called “radioyaki”, which uses beef tendon and konjac instead of the octopus. It’s still on the menu today, so if you want to try something different, try it. The portions are small, but they’re packed with flavor, and you’ll get to enjoy a bit of history with every bite.
Where to find it: The main shop is near Umeda Station, but there are other locations too.
How much it costs: Around ¥400 for 6 pieces.
2. Acchichi Honpo: Always Fresh and Hot
Acchichi Honpo is a popular takoyaki stand in Dotonbori, one of Osaka’s busiest neighborhoods. Their takoyaki is always served fresh off the grill, so it’s hot and full of flavor. The outside has a nice crispiness, while the inside is soft and gooey with tender octopus pieces.
You can stick with the classic sauce and mayo topping or try extra flavors like ponzu sauce or green onions. The shop is located along the river in Dotonbori, making it a great spot to grab a quick snack while exploring the area. Pair your takoyaki with a refreshing matcha drink to complete your meal.
Where to find it: Along the Dotonbori River near the famous Glico sign.
How much it costs: About ¥500 for 8 pieces.
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3. Kogaryu: A Michelin-Recommended Spot
Kogaryu is located in Amerikamura, a trendy shopping and cultural district. It’s one of the few takoyaki shops recognized by the Michelin Guide, which makes it stand out from the crowd. The takoyaki here is light and fluffy, with a perfectly balanced batter that melts in your mouth.
What makes Kogaryu special is the variety of toppings they offer. One of their most popular choices is mentaiko mayonnaise (spicy cod roe mayo), which adds a spicy and creamy twist to the dish. The shop has a small seating area, so you can enjoy your meal comfortably.
Where to find it: Amerikamura, near Shinsaibashi Station.
How much it costs: Around ¥600 for 8 pieces.
4. Takoyaki Wanaka: Lots of Choices for Toppings
Takoyaki Wanaka is a chain with several locations across Osaka, so it’s easy to find one near you. The takoyaki here is light and delicious, with generous pieces of octopus in each ball. What makes Wanaka stand out is the range of toppings and sauces you can choose from.
If you like something a little different, try their cheese-topped takoyaki or takoyaki served in a light dashi broth. Their shops are known for being clean and welcoming, and the staff is quick and friendly. It’s an easy spot to stop by for a quick snack while you’re exploring the city.
Where to find it: One of the main branches is near Namba Station.
How much it costs: About ¥500 for 8 pieces.
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5. Yamachan: A Local Favorite
Yamachan is a small and cozy shop near Tennoji Station that’s loved by locals. The takoyaki here is cooked a little longer than usual, giving it a crispy outer layer that contrasts nicely with the soft interior. The sauce is homemade, and you can customize your toppings with extra bonito flakes or seaweed powder.
The shop’s portions are slightly larger than what you’ll find elsewhere, making it a good choice if you’re really hungry. Yamachan also serves other classic Osaka dishes like yakisoba and okonomiyaki, so it’s worth staying a little longer to try more of their menu.
Where to find it: Close to Tennoji Station.
How much it costs: Around ¥400 for 6 pieces.
Why Takoyaki is a Must-Try in Osaka
Takoyaki is more than just a snack in Osaka—it’s part of the city’s identity. You’ll find it at street stalls, small shops, and even in department stores. Watching takoyaki being made is like watching a mini performance, with cooks quickly flipping the batter to form perfect spheres.
Each takoyaki shop in Osaka has its own way of making this dish. Some focus on a crispy texture, while others go for a creamy center. Some use simple toppings, while others experiment with new flavors. This variety is what makes eating takoyaki in Osaka so exciting.
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FAQs
What is Takoyaki made of?
Takoyaki is made of a wheat-flour batter filled with octopus pieces, green onions, pickled ginger, and tempura scraps. It’s cooked in a special mold to form round balls and typically topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and seaweed powder.
Are there vegetarian or non-octopus options for Takoyaki?
Some shops, like Aizuya, serve radioyaki, an older version of takoyaki made with beef tendon and konjac instead of octopus. Fully vegetarian takoyaki may be harder to find in traditional shops.
How much does Takoyaki cost in Osaka?
The price of takoyaki in Osaka typically ranges from ¥400 to ¥600 for 6-8 pieces, depending on the shop and toppings.
Is Takoyaki a full meal or just a snack?
Takoyaki is usually considered a snack or light meal. However, with larger portions or sides like yakisoba, it can be filling enough for a meal.
